TQUK Level 3 Certificate in ICT Systems and Principles (RQF)

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the structure of access networks, including their key components and physical infrastructure
• Understand the physical components used in access networks, including their functions and characteristics
• Understand the different types of transmission media employed in access networks and their respective properties
• Understand the effects of line impairments, such as attenuation and noise, on transmitted signals within access networks
• Understand the impact of line impairments on the quality and reliability of data transmission
• Understand the operations of time division multiplexing (TDM) systems, including the principles of time slot allocation
• Understand the capabilities of TDM systems in terms of bandwidth utilisation and data transmission rates
• Understand the applications of TDM systems in various telecommunications scenarios
• Understand the operations of digital subscriber line (DSL) systems, including the underlying modulation techniques
• Understand the capabilities of DSL systems in terms of data transmission speeds and range
• Understand the applications of DSL systems in providing broadband internet access

What you'll be able to do

• Apply matrix methods to solve problems in IT, including data manipulation and analysis.
• Apply series, probability, and recursions to model and analyse data in IT contexts.
• Apply graph theory to represent and analyse relationships between data elements in IT systems.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the difference between Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs), including their characteristics, topologies, and applications.
• Connect and troubleshoot data communications systems, including network cables, routers, and switches.
• Know the importance of addressing schemes in a data network, including IP addressing and subnetting.
• Understand the OSI reference model and its layers, including their functions and protocols.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the basic principles of speech encoding and compression techniques used in telephony systems.
• Know the capabilities and topology of the public switched telephony network (PSTN).

What you'll be able to do

• Communicate information in a manner that suits the intended audience
• Communicate information in a manner that suits the purpose of the communication
• Communicate information in a manner that suits the content being communicated
• Use IT tools effectively to communicate information
• Use IT tools effectively to exchange information
• Understand the impact of IT on individuals
• Understand the impact of IT on communities
• Understand the impact of IT on society

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the communication principles of computer networks, including protocols, addressing, and routing.
• Know the main elements of data communications systems, including hardware, software, and communication channels.
• Implement different forms of network communications, such as wired and wireless networks, and configure network devices for communication.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the personal attributes valued by employers, such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills
• Understand the principles of effective communication, including verbal, written, and non-verbal communication
• Use IT to communicate effectively, using email, instant messaging, and other tools
• Address personal development needs, identifying areas for improvement and developing a plan for professional growth

What you'll be able to do

• Plan for the safe installation of communications technology equipment, considering potential hazards and safety regulations.
• Survey a site, prepare the area, and install housing for communications technology equipment according to specifications.
• Equip communications technology equipment housing using safe working practices and adhering to relevant safety guidelines.
• Install and terminate cable links to communications technology equipment, ensuring proper connections and signal integrity.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the health and safety precautions and procedures within an engineering workshop environment.
• Use tool husbandry and control methods in a workshop environment.
• Manufacture support plates to hold cables.
• Manufacture electrical cable connections.

What you'll be able to do

• Interpret engineering sketches to communicate technical information
• Interpret circuit diagrams to communicate technical information
• Interpret network diagrams to communicate technical information
• Use verbal communication skills in engineering settings
• Use written communication skills in engineering settings
• Obtain engineering information
• Use engineering information
• Use information and communication technology (ICT) to present information in engineering settings

What you'll be able to do

• Know types of network systems and protocols, including LANs, WANs, TCP/IP, and HTTP.
• Understand the key components used in networking, including routers, switches, and hubs.
• Know the services provided by network systems, including file sharing, email, and web browsing.
• Make networked systems secure, including implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the common components of computer systems, including hardware, software, and peripherals
• Know the different uses of computer systems in various contexts, such as business, education, and entertainment
• Connect computer hardware components correctly and safely
• Configure computer software settings to meet user requirements

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the components of computer systems, including hardware and software.
• Recommend appropriate computer systems for a specific business purpose, considering factors such as cost, performance, and scalability.
• Set up and maintain computer systems, including installing software, configuring hardware, and troubleshooting problems.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the structure of the public switched telephone network (PSTN), including its components and how it operates.
• Understand the principles of optical fibre technology and their application in optical networks, including the advantages and limitations of optical fibre communication.
• Understand the operation of mobile networks with reference to the role of their major network elements, such as base stations, mobile switching centres, and core network components.

What you'll be able to do

• Manipulate real numbers and integers using appropriate IT tools and techniques.
• Use co-ordinate systems and vectors, and apply linear transformations in IT-related contexts.
• Use simple functions and perform basic algebraic operations within IT applications.
• Apply Boolean algebra to analyse and solve problems in various IT situations.

What you'll be able to do

• Know about different types of online business activities, such as e-commerce, online marketing, and social media engagement
• Know the characteristics of different online business models
• Know what factors to consider when setting up an online business, including target audience, product or service offering, and online platform
• Know the legal and regulatory requirements for operating an online business
• Understand the day-to-day operation of an online business, including order processing, customer service, and website maintenance
• Understand the importance of online security and data protection
• Understand the benefits of having an online business presence, such as increased reach, reduced costs, and improved customer engagement
• Understand how to measure the success of an online business through key performance indicators (KPIs)

What you'll be able to do

• Apply circuit theory to determine voltage in direct current (DC) circuits
• Apply circuit theory to determine current in direct current (DC) circuits
• Apply circuit theory to determine resistance in direct current (DC) circuits
• Understand the concept of capacitance in direct current (DC) circuits
• Determine capacitance values in direct current (DC) circuits
• Know the principles of magnetism
• Know the properties of magnetism
• Apply single-phase alternating current (AC) theory

What you'll be able to do

• Diagnose fault conditions in communications equipment using appropriate test instruments and accurately record the results.
• Understand the principles of calibration and configuration procedures for electronic test equipment.
• Understand the importance of scheduled maintenance programmes for communications equipment.
• Understand maintenance procedures for communications equipment and the responsibilities of a technical support team in carrying out these procedures.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the key features of health and safety legislation
• Understand the key features of health and safety regulations
• Identify hazards in the engineering workplace
• Control hazards in the engineering workplace
• Carry out a risk assessment effectively
• Identify appropriate control measures for workplace hazards
• Understand the methods used when reporting accidents
• Understand the methods used when recording accidents
• Understand the methods used when reporting incidents
• Understand the methods used when recording incidents

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the procedures used in the IT diagnostics process.
• Identify the cause of common IT faults.
• Apply suitable remedies to identified IT faults.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the common issues IT users may experience, including hardware, software, and network problems
• Record user support requests accurately and efficiently, using appropriate systems and processes
• Provide IT support to users, resolving issues and providing guidance
• Understand the importance of trends in IT support requests for identifying recurring problems and improving IT services

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the tools used for providing technical support
• Understand the techniques used for providing technical support
• Understand how organisational policies influence the provision of technical support
• Understand how organisational procedures influence the provision of technical support
• Gather information effectively to provide appropriate advice
• Gather information effectively to provide appropriate guidance
• Communicate advice clearly and effectively
• Communicate guidance clearly and effectively

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the effect of developments in information technology on organisations.
• Understand how organisations respond to information technology developments.
• Propose improvements to business systems using IT.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand how organisations utilise business information systems to support their operations and decision-making processes.
• Understand the various issues related to the use of information within organisations, including data security, privacy, and ethical considerations.
• Know the key features and functions of different types of information systems, such as transaction processing systems, management information systems, and decision support systems.
• Use a range of IT tools and techniques to produce relevant and informative management information reports and presentations.

What you'll be able to do

• Prepare hardware and equipment for installation, ensuring all necessary components are available and ready for use.
• Install and configure hardware and equipment according to manufacturer specifications and organisational requirements.
• Test installed hardware and equipment to ensure it is functioning correctly and meeting performance standards.
• Prepare, carry out, and document the installation and upgrade of an operating system, following best practices and security protocols.
• Configure and test an installed operating system to ensure it is properly configured and functioning as intended.

What you'll be able to do

• Prepare for the installation of software by assessing system requirements and compatibility
• Prepare for the installation of software by backing up existing data and configurations
• Install and configure a range of system software, such as operating systems and device drivers
• Install and configure a range of application software, such as productivity tools and utilities
• Check the system operates as planned during the installation of system and application software
• Check the system operates as planned after the installation of system and application software
• Resolve unwanted changes to the system caused by the installation of system software
• Resolve unwanted changes to the system caused by the configuration of system software
• Resolve unwanted changes to the system caused by the installation of application software
• Resolve unwanted changes to the system caused by the configuration of application software

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the organisational issues related to computer system maintenance, including the importance of preventative maintenance and the impact of downtime on business operations.
• Plan computer system maintenance, including scheduling maintenance tasks and allocating resources.
• Perform routine housekeeping on computer systems, including defragmenting hard drives, cleaning up temporary files, and updating software.
• Monitor and improve systems performance, including identifying bottlenecks and optimising system settings.

What you'll be able to do

• Command a radio detachment, providing clear and concise instructions and ensuring effective communication.
• Manage BOWMAN and non-BOWMAN equipment, ensuring it is properly maintained and used in accordance with regulations.
• Supervise battery charging procedures, ensuring batteries are charged safely and efficiently.
• Advise on communication security and electronic warfare matters, providing guidance on protecting sensitive information and mitigating electronic threats.

What you'll be able to do

• Manage unit or sub-unit signals training effectively

What you'll be able to do

• Know about a range of networking management tools and technologies used for monitoring, configuring, and troubleshooting networks.
• Understand the key network management functions, including fault management, configuration management, accounting management, performance management, and security management.
• Carry out network management activities, such as monitoring network performance, configuring network devices, and troubleshooting network issues.

What you'll be able to do

• Know how numbers are represented in computer memory, including different data types and formats.
• Apply Boolean algebra to solve problems in IT.
• Use simple functions to perform calculations and manipulate data.
• Apply statistical techniques to analyse data and draw conclusions.

What you'll be able to do

• Apply matrix methods to solve problems in IT
• Use matrices to represent and manipulate data
• Apply sequences and series to model and analyse patterns in IT
• Apply probability to assess risk and uncertainty in IT systems
• Apply recursion to solve problems in IT
• Apply different number systems, such as binary, decimal, and hexadecimal, in IT contexts
• Convert between different number systems
• Interpret data presented in various formats, such as tables, charts, and graphs
• Draw conclusions and make recommendations based on data analysis

What you'll be able to do

• Know the various uses of mobile communications devices in different contexts
• Know the key features and functionalities of different types of mobile communications devices
• Know the different communication technologies used in mobile devices, such as GSM, 3G, 4G, and 5G
• Know the principles of operation of each mobile communication technology
• Understand the implications of mobile communications technology on society, including social, economic, and ethical considerations
• Understand the security implications of using mobile communications technology
• Set up mobile communications devices for different purposes
• Configure mobile devices for network connectivity and data access

What you'll be able to do

• Know the different types of network attacks that can occur
• Know the common sources of network attacks
• Know about security related hardware used to protect networked systems
• Know about security related software used to protect networked systems
• Understand organisational aspects of maintaining network security
• Apply system security measures effectively

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the principles of physical and logical network topologies and systems, including their advantages and disadvantages.
• Understand the Open System Interconnection (OSI) model and its role in network communication.
• Understand the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) and its key protocols, such as TCP, IP, and UDP.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the key components and functions of the OSI model and the TCP/IP suite
• Know how data is transmitted and routed through networks using these models
• Know different network topologies, such as bus, star, ring, and mesh, and their characteristics
• Know different network transmission systems, including wired and wireless technologies
• Know the advantages and disadvantages of different types of network, such as LAN, WAN, and MAN
• Know the factors that influence network performance and scalability
• Know media access control methods used in local area networks, such as CSMA/CD and token passing
• Know how these methods regulate access to the network and prevent collisions

What you'll be able to do

• Operate the Local Area Sub-system (LAS) effectively
• Construct an antenna for advanced communications
• Establish communications using re-broadcast facilities
• Operate the Key Encryption Key (KEK) fill Device
• Operate Common Battlefield Application Toolset (ComBAT)

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the purpose of different document types and their suitability for various communication needs.
• Know which software applications are appropriate for presenting and communicating information effectively.
• Produce appropriate documents tailored for different audiences and purposes.
• Review documents critically to ensure accuracy, clarity, and suitability for their intended purpose.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the function and operation of diodes in electronic circuits
• Understand the function and operation of transistors in electronic circuits
• Understand the function and operation of logic gates in electronic circuits
• Build and test operational amplifier-based analogue circuits to meet a given specification
• Analyse the performance of operational amplifier-based analogue circuits
• Build and test combinational logic circuits to meet a given specification
• Build and test sequential logic circuits to meet a given specification
• Analyse the performance of combinational and sequential logic circuits
• Use computer-based simulation software packages to construct and test the operation of analogue circuits
• Use computer-based simulation software packages to construct and test the operation of digital circuits

What you'll be able to do

• Know the functionality of BOWMAN digitisation systems and their applications.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the common types of threat to ICT systems and data, including malware, phishing, and social engineering attacks.
• Protect ICT systems from threats, including implementing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and access controls.
• Be aware of the applications of cryptography to ICT systems and data, including encryption, digital signatures, and hashing.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the common types of threat to ICT systems
• Understand the common types of threat to data held on ICT systems
• Understand how to protect ICT systems from threats
• Understand the applications of cryptography to ICT systems
• Understand the applications of cryptography to data held on ICT systems

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the fundamental principles of how projects are managed within an organisation
• Understand the different methodologies and approaches used in project management
• Plan projects effectively using appropriate IT tools and software
• Create detailed project plans that include timelines, resources, and milestones
• Follow established project plans to ensure projects are completed on time and within budget
• Monitor project progress and identify potential issues or risks
• Review the project management process to identify areas for improvement
• Evaluate the effectiveness of project management techniques and tools

What you'll be able to do

• Prepare for a project, including defining project scope, objectives, and resources
• Produce a project plan that outlines tasks, timelines, and responsibilities
• Follow a project plan to implement a project, managing resources and addressing challenges
• Review a project to ensure it meets its goals, evaluating outcomes and identifying areas for improvement

What you'll be able to do

• Know the current use of computer networks in various organisations and industries.
• Know the features and services of local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN) technologies.
• Understand how network hardware and software components are connected and configured.
• Set up a simple local area network (LAN), including configuring network devices and services.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the principles of software design.
• Apply the techniques of software design.

What you'll be able to do

• Know about different software testing strategies and techniques, including their advantages and disadvantages.
• Contribute to a test process for a software solution, following established procedures and guidelines.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand testing strategies and techniques for software.
• Manage a test process for a software solution.

What you'll be able to do

• Command a radio detachment, including assigning tasks, monitoring progress, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
• Supervise BOWMAN and non BOWMAN equipment, including ensuring that equipment is properly maintained and operated.
• Supervise battery charging, including ensuring that batteries are charged safely and efficiently.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the ways in which organisations use IT
• Understand the reasons why organisations use IT
• Understand the impact of IT on individuals
• Understand the impact of IT on organisations
• Plan a working environment to incorporate IT

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the principles of systems analysis and design
• Carry out a structured analysis of business systems requirements
• Design business systems solutions

What you'll be able to do

• Know how information is represented within a computer system, including binary, hexadecimal, and other relevant formats.
• Use an operating environment, including command-line interfaces and graphical user interfaces.
• Be aware of the communication processes involved in distributed operating systems and computer networks, including protocols and architectures.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the representation of information within a computer and the way it is processed, including data types, memory management, and CPU architecture.
• Make effective use of the operating environment of current computer systems, including managing files, running applications, and configuring system settings.
• Know the communication process in distributed operating systems and computer networks, including protocols, topologies, and security considerations.
• Know distributed applications and transaction processing in mainframe systems, including client-server architectures and database management.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the facilities and applications of Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) services
• Know the facilities and applications of Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) services
• Understand the operation, characteristics and applications of Wide Area Network (WAN) services
• Understand the operation, administration, characteristics and capabilities of the internet
• Understand the principles and capabilities of modern mobile communication services

What you'll be able to do

• Know how different telecommunication systems are linked together to form networks
• Know the different types of telecommunication networks, such as local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs)
• Understand how analogue signals are used to carry data in telecommunications systems
• Understand how digital signals are used to carry data in telecommunications systems
• Understand the advantages and disadvantages of analogue and digital signal transmission
• Understand the principles of multiplexing in telecommunications networks
• Understand the different types of multiplexing techniques, such as time division multiplexing (TDM) and frequency division multiplexing (FDM)
• Connect telecommunications equipment to create a local system
• Configure telecommunications equipment for optimal performance

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the principles of alternating current (AC) circuits
• Understand the effects of line impairments on a transmitted signal
• Apply the characteristics of transmission lines in practical scenarios
• Understand the transmission of digital signals over transmission media
• Understand the process of modulating an analogue carrier frequency using digital signals
• Apply the process of multiplexing digital and analogue signals over transmission media

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the electromagnetic spectrum as applied to telecommunications, including the different frequency bands and their uses.
• Know the relationship between telecommunication circuits and transmission lines and their effect on a digital signal, including attenuation, distortion, and noise.
• Know how binary information is transmitted as a digital signal, including modulation techniques and error correction codes.
• Understand how an analogue signal is converted to a digital signal, including sampling, quantisation, and encoding.
• Demonstrate an understanding of signal multiplexing, including time-division multiplexing and frequency-division multiplexing.

What you'll be able to do

• Understand service issues relating to a public telephony system, including call routing, billing, and emergency services.
• Understand the operation and capabilities of a packet-switched telephony system, including VoIP and SIP.
• Understand the operation of a circuit-switched telephony system, including PSTN and ISDN.
• Understand the principles of speech encoding and compression, including codecs and bandwidth requirements.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the fundamental architecture of the World Wide Web, including clients, servers, and protocols
• Know the different components that make up a website, such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
• Know about the technologies used to build websites, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and server-side scripting languages
• Know about the technologies used to operate websites, including web servers, databases, and content management systems
• Implement specified components of a website, such as navigation menus, forms, and content areas
• Implement website components according to given design specifications and functional requirements

What you'll be able to do

• Understand the fundamental architecture of the World Wide Web and its key components.
• Understand the various technologies that can be employed to build and operate a website, including front-end and back-end technologies.
• Develop a comprehensive website specification, outlining its purpose, target audience, features, and technical requirements.
• Implement elements of a website, demonstrating practical skills in coding, design, and content integration.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the characteristics and qualities that are valued by employers in the IT industry, such as technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills.
• Know the common job roles undertaken by people working in the IT industry, including software developers, network administrators, and IT support technicians.

What you'll be able to do

• Know the various technologies required for the effective operation of an e-commerce system.
• Understand the impact of e-commerce on different types of organisations.
• Understand the effects of e-commerce on society, considering both positive and negative impacts.
• Plan effective e-commerce strategies for a given organisation or business.