Module 2- Hardware

Ports

Connection points that we can connect devices to that extend the functionality of our computer.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The brain of the computer, processes data and does calculations. Usually has about 32 or 64 bit architecture. More processing power = more memory.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Computer’s short term memory, cleared when the computer turns off. Holds copies of programs and applications for faster use.

Hard Drive

holds all of the data for the computer long-term. I.e.: music, pictures and applications

Motherboard

The body, or circulatory system of the computer that connects all the pieces together and allows them to communicate.

Power supply

converts electricity from the wall unit to energy that our computer can use

Programs

instructions that tell the computer what to do

External Data Bus (EDB)

a row of wires that interconnect the parts of the computer

Address Bus

connects the CPU to the MCC and sends the location for the into in the RAM. The MCC then find the info and sends it via EDB to CPU

MCC

Memory Controller Chip a critical component that manages data flow between the CPU and the main memory (RAM).

Cache

stores info within the CPU. Smaller than RAM but lets us store info that we use often. 3 levels of Cache.

What are the 3 levels of Cache?

L1-Smallest and the fastest cache.

L2-Holds less than level 3 but has faster speeds.

L3-Largest and the slowest level. 2x faster than RAM.

Clock wire

Lets the CPU know when to start a new set of instructions.

Clock cycle

Sends voltage to the clockwire.

Overclocking

increasing the base rate of your CPU clock cycles in order to perform more tasks and can be done on any CPU. Can also overheat your CPU.

Instruction Set

Hardcoded into your CPU. A set of instructions our CPU is able to run. (adding, subtracting, and copying data.) Different manufacturers have different instruction sets. (Intel,AMP,Qualcomm)

LGA Socket

Pins that stick out of the motherboard to connect certain CPUs

PGA Socket

Pins located on the CPU itself to connect to the motherboard

Heat Sink

a device or substance for absorbing excessive or unwanted heat. Takes heat from the CPU and dissipates it through a fan.

D RAM

Dynamic Random Access Memory. Can be put on different kinds of memory sticks such as DIMM sticks.

DIMM

Dual Incline Memory Module. Different sized pins on ram.