Computer Peripherals and Components

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of RAM in a computer?

To enhance graphics capabilities

To increase the number of tasks the computer can perform simultaneously (correct)

To manage network connections

To store permanent data

What are expansion cards primarily used for in a computer?

To replace outdated components

To improve overall system speed

To add additional functionalities to the system (correct)

To store data permanently

What role does the video card play in a computer?

It manages network connections

It controls all input devices

It is responsible for sound output

It processes and displays images on the monitor (correct)

What is the function of a network card?

To facilitate communication over a network Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of an operating system?

Performing complex calculations Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true about integrated graphics and separate video cards?

Separate video cards can be added for enhanced performance Signup and view all the answers

How does an operating system facilitate user interaction?

By translating user commands into machine language Signup and view all the answers

What is often included in a motherboard as built-in capabilities?

Networking and sound features Signup and view all the answers

What type of device is a speaker?

Output device Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of a microphone?

It converts audio signals into digital data. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a web camera?

To transmit video Signup and view all the answers

Which component connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer?

Motherboard Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a CPU in a computer?

To process instructions Signup and view all the answers

Which statement is true about game controllers?

They can control games in conjunction with a keyboard or mouse. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of device is a digital camera?

Input device Signup and view all the answers

What should you check when purchasing a microphone for a computer?

If it has a USB cable included Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of RAM in a computer?

Short-term storage for active computations Signup and view all the answers

How does the CPU interpret commands?

By processing inputs from the keyboard and mouse Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of the power supply unit in a computer?

To convert and distribute electrical power Signup and view all the answers

Which measurement is used to describe a processor's speed?

Megahertz (MHz) and gigahertz (GHz) Signup and view all the answers

What should you do before opening the computer case to prevent static electricity damage?

Touch a grounded metal object Signup and view all the answers

What happens to data in RAM when the computer is turned off?

It is permanently erased Signup and view all the answers

Where is software and other files primarily stored in a computer?

Hard Drive Signup and view all the answers

What is the risk associated with not saving your work in a document?

Data may be lost if the computer shuts down Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes an optical mouse from a mechanical mouse?

The optical mouse uses an electronic eye for detection. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of display technology is considered older?

CRT displays Signup and view all the answers

What feature is common to newer monitors?

Thin, flat-panel design Signup and view all the answers

What primary function does a keyboard serve in a computer?

Communicating with the computer Signup and view all the answers

In what way does a trackball function differently from a traditional mouse?

The ball rotates to control the pointer. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a monitor port on a computer?

To connect the monitor cable Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of CRT monitors?

They are typically thinner than flat-panel displays. Signup and view all the answers

What is a touchpad primarily used for in a laptop?

Controlling the mouse pointer Signup and view all the answers

What is the main function of a DVI port?

To transfer video signals Signup and view all the answers

Which port is commonly used for networking and internet connections?

Ethernet Port Signup and view all the answers

What functionality do USB ports provide?

To connect peripheral devices like keyboards and mice Signup and view all the answers

Which statement correctly describes PS/2 ports?

They are typically used to connect mice and keyboards. Signup and view all the answers

What purpose does a scanner serve in a computer system?

To create digital copies of physical documents Signup and view all the answers

What type of information can a printer produce?

Documents, photos, and graphics from the screen Signup and view all the answers

Which type of port has largely replaced serial ports in modern computers?

USB Ports Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary function of a power socket on a computer?

To supply power to the computer Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Peripherals for Computers

Speakers and headphones are output devices that allow users to hear sound and music from the computer.
Microphones function as input devices, recording sound and enabling communication over the internet.
Web cameras capture videos and images and support video conferencing in real time.
Game controllers and joysticks enhance the gaming experience but a mouse and keyboard can also control games.

Computer Components

The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer, housing the CPU, memory, and connectors for drives and ports.
The CPU (central processing unit) processes instructions, measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz) for performance.
RAM (random access memory) acts as short-term memory, disappearing when the computer is turned off.
Expansion cards can be added to enhance functionality, with common types being PCI (peripheral component interconnect) cards.
Video cards are responsible for rendering visuals, with GPUs typically integrated into the motherboard.

Operating System

The operating system (OS) is essential software that manages a computer's hardware and software resources, facilitating user interaction.
It enables laptops and desktops to run applications and manage memory effectively, without a functional OS, a computer cannot operate.

Storage

The hard drive provides long-term storage for software, documents, and files, retaining data even when the power is off.
When documents are saved, they are written to the hard drive from RAM, ensuring data is not lost.

Power Supply

The power supply unit converts power from the outlet to the type required by the computer, distributing it through internal cables.

Monitors and Input Devices

Monitors display images and text, utilizing various technologies like LCD and LED, while older monitors use CRT technology.
The mouse connects to the computer via USB or other ports, with optical and mechanical types available.
Alternatives such as trackballs and touchpads offer different methods for controlling the pointer.

Interfaces and Ports

The monitor port connects display devices, supporting formats like HDMI, DVI, and VGA.
USB ports allow for connecting various devices, including mice, keyboards, and printers.
Ethernet ports enable networking and internet connections, while audio ports support speaker and microphone connections.

Print and Scan Technologies

Printers produce hard copies of documents and images, with types including inkjet, laser, and all-in-one options.
Scanners create digital copies of physical images or documents, often as part of integrated printer solutions.

Safety and Maintenance

Always ensure the computer is unplugged before opening the case for maintenance, and discharge static electricity by touching metal parts.

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Description

This quiz covers essential peripherals and components of computers, including input, output devices, and internal hardware elements. Test your knowledge of how these devices interact and their functions within the computer system.