Computer Hardware Fundamentals

Flashcards covering essential vocabulary on computer hardware, including major functions, input/output devices, CPU components, storage types, motherboard parts, system unit hardware, safety rules, and computer classifications.

Hardware

The physical components of a computer system that you can physically touch, install, connect, or replace.

INPUT

The hardware function that sends data or commands into the computer.

PROCESSING

The hardware function that interprets instructions and performs calculations.

OUTPUT

The hardware function that presents processed information to the user.

STORAGE

The hardware function that keeps data and programs for later use.

Data Processing

A technique of collecting, manipulating, and distributing data to convert raw data into information for decision making.

Computer Systems

A collection of objects, procedures, or techniques that interact in a regulated manner to form an organized whole.

Input Devices

Devices that allow users or other systems to enter data and commands into a computer.

Keyboard

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

Mouse/Touchpad

An input device used to control the pointer and select objects.

Scanner

An input device that converts physical documents or images into digital data.

Graphics Tablet

An input device that captures drawing or handwriting.

Biometric Scanner

An input device that captures fingerprints or other biometric data.

Output Devices

Devices that communicate processed information to the user.

Monitor

An output device that displays text, images, video, and graphical interfaces.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The primary processor that executes program instructions, performs calculations, comparisons, and control operations.

Control Unit (CU)

A component of the CPU that directs and coordinates operations.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

A component of the CPU that performs arithmetic and logical operations.

Registers

Very small, very fast storage locations used inside the CPU during processing.

Cache

Fast memory that helps the CPU access frequently needed data quickly.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Memory that allows instructions and data to be stored, changed, and retrieved by the user.

Read Only Memory (ROM)

Memory that allows only readout capability.

Memory Subsystem

Also known as secondary storage; keeps data even when the computer is turned off and allows for extra data storage exceeding primary storage.

Motherboard

The main circuit board of the computer that provides connections between the CPU, RAM, storage, expansion devices, and other components.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Converts incoming electrical power into usable power for computer components such as the motherboard, drives, and graphics cards.

Graphics Card (GPU)

An expansion card that handles graphics processing and display workloads.

PCIe Slots

Slots on the motherboard that allow compatible expansion cards to connect.

Microcomputers

Small desktop systems with limited I/O devices.

Minicomputer

A general-purpose computing device.

Mainframe

A very large and expensive computer capable of supporting thousands of users simultaneously.

Desktop PCs

Medium-sized, relatively inexpensive computers designed for individual users.

Supercomputers

The fastest type of computers, employed for specialized applications like weather forecasting and nuclear energy research.