CompTIA A+ Core 1: Hardware and display components

Key Computer Hardware Components

Motherboard, Central Processing Unit (CPU), Random Access Memory (RAM), Storage Devices ( AKA drives), Power Supply Unit (PSU), Cooling systems

What is the role of a motherboard

Can be thought as the "Main" component of the computer itself because it:

*Facilitates communication between all components

*Houses CPU socket, RAM slots, expansion slots, and storage connectors

What are the several types of motherboards mentioned?

ATX, MicroATX, Mini-ITX

Why can't you put any processor or memory into any motherboard?

Because computer components, especially the CPU and RAM, have specific requirements that must match the motherboard

When building a custom PC, which motherboard feature is often the key choice, and why?

The number of PCIe slots (Peripheral Component Interconnect extended). They are expansion slots used to install components like video cards, sound cards, and network cards.

PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect eXtended)

An expansion slot on a motherboard. It's used for connecting expansion cards (like a GPU, sound card, or network card) to increase the system's capabilities.

Key facts about the CPU

CPU Cycle

A CPU cycle is the time it takes for the CPU to complete one basic operation,

Hertz (Hz)

The unit of measure for processor speed, representing one cycle per second.

Gigahertz (GHz)

A common measure for modern processor speed. 1 GHz equals 1 billion cycles per second.

Random access memory facts 

*Temporarily stores data for active applications 

*Faster than storage devices but volatile (erased on shutdown) 

*More RAM improves multitasking and speed

Types of RAM

DIMM, SODIMM, DDR, ECC, non-ECC

What is the real function of adding sufficient RAM to a system?

It allows your system to run at its maximum designed speed by providing an adequate active workspace for applications.

What actually causes a system slowdown related to memory

Not having enough RAM. When the active workspace isn't large enough, the system slows down because it has to constantly manage the limited space.