Basics of Computer Basics of Computer HardwareHardware

IntroductionIntroduction

A A computer systemcomputer system consists of a case, consists of a case, motherboard, processor, RAM, motherboard, processor, RAM, storage devices, peripherals, and the storage devices, peripherals, and the monitor.monitor.

MotherboardMotherboard

Has slots to hook in all other parts of Has slots to hook in all other parts of the computerthe computer

All parts of computer talk through All parts of computer talk through motherboardmotherboard

Very complexVery complex

ProcessorProcessor

The “brains” of the computerThe “brains” of the computer Measured in megahertz and Measured in megahertz and

gigahertzgigahertz The more gigahertz the betterThe more gigahertz the better Intel and AMD are the most popular Intel and AMD are the most popular

processor makersprocessor makers

RAMRAM

Stands for Random Access MemoryStands for Random Access Memory Determines how many programs can Determines how many programs can

be opened at once on a computerbe opened at once on a computer More RAM = more programs opened More RAM = more programs opened

at onceat once

Storage DevicesStorage Devices

Hard DiskHard Disk• Not removableNot removable• Currently holds most dataCurrently holds most data• ExpensiveExpensive

Compact Disc (CD)Compact Disc (CD)• RemovableRemovable• Sometimes recordableSometimes recordable• CheapCheap

Storage Devices (cont).Storage Devices (cont).

Floppy DisksFloppy Disks• Really cheapReally cheap• UnreliableUnreliable• Doesn’t hold much dataDoesn’t hold much data

Thumb drivesThumb drives• PortablePortable• Holds different amountsHolds different amounts• Getting cheaperGetting cheaper

How RAM & Storage is MeasuredHow RAM & Storage is Measured

1 byte = 1 character in a computer1 byte = 1 character in a computer

Kilobyte = KB = about 1 thousand bytes Kilobyte = KB = about 1 thousand bytes

(kilo = thousand)(kilo = thousand)

Megabyte = MB = about 1 million bytesMegabyte = MB = about 1 million bytes

(mega = million)(mega = million)

Gigabyte = GB = about 1 billion bytes Gigabyte = GB = about 1 billion bytes

(giga = billion)(giga = billion)

How much does it hold?How much does it hold?

3 ½ floppy disk = 1.44 MB3 ½ floppy disk = 1.44 MB Compact Disc (CD) = 650 MBCompact Disc (CD) = 650 MB DVD Disc = 4.7 GBDVD Disc = 4.7 GB Modern hard drive = 20-250 GBModern hard drive = 20-250 GB

PeripheralsPeripherals

KeyboardKeyboard MouseMouse PrinterPrinter ScannerScanner SpeakersSpeakers Anything outside the computer!Anything outside the computer!

MonitorMonitor

Different sizesDifferent sizes• 15, 17, 19, 21, 25, 30 inches15, 17, 19, 21, 25, 30 inches

CRTCRT Flat PanelFlat Panel Higher resolutions look better but Higher resolutions look better but

more expensivemore expensive