Computer Architecture Basics
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Questions and Answers

A CPU with multiple cores can perform multiple instructions simultaneously

True (A)

A CPU has one or more processors called cores

True (A)

External interfaces are considered to be input components

True (A)

CD/DVD drives are considered to be input devices only

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hard drives are considered to be output devices only

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A webcam is considered an input device

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Printers, monitors, and storage devices are all considered to be output components

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Sound cards are considered to be output components

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A computer's central processing unit (CPU) determines what letter was typed by looking up the corresponding keyboard code in a table.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Modern computers can perform $2$ or $3$ of the basic functions, but not all $3$ functions.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Network routers and switches are considered traditional computer systems.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A user types a letter 'A' on the keyboard, which results in the computer's CPU directly displaying the letter on the monitor.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Common operating systems running on workstations and servers include Windows, Linux, UNIX, and Mac OS.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Smartphones, smartwatches, and home assistants are not considered computers.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term "Internet of Things" (IoT) refers to a network of only home appliances and thermostats.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The author of "Guide to Networking Essentials, 8th Edition" is Greg Tomsho.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

PCIe expansion slots are used for connecting IDE hard drives and CD/DVD-ROM drives.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The CPU socket is where the CPU is installed.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Northbridge and Southbridge are components of the chipset, which controls data transfers between memory, expansion slots, I/O devices, and the CPU.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The SATA connectors are used for connecting hard drives and CD/DVD drives that use the SATA specification.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

RAM is installed in RAM slots on the motherboard.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The IDE connector is used for connecting PCIe expansion cards.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The main power connector is where the motherboard receives power from the system power supply.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The PCI bus expansion slot standard is commonly found on new computers.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A server computer can also function as a client computer.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Client software is typically designed to share network resources with other clients.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A server operating system is designed specifically for sharing data and providing services to other computers.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a peer-to-peer network, one computer is designated as the central server, controlling all access to network resources.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a server-based network, client computers are typically less powerful than server computers.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A network model influences both how resources are shared and how access to those resources is restricted.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A client operating system only manages the hardware of a single computer and does not interact with other computers on the network.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The term "server" always refers to specialized software designed to manage network resources and services.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The network client or server software packages a message in a format that is suitable for the network.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The NIC driver transmits data to the NIC card in the form of electrical signals.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The application layer is the first layer in the network communication process.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The network client or server software is responsible for formatting the message that will be sent to a network resource.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The network protocol layer is responsible for packaging the message in a format suitable for the network.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The user application layer is responsible for accessing network resources.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The NIC card is responsible for converting data into electrical signals and transmitting them on the network.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The steps taken at the server side are the exact opposite of those taken at the client side.

<p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Data travels through the motherboard on a single bus called the system bus.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Solid-State Drives (SSDs) are slower than hard drives because they use flash memory.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The operating system is stored on the RAM and loaded into the CPU when the computer boots up.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The amount of RAM in a computer system directly affects the speed of the hard drive.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A bus is a single wire connecting a component to the CPU, such as a RAM chip.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A CPU can access data stored in RAM faster than accessing data stored on a hard drive because RAM is non-volatile memory.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Hard drives are exclusively used to store operating systems and applications, while documents are stored in RAM.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

SSDs are only used in mobile devices due to their compact size and low power consumption.

<p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Computer Components

Devices that perform tasks within a computer system, such as input, processing, and output.

Network Communication

The process of exchanging data between devices over a network.

Operating Systems

Software that manages hardware and software resources on a computer.

Routers

Specialized devices that forward data between different networks.

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Switches

Devices that connect devices within the same network for data sharing.

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Input

The process of entering data into a computer system, such as typing on a keyboard.

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Processing

The task performed by the CPU to interpret input data.

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Output

The result of processing that is sent to devices like screens or printers.

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Input Components

Devices that allow users to enter data into a computer, like keyboards and microphones.

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Examples of Input Devices

User-controlled devices such as keyboards, scanners, and webcams used to provide data.

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Output Components

Devices that present data from a computer, such as monitors and printers.

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Examples of Output Devices

Devices like monitors, printers, and sound cards that show or play back data.

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Processing Components

The CPU, the main part of a computer, that executes instructions and processes data.

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Multicore CPU

A CPU with two or more processors (cores) that allows for simultaneous instructions processing.

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Storage Components

Devices used to store data, which can also serve as input and output devices.

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Types of Storage

Two main categories: short-term (RAM) and long-term (hard drives, flash drives).

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Motherboard

The main circuit board that connects all computer components.

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CPU Socket

A slot on the motherboard where the CPU is installed.

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PCI Express Bus

A high-speed interface for adding expansion cards to a computer.

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Expansion Slots

Slots on the motherboard for additional cards like sound and network cards.

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RAM Slots

Slots on the motherboard for installing RAM modules.

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Chipset

Two chips on the motherboard that manage data transfer between components.

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SATA Connectors

Ports used to connect SATA hard drives and optical drives to the motherboard.

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Main Power Connector

The connector that supplies power from the power supply to the motherboard.

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Computer Bus

A collection of wires carrying data within a computer.

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Hard Drive

Primary long-term storage device that uses magnetic disks called platters.

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SSD (Solid State Drive)

A fast storage device that uses flash memory with no moving parts.

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RAM (Random Access Memory)

Main short-term storage that temporarily holds data for quick access.

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Volatile Memory

Memory that requires power to maintain stored information; loses data when power is off.

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Access Times

The speed at which data can be read from or written to storage devices.

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Disk Drives

Storage devices (like hard drives) that read/write data on magnetic disks.

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Access Network Resource

The initial step where an application sends a message to request network resources.

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Client Software Role

Detects the resource access attempt and formats the message for the network protocol.

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Network Protocol

Packages the formatted message for transmission across the network.

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NIC Driver Function

The component that sends the packaged message to the NIC card for signal conversion.

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NIC Card Role

Converts data into signals suitable for transmission over the network.

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Reverse Process at Server

The steps performed at the server side are essentially the inverse of the client side's steps.

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Layers of Network Communication

Each step in accessing network resources is referred to as a layer, with specific tasks.

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User Application

The first layer that initiates the process by attempting to access network resources.

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Client

A device or software that requests services from a server in a network.

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Client Operating System

The OS installed on a client computer, managing user applications and network access.

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Client Software

Programs that send requests for network resources to a server.

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Server

A computer providing services or resources to client computers over a network.

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Server Operating System

An OS designed to manage network resources and provide services to clients.

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Server Software

Programs on a server that respond to requests from client software.

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Peer-to-Peer Network

A network model where all computers can act as clients and servers with no central control.

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Server-Based Network

A network model where specialized computers act as servers, serving resources to clients.

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Study Notes

Introduction to Computer Networks

  • The presentation introduces computer networks and their fundamental components.
  • Basic computer components and their operations are described.
  • Fundamentals of network communication are explained.
  • Common networking terms are defined.
  • Different network models are compared.

An Overview of Computer Concepts

  • Most network devices include workstations and network servers running operating systems like Windows, Linux, UNIX, and macOS.
  • Routers and switches are also part of the network infrastructure.
  • Specialized computers transfer data between computers and networks.
  • Smartphones, smart watches, home assistants, and other smart devices are considered Internet of Things (IoT) devices.

Basic Functions of a Computer

  • A computer's functions are categorized into input, processing, and output.
  • Input devices include keyboards, microphones, webcams, scanners, and external interfaces like USB ports.
  • Storage devices like hard disks and CDs/DVDs also generate input.
  • Processing components such as CPUs determine input by referencing tables.
  • CPUs process instructions from computer programs. Current CPUs are multicore to perform multiple instructions concurrently.
  • Output devices include monitors, printers, storage devices, network cards, and sound cards.

Storage Components

  • More storage equals improved performance.
  • Most storage components act as input and output devices.
  • Storage categories include: short-term (RAM) and long-term (hard drives, CDs/DVDs, SSDs, USB flash drives).

Storage Components (RAM)

  • RAM is short-term storage, losing data when power is off.
  • RAM is crucial for efficient computer operation.
  • RAM is also known as "working storage."
  • If RAM is insufficient, the computer uses the hard drive for supplementary storage but this slows down processing.

Storage Components (Long-Term)

  • Long-term storage, like hard drives and SSDs, retains data even without power.
  • The storage capacity requirement depends on the files to be saved.
  • Long-term storage is utilized for storing documents, multimedia files, applications, and operating system files.

Data Storage in Bits

  • Data on a computer is saved as binary digits (bits).
  • A bit represents a value of either 1 or 0.
  • A pulse of 5 volts represents 1, while absence (0 volts) represents 0.
  • A byte is a collection of 8 bits.

Personal Computer Hardware

  • Four main PC components: motherboard, storage device, RAM, and firmware.
  • The motherboard is a network of wires and controlling circuits connecting all components.
  • The motherboard contains labeled components described in a table and diagram.
  • Components include: CPU socket, PCI/Express/bus expansion slots, RAM slots, chipset with heat sinks, SATA connectors, IDE connectors, and main power connector.
  • A bus is a collection of wires that carries data between parts (e.g., CPU and RAM, CPU and disk drives, CPU and expansion slots).
  • Storage devices include hard drives (consisting of magnetic platters) and solid-state drives (SSDs) using flash memory, with SSDs being faster and more expensive.
  • RAM is volatile storage used for temporary data, while other storage types are nonvolatile.
  • Firmware, like BIOS or UEFI, is a program in nonvolatile memory that starts the computer and runs basic I/O tasks. This includes a power-on self-test.

Computer Boot Procedure

  • The computer boots by applying power, starting the CPU, running BIOS startup routines (including POST),searching for an OS. The OS is then loaded into RAM, and OS services start.

Fundamentals of Network Communication

  • A computer network connects two or more computers using a transmission medium, such as cables or air waves.
  • To access the internet a computer must connect to a network.

Network Components

  • Hardware for connecting a stand-alone computer to a network includes network interface cards (NICs).
  • Network media (cable, or air waves) creates a connection between a computer and the network.
  • Interconnecting devices (switches) enable communication between multiple computers without direct connections.
  • Software components include network clients, network servers and protocols. Protocols govern communication formats and rules. NIC drivers handle data communication with the NIC hardware.

Steps of Network Communication

  • Application requests network resources by sending a message.
  • The message is formatted by client software for transmission
  • Protocols package the formatted message.
  • The NIC driver converts the message into signals for transmission on the network.
  • The connection steps happen in reverse on the server side.

Layers of the Network Communication Process

  • Layers are the steps required for client access to network resources.
  • Each layer has a specific task in the overall communication process. Layers work together in a series to facilitate communication between machines on a network.

How Two Computers Communicate on a LAN

  • TCP/IP is the most common communication protocol used in networks, using both logical (IP) and physical (MAC) addresses to precisely locate the intended recipient. Logical addresses function like a ZIP code, while Physical addresses work like a street address.
  • When a user on computer A performs a ping to computer B (address: 10.1.1.2), the network software creates a message, adding sending and destination IP addresses, and then, retrieving the MAC address of the destination computer (B) to locate the specific device on the network. Computer B receives this message, confirming correct addresses to start reply.

Network Terms Explained

  • Every profession (including networking) uses a special language & acronyms.

LANs, Internetworks, WANs, and MANs

  • A LAN (Local Area Network) is a small network within a geographic area.
  • An internetwork connects multiple LANs.
  • WAN (Wide Area Network) connects computers geographically distant from one another, sometimes using third-party providers and technologies.
  • A MAN is a network connecting LANs within a metropolitan area.

Internet, Intranet, and Extranet

  • The Internet is a worldwide public internetwork.

  • An intranet is an internal private network, using protocols like TCP/IP and HTTP.

  • An extranet allows restricted access from outside users to network resources.

Packets and Frames

  • Data is transferred across networks in short bursts (typically ~1500 bytes) called packets.
  • This is done to allow the network resources to be shared by many users. Bursts are paused allowing for transmission data by other users.
  • Packets and frames contain source and destination information (like the mailing analogy – addresses in a letter).

Clients and Servers

  • A client is a computer that requests network resources, often software or information.
  • A server provides or shares network resources and services to clients.
  • The server typically hosts the primary software applications that can be accessed by multiple users. Common example: A server might host a file-sharing app.
  • Software and operating systems on a computer can also function as clients, or servers depending on their role.

Network Models

  • Network models specify how resources are shared and accessed.
  • Common categories include: Peer-to-Peer networks and Server-Based networks.

Peer-to-Peer/Workgroup Model

  • Each computer on a peer-to-peer network can function as both a client and a server.
  • Each user is responsible for managing their own resources and security, requiring various credentials (Usernames and passwords). This is typically suitable for smaller networks. Managing large peer-to-peer networks, can become unmanageable.
  • Resources on peer-to-peer networks are typically not as well organized as on server-based networks.

Server/Domain-Based Model

  • In server-based networks, dedicated servers manage network resources and security, enabling centralized control.
  • Users share a single network username and password. This approach is better suited for managing access to network resources for larger numbers of users.
  • The centralized management makes it easier to track data on the network. Common example: A domain might be used to centrally manage a university network.
  • Active Directory is a directory service on Windows servers that manages access to resources.

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Introduction to Computer Networks PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on the fundamentals of computer architecture, including the roles of CPUs, input and output devices, and operating systems. This quiz covers essential concepts regarding how modern computers process information and interact with users. Perfect for beginners looking to strengthen their understanding of computer hardware.

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