Exam Overview

• Post Name: Tradesman – Computer Hardware Maintenance
• Department: Technical Education
• Paper Code: 191/2015
• Date of Examination: 09-10-2015
• Conducting Authority: Kerala Public Service Commission
• Exam Mode: Offline (OMR-based)
• Total Questions: 100
• Total Marks: 100
• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Negative Marking: 0.33 marks deducted for each incorrect answer

Exam Pattern & Syllabus

The Tradesman - Computer Hardware Maintenance Exam consisted of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering General Knowledge, Current Affairs, General Science, Mental Ability, English, Regional Language, and Subject-Specific Topics related to Computer Hardware, Networking, and Maintenance.

1. General Knowledge & Current Affairs

• Indian & Kerala History (Freedom Struggles, Social Reformers)
• Geography of India & Kerala
• Indian Polity & Constitution
• Economic & Social Development Policies
• Science & Technology Advancements
• Current Affairs related to Kerala, India, and the world

2. General Science

• Basics of Physics, Chemistry, and Biology
• Applications of Science in daily life
• Environmental Science and Sustainability Concepts

3. Mental Ability & Numerical Skills

• Basic Arithmetic (Percentages, Profit & Loss, Time & Work, Time & Distance)
• Logical Reasoning & Analytical Ability
• Number & Letter Series
• Data Interpretation

4. General English

• Grammar & Sentence Correction (Tenses, Articles, Prepositions, Voice, etc.)
• Synonyms & Antonyms
• Idioms & Phrases
• Comprehension & Passage Interpretation
• Error Spotting

5. Regional Language (Malayalam/Tamil/Kannada)

• Basic Grammar & Vocabulary
• Sentence Formation
• Translation & Meaning-Based Questions

6. Subject-Specific Knowledge (Computer Hardware Maintenance)

This section tested candidates on fundamental concepts of computer hardware, troubleshooting techniques, networking, and operating systems.

Computer Fundamentals & Hardware Components

• Basics of Computers, Operating Systems & Peripherals
• Input & Output Devices – Keyboard, Mouse, Printer, Scanner, etc.
• Central Processing Unit (CPU) – Components & Working
• Memory Types – RAM, ROM, Cache, Virtual Memory, and Secondary Storage
• BIOS & Booting Process
• Power Supply & SMPS Concepts

Hardware Installation & Troubleshooting

• Assembling & Disassembling a Computer
• Motherboard Components & Chipsets
• Processor Sockets & CPU Architectures
• Common Hardware Issues & Troubleshooting Techniques
• Diagnosing RAM, Hard Drive, and Processor Problems
• Basic Soldering & Circuit Repair Techniques

Storage Devices & Data Management

• Hard Disk Drives (HDD), Solid State Drives (SSD), Optical Drives
• Partitioning, Formatting & File System Management
• Data Backup & Recovery Techniques
• RAID Configuration & Storage Solutions

Networking & Internet Technology

• Basics of Networking – LAN, WAN, MAN
• Types of Network Cables & Connectors (RJ45, RJ11, Coaxial, Fiber Optic, etc.)
• IP Addressing & Subnetting Concepts
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Wireless Communication
• Network Security, Firewalls & Anti-Virus Protection

Operating Systems & Software

• Windows, Linux, and Mac OS Fundamentals
• Installing & Configuring Operating Systems
• Device Drivers & Software Compatibility
• Command Line Operations & Basic Scripting

Cyber Security & Ethical Practices

• Cyber Threats & Security Measures
• Antivirus, Malware Protection, and Firewalls
• Safe Browsing & Data Encryption Techniques
• Ethical Hacking Basics & Data Protection Policies

Why Practicing Previous Papers is Important?

1. Understanding the Exam Pattern – Helps candidates get familiar with the question format and difficulty level.
2. Time Management – Improves speed and accuracy in solving questions within the given time.
3. Identifying Important Topics – Highlights the most frequently asked questions.
4. Boosts Confidence – Provides real-exam experience, reducing exam anxiety.

    Click the below link to download PDF format of Kerala PSC Previous Question Paper of Tradesman – Computer Hardware Maintenance