Computer Hardware Basics

A comprehensive set of flashcards covering key concepts from computer hardware, motherboard specifications, CPU compatibility, BIOS functions, power supplies, cooling solutions, RAM types, and troubleshooting methods.

Motherboard form factor

Determines the type of case and number of slots a motherboard can support.

ATX dimensions

12 × 9.6 inches.

ATX expansion slots

Has 7 expansion slots.

ATX RAM slots

Supports 4 RAM slots.

MicroATX dimensions

9.6 × 9.6 inches.

MicroATX expansion slots

Has 4 expansion slots.

MicroATX RAM slots

Supports 2–4 RAM slots.

Mini-ITX dimensions

6.7 × 6.7 inches.

Mini-ITX expansion slots

Has 1 expansion slot.

Mini-ITX usage

Ideal for ultra-compact systems with limited upgrades.

AMD sockets for Ryzen and Threadripper

AM4 and sTRX4.

Intel sockets

LGA 1700 and LGA 1200.

ZIF

Zero Insertion Force; allows CPU installation without force.

PGA socket pin location

Pins located on the processor.

LGA socket pin location

Pins located on the motherboard.

BGA socket

CPU is soldered to the motherboard and not meant to be easily replaced.

32-bit CPU RAM addressing

Can address up to 4GB of RAM.

64-bit CPU advantage

Can process vast amounts of memory and data at once.

Common architecture in mobile devices

ARM architecture, efficient and low power.

More CPU cores

Allow for more simultaneous tasks.

BIOS interface

Text-based interface that requires a keyboard.

UEFI interface

Modern GUI that allows navigation with both mouse and keyboard.

Secure Boot

Loads only trusted, signed operating systems and drivers.

TPM support

Supports encryption features like BitLocker.

Virtualization support

Enables hardware-assisted virtualization tools such as Hyper-V and VMware.

Boot order

Controls which device loads the operating system.

U.S. AC voltage range

110–120 VAC.

PSU output voltages

3.3V, 5V, and 12V.

3.3V usage

Commonly used for memory chips and sensors.

5V usage

Powers hard drives, SSDs, and USB devices.

12V usage

Used for larger components such as CPU, GPU, and fans.

Modular PSU

Only necessary cables are connected.

Redundant PSU

Backup PSU that takes over if one fails.

Cooling fan

Circulates air and cools the PSU.

Unused expansion slots

Should be covered to prevent dust and maintain airflow.

Thermal paste application

A pea-sized amount should be applied.

Thermal pads

Can replace thermal paste on some CPUs.

Liquid cooling

Used for high-demand systems like gaming or content creation.

RAM type

Short-term memory that can’t be mixed across DDR generations.

Incorrect DDR installation

Will not fit because different types are keyed differently.

RAM speed measurement

Measured in MT/s (mega-transfers per second).

MT/s speed vs clock speed

MT/s is double because DDR transfers on both edges of the clock.

ECC RAM

Used for detecting and fixing memory errors.

Dual-channel memory

Involves installing matched RAM pairs to increase bandwidth.

POST beep codes

Indicate various hardware issues like faulty RAM or motherboard failure.

Crash screens causes

Due to faulty RAM, CPU problems, overheating, or motherboard issues.

Blank screen at startup troubleshooting

First step is to verify monitor power and correct display port.

System won’t power on steps

Check power cables, strips, and PSU switch.

Slow performance causes

High resource usage, insufficient RAM, or overheating.

Overheating signs

Dust buildup, blocked airflow, and failed fans.

Applications crashing

Caused by memory issues, high CPU use, or overheating.

Unusual noises indicating issues

Clicking may indicate a failing drive or fan.