Basics 1: Hardware Lvl.1

Question 1

Hardware

Answer 1

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.

Question 2

Motherboard

Answer 2

The main circuit board that holds all of computer hardware cohesively, thus enabling communication between the internal components.

Question 3

RAM Slots

Answer 3

A physical connector that allows insertion of memory modules that enhance the performance and capabilities of a computer.

Question 4

Expansion Slots

Answer 4

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.

Question 5

Chipset

Answer 5

A collection of integrated circuits that manage data flow between computer components, acting as a communication hub.

Question 6

Bus

Answer 6

A bus is a communication system that transfers data and controls signals between the components of a computer.

Question 7

CPU

Answer 7

Stands for central processing unit, the primary component of a computer that controls the flow of data and the instructions in a computer.

Question 8

CU

Answer 8

Stands for control unit, a circuitry in a computer’s processor (CPU) that directs the operations.

Question 9

ALU

Answer 9

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.

Question 10

Registers

Answer 10

A temporary storage space for data and instructions that a processor (CPU) in a computer can quickly access and manipulate.

Question 11

Cache

Answer 11

A temporary storage layer that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to improve computer performance.

Question 12

Clock

Answer 12

An internal timing device that coordinates a computer’s components to send out regular electrical pulses.

Question 13

Memory

Answer 13

An electronic holding place for instructions and data a computer’s processor (the CPU) needs to access quickly.

Question 14

RAM

Answer 14

Stands for random access memory, a volatile memory vital in providing temporary storage for data that allows the CPU to access quickly.

Question 15

ROM

Answer 15

Stands for read only memory, a non-volatile memory that contains essential instructions to boot the computer; retaining data regardless of it powering down.

Question 16

Storage Device

Answer 16

A hardware component that allows data to be stored and retrieved, such as programs, software, or applications.

Question 17

SSD

Answer 17

Stands for solid state drive, a flash storage that is used to store and retrieve data faster than a traditional HDD.

Question 18

HDD

Answer 18

Stands for hard disk drive, a traditional spinning that stores data such as the operating system, applications and user files.

Question 20

PSU

Answer 20

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.

Question 21

Input Devices

Answer 21

External devices that allow a user to send information to the computer, which gives it instructions.

Question 22

Keyboard

Answer 22

An external device that allows a user to input information into a computer.

Question 23

Mouse

Answer 23

An external device that allows a user to click and point in a computer.

Question 24

Scanner

Answer 24

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.

Question 25

Output Devices

Answer 25

Internal devices that convert data in order to deliver information that is understandable to the user.

Question 26

Monitor

Answer 26

An external device that displays information on a computer screen.

Question 27

Printer

Answer 27

An external device that quickly copies digital documents by inking paper.

Question 28

Speakers

Answer 28

An external device that converts data into sound relayed to the user.

Question 29

Cooling Systems

Answer 29

A computer’s device that removes/dissipates heat to keep computer components within a safe operating temperature range.

Question 30

Fans

Answer 30

Part of the cooling systems that circulate air and maintain a cool temperature in a computer’s internal components.

Question 31

Heat Sinks

Answer 31

Part of the cooling systems that absorb and dissipate heat generated by computer components.

Question 32

GPU

Answer 32

Stands for graphical processing unit, a component that handles advanced imaging, including the display of videos and animation on a computer monitor.

Question 33

NIC

Answer 33

Stands for network interface card, as it allows a computer to connect to the network and exchange data with other devices.