Basics 1: Hardware Lvl.1 Flashcards
Hardware
Hardware is electronic equipment; the physical components of a computer system that can be touched and seen. It enables a computer to perform functions such as input, output, storage, and communication.
Motherboard
The main circuit board that holds all of computer hardware cohesively, thus enabling communication between the internal components.
RAM Slots
A physical connector that allows insertion of memory modules that enhance the performance and capabilities of a computer.
Expansion Slots
A computer’s sockets located on the motherboard to allow for additional components (upgrades) that enhance performance and system capabilities, such as graphics, sound, and network interface cards.
Chipset
A collection of integrated circuits that manage data flow between computer components, acting as a communication hub.
Bus
A bus is a communication system that transfers data and controls signals between the components of a computer.
CPU
Stands for central processing unit, the primary component of a computer that controls the flow of data and the instructions in a computer.
CU
Stands for control unit, a circuitry in a computer’s processor (CPU) that directs the operations.
ALU
Stands for arithmetic logic unit, a circuit board in a computer’s central processing unit that performs arithmetic and logical operations such as additions, subtractions, bitwise operations and comparisons.
Registers
A temporary storage space for data and instructions that a processor (CPU) in a computer can quickly access and manipulate.
Cache
A temporary storage layer that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to improve computer performance.
Clock
An internal timing device that coordinates a computer’s components to send out regular electrical pulses.
Memory
An electronic holding place for instructions and data a computer’s processor (the CPU) needs to access quickly.
RAM
Stands for random access memory, a volatile memory vital in providing temporary storage for data that allows the CPU to access quickly.
ROM
Stands for read only memory, a non-volatile memory that contains essential instructions to boot the computer; retaining data regardless of it powering down.
Storage Device
A hardware component that allows data to be stored and retrieved, such as programs, software, or applications.
SSD
Stands for solid state drive, a flash storage that is used to store and retrieve data faster than a traditional HDD.
HDD
Stands for hard disk drive, a traditional spinning that stores data such as the operating system, applications and user files.
PSU
Stands for power supply unit, as it converts electrical power from an outlet into usable energy that powers a computer’s internal components at various voltage levels accordingly.
Input Devices
External devices that allow a user to send information to the computer, which gives it instructions.
Keyboard
An external device that allows a user to input information into a computer.
Mouse
An external device that allows a user to click and point in a computer.
Scanner
An external device that allows a user to convert physical documents, images, or objects into a digital format that can be stored, edited and viewed on a computer.
Output Devices
Internal devices that convert data in order to deliver information that is understandable to the user.
Monitor
An external device that displays information on a computer screen.
Printer
An external device that quickly copies digital documents by inking paper.
Speakers
An external device that converts data into sound relayed to the user.
Cooling Systems
A computer’s device that removes/dissipates heat to keep computer components within a safe operating temperature range.
Fans
Part of the cooling systems that circulate air and maintain a cool temperature in a computer’s internal components.
Heat Sinks
Part of the cooling systems that absorb and dissipate heat generated by computer components.
GPU
Stands for graphical processing unit, a component that handles advanced imaging, including the display of videos and animation on a computer monitor.
NIC
Stands for network interface card, as it allows a computer to connect to the network and exchange data with other devices.
