Computer Hardware Flashcards
What is a graphics chip and what are they used for?
A graphics chip, commonly known as a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), is a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the creation of images and videos intended for output to a display.
GPUs are integral components in various computing devices, including personal computers, workstations, mobile phones, and game consoles.
What are the two types of GPUs?
Integrated GPUs: These are built into the same chip as the CPU and share system memory. Integrated GPUs are more energy-efficient and cost-effective, making them suitable for everyday tasks such as web browsing, video playback, and light gaming
Discrete GPUs: Also known as dedicated graphics cards, these are separate components installed on a computer’s motherboard. Discrete GPUs come with their own dedicated memory and processing power, providing superior performance for tasks like high-end gaming, professional graphic design, and video editing.
What are the basic components of all modern computers?
- Central Processing Unit (CPU).
- Memory (RAM)
- Storage Devices (Hard Drives,
- Motherboard
What is the purpose of the CPU?
Often referred to as the “brain” of the computer, the CPU handles instructions from both hardware and software, performing arithmetic and logical operations.
What is the purpose of RAM?
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a crucial component in modern computing, acting as the system’s short-term memory. It temporarily stores data and instructions that the CPU needs, allowing for quick access and smooth operation of applications.
Key Characteristics of RAM:
Volatility: RAM is volatile memory, meaning it loses all stored information when the computer is powered off.
Speed: RAM provides high-speed data access, significantly faster than long-term storage devices like hard drives or SSDs. This speed is essential for the efficient functioning of active applications and processes.
Capacity: The amount of RAM in a system determines how many applications can run simultaneously and how large the data sets can be for processing.
What are the two types of RAM?
Dynamic RAM (DRAM): The most common type of RAM used in computers, DRAM stores each bit of data in a separate capacitor within an integrated circuit. Due to leakage, these capacitors require regular refreshing to maintain data integrity.
Static RAM (SRAM): SRAM uses bistable latching circuitry to store each bit, eliminating the need for refreshing. It is faster but more expensive and is typically used for cache memory.
What are NVIDIA’s main GPU products?
GeForce RTX Series: Tailored for gamers and creators, offering advanced features like real-time ray tracing and AI-enhanced graphics.
NVIDIA RTX PRO Series: Designed for professionals, these GPUs accelerate AI, graphics, rendering, and computing workloads.
Data Center GPUs: Such as the Blackwell Ultra series, optimized for high-performance computing and AI applications.
What are the three components of CPUs?
Key Components of a CPU:
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Handles all arithmetic operations (such as addition and subtraction) and logical operations (like comparisons), serving as the computational core of the CPU.
Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor by interpreting instructions from memory and coordinating activities among the CPU’s components.
Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU that temporarily hold data and instructions during processing, facilitating quick access and manipulation.
What are some of the newest gamer-related GPUs from NVIDIA?
GeForce RTX 3060: The RTX 3060 has emerged as a popular choice among gamers, offering a balance between performance and affordability.
GeForce RTX 4070 Super: Positioned as a versatile option, the RTX 4070 Super delivers robust performance suitable for high-definition gaming. It has been recognized as one of the best overall GPUs available.
