Intro to computing module 3

computer hardware

physical components of a computer system

hardware

>Physical component

>Can be touched

>Requires software to perform useful tasks

Software

>Program/instructions

>Cannot physically be touched

>requires hardware to execute

external computer hardware

a. input devices

b. output devices

c. ports and connectors

internal computer hardware

a. CPU

b. computer memory

c. computer storage

d. motherboard

e. power supply unit

input devices

enter data and commands

input devices

a. keyboard

b. mouse

c. touchscreen

d. scanner

e. microphone

f. camera

output devices

communicate processed information to users

output devices

a. monitor

b. printer

c. speakers

d. projector

central processing unit

responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations

described as the brain of the computer

graphics processing unit

designed to perform many calculations in parallel

random access memory

temporary working memory used by the computer while programs are running

generally volatile

storage

used to retain digital data and programs for later use

memory

a. temporary working area

b. usually volatile

c. used by actively running programs

d. very fast

e. usually smaller capacity

storage

a. long-term data retention

b. non-volatile

c. stores files and programs

d. generally slower than RAM

e. usually larger capacity

HDD

a. magnetic

b. generally slower

c. can produce noise

d. low shock resistance

SDD

a. flash

b. generally faster

c. silent

d. high shock resistance

motherboard

main circuit board that connects many computer components

power supply unit

provides the electrical power needed by computer components

HEAT sink

dissipates heat from the CPU to keep it cool

graphics processing unit

handles graphics processing and renders images, videos, and animations

power supply unit

provides power to all components in the system

random access memory

temporary memory that stores data

HDD

stores data permanently such as documents, photos, videos, etc.

HDMI port

connects to monitors, TVs, and projectors

display port

connects to monitors and displays for high-quality video and audio

VGA port

for analog video (older monitors/projectors)

audio jacks

for audio input/output devices

ethernet

for wired internet/network connection