Computer Components - Lesson 3

Introduction

• Goals include presenting components of computers and mobile devices, with a focus on processors, memory, and adapters.

System Unit

• System unit, or chassis, houses most electronic components of a computer system.

Motherboard

• The motherboard is the main circuit board, connecting the processor and memory, among other components.

Processors

• Processors, or CPUs, interpret and execute basic computer instructions.
• Personal computer processors are typically contained on a single chip, known as microprocessors.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

• ALU performs arithmetic and comparison operations, such as addition and determining greater or lesser values.

Registers

• Registers are high-speed storage locations in the processor that temporarily hold data and instructions.

System Clock

• The system clock, a quartz crystal circuit, controls the timing of computer operations.

Clock Speed

• Clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicates the number of cycles per second a processor executes.
• For example, 3 GHz means the processor makes 3 billion clock cycles per second.

Processor Cooling

• Processors generate heat that can lead to malfunction; heat sinks help absorb and disperse this heat.

Bits and Bytes

• The binary system uses bits (0 and 1) to represent data; 8 bits form one byte, the basic data unit processed by computers.

Memory

• Memory stores instructions and data needed by the processor and holds results of data processing.

Types of Memory

• Two main types: volatile memory loses data when powered off, while nonvolatile memory retains it.

RAM

• RAM (Random Access Memory) allows read and write operations and is referred to as main memory.

Types of RAM

• Dynamic RAM (DRAM) needs constant reenergizing to retain data, whereas Static RAM (SRAM) is faster and more reliable but more expensive.

Memory Modules

• RAM chips are mounted on modules, with SIMMs and DIMMs being common types that fit into the motherboard’s slots.

Memory Cache

• Memory cache speeds up processing by storing frequently used data; includes Level 1 (L1) cache on the processor and Level 2 (L2) cache with larger capacity.

ROM

• Read-Only Memory (ROM) stores permanent data that cannot be modified and retains information without power.

Flash Memory

• Nonvolatile flash memory can be electronically erased and rewritten, often used for startup instructions.

BIOS

• Basic Input Output System (BIOS) firmware initializes hardware during computer boot-up.

CMOS

• CMOS technology helps retain information with low power consumption, using battery power when the system is off.

Memory Access Times

• Access time measures how quickly the processor retrieves data and affects overall processing speed.

Adapter Cards

• Adapter cards enhance component functions or provide peripheral connections; installed in expansion slots on the motherboard.

Power Supply

• The power supply converts AC power from the outlet to DC power, with wattage requirements varying by computer.

Batteries

• Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are common in mobile devices, with some models using non-removable batteries.

Summary

• Overview of various computer components, including processors, memory types, and adapter functions.

This quiz explores the essential components of computers and mobile devices, including processors, memory, and adapters. It provides a detailed overview of the system unit and motherboard. Test your knowledge on the various types of memory and their functions.