M3 Hardware and Processors

What is the primary function of an input device?

To communicate instructions and commands to a computer.

What does a touch screen allow users to do?

Interact with software by touching the display.

What is the role of an output device?

To convey information from the computer to the user.

What does the binary system use to represent data?

0 indicates absence of charge, and 1 indicates presence of charge.

What is a bit?

The smallest unit of data a computer can process, represented as a 0 or 1.

How many bits are in a byte?

8 bits.

What is ASCII?

An 8-bit coding scheme used to translate characters into bits.

What is Unicode?

A 16-bit coding scheme that extends ASCII.

What defines a mobile device?

A portable or handheld device with a screen size of 10.1 inches or smaller.

What distinguishes a laptop from an ultrathin laptop?

Ultrathin laptops are less powerful than standard laptops.

What is a desktop computer?

A non-portable computer system that includes a monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

What is a peripheral device?

Add-ons that extend the capabilities of a computer or mobile device.

What is the difference between a hard drive and a solid state drive (SSD)?

A hard drive has moving parts, while an SSD has no moving parts and is faster.

What is cloud storage?

Storing files on the Internet, allowing access from any device with Internet connectivity.

What is the function of the CPU?

To convert data into information using complex integrated circuits.

What does the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) do?

Performs arithmetic operations within the CPU.

What is the purpose of the control unit in a CPU?

To manage the flow of instructions within the processor.

What is random access memory (RAM)?

Volatile memory that temporarily stores open applications and data while the computer is on.

What is read-only memory (ROM)?

Nonvolatile memory that contains the BIOS and is permanently installed on the motherboard.

What is virtual memory?

Data temporarily stored until it can be swapped into RAM.

What is the difference between dynamic RAM (DRAM) and static RAM (SRAM)?

DRAM is volatile and needs constant recharging; SRAM is also volatile but requires less recharging.

What factors should you consider when buying a computer?

The platform (software/operating system) and specific hardware needs.

What is form factor in relation to computers?

The size and shape of the computer.

What are some considerations when buying a computer?

Budget, system requirements, processor, memory, storage, and other requirements.

What is the difference between RAM and ROM?

RAM is volatile and can be read, erased, or modified; ROM is nonvolatile and can only be read.

What are the steps in the machine cycle?

1. Fetch, 2. Decode (Control unit), 3. Execute (ALU), 4. Store.

What is the purpose of a keyboard?

An input device that contains keys for entering characters and issuing commands.

What is a pointing device?

A device used to point to and select specific objects on the screen.

What is a mouse?

A pointing device that moves the pointer on the screen when moved.

What is a touchpad?

A flat, touch-sensitive screen used on laptops for input.

What is a touchscreen?

An input device that responds to multiple fingers touching it simultaneously.

What is the function of a microphone in a computer?

To enter voice or sound data into a computer.

What does a digital camera do?

Creates a digital image that can be downloaded and sent as a picture or video.

What is a QR code?

A square graphic that corresponds to a web address or other information, short for quick response.

What is the purpose of a printer?

To create hard copy output on paper, film, or other media.

What is a 3D printer?

A device that uses an additive manufacturing process to create solid objects layer by layer.

What is the purpose of an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?

To maintain power in case of an interruption in the electrical source.

What does it mean to restore a device?

To revert all settings back to default or migrate to a previous operating system version.

What is a surge suppressor?

A device that prevents damage from power fluctuations.

What should you do before restoring a device?

Copy all personal files to a separate storage device.

What is the clock speed of a computer?

The speed at which the computer executes instructions, measured in MHz or GHz.

What is a benchmark in computing?

A test that determines processor speed and other performance factors.

What is the role of a device driver?

A program that controls a device.

What is a joystick?

A handheld vertical lever used to control actions in gaming.

What is a gamepad?

A device where users press buttons or move sticks to trigger events in games.

What is a dance pad?

A flat, paneled device users press with their feet for gaming.

What is a motion-sensing controller?

A device that allows users to guide on-screen elements with air gestures.