Y12 Hardware Flashcards
Hardware
physical components of computer
CPU
the brains of the computer. performs the bulk of processing and calculations required by the computer’s software. It executes instructions stored in memory, and performs arithmetic and logical operations.
Motherboard
main circuit board of a computer and connects all components, allowing them to communicate with one another
Power supply
converts AC power from wall outlet into DC power that computers components can use. It provides necessary voltage and current.
Display
Output device that visually presents information processed by a computer. It converts digital signals into a visual format.
RAM
(random access memory) is a type of volatile memory that temporarily stores data and instructions which the CPU needs to access quickly.
GPU
(graphics processing unit) is a processor designed to handle complex mathematical calculations required to render graphics and images
Computer system
set of integrated components that work together to perform computing tasks. it consists of hardware and software that collaborate to accept inputs, process data, store information and produce outputs.
HDD
hard disk drive is a traditional storage device which uses spinning disks to read and write data. It is also non-volatile, meaning the data is always stored on there.
SSD
solid state drive is a storage device which uses flash memory to store data. It is faster and more reliable than HDD but is smaller
Form factor
the size, configuration, shape, weight, or physical arrangement of a device
GPS
global positioning system is a satellite based navigation system that provides location and time information
NFC
near field communication is short-range wireless technology that enables communication between devices when brought closer
AR
argumented reality is technology that overlays digital content onto the real world through device’s camera and screen. ar is transforming how users interact with their mobile devices. it provides users with immersive experiences that overlay digital information into real world, like enhancing location-specific information, home design and visualisation and integration with AI
VR
virtual reality is technology that creates immersive, computer generated environment that can be experienced through special headsets. it has made significant strides, offering users fully immersive experiences, such as cordless headsets, diverse applications and improved realism
operating systems
software that manages hardware resources and provides services for programs
resolution
number of pixels displayed on a screen, expressed as width x height
secondary storage
non-volatile storage used for long-term data retention
WIFI
wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet
Bluetooth
wireless technology standard for exchanging data over short distances
explain about convergence
- merging of different technologies or media platforms into unified systems or devices.
- why is it important
-> improvements of technology are introduced
-> digital cameras used to be popular, but most people use their phones
-> results in easier access to technology at a lower cost, like wifi
mobile device
portable computing device that is small enough to operate in one hand, typically having a display screen, internet and applications, and designed for mobility and flexibility
software
programs that run on a computer
specification
detailed description of design and capabilities of a device, includes components like processor speed, storage capacity, memory etc.
usability
degree to which a digital device is easy and efficient for the user
desktop computer
designed for stationary use and the user is restricted to that area, featuring monitor, keyboard and mouse. Its known for powerful processing capabilities. the screens are vertical so users can’t interact with touch-screen mode. much easier to perform maintenance and upgrades. and cheaper more powerful components
touch screen
display technology that enables users to interact with a device by touching the screen to input commands or data
usability features
specific elements and functionalities in digital devices that enhance user experience
explain about computing devices, including desktops, tablets and mobile phones
- desktops and laptops with a screen, keyboard and a pointing device are comfortable for users sitting at a desk for a long period of time
- tablet devices with touch screens have a form factor that is comfortable for sitting and consuming content, but entering information and creating content via the touch screen are not as comfortable as desktops
- mobile phones are used for short bursts of activities on the go
- with the growing power of portable devices, we are getting more crossover
-> samsung dex and similar technologies blur boundaries
-> laptop/desktop distinction also become less distinct with tablet-like devices
-> folding phones blur mobile/tablet distinctions
explain about tablets and smartphones
- mobile or handheld can be used in many locations
- handheld means held in one hand and ‘operated’ with the other hand
- touch screen and must have haptics
- some people find it difficult to touch the screen with big fingers
- they have no curser so no feedback
explain about biometric authentication - facial recognition
- becoming increasingly sophisticated, offering convenient and secure method for unlocking phones, verifying identify and authorising transactions
- apples faceid provides high level of security and enables users to access secure banking, shopping and other applications
- however, users may forget complex passwords due to infrequent input.
explain about biometric authentication - under-display fingerprint sensors
- evolved from external buttons to seamlessly integrated under-display sensors
- many Chinese brands offer fast recognition speeds, but they may be susceptible to compromise compared to ultrasonic scanners
- integration of fingerprint sensors in display contributes to maximising screen use
explain about display innovations - bezeless displays
- maximises screen display whilst removing margins
- screen-to-body ratio exceeding 90%
- however, necessitated innovative solutions for accomodating front-facing cameras, leading to design quirks
explain about display innovations - foldable displays
- offers versatility of larger-tablet like screen, in a compact and pocket format
explain about connectivity and communication - near field communication (nfc)
- NFC enables seamless contactless payments, data transfer and device pairing
- it provides secure mobile payment solutions, requiring authentication by PIN, password or fingerprint
- it also delivers location-based information and promotions to customers
explain about connectivity and communication - ultra wide band (UWB)
- offers precise proximity and directional sensing capabilities
- enables accurate location tracking and opens up new possibilities for applications like Airdrop and indoor navigation
explain about computational photography
- pushes boundaries of mobile imaging, leveraging AI algorithms and image processing techniques to enhance image quality and introduce new capabilities
- features like nightmode, image fusion and super res zoon enables users to capture stunning photos in challenging conditions
explain about removal of headphone jack
- offers phone manufactures greater design flexibility and potentially improved audio quality with the right headphones
explain about smartwatches and fitness trackers
- they provide convenient access to notifications, fitness tracking and communication features
- contribute to a healthier lifestyle by encouraging physical activity and provide personal insights into personal health metrics
explain about drones, the enterprise use of drones and how is the use of drones raised key privacy issues
- unmanned ariel vehicles (UAV) have evolved significantly and controlled by either ground-based pilots or autonomously through preprogrammed paths utilising on-board sensors and gps
enterprise uses of drones:
1. agriculture - monitoring land and crops and assesses soil health, optimise irrigation etc.
2. energy - use drones to survey powerlines and operational equipment
3. insurance - used to monitor properties for claims and policies and can quickly access danger
4. security - surveillance and monitoring large areas and provides real-time video feeds
5. disaster response - emergency situations - locate missing people and assess damages
6. construction - used for sight surveys , monitoring progress and ensuring safety compliances
7. environmental monitoring - monitoring deforestation, wildlife population and pollution levels
8. logistics and delivery - used for package delivery, reduces time and costs
9. media and entertainment - provides unique aerial entertainment for film and tv production
10. geology - used for mapping and surveying terrain - the use of drones have raised key privacy issues
1. surveillance capabilities
2. data collection
3. lack of specific regulations
mixed reality
- combines elements of both AR and VR, creating unique interactive experiences, such as blending real and virtual worlds, applications in various industries and user-centric design.
system on chip (soc)
- Single integrated circuit combining multiple computer components
- Contains CPU, GPU, RAM controller, modem, and other essential components
- All major computing and control functions in one compact package
- some benefits include
-> size efficiency
-> power efficiency
-> cost effectiveness
-> heat management
-> performance benefits
-> reliability
describe the difference between ARM and x86
ARM Advantages
* Designed for power efficiency
* Simpler instruction set (RISC)
* Lower heat generation
* Better battery life
* Lower manufacturing costs
* Optimized for mobile workloads
x86 Advantages
* High performance capability
* Complex instruction set (CISC)
* Backward compatibility
* Extensive software support
