Computer Systems: Hardware, Software and Troubleshooting Flashcards
What are the main physical components of a computer system?
Processing (CPU, GPU), Storage (RAM, Hard Drives, SSDs), Input/Output Devices (keyboard, mouse, webcam), Motherboard, and Power Supply.
What does the Central Processing Unit (CPU) do?
It handles most of the calculations and is often called the “brain” of the computer.
What is the role of the Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)?
It specializes in visual processing and rendering graphics.
What is the difference between RAM and storage drives like SSDs?
RAM (Random Access Memory) is temporary storage for active processes, while SSDs or hard drives provide long-term data storage.
What does the motherboard do?
It acts as the central circuit board, connecting all components of the computer.
What are the two main types of software?
System Software and Application Software.
What is System Software?
Software that manages hardware and provides a platform for applications, including operating systems (Windows, Linux) and utility programs (antivirus, disk defragmenters).
What is Application Software?
Programs used for specific tasks, such as word processors (Microsoft Word), web browsers (Chrome), games, and media players.
What are the main steps in troubleshooting a computer problem?
Identify the problem, gather information, analyze the cause, develop a solution, and test the solution.
What is Artificial Intelligence (AI)?
A field where machines are designed to perform tasks requiring human intelligence, like learning, problem-solving, and decision-making.
What is Edge Computing?
A method of processing data closer to where it is generated, improving speed for real-time applications like self-driving cars.
What is Quantum Computing?
A type of computing that uses quantum mechanics to perform complex calculations, with applications in drug discovery and material science.
What is Robotics?
The design, construction, and operation of robots used in manufacturing, healthcare, and exploration.
Why is Cyber Security important?
It protects systems and data from unauthorized access, use, or damage, crucial for an increasingly digital world.
What is Bioinformatics?
An interdisciplinary field combining biology, computer science, and statistics to analyze biological data, used in genomics and personalized medicine.
