Expanded Options for CompTIA A+ Certification Now Available.

Two new exams launched today for IT remote support, depot technicians

OAKBROOK TERRACE, Ill. -- The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA), the world's largest provider of vendor neutral certifications for professionals in the information technology (IT) industry, today expanded its CompTIA A+([R]) certification offering by adding two new exams tailored to specific IT repair and support jobs.

The association announced the worldwide availability of CompTIA A+ 220-603 for remote support, service desk, support center, help desk, and call center technicians; and CompTIA A+ 220-604 for depot and bench technicians.

The CompTIA A+ Essentials and CompTIA A+ 220-602 exams were launched earlier this year.

Earning CompTIA A+ certification, recognized throughout the IT industry as the foundation credential for a career in technology, continues to require passing two "high stakes" exams delivered as computer-based tests in a proctored environment.

The changes to CompTIA A+ reflect the evolution of skills and job responsibilities for computer service and support personnel. The updated credential validates both technology essentials and the specialized skills required in different computer service and support environments.

"The most exciting aspect of this update to CompTIA A+ is the flexibility it offers individual candidates and employers," said John Venator, president and chief executive officer, CompTIA. "More than ever before, individuals have the power to take control of their career and focus on specific areas of computer service and support. Employers can select the exam elements that best suit their business needs, assuring that their personnel are certified with the skills most relevant to the job tasks they are performing."

The CompTIA A+ Essentials exam covers core competencies in the latest hardware and software technologies, including a greater emphasis on information security skills, safety and environmental issues, and soft skills.

The CompTIA A+ 220-602, 220-603 and 220-604 exams focus on how to apply technology skills in specific job environments. Candidates and employers have the ability to select the second exam that best fits their employment goals, or employee needs, such as IT technician, remote support technician or depot technician.

"The CompTIA A+ update is right on target," said Beverley Patterson, senior director of Learning and Organizational Development at Ricoh Corporation, a leading provider of digital office equipment. "I'm excited about the three different job role areas it has branched out in. The alternative validations will allow us to focus more on the skills needed by our diverse audience of service professionals."

To register for the exams, or for additional information on objectives, courseware and other details on CompTIA A+, please visit: http://certification.comptia.org/a/default.aspx

About CompTIA

The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) represents the business interests of the information technology (IT) industry. For 24 years CompTIA has provided research, networking and partnering opportunities to its 20,000 member organizations in more than 100 countries worldwide. CompTIA initiatives extend to areas such as convergence technologies, electronic commerce, information security, IT services, public policy, skills development, and software. CompTIA helps organization maximize the benefits they receive from their investments in technology; and assists IT workers to obtain the skills they need for productive careers in technology. For more information, please visit: www.comptia.org.