7/28/2004 -- The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) announced today that it will launch a beta version of its updated Server+ exam on Aug. 2.

CompTIA is characterizing the new Server+ exam as a "major upgrade" to the previous version. “The certification is no longer focused on break/fix skills," Brian Beneda, HP Certified Professional Program Architect from Hewlett-Packard and chair of the Server+ Certification Advisory Committee, said in a printed statement. “In response to the changes in the industry, CompTIA updated, changed, or removed over 40 objectives and sub-objectives for the 2004 exam.”

CompTIA announced plans to upgrade Server+ in March. Objectives for the new exam are available here. Note that CompTIA now requires candidates to provide a name and e-mail address before downloading objectives from its Web site. A CompTIA spokesperson told CertCities.com that it implemented this change in order to better track downloads, and that information collected would only be used if candidates request further information during the process.

The beta version, SK1-002, will be offered at the discounted price of $75 (U.S.) at Pearson Vue and Prometric centers worldwide through Oct. 15. It features 160 multiple-choice questions with a 165 minute time limit. Those who pass will become Server+ certified.

As extra incentive to participate in the beta, those who take it will receive a free, one-year "IT Professional" membership with CompTIA, which offers 25 percent off the cost of one CompTIA exam, among other benefits. The membership normally costs $59 (U.S.) per year.

More information on this beta can be found here. -Becky Nagel