Computer System Unit Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What is the system unit?

Case that contains electronic components of the computer used to process data (correct)

A method of data storage

Small piece of semi-conducting material

The main circuit board in a computer

What is the function of the motherboard?

Main circuit board in the system unit

What is a chip?

Small piece of semi-conducting material on which integrated circuits are etched.

What do integrated circuits contain?

Many microscopic pathways capable of carrying electrical current. Signup and view all the answers

What does the central processing unit do?

Interprets and carries out basic instructions that operate a computer. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the control unit?

Directs and coordinates operations in a computer. Signup and view all the answers

What does the arithmetic logic unit perform?

Arithmetic, comparison, and logical operations. Signup and view all the answers

What does the system clock control?

Timing of all computer operations. Signup and view all the answers

What is a dual-core processor?

A single chip that contains two separate processors. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between a dual-core processor and a multi-core processor?

A dual-core processor has two processors, while a multi-core processor has two or more. Signup and view all the answers

What does the binary system represent?

Recognizes two states: On or Off. Signup and view all the answers

What is a byte?

A group of eight bits. Signup and view all the answers

What does ASCII stand for?

American Standard Code for Information Interchange Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of RAM?

Memory chips that can be read from and written to by processor Signup and view all the answers

How often must dynamic RAM be re-energized?

Constantly. Signup and view all the answers

What is static RAM?

RAM that does not have to be re-energized as often as DRAM. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main advantage of flash memory?

It can be erased electronically and rewritten Signup and view all the answers

What does an adapter card do?

Enhances system unit or provides connections to external devices. Signup and view all the answers

What type of devices does a serial port connect?

Slow-speed devices, such as a mouse, keyboard, or modem. Signup and view all the answers

What can a USB port connect?

Up to 127 different peripherals. Signup and view all the answers

Match the following ports with their description:

Serial port = Transmits one bit of data at a time. Parallel port = Connects devices that can transfer more than one bit at a time. USB port = Can connect multiple peripherals with a single connector. FireWire port = Connects multiple types of devices requiring faster data transmission. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

System Unit Overview

The system unit houses the electronic components necessary for data processing in a computer.
Key components include the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and various storage types.

Key Components

Motherboard: The primary circuit board that serves as the foundation for connecting all hardware components.
Chip: A small piece of semiconductor material that holds integrated circuits crucial for processing.
Integrated Circuits: Microscopic pathways that carry electrical currents, forming the backbone of electronic devices.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Central Processing Unit: Interprets and executes the basic instructions required for computer operations.
Control Unit: Manages and coordinates the instructions and processes within the CPU.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Carries out arithmetic computations and logical comparisons.

System Timing and Processors

System Clock: Generates pulses that synchronize all computer operations, effectively controlling the pace.
Dual-core Processor: Integrates two separate processing units into one chip for improved performance.
Multi-core Processor: Contains two or more distinct processing units for enhanced multitasking capabilities.

Data Representation

Binary System: Utilizes two states (on or off) to represent data.
Byte: A group of eight bits used as a fundamental unit of data.

Character Encoding

ASCII: A standardized code that represents text in computers.
EBCDIC: An alternate character encoding system used primarily on mainframe computers.

Memory and Storage

Memory: Electronic components responsible for storing instructions, data, and results of processing.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory that allows data to be read from and written to by the processor.
- Dynamic RAM (DRAM): Must be refreshed frequently to retain data.
- Static RAM (SRAM): More stable than DRAM, does not require frequent refreshing, faster, and more reliable.
- Magnetoresistive RAM (MRAM): A newer type of RAM with potential benefits over traditional types.
Memory Module: Circuit boards containing memory chips that reside in memory slots on the motherboard.
Cache Memory: Temporary storage that speeds up processes by storing frequently accessed data and instructions.
- L1 Cache: Integrated directly into the processor for faster access.
- L2 Cache: Larger capacity but slower than L1, often located near the CPU.

Storage Types

ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent memory storing critical data and instructions.
Firmware: Permanent software programmed into hardware, enabling functionality without an operating system.
Flash Memory: A nonvolatile memory type that can be electronically erased and reprogrammed.
CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) Memory: Retains data like date and time even when power is off.

Data Access and Connectivity

Access Time: Measures the duration it takes for the processor to read data from memory, typically in nanoseconds.
Adapter Cards: Enhance the system unit by adding capabilities or allowing connections to peripherals, also known as expansion cards.
Expansion Slots: Openings on the motherboard where adapter cards can be inserted to expand functionality.

Peripheral Connections

Ports: Interfaces for connecting external devices to the system unit.
Connectors: Physical ends of cables that link peripherals to the system.
Serial Port: Transfers data one bit at a time, suitable for slower devices like keyboards and mice.
Parallel Port: Transfers multiple bits of data simultaneously, commonly used for printers.
USB Port: Versatile connector allowing up to 127 devices to connect through one port.
FireWire Ports: Designed for high-speed connections with multiple devices.

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Description

Explore essential terms related to the computer system unit with this set of flashcards. Each card provides a key definition to help enhance your understanding of computer components. Perfect for students learning about computer architecture.