Types of Computers and Monitors

Desktop Computers

• A desktop computer is a large computer that sits on a desk, typically containing a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Laptop Computers

• A laptop is a handheld computer, often using a touchscreen interface instead of a keyboard and mouse.

Servers

• A server is a central computer that transmits information to other computers on a network.

Workstations

• A workstation is a high-performance computer designed for professional or commercial use in tasks like video editing or 3D animation.

Supercomputers

• A supercomputer is a very fast computer capable of complex numerical calculations, such as in weather forecasting.

Minicomputers

• A minicomputer is a medium-sized computer that can support hundreds of users simultaneously.

Mainframes

• A mainframe is a powerful computer that can support many hundreds or thousands of users simultaneously.

Types of Monitors

Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) Monitors

• LCD monitors are the most common type of monitor, known for their compactness, good picture quality, and energy efficiency.

Cathode Ray Tube (CRT) Monitors

• CRT monitors are older technology, used in previous generations of displays.

Curved Monitors

• Curved monitors feature a concave screen design, improving viewing experience for some tasks.

Touchscreen Monitors

• Touchscreen monitors allow interaction by detecting screen touches.

4K Ultra HD Monitors

• These monitors provide high resolution, producing clear images.

UltraWide Monitors

• These monitors offer a wide panoramic view, beneficial for multi-task setups.

External Computer Hardware

• External hardware is connected to the computer case and motherboard through USB cables.

Keyboard

• A keyboard is an input device used for typing letters, numbers, and symbols.

Mouse

• A mouse is an input device used for pointing and clicking on a computer screen, playing an important role in graphical user interfaces (GUIs).

Monitor

• A monitor is an external output device that displays visual information from a computer. It's also known as a Visual Display Unit (VDU).

Printer

• A printer is a device used for producing physical copies of digital documents.

DVD/DVD-RW Drives

• DVD and DVD-RW drives are optical discs used for data storage. DVD-R are one-time recording discs, while DVD-RW are multiple-time recording discs.

Microphones

• Microphones convert audio into electrical signals, used for recording, video chatting, and speech-to-text applications.

Webcams

• Webcams are small video cameras, sometimes built-in, used for real-time video capture and transmission, like online meetings.

Speakers

• Speakers are output devices that produce audio from a computer.

USB Ports

• USB ports are standard connections allowing the connection of various external devices for data transfer and power.

Internal Computer Hardware

Motherboard

• The motherboard contains all the connections required to power and connect all internal components.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

• The CPU is the central processing unit, acting as the computer's control center; it interprets and executes instructions.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

• A GPU is a specialized circuit for accelerating image processing.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

• The PSU converts AC power from a wall outlet into DC power for computer components.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

• RAM is the computer's short-term memory for OS and programs.

Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA)

• SATA is a protocol for data transfer between motherboard and storage devices.

CPU Heatsink

• A heatsink absorbs and dissipates heat from the CPU.

CPU Socket

• A CPU socket is the physical connection between CPU and motherboard.

CPU Socket Lever

• The lever secures the CPU in its socket.

CPU Cooler

• A CPU cooler actively dissipates heat from the CPU.

CPU Thermal Paste

• Thermal paste improves heat transfer between CPU and cooler.

Computer System Panel Connector

• The system panel connector controls the power button, reset button, and LEDs.

Computer's USB System Panel Connector

• Connects USB ports to the motherboard, allowing front-panel control.

Storage Devices

• Storage devices store and retrieve digital data; critical for computer operations.

3 Main Types of Storage

• Internal physical storage (hard drive)
• External physical storage (removable drives)
• Cloud storage

Internal Physical Storage

• This refers to your device's built-in memory.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

• An HDD is traditional storage using spinning disks; suitable for large-scale data storage.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

• An SSD uses flash memory; faster and more reliable than HDDs but often more expensive.

External Physical Storage

• External devices allow expanding storage, portability, and data transfer.

External HDDs and SSDs

• External HDDs and SSDs provide additional storage capacity. SSDs are faster but more expensive.

Flash Memory Devices

• Flash drives and memory cards are portable and widely compatible for transferring smaller files.

Legacy Storage

• Older storage methods include CDs, DVDs, and floppy disks.

Cloud Storage

• Cloud storage stores data on remote servers, accessible online from any connected device.

Advantages of Cloud Storage

• Space efficiency
• High capacity
• Portability
• Security and backup

When to Use Cloud Storage

• Cloud storage is preferred for most everyday use, especially for remote work and collaboration.

Comparing Portability and Cost

• Cloud storage is often more cost-effective for everyday needs and highly portable. External drives might be more economical for massive data storage.

Security and Reliability

• Cloud storage is generally safer due to encryption and security protocols. External drives are vulnerable to damage and loss.

Speed and Accessibility

• Cloud storage can be faster for data access with good internet connections. External drives are preferable without consistent internet.

Microcomputer System Architecture

• A computer system has a CPU (processor), memory unit, and input/output units.
• The CPU, which processes data, is often a single microprocessor chip.

CPU Components

• Address bus: Identifies memory locations.
• Data bus: Transfers data between components.
• Control unit: Directs processor actions.
• RAM: High-speed, temporary memory for active programs.
• ROM: Permanent memory containing essential instructions.
• Interface circuits: Bring signals to formats compatible with devices.
• Peripheral devices: External hardware for information transfer.

CPU Uses and Functions

• Interprets, performs, and executes instructions.
• Transforms input data into usable output.

CPU Compatibility

• Compatibility ensures a CPU works with a specific motherboard and components, considering socket type, generation, and model.

RAM Uses and Functions

• RAM plays a role in loading applications, browsing, and task switching.

RAM Technology

• RAM is a computer's short-term memory.

RAM Package

• RAM is where the processor stores data it needs immediately.

RAM Use

• RAM usage increases with multiple programs and files opened simultaneously, especially demanding ones (games, software).

Adding/Upgrading RAM

• Procedures for adding or upgrading RAM.