Hardware Flashcards
What hardware defines a computer?
CPU and memory. The CPU executes programs and memory stores program operations and data while program is being executed.
What does ‘volatile’ mean for a computer’s memory?
Volatile memory only stores information to run programs while the computer is on. It is is reset and emptied once the computer is turned off.
Which is the fastest kind of memory for the CPU to access?
Level-1 cache memory
What is a difference between a RISC mobile processor when compared to a CISC processor?
The RISC mobiel processor usually works at a slower speed than a CISC processor to conserve battery life.
Which type of memory might be used when the computer swaps data in and out of virtual memory?
Data from RAM is often transferred to and from a temporary file on a hard disk.
What is ‘benchmarking’?
Benchmarking is a test used to a assess the performance of a computer. Different types of benchmark software are used for the different kinds of application you might want a computer to do.
How does data travel between the processor and the computer’s RAM?
Data travels between the components of the computer along special pathways called buses.
What happens as a result of overclocking?
Overclocking can result in processes being incomplete before the next instruction in sequence is carried out. CPU’s could also overheat if forced to work faster than they are designed to.
What is ‘cache’?
Cache is a small amount of memory which is a part of the CPU.
What kind of peripheral device is a hard disk drive?
Storage device. Data and programs stored on the disk can be read into the computer’s memory or written from the memory on to the disk.
What kind of device is usually connected to the computer using an HDMI port?
HDMI (high definition multimedia interface) is a port that is used to connect a monitor to the computer.
What do RFID chips do?
RFID chips are small so can be implanted under the skin of an animal. This means that the animal can be identified later and its movements can be tracked.
What is a scree-reader?
A screen-reader converts text on a screen to audio output, so that the user can hear words instead of having to read them.
Is a touch-screen an input or output device?
A touch-screen is both an input device and an output device at the same time. It can display images, which are output, and you can input data by touching the screen.
What is a sound card?
A sound card converts digital data form the computer into sounds that can be played through speakers or headphones.
