CH2: Hardware

Hardware

Central Processing unit (CPU)

the brain of the computer, performs the calculations and executes instructions. Determine the overall speed and performance of the system.

Motherboard

the main circuit board that houses the cpu, memory, and other essential components. It provides the electrical connections between various hardware components.

Memory (RAM)

used for temporary storage of data and actively running programs. It allows for quick access to information, improving overall system performance.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

traditional storage devices that use spinning disks to store data.

Solid-State Drive (SDD)

faster and more reliable, using flash memory for data storage.

Power Supply unit (PSU)

converts electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the computer’s components. It provides the necessary voltage and current to run the system.

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

also the graphics card, handles graphics rendering and is essential for gaming, video editing, and other graphics-intensive tasks.

Expansion Slots

slots on the motherboard that allow for the installation of additional components, such as graphics cards, sound cards, or network cards.

Cooling System

To prevent overheating, computers use this that typically include fans and heat sinks. Some systems may also use liquid as their solution.

USB (Universal Serial Bus

used for connecting various peripherals like keyboards, mice, printers, and external storage devices.

Audio Jacks

allow for the connection of speakers, headphones, and microphones.

Ethernet Port

Enables a wired network connection

Cables and Connectors

visual cables and connectors, such as SATA cables for connecting storage drives and power cables for supplying elctricity, ensure proper connectivity between components.

External hardware

refers to devices that connect to a computer from the outside, providing additional functionality or serving as peripherals.

Keybaords

used for entering text and command into the computer

Mouse

enables pointing and clicking for navigation and interaction with graphical user interfaces.

Trackpad

common on laptops, it functions as a pointing device through touch-sensitive surfaces.

Graphic tablets

used by artists and designers for digital drawing and graphic design.

Monitor

displays visual output from the computer

Printer

produces hard copies of documents and images

Speakers

output audio for music, videos, and other multimedia content.

External Hard Drives

Provide additional storage capacity and can be connected via USB, Thunderbolt, and other interfaces.

USB Flash Drives

Portable storage devices that connect via USB for transferring and storing data.

Memory Card Readers

used to access data from various memory card formats.

USB Hubs

expand the number of available USB ports for connecting multiple devices.

Docking Stations

provide additional ports and connections, often used with laptops to transform them into desktop-like setups.

Adapters and Converters

Allow compatibility between different types of ports and connectors.

Routers and Modems

Facilitates internet connectivity and network communication.

Network Adapters

enabled wired or wireless network connections.

Scanners

external devices that convert physical documents or images into digital formats.

Power Banks

portable devices that store electrical energy and can be

External Graphic Cards (eGPUS)

provide additional graphics processing power and connect externally to enhance the graphics capabilities of

External Optical Drives

CD or DVD or vluray drives that can be connected externally for reading and writing optical media.

External Cameras

used for video conferencing, live streaming, or capturing images and videos.

Headphones and Headsets

provide audio output and may include a microphone for communication.