3.4 – Motherboards: Expansion Cards

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of installing an expansion card in a computer?

To increase the physical size of the computer

To replace outdated components within the computer

To enhance the overall performance of the CPU

To extend and add to the capabilities of the system (correct)

What is an important consideration when inserting an expansion card into a slot?

The color of the expansion card must match the case

The card should be the same brand as the motherboard

The expansion card should not block any cooling fans

The connectors and keys on the card must align with the expansion slot (correct)

Which of the following is a potential use of a sound card in a computer?

To enhance internet connectivity

To improve the graphics rendering

To provide high-quality audio output (correct)

To increase the RAM capacity

What is a typical interface you would find on a sound card?

1/4-inch headphone jack Signup and view all the answers

What steps should be followed to install an expansion card?

Turn off the computer, remove the cover, find an empty slot, and carefully install the card Signup and view all the answers

What types of activities might benefit from using a dedicated sound card?

Audio recording and podcasting Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about video cards is true?

Some CPUs already have video technology integrated Signup and view all the answers

What might the documentation that comes with a sound card provide?

Information on the sound card's compatible software and features Signup and view all the answers

When would you typically need to use a discrete graphics card?

To run high-performance graphics applications or gaming Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a video capture card?

To capture video signals and provide input to a computer Signup and view all the answers

What must you do to utilize the capabilities of a discrete video card?

Connect the monitor directly to the video card interfaces Signup and view all the answers

What should you check before purchasing a network interface card (NIC)?

Compatibility with your motherboard's slots and software requirements Signup and view all the answers

Which connector is NOT typically associated with a video capture card?

USB Signup and view all the answers

What might be necessary after installing an adapter card?

Install the appropriate device driver Signup and view all the answers

What should you do if your computer's integrated ethernet interface is not operating?

Install a network interface card for additional connections Signup and view all the answers

What is true of the drivers that usually come with hardware?

They may often be outdated and need updating Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of discrete graphics cards?

Performing basic graphical tasks Signup and view all the answers

What type of connection does a video capture card typically use for high-end video capture besides HDMI?

SDI (Serial Digital Interface) Signup and view all the answers

How can you determine the correct installation process for a device driver?

Check the documentation for the adapter card. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a multi-port ethernet adapter card?

It allows connection to multiple ethernet sources through a single card. Signup and view all the answers

Which method is commonly used to install device drivers on Windows?

Windows Device Manager Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Expansion Cards

Expansion cards allow adding functionality to computer systems.
Users can purchase and install compatible hardware, including cards and drivers.
Installation is straightforward: remove case, find empty slot, align card keys, push firmly.
Audio cards provide output for high-quality audio. They often integrate with external mixers/amps or record/capture audio (e.g., podcasts, videos).
Audio cards may include headphone jacks, line-in jacks, S/PDIF outputs, and speaker outputs.
Video cards (discrete graphics cards) offer higher performance than integrated graphics (in CPU).
Discrete video cards are crucial for graphics-intensive tasks (gaming, apps).
Video cards connect to expansion slots and have dedicated interfaces (DVI, DisplayPort, HDMI) for monitors.
Video capture cards are video input devices, crucial for live streaming/video capture. They support various interfaces (HDMI, SDI).

Network Interface Cards (NICs)

NICs, like other expansion cards, increase network capabilities.
Multi-port NICs offer multiple ethernet connections via a single card.
Critical for servers/routers that need multiple ports on one device.
Installation is identical to other expansion cards using an available slot.

Compatibility and Installation

Verify expansion card compatibility with motherboard (check documentation).
Ensure compatibility with the operating system (check software specifications).
Manufacturers' websites provide knowledge base and support forums for information.
Drivers are software that facilitate hardware communication with the operating system.
Device drivers are sometimes included with hardware or need separate installation.
Update drivers to the latest version from the manufacturer's website (drivers are often outdated).
Different driver installation methods exist (some drivers may require uninstalling old drivers first).
Windows Device Manager can guide installing driver files.
Confirm proper hardware usage in Device Manager after driver installation.

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Description

This quiz delves into the world of expansion cards and their functionalities in computer systems. Learn about audio, video, and network interface cards, including their installation processes and key features. Perfect for anyone looking to enhance their understanding of hardware components in computing.