Computer Hardware Basics Quiz
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The choice of motherboard and external components greatly influences the selection of the computer ______ and power supply.

case

The motherboard ______ must be matched with the correct type of computer case and power supply.

form factor

The power supply converts AC input to ______ output voltages, typically providing 3.3V, 5V, and 12V.

DC

Case fans are installed to move cooler ______ into the computer case while simultaneously moving heat out.

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

External LEDs mounted on the outside of the case can display the system's power status, hard drive activity, and whether the computer is in ______ or hibernate mode.

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

Before installing the heatsink, it is important to apply ______ paste to the CPU to facilitate effective heat transfer.

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

If you choose a power supply that only powers the current components, you might need to ______ the power supply when other components are upgraded.

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

All computer cases have at least one vent on the ______ supply.

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

The CPU can become very hot; therefore, most CPUs require an air-cooled or liquid cooled ______, combined with a fan for cooling.

<p>heat sink</p> Signup and view all the answers

To determine if a computer's problem is the ______, execute the RAM test in the BIOS.

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

[Blank] memory is regular memory for computers and the computer reads data directly from the memory banks making it faster than buffered memory.

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

Specialized memory for servers and high-end workstations that use a large amount of RAM is called ______ memory.

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

Internal drives usually connect to the motherboard with ______ while external drives connect with USB, eSATA, or Thunderbolt.

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

Signs that an internal storage device is failing might be unusual noises, unusual ______, error messages, or even corrupt data or applications that do not load.

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

Most internal HDDs are available in the 3.5 inch (8.9 cm) form factor, however ______ inch (6.4 cm) drives are becoming popular.

<p>2.5</p> Signup and view all the answers

[Blank] and e______ cables are similar but they are not interchangeable.

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

Before installing a video adapter card, you must first locate an empty ______ slot on the case and remove the small metal cover.

<p>PCIe x16</p> Signup and view all the answers

When installing a video adapter card, ensure you ______ the card to the appropriate expansion slot on the motherboard before pressing down.

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

After seating the video adapter card, it should be secured to the case using the appropriate ______ to prevent it from becoming dislodged.

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

A ______ drive combines the speed of flash memory with the storage capacity spinning disks.

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

______ cooling is often used as a quieter method for cooling CPUs and video cards compared to traditional fan-based solutions.

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

A ______ device can be changed out without turning off the power, which is useful in server environments for minimizing downtime.

<p>hot swappable</p> Signup and view all the answers

For electrical fires involving computer hardware, a ______ is the best type of fire extinguisher to use to prevent damage to sensitive components.

<p>CO2 or Class C</p> Signup and view all the answers

______ CPUs and Intel-compatible motherboards use an LGA socket.

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

Flashcards

CPU Cooling

The system used to dissipate heat from the CPU to prevent overheating.

Unbuffered Memory

Standard RAM that allows direct data access, making it faster than buffered memory.

Buffered Memory

Specialized RAM for servers, equipped with a control chip assisting in managing large RAM quantities.

Hard Drive Replacement Signs

Indicators of a failing internal storage device, such as unusual noises or error messages.

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SATA Connection

A common interface used to connect internal drives to the motherboard.

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SSD Form Factor

Solid State Drives generally available in a 2.5 inch size, favored for speed and durability.

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IDE Interface

Older standard for connecting internal drives, often found in legacy motherboards.

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RAM Test in BIOS

A diagnostic tool used to check for issues with RAM by running a test before boot.

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Motherboard Form Factor

The physical shape and size of the motherboard that determines compatible cases.

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Computer Case Size

Size of the computer case necessary for appropriate airflow and component installation.

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Power Supply Ratings

Specifications that indicate the voltage and wattage a power supply delivers.

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AC to DC Conversion

The process of transforming alternating current from the wall to direct current used by computer parts.

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Power Supply Wattage

The amount of power a power supply can deliver, measured in watts, for components.

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CPU Installation Steps

The sequential process of placing and securing a CPU onto the motherboard.

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Thermal Paste

A substance applied between the CPU and heatsink to facilitate heat transfer.

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Case Fans Function

Devices installed in the computer case to ensure airflow for cooling the components.

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SSHD

A hard drive that combines flash memory with spinning disks.

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Water Cooling

A quieter method of cooling CPU and video card using liquid instead of air.

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Hot Swappable

Device can be changed out without turning off power.

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CO2 or Class C

The best fire extinguisher for electrical fires.

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LGA

Socket type for Intel CPUs and Intel-compatible motherboards.

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3.5

Common size for standard hard drives.

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PGA

Socket type for AMD CPUs and AMD-compatible motherboards.

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5.25

Common size for optical drives.

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Study Notes

2.1 Assemble the Computer

  • Selecting the computer case and power supply is influenced by the motherboard and other external components.
  • The motherboard form factor must match the computer case and power supply type.
  • Factors for selecting a computer case:
    • Model type: Motherboard dictates the acceptable case type. Size and shape must match.
    • Size: Sufficient space for components and airflow is crucial for cooling.
    • Power supply: Matching ratings and connections are essential.
    • Appearance: Various case designs are available.
    • Status display: LEDs on the case show power status, hard drive activity, sleep/hibernate mode.
    • Vents: All cases have vents for airflow. Some have additional vents.

Open the Case and Connect the Power Supply - Select Case and Fans (Continued)

  • Case fans are installed to move cool air into the computer case and move heat out.
  • Factors to consider when choosing a case fan:
    • Case size: Larger cases often require larger fans for adequate airflow.
    • Fan speed: Larger fans can operate more slowly than smaller fans while reducing noise.
    • Number of components: The heat generated by multiple components necessitates more and/or larger fans.
    • Physical environment: The case fan(s) must properly dissipate heat to maintain system coolness.
    • Number of mounting places: Different cases have different numbers of places to mount fans.
    • Location of mounting places: Mounting locations are specific to a case.
    • Electrical connections: Some fans are connected directly to the motherboard, while others are connected directly to the power supply.

Select a Power Supply

  • Power supplies convert AC input to DC output voltages.
  • Power supplies usually output 3.3V, 5V, and 12V, measured in wattage.
  • The power supply needs sufficient wattage to power all current components plus an extra 25% for future upgrades.
  • The power supply must be compatible with the motherboard.
  • Components' wattage requirements should be added up (including any wattage changes that may be necessary when upgrading).

Install the Motherboard Components - Video Demonstration - Install the CPU

  • Steps for installing the CPU:
    • Step 1: Orient the CPU correctly in the CPU socket.
    • Step 2: Press the CPU firmly into the slot.
    • Step 3: Securely lock the CPU into place.
    • Step 4: Apply thermal paste to the CPU.
    • Step 5: Install the heatsink.
    • Step 6: Secure the heatsink

Select the Motherboard

  • When selecting a motherboard, ensure it accommodates the CPU, RAM, and video adapter and other adapter cards.
  • Compatibility with the CPU socket and chipset is essential.
  • The motherboard must support the existing heat sink and fan.
  • Number and type of expansion slots must match existing adapter cards.
  • Ensure the existing power supply connections fit the new motherboard.
  • The motherboard must fit into the current computer case.

Select the CPU and CPU Cooling

  • Processor speed is measured in GHz (gigahertz).
  • Maximum speed ratings apply when the processor isn't under heavy load.
  • Two major factors limiting processor speed:
    • Transmission Delay: Delays caused by data transmission through the processor chip's wires.
    • Heat Generation: Heat generated due to transistor transitions.
  • The FSB is the pathway between the CPU and the Northbridge for various components like chipsets, expansion cards, and RAM.
  • Data travels bidirectionally in the FSB.
  • The FSB frequency is measured in MHz.
  • For optimal operation, the CPU frequency is based on a multiplier of the FSB frequency.
  • The CPU can be described as being 32 bits or 64 bits, depending on the instructions it can handle simultaneously.
  • CPU's must be properly cooled.

Select the CPU and CPU Cooling (Continued)

  • The CPU is a sensitive component susceptible to overheating, requiring proper cooling.
  • Factors for CPU cooling system selection:
    • Socket type: Must match the motherboard as well.
    • Motherboard physical specifications: The heat sink/fan must not impede other hardware.
    • Case size: The chosen heat sink/fan must fit the computer case.
    • Physical environment: The cooling system must be able to handle heat from the environment (room temperature).

Select the RAM

  • New RAM may be needed if applications freeze or error messages appear.
  • Execute the RAM test in BIOS to confirm functionality.
  • RAM speed must be compatible with the chipset.
  • RAM types, including unbuffered and buffered memory, cater to different needs (e.g., high-end workstations).

Select Hard Drives

  • Internal storage devices might require replacement when customer needs change, failing, or exhibiting problematic behaviors (noise, vibrations, error messages).
  • Internal hard drives usually connect via SATA to the motherboard.
  • External drives connect through USB, eSATA, or Thunderbolt.
  • Legacy systems might only have IDE or EIDE interfaces.
  • HDDs are usually 3.5" and increasingly 2.5" SSDs.
  • SATA and eSATA cables are similar but not interchangeable.

Select Hard Drives (Continued)

  • Factors to consider for a new hard disk drive:
    • Internal or external
    • HDD, SSD, or SSHD
    • Hot-swappable
    • Heat generation
    • Noise generation
    • Power requirements

Select Optical Drives

  • Factors to consider for a new optical drive:
    • Connector type
    • Reading capability
    • Writing capability
    • Optical media type

Install the Hard Drive

  • Locate an empty drive bay that fits the hard drive width.
  • Maintain sufficient space between drives to support airflow and cooling.
  • Position the drive with the metal side face up for heat dissipation.
  • Hand-tighten all screws before tightening them with a screwdriver.

Install the Optical Drive

  • Select the appropriate drive bay.
  • Align the optical drive to the opening on the case front.
  • Position the optical drive into place such that the holes align.
  • Use the proper screws to secure the optical drive to the computer case.
  • Slight hand-tightening of screws before tightening with a screwdriver aids in ensuring that the last screw(s) can be tightened properly.

Install the Adapter Cards

  • Adapter cards enhance computer functionality, including graphical display, sound, and storage capabilities.
  • Video adapter cards often require specific power connectors (6-pin or 8-pin power connector).
  • Research the length requirements of the video card to ensure compatibility with the motherboard and cases without mounting bracket issues.
  • Some cases have small holes on the bottom where the covers are removed; the slots beneath are designed to receive the adapter card's mounting bracket before inserting or seating the card in its appropriate slot.

Other Factors for Adapter Card Selection

  • Consider the user's present and future needs when selecting an adapter card.
  • Verify compatibility with available expansion slots.
  • Identify potential configuration options.

Install the Front Panel Cables

  • A computer's case frequently has a power button and activity lights on the front.
  • Front panel cables connect to the motherboard.
  • Matching orientation is key for connector function.
  • Some manufacturers provide keyed connectors to prevent incorrect wiring.
  • Pictures or diagrams can assist in matching the front panel connector to the correct connection pin.

Install the Front Panel Cables (Cont.)

  • If a button or LED doesn't operate, the connector might be placed incorrectly.
  • Shut down the computer and unplug power before repositioning the front panel connector in the case for proper operation.
  • Some manufacturers provide keyed connector extensions (or combines multiple connectors into a single connector).
  • It can be useful to take pictures to aid in matching the connector pin 1 with the correct location for the pin.

2.2 Chapter Summary

  • The chapter summarizes the methodology for building a computer. General and fire safety are emphasized.

Conclusion - Chapter 2: PC Assembly

  • Steps for building a computer include:
    • Defining general and fire safety standards.
    • Connecting the power supply.
    • Installing the motherboard components.
    • Installing the internal drives.
    • Installing the adapter cards.
    • Identifying and installing additional storage.
    • Connecting computer components with the appropriate cables.

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Related Documents

PC Assembly Guide PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on the essential components of computer hardware, including motherboards, power supplies, and cooling systems. This quiz covers the roles of various external components and their influence on system performance. Perfect for those studying computer engineering or IT fundamentals.

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