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Questions and Answers
What is a key advantage of Modular Design in computers?
What does CPU stand for?
Central Processing Unit
RAM stands for Random Access Memory.
True
Which type of RAM is the most commonly used?
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What does GPU stand for?
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What is a key difference between HDDs and SSDs?
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SSD stands for Solid State Drive.
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The M.2 format is primarily used for _____ drives.
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What is the significance of CPU cores?
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Match the following storage types with their characteristics:
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Study Notes
Modular Design
- Computers are built with a Modular Design, allowing components to be easily replaced or upgraded.
- Each hardware component acts as a separate module which connect to the motherboard via ports and slots.
- Advantages of Modular Design:
- Repairs are easier
- Upgrades can be done as needed
- More flexibility in choosing hardware components
Components & Devices that affect Computer Performance
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CPU:
- Multiprocessing is the use of multiple CPUs, called cores, on a single CPU chip.
- Multiprocessing allows for more tasks to be complete simultaneously, improving performance.
- Processor cache is a small, fast memory that stores frequently used data, reducing access time to slower RAM.
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RAM:
- The main memory of a computer, consisting of chips on modules attached to the motherboard.
- Stores programs and their data for quick access by the CPU.
- DDR SDRAM is the most common type of RAM available.
- Higher frequency RAM transfers data faster.
- Larger amounts of RAM allow more data and instructions to be stored, reducing the need for virtual memory.
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Graphics Card:
- Contains a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) for image processing.
- The GPU is housed on a separate card that connects to the motherboard.
- It uses VRAM (Video RAM) to store images.
- Offloads image rendering tasks from the CPU, improving overall performance.
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Integrated Graphics:
- Integrated Graphics is built into the CPU, sharing system RAM instead of having dedicated VRAM.
- Suitable for average users who do not require high-performance graphics.
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Secondary Storage:
- Faster HDD or SSD significantly improve data access speeds for the CPU and GPU.
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HDD vs SSD:
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive) uses spinning disks with movable read/write heads, while SSD (Solid State Drive) has no moving parts.
- HDDs are cheaper per unit of storage but slower, while SSDs are more expensive but faster and offer better performance.
- HDDs are susceptible to magnetic interference and physical shock, while SSDs are more resistant.
Secondary Storage Formats
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M.2 Format:
- A form factor describing the shape and size of a hardware device.
- M.2 connectors can access PCI-express 3.0, SATA 3.0, and USB 3.0 bus.
- M.2 SSDs are small drives directly connected to the motherboard through an M.2 socket.
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M.2 vs SATA:
- Both M.2 and SATA are types of SSDs, but with different sizes and connectors.
- SATA SSDs come in 2.5-inch and M.2 form factors.
- 2.5-inch SATA SSDs require data and power cables to connect to the motherboard.
- M.2 SSDs have the same performance as 2.5-inch SATA SSDs but connect directly to the motherboard, eliminating the need for cables.
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PCle NVMe M.2 SSDs:
- M.2 based SSDs using the PCle bus offer high performance.
- NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory Express) is high-speed interface for SSDs.
- PCle NVMe M.2 SSDs are faster than SATA SSDs, offering faster boot times and better overall performance.
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SFF (Small Form Factor) systems:
- Systems with limited space for cable routing.
- M.2 SSDs are ideal for SFF systems due to their size and direct connection.
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Description
This quiz explores the concepts of Modular Design in computers, detailing how components can be replaced or upgraded easily. It also covers critical aspects affecting computer performance, such as the roles of CPU and RAM. Test your understanding of these essential principles of computer hardware.