By definition, the term hardware is related to physical and mechanical equipment such as doors, locks, keys, chains, tools, etc. It may also refer to the physical parts of a personal computer such as monitors, keyboards, processors, mouse, hard drives and optical disc drives. Hardware work is generally associated with the latter and is also known as computer hardware work.
With the advent and subsequent boom of the digital world making such a huge impact on human lives, the hardware market across the world also saw a steep rise in fortunes over the past few decades. Since information technology is equally dependant on both hardware and software, the rise of one industry will positively impact the other as well. Computer hardware engineers, assemblers, and support technicians are some of the common hardware job positions. Most hardware professionals are hired by IT companies as full time employees while others work independently and take up contracts whenever available.
Responsibilities
The basic job responsibility of hardware professionals is to assemble computers and provide maintenance for it. They have to also determine the needs of the client and install appropriate hardware components such as speakers, headsets, cabinet cases, etc. In case of large servers, they have to ensure good ventilation and efficient cable management for the machines. Also, an ideal temperature for such large machines has to be maintained and it is the hardware professional's job to assure that it is achieved. In case of independent contractors, providing long time support and maintenance to clients is also the responsibility of the hardware professional.
Requirements
Hardware professionals need to possess a bachelor's degree in computer science or its equivalent. Some of them also possess a degree in electric engineering. A certification course in hardware related subjects is also mandatory in some companies. Some organizations offer additional certification courses to their employees on the job as well. For lower positions in this field, a college degree is not essential, however a certification course in hardware technology is needed in most cases.
Skills
Hardware work individuals should possess a keen knowledge about the inner workings of computers and should be proficient in repairing specific components as well. Although software knowledge is not required, some professionals are expected to conduct installation of operating systems and specific software applications for their clients or employers. Hardware personnel also need to know about various peripherals such as network cards, graphics cards, power supply units, RAMs and motherboards. They should be updated about the latest technology as the latest arrivals in the world of hardware technology often get outdated within a year's time.
Work Environment
Hardware professionals who work with a company often work in an office based environment. Those who work as independent contractors either work from home or visit clients' sites until the contract is completed. In offices, they work in well lit and well ventilated environments. It is not a physically demanding environment, however long hours of staring at computer screens or accidental cuts while working with computer fans are minor health hazards of this line of work.
Salary and Benefits
A computer hardware engineer may earn anywhere between $60,000 and $150,000 depending on their experience and skills in this field. Also, different organizations have different pay structures and may thus affect the pay scale of an individual. Lower positions in this field such as hardware technician or hardware assistant may earn lower salaries as compared to the engineers. Additional benefits such as health insurance plans, paid leaves and pension plans are available to those who are employed full time by organizations.
Hardware work is the blanket term used for all jobs and tasks carried out by computer hardware professionals in the installation and maintenance of computer systems. For those looking to pursue a career in this field, there are several job prospects and a potential bright future.