Computer Hardware Components

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the motherboard in a computer system?

To process data

To connect and support various components (correct)

To provide power to the system

To store data

What is the unit of measurement for storage capacity that represents over 1 trillion characters?

Gigabyte

Megabyte

Terabyte (correct)

Petabyte

What type of software enables the computer to perform essential operating tasks and makes it possible for application software to run?

Application software

Programming software

Network software

System software (correct)

What is the term for the primary storage of a computer system?

Random access memory (RAM) Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of a modem in a computer system?

To connect to the internet Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the device that provides power to the computer system?

Power supply Signup and view all the answers

What is the central processing unit (CPU) also known as?

Processor chip Signup and view all the answers

What type of software is specific to the system software you use and won't work on other system software?

Application software Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a computer?

To process data into information Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between primary and secondary storage?

Primary storage is temporary, while secondary storage is permanent Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the electronic instructions that tell the computer how to perform a task?

Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the raw facts and figures that are processed into information?

Data Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the input operation in a computer?

To receive data from the user Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the results of processing, such as on the screen or printouts?

Output Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the machinery and equipment in a computer system?

Hardware Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for sending and receiving data?

Communications Signup and view all the answers

What type of computer is used for scientific, mathematical, engineering, and computer-aided design applications?

Workstation Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a server in a client-server network?

To hold data and programs for clients to access Signup and view all the answers

Which type of microcomputer is commonly used for mobile purposes?

Notebook Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for tiny, specialized microprocessors inside appliances and automobiles?

Microcontrollers Signup and view all the answers

What type of computer is used by individuals as well as businesses, and can be connected to networks of larger computers?

Microcomputer Signup and view all the answers

Which type of microcomputer is also known as an e-reader?

E-reader Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a network of computers where one central computer holds data and programs for clients to access?

Client-server network Signup and view all the answers

What type of computer is used for designing cars, drugs, and movie special effects?

Workstation Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Inside the System Cabinet

The system cabinet contains:
Case and power supply
Processor chip (Central Processing Unit/CPU)
Memory chips (Random Access Memory/RAM or primary storage)
Motherboard (system board with expansion slots)

Storage Hardware

Storage capacity is measured in bytes
1 byte = 1 character of data
1 kilobyte = 1,024 characters
1 megabyte = 1,048,576 characters
1 gigabyte = over 1 billion characters
1 terabyte = over 1 trillion characters
1 petabyte = about 1 quadrillion characters
Storage hardware includes hard drives, CD/DVD drives, and more

Output Hardware

Output hardware includes:
Video
Sound cards
Speakers
Monitor
Printer

Communications Hardware

Communications hardware includes:
Modem

Software

There are two types of software:
System software (enables computer to perform essential tasks)
Application software (enables specific tasks and problem-solving)
System software includes:
Operating system (OS)
Examples: Windows, Unix, Linux, Mac OS
Application software is specific to the system software used

How Computers Work

Three key concepts:
Data is turned into information
Hardware and software have specific functions
All computers involve input, processing, storage, output, and communications
Computer purposes:
Turning data into information
Data: raw facts and figures
Information: data summarized or transformed for decision-making
Hardware vs. software:
Hardware: machinery and equipment in a computer system
Software: electronic instructions that tell the computer how to perform a task

Basic Operations of a Computer

Input: what goes into the computer system
Processing: manipulation of data to turn it into information
Storage:
Primary storage (memory): temporary storage for data waiting to be processed
Secondary storage (hard disk, DVDs, CDs): permanent storage
Output: results of processing, such as on the screen, printouts, sound
Communications: sending and receiving data

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Description

This quiz covers the internal components of a computer system, including the case, power supply, processor, memory chips, and motherboard. Learn about the different parts that make up a computer's processing and memory hardware.