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.