2.2 Explain the purpose of common internal computing components

Question 1

Motherboard/system board

Answer 1

is a large circuit board that acts like the computer’s spine. It links all the parts together and sends electrical signals between them.

Question 2

Firmware/basic input/output system (BIOS)

Answer 2

is what starts up and checks the hardware components on the motherboard.

Question 3

(RAM)

Answer 3

Random-access memory
Only works when the computer is on
- Volatile storage devices that hold computer data and program instructions while the computer is turned on.

Question 4

(CPU)

Answer 4

• Central processing unit
• The brain of the computer
• Principal microprocessor in a PC or mobile device responsible for running firmware, operating system, and applications software.

Question 5

(GPU)

Answer 5

• Graphics processing unit
• Use for gaming
• Type of microprocessor used on dedicated video adapter cards or within a CPU with integrated graphics capability. GPUs can also perform cryptographic operations efficiently, and are often used for password cracking.

Question 6

Storage

Question 7

(NIC)

Answer 7

Network interface card
- a piece of hardware that allows computers to communicate with other devices on a network. To just connect to the internet

Question 8

Wired vs. wireless

Answer 8

Most motherboards today include a built-in NIC, while some high-end motherboards and server boards feature two or more network ports. Some NICs use a wired RJ-45 connection, while others support wireless connections.

Question 9

Onboard vs. expansion card

Answer 9

Onboard- A chip or other hardware component that is directly attached to
Expansion- a hardware component that you can insert into a computer’s expansion slot to enhance its functionality