SF MODULE 2

Computer system consists of?

Hardware and software

Hardware

Hardware is the physical equipment such as the case, storage drives, keyboards, monitors, cables, and printers.

What is software?

The operating system and programs

Operating system

instructs the computer how to operate

Computer case

Provides protection and support for internal components

Should be durable, easy to service, and have enough room for expansion

Power Supply

• Converts AC power from the wall socket into DC

• Must provide enough power for the installed components and future additions – ranges from 200W to 800W

• Contain the framework to support and enclose internal components of the computer

• Typically made of plastic, steel, or aluminum

• Designed to keep internal components cool by using airflow vents and cooling fans

• Helps to prevent damage from static electricity

What is the size and layout of case called?

form factor (ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ATX)

Case Selection

You should select a case that matches the physical dimensions of the power supply and motherboard.

Power Supplies

• The power supply converts alternating-current (AC) power coming from a wall outlet into direct-current (DC) power, which is a lower voltage.

• DC power is required for all of the components inside the computer.

What does “keyed” mean when referring to connectors?

a connector is designed to fit in only one way.

Can a computer tolerate slight fluctuations in power?

Yes, but a significant deviation in power can cause the power supply to fail.

What device can protect a computer from problems caused by changes in power?

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS).

UPS

Uninterruptible Power Supply.

How does a UPS provide power to a computer?

It provides power using a power inverter.

Power inverter

converts the DC current from the UPS battery into AC power for the computer.

Molex connector

A keyed connector used to connect to an optical drive or hard drive.

Berg Connector

A smaller keyed connector used to connect to a floppy drive.

20-Pin Slotted Connector

Used to connect the power supply to the motherboard. It has two rows of 10 pins each.

24-Pin Slotted Connector

Used to connect the power supply to the motherboard. It has two rows of 12 pins each.

Auxiliary Power Connector

A 4-pin to 8-pin connector that supplies power to all areas of the motherboard

Auxiliary Connector Shape

Has the same general shape as the main power connector but is smaller.

P8 and P9 Connectors

• Older power supply connectors used to connect to the motherboard. They were unkeyed connectors.

• The connectors had to be aligned with the black wires together in the middle.

Capacitors

Electronic capacitors inside a power supply can hold an electrical charge for extended periods of time.

correct voltage

110V/115V or 220V/230V.

color coding voltage rails

12 Yellow → Motors
12 Blue → Serial
3.3 Orange → New
5 Red → Motherboard
5 White → ISA