Need some advice on getting a job in the PC field

[Fun Guest]

I hope you all don't mind me posting this here. I would have just emailed KM or something, but I wanted to try to get more than one opinion on the subject.

I just passed my A+ hardware and OS tests yesterday, (March 30th). I got a 747 on hardware and a 630 on software. I'm in school and they teach us computer subjects with hands on experience. Once we've learned the subject, we study and take the tests. We take: A+, Network+, Security+, the last two are MCSA and MCSE.

I wanted to ask:

Which ones are more meaningful?
Are any I shouldn't bother wasting my money on?
If you have any certifications, what are they?
And about tests that you recommend I take, and why I should get them.

Some of them, like Security+, are outdated, but they count towards the Microsoft certifications. I think I could switch it out with a more meaningful test, but I would have to study for it at home.

I want to do more of the physical, active part of computers: replacing hardware, virus scanning, running cable, anything that doesn't require me to sit in a chair all day, but also pays good. I also think being the Admin of my family's network is fun. Except when my Dad gets mad when somethings breaks.

[Stevi]

Well I have 2 ceritifcations. I have a Microsof Word and Microsoft PowerPoint cert. So far they have just been another thing hangin on the wall, but I feel i will use them later in life. The only bad thing about these are the cost. It is about $600 USD just to take each exam. There are a total of 4. Once you pass all 4 you will get a Microsoft Office User Specialist cert along with all 4 of the seperate certs.

If I were you I would go for more important certs then these. The IC3 is the one I think you should go after.

ABOUT THE IC³ EXAMS:

IC³ certification helps you learn and demonstrate Internet and digital literacy through a worldwide industry standard. To become IC³ certified, you must pass the following three exams. Each exam takes less than an hour to complete.

Computing Fundamentals:
   Computer Hardware
   Computer Software
   Using an Operating System
Key Applications:
   Common Program Functions
   Word Processing Functions
   Spreadsheet Functions
   Presentation Software Functions
Living Online:
   Networks and the Internet
   Electronic Mail
   Using the Internet
   The Impact of Computing and the Internet on Society