1.2 - Computer Components

Question 1

What are the 3 components that are necessary in every computer?

Answer 1

Processor, Motherboard, Power Supply Unit

Question 2

What is the function of a Processor (CPU)?

Answer 2

Manage functions of a computer system by processing data and instructions.

Question 3

What is a Motherboard?

Answer 3

Main circuit board - components such as CPU / ROM connected.

Question 4

What does a Power Supply Unit (PSU) do?

Answer 4

Converts electricity from AC to DC.

Question 5

What is Memory split into?

Answer 5

Volatile, Non-volatile

Question 6

What is Volatile storage?

Answer 6

Temporary (data is lost whenever the power is turned off).

Question 7

What is Non-volatile storage?

Answer 7

Saves data.

Question 8

What is the function of RAM?

Answer 8

Keeps data that is easily accessible so your processor can quickly find it without having to go into long-term storage to complete immediate processing tasks.

Question 9

What type of memory is Random Access Memory (RAM)?

Answer 9

Volatile - stores parts of operating system.

Question 10

How can RAM storage locations be identified?

Answer 10

By unique address.

Question 11

What is the function of ROM?

Answer 11

Store firmware, such as the BIOS or UEFI, which is essential for booting up the computer.

Question 12

What type of memory is read-only memory (ROM)?

Answer 12

Non-volatile - cannot change, stores boot program/BIOS.

Question 13

What is Cache Memory?

Answer 13

Volatile, stores frequently accessed data, quick to access - close to CPU.

Question 14

What are the secondary storages?

Answer 14

Magnetic Storage, Optical Storage, Solid State Storage, Cloud Storage.

Question 15

What are the characteristics of Magnetic Storage?

Answer 15

Large capacity, quick data access speed (slower than solid state), low portability + not durable.

Question 16

What are the characteristics of Optical Storage?

Answer 16

Low capacity, slow access speed, high portability, prone to scratches.

Question 17

What are the characteristics of Solid State Storage?

Answer 17

No moving parts - fast access speed, small size (USB sticks + memory cards) - portable, high capacity.

Question 18

What are the characteristics of Cloud Storage?

Answer 18

Huge capacity, difficult portability, durable, access speed depends on internet connection.

Question 19

What are Expansion Cards?

Answer 19

Have specific purpose, attached to motherboard.

Question 20

What is the function of a Graphics Card?

Answer 20

To generate/render imagery that is displayed on an output device.

Question 21

What are Ports?

Answer 21

Interface between external devices on computer.

Question 22

What is the function of Ports?

Answer 22

Data to be transferred.

Question 23

What are the 6 different types of ports?

Answer 23

USB Port, Firewire Port, SD Port, Ethernet Port, SATA Port, Micro SD Port.

Question 24

What is a USB port used for?

Answer 24

Used to connect a wide variety of external devices.

Question 25

What is Firewire used for?

Answer 25

Used for devices working for higher levels of data (e.g., USB).

Question 26

What does a Network / Ethernet Port do?

Answer 26

Connects computers to network devices (modem/router).

Question 27

What is a SATA port used for?

Answer 27

Data transfer to external HDD, SSD or optical devices.

Question 28

What is a Fibre Channel Port used for?

Answer 28

To connect computer servers to share storage devices.