Introduction to Computer Hardware & Troubleshooting

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering basic computer hardware components, internal motherboard parts, peripherals, networking components, cables, and basic troubleshooting concepts.

Computer Hardware

The physical, tangible components of a computer system that can be seen and touched, enabling the system to function.

Internal Hardware

Hardware components housed inside the computer case, such as the CPU, motherboard, RAM, power supply unit, and storage drives.

External Hardware

Hardware components located outside the computer case used for input and output, such as monitors, keyboards, mice, and printers.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The primary component and 'brain' of a computer; a complex microprocessor responsible for fetching, decoding, and executing program instructions.

Fetching Instructions

The CPU function of retrieving program instructions from the computer's Random Access Memory (RAM).

Decoding Instructions

The CPU function of interpreting fetched instructions to determine what specific operation needs to be performed.

Executing Instructions

The CPU function of carrying out a specified operation by performing calculations, manipulating data, or controlling other hardware components.

Write Back (Storing Results)

The CPU process of saving the results of executed operations back into memory or into internal registers for future use.

Motherboard

The main circuit board in a computer system that connects all hardware components and allows them to communicate with each other.

CPU Socket

The specific socket on a motherboard where the Central Processing Unit (CPU) sits.

Chipset

A set of integrated circuits on the motherboard that manages the flow of data between the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and peripherals.

DIMM Slots (RAM Slots)

Slots on the motherboard designed to hold Random Access Memory (RAM) modules, typically in configurations of $2$, $4$, or $8$ slots.

PCI Express (PCIe) Slots

High-speed expansion slots on a motherboard used for connecting expansion cards (e.g., PCIe x16, PCIe x8, x4, x1).

SATA Ports

Motherboard connectors used to attach storage devices such as HDDs, SATA SSDs, and optical drives.

BIOS/UEFI Chip

A chip containing firmware that initializes hardware components during startup via Power-On Self-Test (POST) and loads the operating system.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

The computer's fast, volatile working memory where active data and instructions are temporarily stored while power is supplied.

Read-Only Memory (ROM)

Non-volatile memory that permanently stores essential system information, such as boot instructions, retaining data even when turned off.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

A hardware component that converts mains AC (alternating current) into low-voltage regulated DC (direct current) power (typically $+12\text{V}$, $+5\text{V}$, and $+3.3\text{V}$) for internal components.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

A traditional data storage device that reads and writes data using spinning magnetic platters.

Solid State Drive (SSD)

A modern storage device with no moving parts that uses flash memory to store data.

Cooling System

A set of components designed to remove excess heat generated by internal hardware to maintain optimal operating temperatures.

Heat Sink

A metal block with fins that absorbs and disperses heat away from hot internal components like the CPU or GPU.

Thermal Paste

A heat-conductive paste applied between the CPU and heat sink to enhance heat transfer.

Input Devices

Hardware components that allow users to enter data and instructions into a computer system.

Output Devices

Hardware components that display or present processed information from the computer to the user.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

A specialized electronic circuit designed for digital image processing and accelerating computer graphics.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

Also known as a network adapter or LAN adapter, a component that connects a computer to a network to transmit and receive data.

WiFi Card

A hardware component that enables a device to connect to a wireless network using radio waves.

VGA Cable

A video cable with a $15$-pin connector (DE-15) arranged in three rows of five pins, used to transmit analog video signals.

HDMI Cable

High Definition Media Interface cable used to transmit high quality video and audio signals simultaneously without image degradation.

USB Cable

Universal Serial Bus cable used to connect devices to computers for data transfer and electrical power supply.

Ethernet Cable

A cable used in wired networks to connect computers, switches, and monitors within a Local Area Network (LAN).

5VSB (5-Volt Standby)

A continuous $5\text{V}$ standby power supplied by ATX power supplies even when the computer is off, enabling features like Wake-on-LAN.

Troubleshooting

A systematic process used to identify, diagnose, and resolve hardware and software faults within a computer system.

CMOS Battery Failure

A hardware failure characterized by BIOS settings resetting on reboot and an incorrect system date and time due to a depleted coin battery.