Computer Components Flashcards
b. Explain how different hardware components and operating systems of a computer function interoperate
The brain
Microprocessor/Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Two common components
- control unit - extracts instructions from memory
- arithmetic logic unit (ALU) - handles math calculations
Composite material inside a PC containing visible wiring and embedded circuitry
Motherboards
Software that is burned into motherboard as firmware
Basic Input/output System (BIOS)
Programmed as the first code executed upon start-up
Two main jobs:
- handles initialization
- starts the OS
What are pathways that connect circuitry on the motherboard
Computer Buses
Each bus comprised of two different buses:
- address bus - contains the ‘to’ and ‘from’ address
- data bus - contains specific data that is transferred
Non-volatile memory predominantly non-writable
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Volatile memory that is easily writable
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Type of memory built with Static RAM chips to reduce data wait time by storing the most frequently requested information
Cache Memory
Two parts - L1 and L2 (and even L3)
What are the two types of categories for Storage Devices
Removable (optical drives) and Non-removable media (hard drives/RAID)
This provides a means to make a computer more versatile by adding special cards to the motherboard by way of a PCI expansion slot
Expansion Slots
This is a physical component for the system to access the local network
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Logical address for computers and other network devices to communicate
Hostname
This allows computers to join and be an active member in a network domain
Fully Qualified Domain Name (FQDN)
