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Questions and Answers
Which of the following are considered types of personal computers?
Which of the following are considered types of personal computers?
What is the primary function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?
What is the primary function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?
The CPU is responsible for processing instructions, managing data, and handling operations required by various software programs.
A higher CPU clock speed means the CPU can perform tasks slower.
A higher CPU clock speed means the CPU can perform tasks slower.
False
Which of the following is NOT a factor that determines the performance of a CPU?
Which of the following is NOT a factor that determines the performance of a CPU?
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What is the main circuit board that connects and allows communication between various components in a computer?
What is the main circuit board that connects and allows communication between various components in a computer?
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Which of the following is NOT a type of RAM?
Which of the following is NOT a type of RAM?
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RAM is volatile memory, meaning that data stored in RAM is lost when the computer is powered off.
RAM is volatile memory, meaning that data stored in RAM is lost when the computer is powered off.
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Which type of storage device uses magnetic disks to store data?
Which type of storage device uses magnetic disks to store data?
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What is the process of reorganizing data on a hard disk drive to improve its efficiency?
What is the process of reorganizing data on a hard disk drive to improve its efficiency?
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Which of the following is a benefit of using a more efficient PSU?
Which of the following is a benefit of using a more efficient PSU?
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Solid-State Drives (SSDs) benefit from disk defragmentation, just like Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).
Solid-State Drives (SSDs) benefit from disk defragmentation, just like Hard Disk Drives (HDDs).
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Which type of expansion card is specifically designed for enhancing graphics performance?
Which type of expansion card is specifically designed for enhancing graphics performance?
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What is the primary function of a monitor in a computer system?
What is the primary function of a monitor in a computer system?
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A higher refresh rate on a monitor typically makes the display appear smoother, especially for gaming.
A higher refresh rate on a monitor typically makes the display appear smoother, especially for gaming.
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Which of the following is NOT considered an input device?
Which of the following is NOT considered an input device?
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What are the types of external devices that allow users to interact with the computer and provide input?
What are the types of external devices that allow users to interact with the computer and provide input?
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Study Notes
Computer Hardware Overview
- A computer is an electronic device that manipulates data. It performs input, process, retrieve, and store data. The computer performs calculations, logic gates, and integration for tasks
- Computers are made with integrated circuits, resistors, and transistors
- Computers need human interaction to function and work
- Computers use electronic components powered by electricity
- Computers are automatic as they execute instructions without human intervention
- Computers manipulate input data into output
- Computers can store and retrieve information in memory
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- The CPU is the brain of the computer
- It is responsible for most processing in a computer
- CPU performs instructions, manages data, and handles operations for programs
- Clock speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz) and indicates how many cycles a second a CPU can process. A higher clock speed means faster processing.
- CPUs contain multiple cores (e.g., quad-core, octa-core) to handle multiple tasks simultaneously
- Each core manages multiple threads (individual instruction sequences)
- Cache is a high-speed memory inside the CPU that stores frequently used data
- CPU architecture determines the CPU's performance (e.g., 32-bit or 64-bit)
- Two main types of CPU sockets (slots)
Motherboard
- The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects and allows communication between components
- It includes connectors for CPU, RAM, storage devices, graphics cards, other peripherals
- Form factor is the size and shape of the motherboard
- Chipset manages data flow between the components (processor, memory, peripherals)
- Expansion slots allow components (e.g., graphics cards) to be added to the motherboard
Memory (RAM)
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RAM stores data and instructions needed by the CPU for tasks.
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RAM is volatile, and data is lost when powered off.
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RAM provides faster access compared to other storage devices
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Different RAM types exist (DDR, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4).
- Vary in capacity and speed.
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Capacity measured in gigabytes (GB). Higher capacity means more multitasking capabilities.
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Speed measured in MHz
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ECC RAM is used in systems requiring high data integrity
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Video RAM (VRAM) is specialized RAM for graphics cards (used for image data, textures, quick access by GPUs, and improving 3D application performance)
Storage Devices (ROM)
- Storage devices store data permanently
- Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) use magnetic disks
- Solid State Drives (SSDs) use flash memory (faster read/write speeds).
- Hybrid drives combine HDD and SSD technology
Disk Defragmentation
- Defragmentation reorganizes data on a hard disk drive
- Improves performance by keeping files together in contiguous blocks
- Reduces the time to access files and overall performance
- Improves disk life as head movements are reduced
- Improved utilization of storage space.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
- Converts AC to DC power for computer's components
- Wattage indicates the PSU's power capacity
- Efficiency rating (e.g., 80 Plus) measures power consumption efficiency.
- Higher efficiency means less heat generation and lower energy bills
Expansion Cards
- Expansion cards enhance computer functionality (e.g., graphics cards, sound cards, network cards)
- Graphics cards are dedicated GPUs for enhanced graphics performance
- Sound cards improve audio quality
- Network interface cards enable network connectivity
- Storage expansion cards (e.g., SSDs, hard drives) provide additional storage
Monitors and Display Technologies
- Monitors display computer output
- Resolution determines display detail (e.g., 1080p, 4K)
- Display types include LCDs and OLEDs (varying characteristics in terms of brightness, contrast, and energy consumption)
Peripheral Devices
- Peripheral devices enhance computer functionality, enabling user interaction and information output
- Input devices include keyboards, mice, touchpads
- Output devices include monitors, printers, and speakers
- Storage devices (e.g., USB drives, hard drives) are used for external data storage
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Description
Explore the fundamental concepts of computer hardware, including the essential components that make up a computer. This quiz also delves into the Central Processing Unit (CPU), its functions, and the importance of clock speed and multiple cores for processing power.
