Computer Motherboard and CPU Quiz

Computer Memory

• RAM (Random-Access Memory) is the memory available for the operating system, programs, and processes to use when the computer is running.
• RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB).
• RAM is the system's short-term memory, temporarily storing data until it is needed, and disappears when the computer is turned off.

ROM

• ROM (Read-Only Memory) is the memory that comes with a computer, pre-written to hold instructions for booting-up the computer.

Hard Drive

• The hard drive is where software, documents, and other files are stored.
• The hard drive is long-term storage, which means data is still saved even when the computer is turned off or unplugged.

Storage Disk

• SSD (Solid State Drive) is flash storage with no moving parts, making it much faster than its HDD equivalent.
• HDD (Hard Disk Drive) storage is made up of magnetic tape and has mechanical parts inside, making it larger and slower than SSDs.

Power Supply Unit

• The power supply unit in a computer converts power from the wall outlet to the type of power needed by the computer.
• It sends power through cables to the motherboard and other components.

Hardware vs. Software

• Hardware is any part of a computer with a physical structure, such as the keyboard, mouse, or internal components.
• Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do and how to do it, including web browsers, games, and word processors.

Computer Parts

• The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord.
• Each part plays an important role when using a computer.

Computer Case

• The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components, including the motherboard, CPU, and power supply.
• Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes, including desktop, tower, and all-in-one cases.

Monitor

• The monitor works with a video card to display images and text on the screen.

Motherboard

• The motherboard is a thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards, and connections to computer ports.

CPU/Processor

• The central processing unit (CPU) is located inside the computer case on the motherboard and carries out commands.
• The CPU is sometimes called the brain of the computer and performs tasks such as arithmetic and logical operations, data manipulation, and control of other hardware components.
• CPU speeds are measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz) due to the high frequencies involved.

Test your knowledge about the computer motherboard and CPU. Learn about the components and functions of the motherboard, as well as the role of the CPU as the computer's 'brain'.