Introduction to Computers

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Questions and Answers

Which type of memory is included in primary storage?

CDs

Floppy Disks

External Hard Drives

RAM (correct)

What is the primary function of secondary storage devices?

To enhance processing speed

To permanently store data (correct)

To temporarily hold data for processing

To execute computer programs

Which of the following is NOT considered a type of primary storage?

Flash Drives (correct)

RAM

ROM

Cache

What is the role of the left button on a mouse?

To select items and execute commands Signup and view all the answers

Which device falls under the category of input devices?

Digital Camera Signup and view all the answers

What type of memory is classified as non-volatile in primary storage?

PROM Signup and view all the answers

In the context of peripheral devices, what is the purpose of an output device?

To display or transmit output data Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about secondary storage is incorrect?

It is used primarily for temporary data storage. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a computer as described?

To process, store, and retrieve data Signup and view all the answers

Which component is responsible for executing instructions in a computer?

Central Processing Unit (CPU) Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes dynamic random access memory (DRAM) from other types of memory?

It serves as temporary primary storage Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements about the ENIAC is true?

It was designed to automate human calculations Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of the motherboard in a computer?

It connects all internal and external components Signup and view all the answers

What characteristic of GPUs is highlighted in the content?

They manage graphics-related tasks and effects Signup and view all the answers

What major advancement allowed ordinary individuals to own computers?

The development of smaller and cheaper components Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered slower secondary storage?

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Signup and view all the answers

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Study Notes

What is a Computer?

Computers are electronic devices designed to process information
The term "computer" originates from Latin, meaning "to calculate" or a "programmable machine"
Modern computers take input data, process it, produce output, and store results (IPOS)
They are programmable devices that store, retrieve, and process data
The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was an early, large computer developed during World War II to automate calculations
Early computers used vacuum tubes and were bulky, primarily used in businesses, universities, or government
Later, transistors and smaller/cheaper components enabled personal computers

Important External Computer Parts

Flat-panel Display: Output device
Desktop Computer (System Unit): System unit
Speaker: Output device
Keyboard: Input device
Mouse: Input device

Important Internal Computer Parts

Motherboard: Connects all internal and external components
Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions from software and hardware
Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporary storage for data exchanged between storage and CPU (cache memory is part of the CPU)
Storage Device (e.g., hard drive): Secondary storage; stores data permanently (examples include SSD and HDD)
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Handles graphics, image quality, and video
Northbridge and Southbridge: crucial components on the motherboard for communication between the CPU and other devices
PCI Slot: Interface for various expansion cards
CMOS Backup Battery: Provides power for BIOS settings
CPU Fan and Heatsink: keeps CPU temperatures low, enabling performance
CPU Socket: Connects CPU to motherboard
IDE Connector: Internal Device Connector (often x2)

Type of Storage Devices

Primary Storage: Volatile memory (RAM, DRAM), non-volatile storage media (storage-class memory, hybrid storage arrays, all-flash arrays, storage area networks)
Secondary Storage: Auxiliary memory, external memory (HDD, CD, DVD, Floppy disks, flash drives), used to store data permanently separate from the computer system

Peripheral Devices

Peripherals: Components connected to the system unit
Input Devices: Devices used to enter information into the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner, digital camera/web camera)
Output Devices: Display information (e.g., monitor, printer, speaker, projector, sound card)
Keyboard: Used for input; includes keys, caps lock, num lock, and scroll lock indicators
Mouse: Small input device for interacting with computer, typically has buttons (left and right), and scroll wheel to control cursor movement
Scanner: Imports images, photos, hardcopies
Monitor / Video Display Units: Display text and graphics
LCD Projector: Large-screen output display primarily used in conference or lecture rooms
Printer: Output device that produces paper copies

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of computers, including their origins, structure, and essential parts. Learn about both the external and internal components that make up modern computing devices. Perfect for beginners looking to understand how computers function.