computer hardware - ms. salvo's site · computer hardware hardware is defined as the machines,...
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COMPUTER HARDWARE
What is a Computer?
“A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You probably already know that you can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. You can also use it to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.” (http://www.gcflearnfree.org/computerbasics/1)
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Computer Hardware
Hardware is defined as the machines, wiring, and other physical components of a computer or other electronic system. Desktop computer Laptop SmartPhone Sever Keyboard Speakers Motherboard Anything you can see
What is inside?
5 Categories of Devices
Input devices – any device that allows the user to put information into the computer (e.g. keyboard)
Output devices – any device that allows the computer to send information to the user (e.g. monitor)
Processing devices – any device that converts or redirects information to another device (e.g. motherboard)
Power device – any device that provides power to other devices (e.g. power supply)
Storage devices – any device that stores information for any length of time. Temporary storage devices (RAM) quick storage made ready for quick access to information, it
also needs power to hold onto the information. If you loose power you loose the information stored in your RAM
Permanent storage devices (hard drives etc) hold information in an organized manor, like a filing cabinet. No power is required to maintain the information once it has been saved.
Power Supply“the heart & blood”
connects computer to external power changes power into a form useful to various components on motherboard
many components require different voltages and currents
Motherboard“the nervous system”
circuit board that is the foundation of a computer
allocates power to theCPU, RAM, and all other computer hardware components
allows hardware components to communicate with one another
although easy to see in personal computers, this arrangement is common in most computing devices
Random Access Memory (RAM)“short term memory”
alternatively referred to as main memory, primary memory, or system memory
allows information to be stored and retrieved
information is accessed randomly instead of sequentially like it is on a CD or hard drive
requires power to keep the data accessible; if power is lost all data contained in memory lost
Hard Disk Drive“long term memory”
used to permanently store and retrieve information
data is stored magnetically on a spinning platter
it remains even when powered off
can be disconnected without loss of data
SSD (solid state drive): stores electronically within silicon
to achieve a quicker response have a limited number of writes
but don’t have moving parts that wear out
Central Processing Unit (CPU)“the brains”
the Microprocessor contains the CPU & cache memory
handles all the instructions you give your computer
performs the basic arithmetical, logical, and input/output operations of a computer system
the faster it does this, the better located on the motherboard gets very hot so it needs its own
built in cooling system
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)“your artist side”
although the CPU can process graphics, it is much faster to let a specialist, the GPU, handle it
the GPU is installed on a video card, or graphics card
Video Time
Computer Basics How is a CPU made?