Lecture 03: Computer Hardware (CS 101: Introduction to Computing)

flashCards Covering important terms and assessing understanding by asking qs. ConCise and engaging

IC (Integrated Circuit):

A silicon slice with microscopic circuit elements, fundamental to computer components.

Motherboard:

Main circuit board connecting all essential chips.

Microprocessor:

An IC designed to process instructions (CPU on a chip).

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit):

Performs arithmetic and logical operations within the CPU.

Control Unit:

Directs/coordinates CPU processing.

RAM (Random Access Memory):

Temporary, fast, volatile storage for data/instructions.

ROM (Read-Only Memory):

Non-volatile memory for startup routines, not easily changed.

CMOS Memory:

Low-power, battery-backed memory on motherboard for boot data.

Magnetic Storage:

Stores data by magnetizing particles (e.g., HDD, tape).

HDD (Hard Disk Drive):

Magnetic storage with platters; vulnerable to head crashes.

Head Crash:

HDD damage when read/write head contacts debris on disk.

Optical Storage:

Stores data as light spots on a disk; less susceptible to damage.

Optical Disc Capacities:

CD (700 \text{ MB}), DVD (4.7-8.5 \text{ GB}), Blu-ray (up to 50 \text{ GB}).

Solid State Storage:

Non-volatile, no moving parts; faster access, portable.

Moore's Law:

Transistor count on ICs doubles ~every 2 years, improving performance.

Why is an Integrated Circuit (IC) considered fundamental to modern computer components?

Fundamental because it integrates numerous microscopic circuit elements onto a single silicon slice, enabling complex functionalities in a compact form.

How does the Motherboard facilitate communication between different computer components?

Facilitates communication by providing physical connections (traces, slots) and electrical pathways linking all essential chips and components.

How does a Microprocessor's function distinguish it from a general Integrated Circuit?

A specialized IC designed specifically as a CPU to process instructions, unlike general ICs with other purposes.

What specific role does the ALU play in the CPU's ability to manipulate data?

Performs all arithmetic calculations (e.g., addition) and logical comparisons (e.g., greater than) required for data manipulation within the CPU.

What major function would a CPU be unable to perform without its Control Unit?

Without the Control Unit, the CPU cannot direct and coordinate instruction execution, making it unable to process information in an organized manner.

Explain why RAM is described as 'volatile' memory and what this implies for data persistence.

Volatile because it requires continuous power to retain data. Data is lost when power is removed (e.g., computer turned off).

Why is it essential for ROM to be non-volatile, particularly for a computer's startup process?

Essential for ROM to be non-volatile as it stores critical startup routines (BIOS). If data were lost on power-off, the system could not boot.

Why does CMOS memory typically require a battery backup, and what kind of data does it store?

Requires battery backup as it's a low-power, volatile memory storing critical boot data (time, date, hardware configs) that must persist when off.

Describe the underlying principle by which Magnetic Storage stores data.

Stores data by using a read-write head to polarize/magnetize microscopic particles on a medium, representing binary data.

What physical aspect of an HDD makes it susceptible to a 'head crash'?

Susceptible because read/write heads float nanometers above rapidly spinning platters. Physical contact (dust, shock) causes a crash.

What is the primary consequence of a 'head crash' on an HDD's data integrity?

Primarily results in permanent data loss in affected areas due to physical damage to the platter surface, potentially making the drive inoperable.

How does the data storage method of Optical Storage contribute to its lower susceptibility to physical damage compared to magnetic storage?

Stores data as pits and lands (light spots) read by lasers without physical contact. This non-contact method reduces susceptibility to dust/crashes.

Compare the typical storage capacities of CD, DVD, and Blu-ray discs, indicating which offers the largest capacity.

Blu-ray offers highest capacity (50 \text{ GB}), then DVDs (4.7-8.5 \text{ GB}), and CDs (700 \text{ MB}), reflecting advancements in laser technology.

What are the key advantages of Solid State Storage over traditional magnetic storage, and why do these exist?

Advantages: faster access (no moving parts), greater durability, reduced power consumption, and portability. Ideal where speed and ruggedness are priorities.

What is the primary implication of Moore's Law for the continuous advancement of computing hardware?

Primary implication is continuous exponential improvement in computing power and cost-effectiveness: more transistors mean smaller, faster, more energy-efficient devices year after year.