MIS 180 – Lecture 6: Computer Hardware

What does the CPU/Processor do?

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the “brain” of the computer that interprets and executes program instructions and coordinates all hardware operations

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What is Clock Speed (GHz)?

Measures how many cycles or instructions a CPU can execute per second. 1 GHz = 1 billion cycles per second. Higher GHz = faster performance

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What does the Control Unit (CU) do?

Fetches, decodes, and directs instructions for processing.

What does the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) do?

Performs arithmetic (add, subtract, multiply, divide) and logical operations (AND, OR, NOT, compare values)

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What are Registers?

Small, high-speed storage areas inside the CPU that temporarily hold data and instructions currently being processed

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What is Cache Memory?

Ultra-fast memory located near or inside the CPU that stores frequently used instructions and data to speed up processing

Class 06 - Computer Hardware - …

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What is RAM (Random Access Memory)?

The main memory used for temporary storage of data and programs currently in use. Volatile—data is lost when power is off

Class 06 - Computer Hardware - …

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What is ROM (Read-Only Memory)?

Permanent memory that stores essential system instructions (e.g., BIOS). Non-volatile—data remains even when powered off

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What is Secondary Storage?

Long-term data storage such as hard drives (HDD), solid-state drives (SSD), or external drives. Slower but larger capacity than RAM

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Difference between HDD and SSD

HDD uses spinning disks to read/write data (slower, cheaper). SSD uses flash memory (faster, quieter, more durable)

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What is Primary Storage vs. Secondary Storage?

Primary storage (RAM, cache, registers) is fast and temporary. Secondary storage (hard drives, SSDs) is slower but permanent.

Why is clock speed important?

Faster clock speed means faster execution of instructions, which speeds up application performance

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How does RAM affect performance?

More RAM allows more programs and data to run simultaneously, improving multitasking and overall speed

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How does secondary storage affect performance?

Larger or faster storage (SSD vs HDD) allows for quicker data retrieval and storage, especially for large files

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What is the role of a Graphics Processor (GPU)?

Handles complex graphical and visual computations, such as 3D rendering, gaming, video editing, and data visualization

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When should you spend more money on a graphics processor?

When doing graphics-intensive work like gaming, video editing, CAD design, or running AI/data visualization applications

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When don’t you need to spend extra on a GPU?

When doing everyday tasks like web browsing, document editing, or watching videos—integrated graphics are sufficient.

When should you spend more money on a CPU?

If your tasks involve heavy computation, multitasking, or running demanding applications such as simulation software or coding environments.

When should you spend more on RAM?

When multitasking frequently, editing large photos/videos, or using virtual machines.

When can you save money on storage?

If you use cloud storage or primarily perform lightweight tasks like note-taking, streaming, or browsing.

What is Input?

Hardware that sends data to the computer (keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone)

What is Output?

Hardware that receives or displays data from the computer (monitor, printer, speakers, headphones)

How are I/O devices connected to a laptop?

Via USB cables (wired) or Bluetooth (wireless)

What does USB stand for?

Universal Serial Bus – a standard for connecting external devices like flash drives, keyboards, or cameras

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What’s the difference between USB 2.0, 3.0, and 4.0?

USB 2.0: Slower (480 Mbps)

USB 3.0: Faster (5 Gbps)