INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER HARDWARE Flashcards
What is computer hardware?
Computer hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system that interact with each other to perform tasks.
List the categories of computer hardware.
- Input Devices
- Output Devices
- Processing Devices
- Storage Devices
- Motherboard & Power Supply
What is the function of input devices?
Input devices allow users to input data into the computer.
What are examples of output devices?
- Monitor
- Printer
- Speakers
Define the Central Processing Unit (CPU).
The CPU is the heart of the computer, responsible for executing instructions from programs and handling calculations.
What are the key functions of the CPU?
- Fetch
- Decode
- Execute
- Store
What are the components of the CPU?
- Control Unit (CU)
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
- Registers
What does clock speed measure?
Clock speed, measured in GHz, defines how many cycles per second the CPU can perform.
What is RAM?
RAM is volatile memory that temporarily stores data and instructions the CPU needs to access quickly.
Identify the types of RAM.
- Dynamic RAM (DRAM)
- Static RAM (SRAM)
What is the function of storage devices?
Storage devices provide long-term data storage, allowing information to be saved and retrieved over time.
What are the types of storage devices?
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
- Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Optical Drives
- External Storage
Define the motherboard.
The motherboard is the main circuit board in a computer that connects and communicates with all other components.
What are the key components of a motherboard?
- Chipset
- Bus
- Memory Slots
- Expansion Slots
- Power Connectors
What is the role of the power supply unit (PSU)?
The PSU converts electrical energy from the AC outlet into the appropriate DC power required by the internal components.
What are the key features of a PSU?
- Power Rating
- Efficiency
- Modular vs. Non-Modular
What is the function of cooling systems in a computer?
Cooling systems are crucial to prevent computer components from overheating.
Name the types of cooling systems.
- Air Cooling
- Liquid Cooling
- Thermal Paste
What is a bus in computer architecture?
A bus is a communication system that transfers data between the various components of the computer.
Identify the types of buses.
- Data Bus
- Address Bus
- Control Bus
What is an expansion card?
Expansion cards are additional hardware components that extend the functionality of the computer.
List the types of expansion cards.
- Graphics Card (GPU)
- Sound Card
- Network Interface Card (NIC)
True or False: RAM is non-volatile memory.
False
Fill in the blank: The _______ connects all components of a computer.
motherboard
What is the importance of understanding computer hardware?
Understanding computer hardware is essential for grasping how computers work and how to troubleshoot effectively.
Looking ahead, what can we expect from future hardware advancements?
Greater performance, efficiency, and integration in modern devices.
