Computer System Unit Flashcards
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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?

    <p>Many microscopic pathways capable of carrying electrical current.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the central processing unit do?

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

    What is the role of the control unit?

    <p>Directs and coordinates operations in a computer.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the arithmetic logic unit perform?

    <p>Arithmetic, comparison, and logical operations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the system clock control?

    <p>Timing of all computer operations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a dual-core processor?

    <p>A single chip that contains two separate processors.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

    What does the binary system represent?

    <p>Recognizes two states: On or Off.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a byte?

    <p>A group of eight bits.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does ASCII stand for?

    <p>American Standard Code for Information Interchange</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of RAM?

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

    How often must dynamic RAM be re-energized?

    <p>Constantly.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is static RAM?

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

    What is the main advantage of flash memory?

    <p>It can be erased electronically and rewritten</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does an adapter card do?

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

    What type of devices does a serial port connect?

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

    What can a USB port connect?

    <p>Up to 127 different peripherals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following ports with their description:

    <p>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.</p> 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.

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