The CompTIA A plus objectives want you to know how to connect and configure the following mobile accessories.
Headsets
Headsets provide for hands free audio. Generally, a headset will consist of earphones for audio and a microphone.
A wired headset will generally connect to your mobile device via a 3.5mm TRRS (Tip Ring Ring Sleeve) connector, also known as an analog audio jack. Modern Apple mobile devices no longer come equipped with a 3.5mm audio jack so the headsets with appropriate connectors can be plugged into the Lightning or USB-C port on the mobile device.
Wireless headsets will generally connect to a mobile device via Bluetooth.
Speakers
The built in speaker on your mobile device probably doesn’t provide for the best quality audio. Therefore you might want to attach external speakers. Usually these speakers will be battery powered and connect to your mobile device via Bluetooth. Wired connections will usually be done through a 3.5mm audio jack.
Game pads
Game pads can be connected to your mobile device to enhance the gaming experience on your mobile device.
Game pads generally look like normal gaming console controllers and connect to your mobile device via a Bluetooth or USB connection.
Extra battery packs/battery chargers
Mobile devices only carry a limited power supply. If you know you may need your mobile device for an extended period of time and your battery life may be a concern, then consider carrying an extra power supply. If your mobile device lets you swap battery packs then you can bring extra batteries.
However, if your mobile device doesn’t allow you to change out the battery then you can bring an external power source, such as a USB charger that can use its own stored power to charge your mobile device.
Protective covers/waterproofing
Mobile devices come with large screens that are susceptible to damage if dropped or can be easily scratched. Therefore a screen protector is recommended to protect your mobile device screen.
Additionally, a device cover or protector is recommended to wrap around your entire mobile device to protect it in case of short falls or if you store it in your backpack where it frequently rubs against objects which could cause scratching.
If you wil be using your mobile device is rough conditions (inclement weather, dusty environments) consider a more rugged case. For example, there are many options for waterproof cases. These rugged cases generally add more bulk and weight but compensate with the added protection that it provides to your mobile device. Make sure to keep in mind that the case you pick may cause compatibility problems with docking stations and wireless chargers. You may need to remove the case in order to get your device working with these accessories.
Credit card readers
Mobile devices can be used as a point of sale terminal by attaching credit card readers to them. This means that you can process credit card payments with your mobile device, which is great for small businesses. Credit card readers can be attached via the audio 3.5mm jack, lightning connector, USB-C, or Bluetooth. Some devices also support NFC. Once the credit card has been processed you can have a customer sign your mobile device screen with their finger and you can email them a copy of their receipt.
Memory/MicroSD
One nice feature that Android devices have over Apple iOS devices is the ability to accept microSD cards as additional storage space. If all your media doesn’t fit locally on the device storage, you can keep it on a microSD card and insert the microSD card into your Android device. With Apple iOS devices you are stuck with the amount of memory that you initially bought the device with.
Older larger devices may support the larger SD card form factor, but nowadays most modern mobile devices use the smaller microSD cards.
SD cards generally use FAT32 or ExFAT file systems. There are different classes of SD cards relating to their storage capacities:
- Standard: 4 MB – 2 GB
- Secure Digital High Capacity (SDHC): 4-32 GB
- Secure Digital eXtended Capacity (SDXC): 4 GB – 2 TB
Laptops may come with SD card slots. Otherwise, they may be added on with USB adapters.
