Computer Hardware and Printing Process Quiz
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Questions and Answers

What is the charge of the drum after writing/exposing the areas intended for the image?

  • 0 volts
  • Positive charge
  • -600 volts
  • -100 volts (correct)

    • During the developing step, what is the primary purpose of the developer roller?

  • To clean the drum
  • To charge the paper
  • To attract toner to the drum (correct)
  • To fuse toner to the paper

    • What happens during the transferring step of the EP/Laser Print Process?

  • The drum is reset and prepared for the next print.
  • The toner is attracted from the drum onto the paper by a positive charge. (correct)
  • The toner is heated and permanently bonded to the paper.
  • The toner particles are dissolved in ink.

    • Which component is responsible for bonding the toner to the paper during the fusing stage?

    <p>Fusing rollers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the cleaning blade in the EP/Laser Print Process?

    <p>To remove excess toner from the drum</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key feature of the Micro-ATX motherboard form factor?

    <p>Reduced width compared to ATX</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes Mini-ITX motherboards?

    <p>They are designed for use in Small Form Factor (SFF) PCs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the intended improvements of the BTX/Micro-BTX form factor over ATX?

    <p>Increased airflow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step is NOT part of the motherboard installation process?

    <p>Install the CPU directly onto the chassis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of a hard disk drive in a computer system?

    <p>Storing data, applications, and operating systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a characteristic of the Micro-ATX form factor?

    <p>Fully backwards compatible with regular ATX</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a disadvantage of the Mini-ITX form factor?

    <p>Limited space for only one expansion slot</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did the BTX/Micro-BTX motherboard form factor become less popular?

    <p>It was not widely adopted for general use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of an audio adapter in a computer?

    <p>To transform digital sound data into analog audio</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What component in sound cards controls how sounds are encoded and decoded?

    <p>DSP (Digital Signal Processor)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of audio file is characterized as being highly compressed and may result in loss of quality?

    <p>MP3 files</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In modern desktop systems, how is an upgrade to a discrete sound card typically performed?

    <p>By installing a PCI or PCI Express sound card</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of MIDI files?

    <p>They contain simulated instrumental sounds</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a function of all audio adapters?

    <p>Encoding video data for playback</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is often required to upgrade the audio capabilities of a laptop?

    <p>Using ExpressCard or USB audio adapters</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hardware component boosts signals for microphones and speakers in sound cards?

    <p>Onboard amplifier</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes U.2 from standard 2.5" SATA drives?

    <p>U.2 drives are thicker and used in servers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes NVMe and its operation?

    <p>NVMe operates over the PCIe bus.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the primary functions of extra display adapters?

    <p>They convert various signal types.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor does NOT significantly affect the quality of an LCD unit?

    <p>Type of backlight used</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs during a cold boot?

    <p>The entire boot process is completed from scratch.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant limitation of portable computers compared to desktops?

    <p>They are less upgradeable and often proprietary.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of POST during the boot process?

    <p>To check hardware configuration and report failures.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do liquid crystals in an LCD unit operate?

    <p>By altering their orientation based on electrical charges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do laptop processors compare to desktop processors?

    <p>Some laptop processors use BGA sockets limiting upgrades.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes the hard drive form factor used in portable computers from desktops?

    <p>Portable computers use a 2½ inch form factor.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can a warm boot be initiated?

    <p>Using Alt-Ctrl-Del key combination.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable advantage of LCD technology?

    <p>They have a small footprint and use very little power.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common disadvantage associated with LCD monitors?

    <p>They may have defective pixels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step in the boot process follows the initialization of the CPU?

    <p>The BIOS bootstrap loader is started.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which is a common upgrade for laptop users?

    <p>Upgrading the hard drive.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of shadowing in the boot process?

    <p>To load BIOS programs into main memory.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor limits the rotational speeds of optical drives in some portable computers?

    <p>Vibration and heat issues.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of LCDs defines their native resolution?

    <p>The resolution at which they operate best.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do prices of memory for portable computers compare to those for desktop computers?

    <p>Memory prices for both have become comparable.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What method do advanced LCDs use to improve visibility?

    <p>Incorporating a backlight behind the screen.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When does the system choose a boot device?

    <p>During the final stage of the boot process.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What signals that the power supply has successfully generated voltage during the boot process?

    <p>The power good signal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following input types is NOT typically associated with LCDs?

    <p>USB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens during a warm boot compared to a cold boot?

    <p>POST is not fully executed during a warm boot.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary feature of RAID 1 in terms of data protection?

    <p>It provides fault tolerance by mirroring data on multiple drives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In RAID 3, what is the main purpose of the dedicated parity drive?

    <p>To enable quick data recovery in case of a drive failure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What limitation does RAID 4 have in comparison to RAID 5?

    <p>RAID 4 does not use rotating parity across the drives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which characteristic distinguishes RAID 6 from RAID 5?

    <p>RAID 6 can withstand the failure of up to two drives.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a notable disadvantage of RAID 3 compared to RAID 5?

    <p>RAID 3 does not allow for parity information to be distributed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does rotational delay refer to in the context of hard drives?

    <p>The time it takes for the right sector to align under the read-write head.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do modern computer systems determine hard drive geometry?

    <p>Through querying the drive directly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary limitation of the 28-bit addressing used in older BIOS systems?

    <p>It limits the drive capacity to 137 GB.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a major hard drive interface?

    <p>USB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the purpose of a landing zone in hard drives?

    <p>To provide a safe area for the read-write heads when not in use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of manufacturers calculating hard disk capacities using the 1000 division method?

    <p>The actual usable capacity appears higher than it really is.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main feature of Logical Block Addressing (LBA) used by modern hard drives?

    <p>Each sector is given a unique identifier to simplify access.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the write precompensation cylinder in hard drives?

    <p>To adjust the sensitivity of heads for smaller inner sector sizes.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of applying thermal compound when attaching a heatsink to a processor?

    <p>To ensure efficient heat transfer between the CPU and heatsink</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements regarding the cooling of modern CPUs is true?

    <p>Case fans play a crucial role in removing heat from the system.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key risk associated with overclocking a CPU?

    <p>Increased likelihood of CPU failure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can make a CPU more favorable for overclocking?

    <p>The ability to adjust the multiplier value</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do motherboard fan connectors play in temperature management?

    <p>They adjust fan speeds based on temperature readings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component primarily contributes to the increased risk of overheating when overclocking a CPU?

    <p>Higher core voltage settings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cooling solution became necessary as CPUs began to operate at higher speeds?

    <p>Fan-based active cooling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What important function do case fans perform in a computer system?

    <p>They help circulate air within the case to lower ambient temperature.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of Intel's 'SpeedStep' setting in mobile processors?

    <p>To allow the CPU to adjust speed for optimal performance based on the workload</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a common issue that can cause problems in portable computers?

    <p>Inadequate ventilation in the device</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do optical discs differ from hard drives in terms of data organization?

    <p>Optical discs utilize a single continuous spiraling track for data</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one key characteristic of Constant Linear Velocity (CLV) in optical drives?

    <p>The motor consistently adjusts the disc's spin rate while maintaining a constant data speed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When troubleshooting a notebook, what is the first component that should be checked if problems occur only in DC mode?

    <p>The battery's health and performance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the function of a laser within an optical drive?

    <p>It reads data by reflecting off a layer on the bottom side of the disc</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant drawback of relying on integrated devices within portable computers?

    <p>Higher likelihood of requiring more frequent driver updates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which method is commonly used for connecting external optical drives?

    <p>USB</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs during a warm boot that does not happen during a cold boot?

    <p>The system uses previous settings and states.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary responsibility of the graphics processing unit (GPU) in a video adapter?

    <p>Controlling the quality of images outputted to the display</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step follows the initialization of the CPU during the boot process?

    <p>The system ROM BIOS bootstrap loader is started.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first action taken when the boot process begins?

    <p>The power supply generates the necessary voltages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect does NOT pertain to the specifications of a video card?

    <p>Internet connectivity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During the boot process, what happens if the BIOS encounters hardware issues?

    <p>The BIOS issues beep codes indicating the problem.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of video card typically provides better graphics performance?

    <p>Discrete video cards</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the action of shadowing in the BIOS loading process?

    <p>Loading data into volatile memory to speed up access.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should documentation of troubleshooting findings be formatted?

    <p>Professionally and specifically without personal bias</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of performing a thorough 'fit and finish' check in troubleshooting?

    <p>To ensure all physical aspects of the system are optimal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What selection process occurs when determining which boot device to use?

    <p>It follows a specific order defined in the BIOS settings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following manufacturers is known for producing integrated graphics solutions?

    <p>Intel</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a sudden power interruption affect the system during a boot process?

    <p>It may corrupt data and require a full boot restart.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What typically defines the evolution rate of video cards?

    <p>Market demand and technological advances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the CMOS in the boot process?

    <p>It maintains configuration data for hardware detection and boot order.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How should one document troubleshooting findings to maximize future use?

    <p>With detailed symptoms, theories, and the solution</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of a line conditioner?

    <p>To stabilize power supply during brownouts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it recommended to replace a surge suppressor if its indicator lights show devices are unprotected?

    <p>It poses a risk of hardware damage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of using a UPS over a SPS?

    <p>It provides continuous power without delay during outages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does a backup power supply allow in case of a blackout?

    <p>Saving data and safe system shutdown.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major downside does an SPS have compared to a true UPS?

    <p>It can switch to battery power too slowly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one key feature of a UPS's software?

    <p>Configures the system's response to outages.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of hardware failure in computer systems?

    <p>Excessive heat generation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following devices ensures that connected systems are protected against power outages?

    <p>UPS</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should you consider when deciding on a video card due to the rapid advancement in video card technology?

    <p>Get the current version at the time of purchase rather than the best.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which video card connector is known for handling both analog and digital video signals?

    <p>DVI</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key recommendation when unloading an old video card before installing a new one?

    <p>Enter safe mode and uninstall the video driver.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect is NOT important for ensuring a video card operates efficiently after installation?

    <p>Having the newest drivers from any source.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of connection does the HDMI interface provide?

    <p>Digital video and digital audio connection.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might some video cards require additional power connectors from the power supply?

    <p>The PCIe slot cannot provide sufficient power.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is crucial for maximizing the performance of today's video cards?

    <p>Ensuring proper cooling and ventilation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of the PCIe 8-pin and 6-pin power connectors?

    <p>To supply additional power to high-demand video cards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which USB version is known for having a maximum transfer rate of 480 Mbps?

    <p>USB 2.0</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary characteristic of FireWire compared to USB?

    <p>FireWire devices can daisy-chain without a computer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What color is typically associated with USB 3.0 connectors?

    <p>Blue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about Thunderbolt is incorrect?

    <p>Thunderbolt was developed solely for Apple devices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which USB standard supports the fastest data transfer rate?

    <p>USB 4.0</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a distinguishing feature of USB compared to FireWire?

    <p>USB devices must be connected to a host computer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes the evolution of USB?

    <p>USB 3.0 provided the highest transfer rate of USB standards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary benefit of using enterprise class SATA drives over typical SATA drives in servers?

    <p>Enterprise class SATA drives are designed for more intensive use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What color are the 'sleep-and-charge' USB ports typically associated with?

    <p>Red or Yellow</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which feature makes SAS backward compatible with SATA?

    <p>The basic architecture of SAS allows it to support SATA devices.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What advantage do redundant power supplies provide in server hardware?

    <p>They allow for continued operation during a power supply failure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the first step in the CompTIA Troubleshooting Procedure?

    <p>Identify the problem</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are KVM switches used in server management?

    <p>To allow multiple servers to share one keyboard, video, and mouse.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a characteristic of how hard drives are typically arranged in servers for maintenance?

    <p>They are located in bays at the front of the case for easy replacement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT part of establishing a theory of probable cause?

    <p>Identifying recent software updates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the transfer rate of SAS compare to that of typical SATA drives?

    <p>SAS has a higher transfer rate than SATA, supporting up to 22.5 Gb/s.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What action is taken during the 'Test the theory' step?

    <p>Roll back suspect driver</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement about the popularity of physical servers today is accurate?

    <p>The usage of cloud services has reduced the prevalence of physical servers.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After implementing a solution, what is the next crucial step in the troubleshooting process?

    <p>Verify functionality</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What functionality does a typical SAS controller card offer besides connecting devices?

    <p>It is usually capable of RAID functionality.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following should NOT be done before making system changes?

    <p>Notify the IT department of the issue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the 'action plan' in the troubleshooting process entail?

    <p>Replacing or reinstalling components</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if you suspect a hardware component is causing the problem?

    <p>Swap it with a known working component</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What indicates that a system is not functioning correctly during troubleshooting?

    <p>The presence of beep codes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What occurs during a warm boot that differs from a cold boot?

    <p>The system uses menu options or commands for resetting.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step in the boot process involves checking hardware configuration and may produce beep codes for errors?

    <p>BIOS checks hardware configuration.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the power good signal indicate during the boot process?

    <p>The power supply is stable and operational.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if power is interrupted during the boot process?

    <p>All functions of the computer are interrupted.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step directly follows the initialization and reset of the CPU in the boot process?

    <p>The BIOS bootstrap loader is started.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the boot process, what are the ROMs of devices like network adapters and DVD drives started after?

    <p>Video ROM initialization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which key combination is commonly used to initiate a warm boot?

    <p>Ctrl-Alt-Delete</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Course Information

    • Course name: CST8208 – PC System Technology
    • Course section: 010
    • Academic year: Fall 2024

    Professors

    Marks Breakdown

    • Term Test: 25%
    • Quizzes: 10%
    • Final Exam: 35%
    • Lab Evaluation: 20%
    • Pre-Labs: 10%
    • Total: 100%

    Test Dates

    • Term Test (Section 010): October 15th
    • Final Exam: TBA

    Textbook

    • Scott Mueller's Upgrading and Repairing PC's (22nd Edition)
    • ISBN: 978-0-7897-5000-6
    • Online option: Safari by O'Reilly in library

    Hardware/Technician Certification

    • CompTIA A+

    Hardware Basics - Tools

    • Screwdrivers: #2 Phillips, #1 Phillips, Slot/Flat, Torx
    • Nutdrivers
    • Pliers (Needlenose)
    • Anti-Static Strap/Mat
    • Thermal Compound

    Hardware Basics - Screw Types

    • M3: Fine thread
    • 6-32: Coarse thread
    • Standoff/jackscrew

    Hardware Basics - Safety

    • Do not work on a computer system while it is powered on (unless absolutely necessary)
    • Do not open or attempt to repair devices that could be dangerous (CRT monitor, power supply)

    Motherboards

    • The main circuit board in a PC
    • Almost every component and peripheral in a computer connects to the motherboard
    • Allows devices and components within a computer system to communicate and interact with one another
    • Also called system board or main board
    • Motherboard designs come in many different designs to accommodate different needs
    • The selected CPU and type of case often determines the motherboard's physical architecture
    • As new processors are marketed new motherboards are needed to accommodate the processor
    • Motherboard form factor defines the motherboard's size, shape, how it's mounted, power requirements, and location of external connectors
    • ATX is the most popular form factor for modern motherboards
    • AT and XT were prior to ATX, but are now obsolete
    • Micro-ATX is designed for smaller, lower cost systems, used in mini towers
    • Mini-ITX is designed for use in SFF (Small Form Factor) PCs and HTPC (Home Theater PC) systems, often passively cooled.
    • BTX/Micro-BTX: Was intended to replace ATX, but is no longer manufactured.

    Motherboard Installation

    • Install standoffs in correct positions in chassis
    • Install the motherboard I/O shield
    • Install and secure motherboard to chassis
    • Connectors: Front panel connectors (correct polarity), Header connectors (USB, audio, etc), Power connectors

    Chipset Block Diagrams

    • Diagrams illustrating the evolution of motherboard chipsets

    Hard Disk Drives

    • The primary storage device for most modern computers
    • Stores computer data, applications, and operating systems
    • Early drives were slow and unstable, but have evolved to be faster and more reliable
    • Storage capacity has increased from 5MB to over 8TB+
    • Data transfer rates have increased from 85KBps to over 150MBps+
    • Access time has decreased from around 85ms to 10-20ms
    • Cost has decreased significantly, with a 1TB drive now costing far less than $100.
    • Internal Components: Platters, read/write heads, actuator arms, spindle, motors, air filters

    Inside a Hard Drive

    • Platters: Use rugged, solid materials (aluminum or ceramic composite) for storage. Light and low thermal expansion.
    • Read/Write heads: Coated for separate magnetic surfaces. Float on a thin air cushion.
    • Actuator arms: Move read/write heads to various locations on the platters.
    • Motors: Power the spindle for constant speed rotation
    • Air filters: Keep small particles from damaging the drive. (Recirculating and barometric)

    Care of your hard disk drive

    • Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures.
    • Properly cool the drive, and avoid sharp jumps or jarring impacts that may compromise its integrity or cause a mechanical failure.

    Hard Drive Organization

    • Tracks: Concentric circles on each platter to organize data storage. Many tracks per platter.
    • Cylinders: Group of tracks of the same diameter to help organize and access sectors on the platters
    • Sectors: Smallest units of allocated space, traditionally held 512 bytes, now commonly held 4KB in more modern drives.
    • Clusters: A number of sectors that is used in allocating resources when accessing or writing data, thus the minimum amount of space. (ranged from 2 to 64)

    Terms to Know

    • Seek time: Time taken for a disk arm to move to the right cylinder
    • Rotational delay: Time for the desired sector to move to beneath the read/write head to access.
    • Access time: Seek time + rotational delay
    • Transfer rate: Speed at which data is transferred from the drive

    Hard Drive Interfaces

    • SATA: Serial ATA – 7-pin data connector
    • PATA: Parallel ATA – 40-pin data connector
    • SCSI: Small Computer System Interface – variety of connectors, typically used in servers

    Capacity Confusion

    Some manufacturers of hard drives calculate capacity in GB by dividing by 1000; producing a higher number than the formatted drive capacity reported by the operating system.

    Head Crash

    A head crash is a hard disk drive failure that occurs when a read/write head contacts the rotating platter, resulting in permanent damage to the magnetic media.

    SMART

    Self-Monitoring Analysis and Reporting Technology to monitor hard drive performance. Vital information that allows the advanced notice necessary to back up data.

    RAID

    Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks. Method to minimize/prevent data loss. Some provide faster data access times/transfer rates. Typically used in server systems, but has become popular in workstations and home systems.

    • RAID 0: Data striping across multiple drives to enhance performance, but with no redundancy
    • RAID 1: Data mirroring on multiple drives. Duplicates are stored for redundancy
    • RAID 3: Data striping with dedicated parity drive
    • RAID 4: Data striping with dedicated parity drive.
    • RAID 5: Data striping with rotating parity drive
    • RAID 6: Data striping with dual rotating parity.
    • Nested RAID levels: A combination of RAID levels 1 and 0 (RAID 10)
    • Software based vs. Hardware based RAID

    Solid State Drives (SSDs)

    • Looks like and acts like a traditional hard drive, but is much faster.
    • Stores data on NAND flash memory.
    • Advantages: Much better performance, reliability (no moving parts), produces very little heat and doesn't vibrate
    • Disadvantages: Cost per GB of storage, finite lifetime, garbage collection more difficult.
    • Types of NAND: SLC, MLC, TLC, QLC
    • Pages and Blocks: Data written in pages, deleted in blocks (hundreds of pages per block)
    • Garbage Collection: SSDs reuse pages that have already been deleted at the OS level.
    • Write Amplification & Wear Leveling

    Solid State Drive Interfaces

    • SATA: Serial ATA – 7-pin data connector
    • mSATA: Precursor to M.2; uses a socket attached to the motherboard
    • M.2: Modern interface; allows for NVMe and SATA bus connections. various form factors (2242, 2260, 2280)
    • SAS: Serial Attached SCSI; using SFF8482 connector
    • PCIe: Not to be confused with NVMe; consuming a PCI expansion slot

    NVMe vs. SATA

    • NVMe (Non-volatile Memory Express): Operates via PCIe bus
    • SATA (Serial Advanced Technology Attachment): Connects to the systems host bus adapter (HBA)

    Portable Computers

    • Less proprietary (though more proprietary than typical desktops.)
    • Not very upgradeable
    • Components are specifically shaped to fit into the case.
    • Often slower than high performance desktops (HDD, memory, CPU, etc.)
    • Processors, Hard Drives, Optical Drives, Removable Media, Memory

    Evolution of DRAM

    • Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory (SDRAM): Tied to the system clock, less time wasted
    • DDR (Double Data Rate): Transfers data on rising/falling edges of the clocks, doubles transmission rate
    • DDR2/3: Lower voltage than DDR (reduced power consumption); use 240 pin memory modules

    ROM Versus RAM

    • RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory; data lost when power is off
    • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Nonvolatile memory: programs are not erased when the power is off

    The BIOS - Basic Input Output System

    • Also referred to as a System ROM or firmware. Stored on a ROM chip attached directly to the motherboard. Contains programs for basic hardware communication. Contains instructions for starting a computer.
    • Types of ROM: PROM, EPROM, EEPROM/Flash ROM.

    Unified Extensible Firmware Interface (UEFI)

    • Replaced BIOS in modern systems
    • Advantages: Support for larger hard drives, using modern processors and RAM to their full boot capability, security to prevent malicious software

    Power Supplies and Power Protection

    • Converts incoming AC power into necessary DC power
    • Main Voltages: +3.3V, +5V, +12V, -12V
    • Form Factors: ATX, ATX variants
    • Components: Power connector (IEC-320), Motherboard and peripheral power connectors, Power toggle switch, Fan
    • Troubleshooting common problems: Intermittent lockups & reboots, boot up difficulties, overheating, data loss on storage devices.
    • Wattage: All power supplies are rated in watts; higher wattage rating generally indicates better performance / protection.

    Peripheral Connectors

    • Molex: Large peripheral connector for powering drives
    • Berg/Floppy: Small peripheral power connector for peripherals such as floppy drives, but still found in some PCs
    • SATA: 15-pin connector used with SATA hard drives and devices
    • ATX 12V: 4-pin connector used to supply power to the processor

    Power Supply Fan, Wattage and Power Protection

    • The fan keeps voltage regulator, and system components cool.
    • Power Protection Devices: Protect against power issues by being designed to withstand deviations in power that may cause issues for PCs
    • Surge suppressors: Protect devices from higher voltage surges and spikes
    • Line conditioners: Protect devices from under voltage situations such as browouts caused by interruptions / interference in power lines
    • Backup Power Supplies/UPS: Backup power to computers in case of power outages. Contains a battery that prevents and mitigates any potential issues.

    PC Cooling and Overclocking

    • Most hardware failures arise from issues caused by excess heat and inadequate cooling
    • Thermal Monitoring on-board : Motherboard often monitors temperature output, and uses sensors
    • Passive Cooling: Cooling without fans
    • Active Cooling: Using fans to cool components
    • Thermal Compound: Applied between heatsinks and components to ensure proper heat transfer

    Overclocking

    • All CPUs eventually die, overclocked processors usually die prematurely or immediately.
    • Overclocking is running a CPU at a higher speed than the advertised speed
    • Not an exact science. May void CPU warranty, and may cause damage to other components if not adequately cooled
    • Increasing base clock speed, increasing voltage and usage of multiple cores are all potential causes of increased overheating

    Printers - Laser/EP

    • Steps in Laser Printing Process (Conditioning, Writing, Developing, Transferring, Fusing and Cleaning)
    • Toner and Charges: Toner is attracted to the drum through a particular charge
    • Laser Printing: Use laser beams to produce an image on a rotating drum with a particular charge.
    • Laser Printer Operations: Toner, Primary Corona, Developer Roller, Transfer Corona, Fuser assembly

    Printers - Ink Jet

    • Printing Methods: Impact and non-impact (Dot Matrix, Ink Jet)
    • Character Types: Defined for fully forming characters or using strategic dots to represent them
    • Dot Matrix Printers (Pro & Cons - pros - reliable, cons - loud, expensive, slow.)
    • Dot-Matrix Print Heads (9, 18 and 24 Pins)
    • Dot Matrix Printer Modes: Font mode, Dot addressable

    Paper Handling

    • Two common methods for moving paper;
    • Friction feed; uses friction to hold to the paper and moves it as it turns
    • Tractor feed; uses pins to pull the paper through

    Sound Cards / Adapters

    • Audio Adapters (Sound Cards): Audio Adapters are a common component of computers; they were historically an optional component, now they are in the vast majority of computer systems.
    • Components and Functions: DSP process, DAC / ADC, amplifier (for microphone/speaker audio)
    • Examples of Sound File Types: Wav (Lossless), MP3 (Lossy), MIDI
    • Digital Music Sampling: Higher sampling rate leads to a more precise original recording (a smoother sound quality)
    • External Audio Adaptor Connectors: Includes all possible connections

    CPU Sockets, POST and Boot Processes

    • Features to consider in choosing a processor - entry level, mainstream, & high end, hardware virtualization, multiple cores, cache amount & hyper-threading & turbo boost
    • Desktop Socket Standards (Intel - LGA 775, 1366, 1156, 1155, 1150 & 1151 ; AMD - AM2, AM2+, AM3, AM3+ & AM4)

    POST and Boot Processes

    • Power-On Self-Test (POST): Checks for the presence of hardware and functionality
    • Cold Boot (Hard Reset): Completes the entire boot process after being turned off then back on again. Interrupts all ongoing functions
    • Warm Boot (Soft Reset): Resets the current system using internal operating system functions and maintains many ongoing functions
    • Steps in the Boot Processes:
    1. Power supply starts,
    2. CPU initializes & resets,
    3. CPU starts BIOS bootstrap loader
    4. BIOS programs load into memory,
    5. BIOS begins checking hardware & sends beep codes,
    6. Video ROM initializes,
    7. Devices ROMs start up

    Storage Devices, SCSI/SAS, Servers

    • SCSI: A set of standards defining how computers communicate & transfer data with devices (disks drives, tape drives, optical drives, scanners). It is fast, highly compatible & efficient, but generally deprecated by modern devices.
    • SAS: Serial Attached SCSI - a point-to-point serial protocol that transfers data between storage devices and a computer system. Faster, more flexible, and supports hot-swappable drives.
    • Server Hardware Considerations: Specialized hardware (cases - rackmounts, blade servers), processors (Intel Xeon, AMD Epyc), memory (ECC, registered memory), storage (SCSI/SAS, enterprise-grade SATA), power supplies (redundant power supplies), KVM switches

    PC Expansion Options and Interfaces

    • USB: Universal Serial Bus; a common standard used with all modeern computers to connect devices
    • USB Evolution: Various versions (1.1 - 3.0 and 4.0) with increasing data transfer rates Different types of USB connectors (A, B, Mini-B, Micro-B and type-C)
    • IEEE 1394 (FireWire): Deprecated industry connection standard for External storage, digital cameras, and other devices (using a daisy-chain connection configuration)
    • Thunderbolt : External PC expansion technology; faster than previous interfaces and supports hot-plugging and daisy-chaining of multiple devices.

    Video Adapters

    • Video cards: Controlling image quality. Including all parameters such as resolution, color depth, refresh rate, speed in rendering
    • Discrete video (Add-on cards): Includes PCIe (and older) cards.
    • Integrated video: Found on motherboard (chipset or CPU)
    • Multiple Display Adapters: SLI & Crossfire (NVIDIA/AMD multi-graphics solutions

    Video Memory

    • The type and amount of video memory greatly influences video card performance. Including considerations for VRAM, GDDR variants (GDDR4, 5 etc.).

    Display Adapters

    • DVI (Digital Visual Interface), HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface), VGA (Video Graphics Array), DisplayPort
    • Video Dongles: Convert connectors and adapt one connection to another.

    Display Units – LCD

    • LCD quality depends largely on size, native resolution, contrast radio, response rate, and input type. LCD Basics: Employ polarized sheets of glass, and liquid crystals in between. Applying various voltages to subpixels (RGB) manages the orientation of the crystals to control light transmission/blockage.
    • LCD Advantages and Disadvantages

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    Test your knowledge on the fundamentals of computer hardware, including motherboard forms like Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX. Explore the electrostatic printing process and critical components involved in printing technology. This quiz covers key concepts essential for understanding both fields.

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