Questions and Answers
Why is all data stored in a computer in binary form?
All data stored in a computer is in binary form because a computer is based on the technology of storing and reading only two states.
What are the four primary functions of hardware?
Input, Output, Processing, Storage
What three things do electronic hardware devices need in order to function?
A method to communicate, software to control it, electricity to power it.
How many bits are in a byte?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the purpose of an expansion slot on a motherboard?
Signup and view all the answers
Which component on the motherboard is used primarily for processing?
Signup and view all the answers
Name the two main CPU manufacturers.
Signup and view all the answers
Order the following ports according to speed, placing the fastest port first: FireWire, eSATA, USB.
Signup and view all the answers
How is the best way to determine if a cable inside a computer is a data cable or a power cable?
Signup and view all the answers
List three types of ports that are often found coming directly off the motherboard to be used by external devices.
Signup and view all the answers
What is the purpose of the S/PDIF port?
Signup and view all the answers
How is most RAM sold today?
Signup and view all the answers
Of the two types of storage in a system, which type is generally faster and holds data and instructions while the data is being processed?
Signup and view all the answers
Which type of storage is generally slower but more permanent?
Signup and view all the answers
A power supply receives 120 volts of ____ power from a wall outlet and converts it to 3.3, 5, and 12 volts of ____ power.
Signup and view all the answers
Name three examples of secondary storage devices.
Signup and view all the answers
A hertz is ___ cycle per second; a megahertz is _____________ cycles per second, and a gigahertz is _____________ cycles per second.
Signup and view all the answers
An AGP slot is normally used for _______ expansion card.
Signup and view all the answers
What are examples of computer hardware?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the primary input device of a computer?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a pointing and input device used to move a pointer on the screen and to make selections?
Signup and view all the answers
What are the two most popular input devices for computers?
Signup and view all the answers
What are the two most popular output devices of the computer?
Signup and view all the answers
Where is most storage and all processing of data and instructions made?
Signup and view all the answers
What components are contained on the motherboard?
Signup and view all the answers
What components are contained inside the computer case?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the largest and most important circuit board in the computer?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a peripheral device?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the function of the power supply?
Signup and view all the answers
What two components does a computer require to work?
Signup and view all the answers
How are data and instructions stored in a computer?
Signup and view all the answers
What is non-volatile memory?
Signup and view all the answers
Study Notes
Data Representation
- All data in a computer is stored in binary form, utilizing two states for efficiency.
Hardware Functions
- Primary functions of hardware include:
- Input: Receiving data
- Output: Displaying or transmitting data
- Processing: Manipulating data
- Storage: Retaining data
Hardware Requirements
- Electronic hardware needs:
- A communication method
- Software for control
- Electricity for power
Data Measurement
- A byte consists of 8 bits.
Motherboard Components
- Expansion slots interface the motherboard with peripheral devices.
- The CPU is the main component responsible for processing on the motherboard.
CPU Manufacturers
- Two leading manufacturers of CPUs are Intel and AMD.
Port Speeds
- Ports ranked from fastest to slowest:
- eSATA
- FireWire
- USB
Cable Identification
- Data cables are typically flat, while power cables are round. Trace cables back to their source for identification.
Common Ports
- Frequently found ports from the motherboard include:
- USB
- FireWire
- Network
S/PDIF Port
- The S/PDIF port connects to external audio systems, providing high-quality digital output.
RAM Configuration
- Most RAM is available in Dual In-line Memory Modules (DIMM).
Storage Types
- Primary storage is faster and temporarily holds data during processing.
- Secondary storage is slower but retains data permanently.
Power Supply Functionality
- Converts 120 volts AC power from a wall outlet to 3.3, 5, and 12 volts DC power.
Secondary Storage Devices
- Examples include:
- Hard Drives
- Optical Drives
- USB Flash Drives and Memory Cards
Frequency Measurement
- A hertz equals one cycle per second; a megahertz equals one million cycles per second; a gigahertz equals one billion cycles per second.
AGP Slot Utilization
- An AGP slot is specifically designed for video expansion cards.
Computer Hardware Examples
- Physical components such as the monitor, keyboard, motherboard, and hard drive are categorized as hardware.
Input Devices
- The primary input device of a computer is the keyboard, followed closely by the mouse.
Output Devices
- The most used output devices are the monitor and printer.
Data Location
- Storage and processing of data and instructions mainly occur inside the computer case.
Motherboard Components
- The motherboard contains:
- CPU
- Memory
- Adapter cards
- ROM chips
- DIMMs
- Interface cards
Inside Computer Case Components
- Essential components include:
- Motherboard
- Hard drive
- Optical drive
- Power supply
- Adapter cards and necessary cables
Motherboard Definition
- The motherboard, or main board, is the largest and most critical circuit board in the computer.
Peripheral Devices
- Peripheral devices connect with the CPU but are located externally; examples include monitors, floppy drives, printers, and mice.
Power Supply Function
- The power supply converts and reduces electricity to a usable voltage for the computer.
Computer Operation Requirements
- A functioning computer requires both hardware and software.
Data and Instruction Storage
- Data and instructions are stored in binary form.
Non-volatile Memory
- Non-volatile memory retains information permanently, even without power.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
Description
Test your knowledge of computer hardware with these flashcards focusing on binary data storage, primary functions of hardware, and essential requirements for electronic devices. Perfect for students looking to strengthen their understanding of hardware concepts.