Basic Computer Hardware (Video Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering major hardware terms from Lesson Two: Basic Computer Hardware.

Hardware

The physical parts of a computer system.

Computer Case

The external shell that holds all components; desktop cases include cooling fans and a power supply, while tablets/phones have compact versions.

Motherboard

The main circuit board that connects the CPU, RAM, graphics, sound, and peripherals.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The brain of the computer that executes programs and instructions.

Control Unit (CU)

The CPU component that fetches, decodes, and executes instructions and coordinates memory and ALU.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

The CPU component that performs arithmetic and logical operations.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

Primary memory that stores running programs and data while the computer is on; data is lost when power is off.

ROM (Read-Only Memory)

Non-volatile memory that holds static data or startup instructions and remains when power is off.

Video Card

A plug-in module with an advanced graphics processor and dedicated video memory used to display graphics; often optional as built-in graphics exist.

Graphics Processor (GPU)

Specialized processor for rendering images and graphics; can be integrated on the motherboard or part of a video card.

Sound Card

A module that provides enhanced audio processing and input/output capabilities.

Sound Processor

The integrated circuit in a sound card or motherboard that handles audio output.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

Traditional magnetic storage device with spinning platters used for long-term storage.

Solid State Drive (SSD)

Flash-based storage with no moving parts, offering faster access than HDDs.

Removable Storage Media

Portable storage used to transfer data, such as USB drives, CDs/DVDs, SD cards.

Desktop

A full computer system with a separate monitor, keyboard, mouse, and peripherals.

Laptop

A small, portable computer with an integrated monitor, keyboard, and mouse.

Tablet

A very lightweight computer with an integrated touch screen and no traditional keyboard.

Smartphone

A pocket-sized cell phone with a touch screen and embedded operating system.

Platform

A combination of hardware components that form a computer system and influence what software can run.

Mobile Hardware

Hardware unique to mobile devices (tablets/phones), including antennas, wireless networking, cameras, accelerometers, GPS, and sensors.

Operating System (OS)

System software that manages hardware and software resources and provides common services for programs.

Input Device

A device that sends data to a computer, such as a keyboard or mouse.

Output Device

A device that receives data from a computer, such as a monitor or printer.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

A component that allows a computer to connect to a network, either wired or wirelessly.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

A component that converts AC power from the wall outlet into DC power needed by computer components.