MT104: Multimedia Hardware
Multimedia Professional Program
Portland State University
Professional Development Center
Instructor: Jeff Gray
 
I. Synopsis
This course provides an extensive knowledge of computer hardware for today’s multimedia environment. The course  begins by touching briefly on the history of hardware and it’s assembly, and ends with the identification and implementation of the newest technology into a powerful multimedia machine. The course covers the following:
•	 History of hardware
•	 Tomorrow’s hardware
•	 Installing/Assembly of hardware
•	 I/O, IRQ, and PnP setup and conflicts
•	Troubleshooting problems
•	Pricing
II. Objectives
By the end of the course each student will be able to:
•	Identify hardware
•	Assemble a complete system
•	Demonstrate how to troubleshoot and solve hardware conflicts
•	Implement cost effective solutions for multimedia presentations
III. Course Format
The course centers on learning computer hardware and functions in a multimedia system. While working in small groups, students are shown in detail how to identify, install, and troubleshoot a desktop multimedia station. Interested students are encouraged to build their own multimedia system. This course consists of hands-on training, lectures, handouts, and URL’s from the Internet for out-of-classroom study.
 IV. Location and Time
The course is held on (4) Monday’s from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. starting March 2, 1997 in Neuberger Hall, Rm. 446.
V. Calendar (subject to change)
Session 1
•	Class introduction/expectations
•	Lecture on motherboard BIOS, CPU’s, RAM, and bus architecture
•	Lecture on COM Ports, IRQ’s, DMA’s and PnP
•	Overview of SCSI and its capabilities

Session 2
•	Lecture on drives, video, and AGP
•	Lecture on CD-ROM's, DVD, sound, and mass storage
•	Lecture on scanners and cameras
•	Intro to the MAC
 
Session 3
•	Group exercise - Bare bones assembly
•	Diagnosing and correcting problems with the system
•	Intro to student project
 
Session 4
•	Case discussion: What type of system do you need?
•	Lecture on future hardware products
•	Group project presentations
VI. Coursework
Each individual is expected to put together a list of items (to include pricing) needed to build a "HOT" multimedia system and explain in detail the steps necessary to build and troubleshoot that system. Group interaction is highly encouraged to enhance the learning curve. The class will evaluate each student's system overview; building of the actual machine is optional. 
VII. Evaluation
The course is graded on a pass/no pass basis. Grades are based on a combination of attendance, group interaction, and the performance of their multimedia system in comparison to its relative cost.
 VIII. Instructor biography and contact information
Jeff Gray – Vice President, CNSI (Computer & Network Services, Inc.)
Office phone: (503) 492-5302
Office fax: (503) 666-8650
Evening phone: (360) 896-3767
http://www.jeffgray.com
http://www.cnsi.net
Email:	jgray@jeffgray.com
	jgray@cnsi.net
Jeff Gray works closely with the cutting edge of computer technology daily. He has a strong military background as a Drill Instructor and an M1A1 Tank Commander. He has an extensive electronics background in area of programmable logic controllers and electric motor control. He is currently Vice President of CNSI. His areas of interest are system integration, networking (LAN/WAN), dedicated digital Internet access, and video editing system design.