Questions and Answers
What is the system unit?
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?
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What does the central processing unit do?
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What is the role of the control unit?
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What does the arithmetic logic unit perform?
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What does the system clock control?
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What is a dual-core processor?
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What is the difference between a dual-core processor and a multi-core processor?
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What does the binary system represent?
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What is a byte?
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What does ASCII stand for?
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What is the function of RAM?
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How often must dynamic RAM be re-energized?
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What is static RAM?
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What is the main advantage of flash memory?
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What does an adapter card do?
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What type of devices does a serial port connect?
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What can a USB port connect?
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Match the following ports with their description:
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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.
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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.
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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.