IT Essentials Chapter 1: Introduction to Personal Computer Hardware PDF

Chapter 1: Introduction to Personal Computer Hardware IT Essentials 7.0 This content is adapted from Cisco Networking Academy materials and has been modified to suit specific educational needs. All original trademarks and copyrights belong to Cisco Systems, Inc. ITE v7.0...

Chapter 1: Introduction to Personal Computer Hardware IT Essentials 7.0 This content is adapted from Cisco Networking Academy materials and has been modified to suit specific educational needs. All original trademarks and copyrights belong to Cisco Systems, Inc. ITE v7.0 1  Chapter 1 - Sections & Objectives ▪ 1.1 Personal Computers ✓ Explain how to keep personal computer components safe. ✓ Explain components in a computer. ✓ Explain electrical and ESD safety. ▪ 1.2 PC Components ✓ Explain the features and functions of computer components. ✓ Describe cases and power supplies. ✓ Describe motherboards. ✓ Describe CPUs. ✓ Explain types of memory. ✓ Describe adapter cards and expansion slots. ✓ Describe hard disk drives and SSDs. ✓ Describe optical storage devices. ✓ Describe ports, cables and adapters. ✓ Describe input devices. ✓ Describe output devices. ▪ 1.3 Disassemble a PC ✓ Explain the features & functions of each component in the tool kit. ✓v7.0 Disassemble a computer. ITE 2  1.1 PERSONAL COMPUTER ITE v7.0 3  Computer Definition ▪ A computer can be defined as: o A person who makes calculations, especially with a calculating machine. o A programmable device that can store, retrieve, and process data. o An electronic device that can retrieve, store, process, and output data, typically in binary form, according to instructions given to it in a variable program. o A programmable electronic device designed to accept data, perform prescribed mathematical and logical operations, store data, and display the results of these operations. Note: Mainframes, desktop and laptop computers, tablets, smartphones, smartwatches, and IoT devices are some of the different types of computers. ITE v7.0 4  Basic Personal Computer System ▪ A computer system consists of hardware and software components. ▪ Hardware is the physical equipment such as the case, storage drives, keyboards, monitors, cables, speakers, and printers. ▪ Software is the operating system and programs. o The operating system instructs the computer how to operate. o Programs or applications perform different functions. ITE v7.0 5  Electrical Safety ▪ Electrical devices have certain power requirements. ▪ AC adapters are manufactured for specific laptops. o Exchanging AC adapters with a different type of laptop or device may cause damage to both the AC adapter and the laptop. ▪ Some printer parts, such as power supplies, contain high voltage. Check the printer manual for the location of high- voltage components. ▪ Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can occur when there is a buildup of an electric charge that exists on a surface which comes into contact with another differently charged surface. ▪ ESD can cause damage to computer equipment if not discharged properly. Note: Follow electrical safety guidelines to prevent electrical fires, injuries, and fatalities. ITE v7.0 6  Electrical and ESD Safety Recommendations to Prevent ESD Damage: Store components in antistatic bags until installation. Use grounded mats on workbenches. Use grounded floor mats in work areas. Wear antistatic wrist straps when working inside computers (ensure the strap makes contact with the skin). ITE v7.0 7  1.2 PC COMPONENTS ITE v7.0 8  Form Factor Defines the size and layout of the case. Influences motherboard and power supply form factor selection. Must allow proper airflow for cooling. Available in various sizes. Provides protection and support for internal components. Should be durable, easy to service, and spacious for expansion. Note: Choose a case that fits the dimensions of the power supply and motherboard. ITE v7.0 9  Cases The cases house internal components such as the power supply, motherboard, CPU, memory disk drives, and adapter cards. Common case types include: o Super Tower o Full Tower o Mid Tower o Mini Tower o Cube Case ITE v7.0 10  Power Supplies ▪ Provides power to all computer components. ▪ Must be chosen based on current and future needs. ▪ Deliver different voltage levels to meet different internal component needs. ▪ Converts AC power from the wall socket into low voltage DC power. ▪ Input voltage selector on the back of the power supply. ▪ Power supplies are measured in Wattage, which is calculated using the formula: Watt = Volt x Ampere ▪ Power supply connectors provide various voltages. ▪ The most common voltages supplied are 3.3 volts, 5 volts, and 12 volts. o The 3.3 volt and 5 volt supplies are typically used by digital circuits, while the 12 volt supply is used to run motors in disk drives and fans. ITE v7.0 11  Connectors ▪ A power supply includes several different connectors. They are used to power various internal components such as the motherboard and disk drives. ▪ The amount of connector vary based on the wattage of the power supply. ▪ Some examples are: 20-pin or 24-pin mail power connector SATA keyed connector Molex keyed connector Berg keyed connector 20-pin power connector SATA Molex Berg ITE v7.0 18  Motherboard ▪ It is the Backbone of the computer. ▪ It interconnects computer components. ▪ The motherboard is the main printed circuit board. ▪ Contains the buses, or electrical pathways found in a computer. ▪ Buses allow data to travel among the various components. ▪ Accommodates CPU, RAM, expansion slots, heat sink/fan assembly, BIOS chip, chip set, sockets, internal and external connectors, various ports, and the embedded wires that interconnect the motherboard components. ▪ These components may be soldered directly to the motherboard, or added using sockets, expansion slots, and ports. ▪ Main power uses a 20 or 24-pin connector. ITE v7.0 20  Motherboard Components ▪ Major components on a motherboard include: o Central Processing Unit (CPU) o Random Access Memory (RAM) o Expansion Slots o Chipset o SATA Connectors o Internal USB Connector o BIOS Chip and UEFI Chip ITE v7.0 21  Motherboard Chipset ▪ Chipset consists of the integrated circuits on the motherboard that control how system hardware interacts with the CPU and motherboard. Most chipsets consist of the following two types: 1. Northbridge controls o Controls access to the RAM, video card, and CPU. o Determines the speed at which the CPU communicates with other components. o In modern systems, the functions of the Northbridge are often integrated directly into the CPU. 2. Southbridge controls o Managed communication with slower components, such as hard drives, USB ports, sound cards, and other I/O devices. ITE v7.0 23 Motherboard Chipset  Motherboard Form Factors The form factor of a motherboard refers to its size, shape, and layout, including the arrangement of components and mounting points. The three common motherboard form factors are: o Advanced Technology eXtended (ATX): The most popular form factor, offering a standard size and extensive compatibility. o Micro-ATX: A smaller version of ATX, designed for compact systems while maintaining similar functionality. o ITX: A compact form factor ideal for small-form-factor (SFF) builds, often used in portable or space-saving devices. ▪ The choice of motherboard form factor determines how components are connected, the type of power supply required, and the design and size of the computer case. ITE v7.0 24 Motherboard Form Factors  What is CPU? ▪ The central processing unit (CPU) is responsible for interpreting and executing commands. ▪ The CPU is known as the brain of the computer. ▪ In modern systems, CPU sockets and processor packages are built-in, ensuring compatibility and efficiency. ▪ However, this design can limit upgradeability and make replacements more challenging if the processor fails or needs an upgrade. ▪ The CPU socket is the connection between the motherboard and the processor. ITE v7.0 25  Central Processing Unit Some CPUs use hyperthreading or hypertransport technology to enhance their performance by improving data handling and multitasking capabilities. The amount of data a CPU can process at one time depends on the size of its data bus. The speed of a CPU is measured in cycles per second, expressed in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz). Overclocking is a technique used to increase a processor's speed beyond its original specifications, providing better performance at the cost of potential overheating or reduced lifespan. ITE v7.0 27  Central Processing Unit The latest processor technology enables CPU manufacturers to incorporate multiple CPU cores onto a single chip, significantly enhancing multitasking and processing power. Examples of multicore CPUs include: o Dual-Core CPU: Contains two cores within a single CPU. o Triple-Core CPU: Contains three cores within a single CPU. o Quad-Core CPU: Contains four cores within a single CPU. o Hexa-Core CPU: Contains six cores within a single CPU. o Octa-Core CPU: Contains eight cores within a single CPU. o High-Core CPUs: Some processors now feature up to sixteen cores or more, designed for high-performance tasks like gaming, video editing, and server operations. ITE v7.0 28  Cooling Systems Computer components perform better when kept cool, as excessive heat can reduce performance and lifespan. A case fan improves airflow within the case, making the cooling process more efficient. A heat sink draws heat away from the CPU core, and a fan mounted on top of the heat sink disperses this heat further. Thermal compound enhances heat transfer between the CPU and the heat sink, helping to keep the CPU cool and functioning optimally. ITE v7.0 29  Types of Memory A computer uses various types of memory chips, all of which store data in the form of bytes. A byte is a block of eight bits stored as either 0 or 1 in the memory chip. Read-Only Memory (ROM): o ROM stores basic instructions for booting the computer and loading the operating system. o ROM chips retain their contents even when the computer is powered off. o ROM cannot be erased or rewritten (with some exceptions in specific types). Types of Read-Only Memory: o Read-Only Memory (ROM) chips: Pre-programmed and unchangeable after manufacturing. o Programmable Read-Only Memory (PROM) chips: Can be programmed once after manufacturing. o Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM) chips: Can be erased using ultraviolet light and reprogrammed. o Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM) chips: Can be erased and ITE v7.0 reprogrammed electrically, commonly used in modern devices. 30  Types of Memory Random-Access Memory (RAM): o It is a temporary storage for data and programs accessed by the CPU. o Its contents are erased when the computer is powered off. o More RAM enhances system performance and handles larger files and programs. Types of RAM: o SRAM (Static RAM): o DRAM (Dynamic RAM): o SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM o DDR SDRAM (Double Data Rate SDRAM o DDR2 SDRAM o DDR3 SDRAM o DDR4 SDRAM o ITE v7.0 GDDR SDRAM (Graphics DDR 32  Adapter Cards ▪ Adapter cards increase the functionality of a computer by adding controllers for specific devices or by replacing malfunctioning ports. ▪ Common adapter cards include: o Sound Adapter: Provides audio input and output capabilities. o Network Interface Card (NIC): Enables wired network connections. o Wireless NIC: Adds wireless networking capabilities. o Video Adapter (Display Adapter): Enhances video output or adds support for multiple displays. o Video Capture Card: Captures video from external sources. o TV Tuner Card: Allows the computer to receive and process TV signals. o USB Controller Card: Adds extra USB ports. o eSATA Card: Provides external SATA connectivity for high-speed storage devices ITE v7.0 37  Expansion Slots Expansion Slots: o It enable the installation of adapter cards and other components to expand or enhance a computer’s capabilities o The connector type of the component must match the expansion slot on the motherboard. Common Expansion Slots: o Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI): A standard slot for various adapter cards. o Mini-PCI: A smaller version of PCI, typically used in laptops. o PCI eXtended (PCI-X): An enhanced version of PCI for servers and high-performance workstations. o PCI Express (PCIe): A high-speed slot for modern graphics cards, SSDs, and peripherals. o Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP): A legacy slot for graphics cards, now replaced by PCIe. ITE v7.0 38  Types of Storage Devices ▪ Data drives provide non-volatile storage of data. Types of Data Storage Devices: o Magnetic: Hard disk drives (HDD) and tape drives. o Solid-State: Solid-state drives (SSD). o Optical: CDs and DVDs. ITE v7.0 39  Magnetic Media Storage Common Types of Magnetic Media Storage Drives: Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Traditional magnetic disk storage, capacities range from gigabytes (GB) to terabytes (TB). Tape Drive: Used for archiving data, employs a magnetic read/write head and removable tape cartridges, storage ranges from a few GB to many TB. Floppy Disk Drive (FDD): Legacy device using 3.5-inch floppy disks, with a maximum capacity of 1.44 MB. Solid-State Drives (SSD): o Store data as electrical charges in semiconductor flash memory, offering faster data access, improved performance, and higher reliability. o SSDs have no moving parts, make no noise, are energy- efficient, resistant to vibrations, and produce less heat than HDDs. ITE v7.0 42  Types of Optical Storage Devices Optical Drives: Removable media storage devices that use lasers to read and write data. Types: Compact Disc (CD): For audio and data. Digital Versatile Disc (DVD): For digital video and data. Blu-ray Disc (BD): For HD digital video and data. ITE v7.0 45  Ports and Cables ▪ Input/output (I/O) ports on a computer connect peripheral devices, such as: printers, scanners, and portable drives. ▪ A computer may have other ports: Personal System 2 (PS/2) Audio and game port Network Parallel AT Attachment (PATA) Serial AT Attachment (SATA) External SATA (eSATA) Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) Universal Serial Bus (USB) Integrated Drive Electronics (IDE) Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics (EIDE) ITE v7.0 47  Internal Cables Data cables connect storage drives to the drive controller on the motherboard, enabling data transfer. Types of Data Cables: o FDD Data Cable: Used to connect floppy disk drives. o PATA (EIDE) Data Cable: An 80-conductor ribbon cable for older hard drives and optical drives. o SATA Data Cable: A narrow, internal cable for modern hard drives and SSDs, offering faster data transfer. ITE v7.0 48  Ports and Cables Ports and Cables: Serial Ports: Transmit one bit of data at a time using DB-9 or DB-25 connectors. USB Ports: A standard interface for hot- swappable peripherals; can also provide power to devices. Parallel Cables: Connect parallel devices (e.g., printers, scanners) and transmit 8 bits of data at a time (IEEE-1284 standard). ITE v7.0 49  Ports and Cables Network Port (RJ-45): Connects a computer to a network. Telephone Port (RJ-11): Connects a modem to a telephone outlet. PS/2 Port: Connects a keyboard or mouse to a computer (commonly in older systems). Audio Port: Connects audio devices like speakers, headphones, or microphones to the computer. ITE v7.0 50  Video Ports and Cables Video Ports connect a monitor to a computer via a cable. Types of Video Ports and Cables: o Digital Visual Interface (DVI): Common for video output. o DisplayPort: High-performance video and audio. o High-Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI): Widely used for HD video and audio. o Thunderbolt 1/2: Combines video, data, and power in one cable. o Thunderbolt 3: Faster version with USB-C compatibility. o Video Graphics Array (VGA): Legacy port for analog video. o Radio Corporation of America (RCA): Used for composite video signals. ITE v7.0 51  The Original Input Devices Input Devices Allow the user to communicate with a computer. Examples of Early Input Devices: o Keyboard and Mouse: Standard for text input and navigation. o ADF / Flatbed Scanner: Used to digitize documents or images. o Joystick and Gamepad: Commonly used for gaming and interactive applications. ITE v7.0 53  New Input Devices New Input Devices include: o Touch Screen: Allows direct interaction with the display. o Stylus: Used for precise input on touch screens. o Magnetic Strip Reader: Reads data from magnetic stripes on cards. o Barcode Scanner: Scans and decodes barcodes for data entry. o Digital Camera: Captures digital images for input. o Webcam: Streams live video to the computer. o Signature Pad: Captures handwritten signatures electronically. o Smart Card Reader: Reads data from embedded chips on smart cards. o Microphone: Captures audio for input. ITE v7.0 54  Most Recent Input Devices Newest Input Devices include: o Near Field Communication (NFC) Devices and Terminals: Enable contactless communication for data transfer or payments. o Biometric Devices: ✓ Facial Recognition Scanners: Identify users through facial features. ✓ Fingerprint Scanners: Authenticate users via unique fingerprint patterns. ✓ Voice Recognition Scanners: Recognize and process voice commands or user authentication. ITE v7.0 56  Output Devices Examples of Output Devices: o Monitors: Display visual output from the computer. o Projectors: Enlarge visual output onto a surface. o Printers: Produce physical copies of documents or images. o Speakers: Output audio signals. o Headphones: Provide personal audio output. o VR Headsets: Deliver immersive visual and audio output for virtual reality experiences. ITE v7.0 57  Printers Printers are an output devices that create hard copies of files on various materials. They have two types of Output, paper documents (traditional printers) or plastic forms (3D printers). They use wired or wireless connections. Require printing material like ink, toner, or liquid plastic. Use drivers to communicate with the operating system. Types of Printers: o Inkjet: Sprays ink onto paper. o Impact: Uses mechanical pressure to print (e.g., dot matrix). o Thermal: Uses heat-sensitive materials for printing. o Laser: Uses toner and lasers for high-speed, quality prints. o 3D Printer: Creates physical objects layer by layer using liquid plastic or other materials. ITE v7.0 61  Speakers and Headphones Auditory Output Devices: o Speakers: Output sound for a wide audience. o Headphones, Earbuds, and Earphones: Provide personal audio output and are often part of headsets. Connectivity: Can be wired or wireless, with some using Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. ITE v7.0 62  1.3 COMPUTER DISASSEMBLY ITE v7.0 63  Video Demonstration – Computer Disassembly lab practice ITE v7.0 64  Lab – Disassemble a Computer Points to Consider: o Follow safe lab procedures and all safety guidelines. o Use the proper tools for each task. o Handle components with care to avoid damage. o Familiarize yourself with the tools before use. o Document how components are disassembled and reassembled. o Store components in anti-static bags to prevent damage. o Keep track of all screws and cables for proper reassembly. ITE v7.0 65  1.4 CHAPTER SUMMARY ITE v7.0 66  Chapter 1: Introduction to Personal Computer Hardware o Explain how to keep personal computer components safe. o Explain the features and functions of computer components. o Disassemble a computer. ITE v7.0 67  New Terms and Commands Electrostatic discharge printed circuit board (PCB) passive cooling (ESD) motherboard active cooling static electricity Central Processing Unit (CPU) Random Access Memory (RAM) antistatic wrist straps Chipset Dual Inline Package (DIP) alternating current Serially Attached SCSI (SAS) Single Inline Memory Module direct current (SIMM) Northbridge chipset Advanced Technology (AT) Dual Inline Memory Module Southbridge chipset AT Extended (ATX) (DIMM) Universal Serial Bus (USB) ATX12V Small Outline DIMM (SODIMM) Advanced Technology EPS12V eXtended (ATX) L1 cache SATA connector Micro-ATX form factor L2 cache Molex connector L3 cache Mini-ITX form factor Berg connector Parity ITX form factor 4-pin to 8-pin auxiliary power Error Correction Code (ECC) Pin Grid Array (PGA) connector memory 6/8-pin PCIe power connector Land Grid Array (LGA) ITE v7.0 68  New Terms and Commands (Cont.) Sound adapter Accelerated Graphics Port Thunderbolt Network Interface Card (NIC) (AGP) slot Video Graphics Array (VGA) Wireless NIC Hard Disk drive Radio Corporation of America Video adapter or display adapter Tape drive (RCA) Capture card Solid State drive ADF / Flatbed Scanner TV tuner card mSata or M.2 modules Joystick and Gamepad Universal Serial Bus (USB) Solid State Hybrid Drives KVM Switch controller card (SSHDs) Touch screen eSATA card Compact Disc (CD) Stylus Peripheral Component Digital Versatile Disc (DVD) Magnetic strip reader Interconnect (PCI) slot Blu-ray Disc (BD) Barcode scanner Mini-PCI slot DisplayPort Signature pad PCI eXtended (PCI-X) slot Digital Visual Interface (DVI) Smart card reader PCI Express (PCIe) slot High-Definition Multimedia NFC devices and terminals Interface (HDMI) ITE v7.0 69  New Terms and Commands (Cont.) Facial recognition scanners Serial Advanced Technology Dynamic RAM (DRAM) Fingerprint scanners Attachment (SATA) Static RAM (SRAM) Voice recognition scanners Enhanced Integrated Drive Synchronous Dynamic RAM Virtual reality headset Electronics (EIDE) (SDRAM) Liquid crystal display (LCD) Small Computer System Double Data Rate Interface (SCSI) Synchronous Dynamic RAM Light-emitting diode (LED) Read-Only Memory (ROM) (DDR SDRAM) Organic LED (OLED) Programmable read-only DDR2 Synchronous Dynamic Digital Light Processing (DLP) memory chip (PROM) RAM (DDR2 SDRAM) Virtual Reality (VR) Erasable programmable read- DDR3 Synchronous Dynamic Augmented Reality (AR) only memory chip (EPROM) RAM (DDR3 SDRAM) Basic input/output system Electrically erasable DDR4 Synchronous Dynamic (BIOS) chip programmable read-only RAM (DDR4 SDRAM) Unified Extensible Firmware memory chip (EPROM) GDDR Synchronous Dynamic Interface (UEFI) chip RAM (GDDR SDRAM) ITE v7.0 70 ITE v7.0 71