Module 3, Lesson 1.1

Module 3, Lesson 1.1

by Miranda Cauldwell

Module 3

System Components

​Central Processing Unit

• the “brain” of a computer.

• Software programs are made up of simple instructions which are processed or “run” by the CPU.

• The CPU processes the instructions and then directs other computer components to perform actions based off those instructions

​RAM

• ​system memory = RAM

• ​more programs open at same time = more RAM

• ​CPU gets data from memory via the Front Side Bus

• ​needs to be fast so the CPU can process instructions

​Fixed Disk

• ​When the PC is off, programs and data is stored in a different location using a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD).

• ​HDDs use a magnetic disk that contains moving parts. SSDs use flash memory (transistor-based) and are faster than HDDs.

Multiple Choice

Where is memory store when the PC is turned off?

• System

• RAM

• Fixed Disk

Fill in the Blanks

What is referred to as the brain of the computer

​GPU

​Display functions can be performed by a separate processor called a Graphics Processing Unit (GPU).

​

GPUs can be part of the CPU itself or a separate internal expansion card that’s installed and is more powerful.

​

GPUs come into play when displaying high-resolution images, moving images or videos, 3D images and textures (like games).

Multiple Choice

What component would be very important when using high resolution video games?

• GPU

• RAM

• Fixed Disk

• Motherboard

• A

Multiple Choice

What type of component provides persistent storage?

• Hard Drive
• Processor
• Memory (RAM)
• Motherboard
• Graphics Card

Multiple Choice

What is used to support wireless networks for businesses or large campuses?

• Ethernet ports

• NIC

• Wireless access points

Multiple Choice

What provides the Ethernet port on the computer?

• Wireless Access Points

• Network Interface Card

• Wi-Fi

Multiple Select

What are the functions of motherboard?

• Connects all the devices and components attached.

• Prints the graphics

• Provides connectors for other peripherals.

• Saves the data into permanent storage.

Multiple Choice

What computer component is most restrictive in terms of determining upgrade potential for a desktop computer?

• Hard Drive
• Processor
• Memory (RAM)
• Motherboard
• Graphics Card

​Direct Components

• ​Central Processing Unit or CPU is essentially the brain of the computer.

• ​ CMOS (Complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor) battery provides a small amount of power to allow the computer to keep the correct time and date, and maintain its BIOS settings even while it is unplugged.

• ​RAM slots are used to install memory into the computer.

• ​Chipsets are sets of integrated circuits that allow for communication between computer components and the CPU.

​Chipsets

• ​Northbridge, connects directly to the CPU through a connection known as the Front Side Bus

• ​Southbridge, manages input and output (I/O) interfaces such as PCI, USB, audio, and several others. The Southbridge relies on the Northbridge to communicate back to the CPU, which makes communication slightly slower

• ​On most newer systems, the Northbridge has been eliminated, and most of its functions are handled by the CPU itself. This reduces the cost to build motherboards and improves performance.

​Connectors

• ​SATA connectors, are used to connect modern hard drives, solid state drives, and optical drives to the motherboard

• ​ATX power connector is a 20 or 24-pin connector that connects from the power supply to provide power to the motherboard

• ​Fan connectors are 3- or 4-pin connectors used to power CPU coolers and case fans. The three pins are ground, power, and a "sense output" pin that communicates the speed the fan is running. The fourth pin, when the fan has it, is used to let the motherboard increase and decrease the speed of the fan as needed.

• ​front panel connector is where the front panel controls of the computer’s case are located.

Multiple Select

Which of these are considered direct components? (Select all that apply)

• CMOS

• CPU

• Fan Connector

• ATX Power Connector

• IDE Connectors

Multiple Choice

Where is the CPU located?

• A

• B

• C

• D

Multiple Choice

Question 2: This component is located on the motherboard. Name the component. _______

• PCI Slots
• CPU
• RAM
• ROM

Multiple Choice

What does PCB stand for?

• Printed Circuit Board

• Parallel Computation Board

• Pressed Circuitry Base

• Printed Computer Board