Video Notes: Computer Hardware Basics (Storage, Display, and Motherboard Components)

Vocabulary flashcards covering storage devices, display technologies, and motherboard components described in the notes.

Hard Disk

Internal or external non-volatile secondary storage that stores the OS, applications, and user files; retains data when power is off; uses magnetic disks arranged in concentric tracks.

USB Flash Drive

Plug-and-play portable storage device using flash memory; removable and rewritable; used to transfer data between devices; smaller than optical discs.

SD Card

Secure Digital card; small portable memory card for devices with SD slots (cameras, smartphones, tablets); stores music, videos, and other multimedia for playback.

Flat Panel Display (FPD)

Display technology that is flat, energy-efficient, thinner, lighter, more compact, and provides sharper image quality; easier to relocate and uses less power.

CRT Monitor

Cathode Ray Tube monitor; older display technology that is bulkier and less energy-efficient than flat-panel displays.

Microprocessor (CPU)

Central Processing Unit; the brain of the computer; executes instructions and manages data flow.

Slots

Expansion sockets on the motherboard for adding expansion cards and modules.

Resistors

Electronic components that limit current and drop voltage in circuits.

Capacitors

Electronic components that store and release electrical energy; smooths and filters power in circuits.

Diodes

Semiconductor devices that allow current to flow in one direction; used for rectification and protection.

Transistors

Semiconductor devices used as switches or amplifiers in circuits.

Ports

Connectors on the motherboard for external devices and peripherals.

Buses

Electrical pathways inside the motherboard that carry data, addresses, and control signals between components.

Jumpers

Small bridges used to configure motherboard settings by shorting pins on headers.

RAM

Random Access Memory; volatile memory used for temporary storage of data and instructions while programs run.

ROM

Read-Only Memory; non-volatile memory that stores firmware and essential, rarely changed instructions.