Computer Hardware Essentials Review

Vocabulary flashcards covering essential computer hardware components and related concepts from the lecture notes.

Computer Hardware

The physical components of a computer system, encompassing all the tangible parts that you can see and touch.

Software

Intangible programs, data, and instructions that tell the hardware what to do.

CPU

Central Processing Unit, responsible for executing instructions, performing calculations, and managing data flow.

Motherboard

The main circuit board that connects and allows communication between all other hardware components, acting as the central nervous system.

Memory (RAM)

Short-term, volatile storage that temporarily stores data the CPU is actively using for quick access.

Storage

Long-term, non-volatile data storage that persists even when the computer is turned off.

GPU

Graphics Processing Unit, a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the creation of images, video, and animations.

Power Supply

Converts alternating current (AC) power from a wall outlet into direct current (DC) power for internal components.

Case/Chassis

The physical enclosure that houses the internal components of a computer.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Often referred to as the 'brain' of the computer, executing instructions, performing calculations, and managing information flow.

Clock Speed (GHz)

A key metric for CPUs, indicating the speed at which it processes instructions.

Number of Cores

A key metric for CPUs, indicating the number of independent processing units within the CPU.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

The computer's short-term, volatile memory where data is lost when power is removed.

Volatile Memory

Memory where data is lost when power is removed, characteristic of RAM.

DDR4

A common type of RAM used in recent computer systems.

DDR5

A newer and faster type of RAM compared to DDR4.

Storage Devices

Responsible for long-term, non-volatile storage of data, persisting even when the computer is turned off.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

A storage device that uses mechanical platters and read/write heads for data storage, generally slower and less durable.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

A storage device that uses flash memory (NAND) for data storage, much faster and more durable than HDDs.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

A specialized electronic circuit to accelerate the creation of images, video, and animations for display.

Integrated Graphics

A GPU built directly into the CPU, shares system memory (RAM), suitable for basic computing tasks.

Dedicated Graphics

A separate, powerful GPU component with its own dedicated video memory (VRAM), essential for demanding tasks like high-resolution gaming.

VRAM

Dedicated video memory used by dedicated graphics cards.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Converts AC power from a wall outlet into DC power that the computer's internal components can use.

Efficiency Ratings (80 Plus)

Ratings for PSUs (e.g., Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum) indicating less wasted energy and heat.

Peripheral Devices

External hardware components that connect to a computer to expand its functionality and enable user interaction.

Input Devices

Hardware that sends data and control signals to a computer, such as keyboards, mice, and microphones.

Output Devices

Hardware that receives data from a computer and translates it into human-understandable form, such as monitors, printers, and speakers.

Input/Output Devices

Hardware that can both send data to and receive data from a computer, such as touchscreens and external hard drives.

Keyboard

An input device consisting of keys used to enter text, numbers, and commands.

Mouse

A pointing input device that detects two-dimensional motion to control a cursor and interact with GUIs.

Microphone

An input device that converts sound waves into electrical signals, enabling audio recording or voice commands.

Webcam

A digital camera connected to a computer, primarily used for video conferencing, live streaming, or security monitoring.

Monitors

Visual display units that present information, images, and video generated by the computer to the user.

Printers

Output devices that produce hard copies of electronic documents or images on physical media.

Speakers

Audio output devices that convert electrical audio signals into sound waves, allowing users to hear audio.

Building a Custom PC

Acquiring a computer by assembling individual components, offering high customization and potentially lower cost for equivalent performance.

Buying a Pre-Built PC

Acquiring a computer as a complete, ready-to-use system, offering low effort and integrated support with limited customization.

Miniaturization

A future trend in computer hardware focusing on creating more powerful devices in smaller form factors, enabling portable computing and wearables.

Edge computing

A concept related to miniaturization, where computing is done closer to the source of data, often on smaller, more integrated devices.

Energy Efficiency

A future trend in computer hardware focused on reducing power consumption and heat generation for sustainable computing.

AI Specialized Components

A future trend in computer hardware involving hardware designed specifically for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning applications, such as advanced GPUs and custom AI accelerators.