Hardware Installation Flashcards
BIOS
Basic Input and Output systems:
This is a special motherboard firmware that contains codes for Systems operating system and hardware settings such as RAM, Hard Drive, Processor
This is an important piece of software which is stored in a ROM (read-only memory) chip inside the computer motherboard. It is the first program that runs every time when we turn on our computer. It stores all instructions related to controlling the keyboard, serial/parallel ports, hard disk drive, and other various storage drives. The BIOS is also responsible for storing all the specifications
CMOS
The CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) is a volatile storage that stores configuration settings and other critical information needed by the BIOS to initialize hardware during the boot process. This includes system time and date, hardware settings (like hard drive configurations), and boot order preferences. The CMOS is powered by a small battery on the motherboard to retain this information even when the computer is powered off.
POST
The Power-On Self Test (POST) is a diagnostic process that a computer performs immediately after it is powered on. During POST, the BIOS tests essential hardware components such as memory, storage devices, CPU, and graphics to ensure they are functioning correctly and are in a safe state before booting the operating system. If POST completes successfully, it may trigger a single beep (or no sound) to indicate that the system is ready. If errors are detected, POST may produce a series of beeping tones, each pattern indicating a specific type of error as defined by the manufacturer. Additionally, error messages or codes may be displayed on the screen to help diagnose the issue.
Chipsets
a physical module containig Integrated microprocessors that perform certain functions as designed.
RE:
A physical module containing integrated microprocessors designed to perform specific functions. These microprocessors, embedded within the module, execute predefined tasks such as data processing, computation, and hardware control. Such modules are essential in various electronic devices, enabling functionalities in household appliances, automotive systems, industrial automation, and consumer electronics by following programmed instructions
Integrated vs non integrated processors
Integrated processors are embedded on the motherboard, non integrated are
Motherboard models
ATX, ATX Micro, BTX(thermal problems),
Boot sequence
Load, decode, execute, unload
CPU components
- ALU
- Buses(control Bus, Address bus, Data bus)
- Cache(Temporary spu storage(L1(small and inside the processor, 16-64kb), L2, L3 are usuaally outside the processor, between the CPU and the RAM)
- Clock
- I/O unit
- Program counter
Overclocking
Running a motherboard or processor at a higher speed than the manufacturer suggests, is called overclocking.
Word size
Word size
The word size of the machine is how many bits the CPU can manipulate in one go. Each unique memory location in RAM holds one word of information. Every memory location has an unique address. RAM also has a word size measured in bits to indicate the size of the memory location.
32 vs 64 bits processor
32 bit and 64 bit CPU
CPUs are identified as either 32 bit or 64 bit. The amount of data that a CPU can manipulate with one machine code instruction or transfer over a bus is measured in bits. The CPU specification is 32 bit, 64 bit, or 128 bit. A CPU with a 64 bit word size can process 64 bits using one single machine code instruction. This is twice as many bits as a 32 bit
Throtling
Throttling: Most motherboards and processors offer some protection against overheating so that if the system overheats, it will throttle down or shut down to prevent the processor from being affected.
Hyper-threading
Hyper-threading (HT Technology): It is a technology developed by Intel for processing two execution threads within a single processor. Essentially when HT Technology is enabled in the system, BIOS and the processor is running a multi-threaded application and the processor is emulating two physical processors.
VRM
Voltage Regulator Module (VRM)
Voltage Regulator Module (VRM): A VRM is an essential component on the motherboard that regulates and supplies the appropriate voltage to the CPU, GPU, and other critical components. It ensures that these components receive a stable and consistent power supply, preventing damage and allowing for optimal performance. The VRM adjusts the voltage levels dynamically based on the power demands of the processor, contributing to the overall stability and efficiency of the system.
x86 vs x64
x86 - 32bits, 4GB RAM Registers max
x64 - 64bits, > 4GB Ram registers
Intel vs AMD
- different processor sockets
- different types of microcode
- differences in dual-core and multi-core designs
- cache sizes
- performance versus clock speed
Which was the first microprocessor?
(a) Intel 4004