Learning how to support and service Apple computers requires a great deal of time and study. To become certified to service hardware, you must study and pass two tests. One test is related to Mac OSX and the second is related to the hardware type you intend to service. Apple provides training on line for those associated with a service provider to allow study of either desktop or portable systems. This material provided by Apple requires connection to the web and many hours of study while sitting in front of your computer. That is exactly what I did to pass my certifiations, but now there is a much better and more efficient method to go about learning these fundamentals.
As one of the latest in Peachpit Pressʼs Apple-Certified training series, this book is designed both for professionals who support Apple computers as well as Mac fanatics who want to upgrade, service, or troubleshoot their favorite machines. This single book provides service information on both desktop and portable systems including detailed take apart diagrams, troubleshooting methods, and general service techniques that are required to pass those certification tests. This edition of the book has been revised to add coverage of Appleʼs new models, including the Mac mini and the iMac G5.
The book begins with a number of chapters that cover basic computer theory and underlying technologies. These include working procedures, tools, display technologies, and networking among other areas.
Once through the basics, the book then moves on to describe detailed take-apart and upgrade procedures for the Mac mini, eMac, iMac G5, PowerMac G5, iBook G4, and PowerBook G4. These chapters cover how to take the machines apart and do simple procedures from adding memory to replacing a harddisk drive. Mixed in to the take apart chapters are troubleshooting chapters that teach the service provider how to determine what might be wrong with a machine based on the symptoms the machine shows.
One of the great parts of this book is that it includes many photos of the inside of Apple systems in various states of disassembly. These photos make it easier to see the information described in the book and shows close ups and specifics of areas that need
to be serviced by having items described in the text circled. Providing these images makes it much easier to understand just what the text is describing.
Included with the book is a CD-ROM with six complete service manuals, utilities, and diagnostic tools that allow you to determine what is wrong. These manuals and tools are the same as those available to Apple Authorized Service Providers through Appleʼs service websites. Also on the disk are copies of sample chapter tests to ensure that you are mastering the concepts necessary to prepare for the tests.
Having studied for these tests using Appleʼs web provided material, it is easy to see how a book such as this would be of assistance. I personally prefer to be able to sit in a comfortable chair and read material rather than using a web only training procedure. I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to prepare for Appleʼs exams and also for those on the high end of wanting to understand just how Apple computers tick. It was an enjoyable refresher for me that described all the information I learned to become Apple certified and added material on some of Appleʼs newest hardware.
Apple Training Series: Desktop and Portable Systems
2nd Edition
Published by Peachpit Press
Series: Apple Training
Edited by Ower Linzmayer
Price: $54.99
ISBN: 0321335465; Published: Jul 14, 2005;
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