L4 - 20S - Computer Hardware

Computer Hardware

Computer hardware refers to the tangible parts of a computer that are physically installed and can be interacted with.

Key Hardware Components:

  • Computer Case

  • Monitor

  • Keyboard

  • Mouse

Internal Hardware Components:

  • Hard Disk Drive

  • Motherboard

  • Video Card

Essential Parts of Hardware:

  • Motherboard

  • CPU (Processor)

  • Power Supply

  • Cooler

  • RAM (Memory)

  • Hard Disk

  • Power Cables

  • Graphics Card

  • Mouse

  • Keyboard

  • Monitor

The Motherboard

The motherboard serves as a central hub that connects and holds key components:

  • CPU

  • Memory

  • Input/Output Device Connectors

Parts of a Motherboard:

  • CPU Socket for the CPU

  • Power Connector

  • RAM Slots

  • I/O Device Connectors

  • Hard Drive Slots

  • ROM Chip

  • Graphics Card Slot

  • Additional Hardware Slots

Processor (CPU)

The CPU is responsible for running programs and executing fundamental tasks such as:

  • Mathematical Calculations

  • Logic Operations

  • Input/Output Tasks

Main Components of a CPU:

  • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) for mathematical computations and logic operations

  • Control Unit (oversees the operation of the CPU)

  • Cache (high-speed memory)

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is used to temporarily store data and instructions for the CPU. Important characteristics of RAM include:

  • Access to Individual Memory Locations

  • Volatile Storage (data is lost when powered off)

  • Allows for Read/Write Operations

Hard Disk Drive

The hard disk drive is used to retain all data, including the operating system and user files.

Graphics Card

A graphics card is crucial for rendering images on the monitor and is particularly important for:

  • Gaming

  • Video ProcessingThis component contains a dedicated processor known as the GPU.

Mouse

A mouse is a handheld device used to navigate the interface on the screen by moving the cursor, allowing users to click on icons and select items from menus.

Keyboard

The keyboard is essential for inputting data into the computer and includes:

  • Letter and Number Keys

  • Punctuation Keys

  • Special Function Keys (including function, control, and arrow keys)Original keyboard models featured 84 keys.

Monitor

A monitor serves to display output from the computer. Monitor types include:

  • CRT (Cathode Ray Tube, older technology)

  • LCD (Liquid Crystal Display, contemporary technology)Software is also available to monitor and track computer activities.

Types of Power Cables and Their Pin Configurations:

  • ATX (24 or 20 PIN): Supplies power to the motherboard.

  • AUX (4 or 6 PIN): Provides additional power for display tasks.

  • SATA (15 PIN): Connects hard disk drives and optical drives.

  • MOLEX (4 PIN): Supplies power to older hard disk drives and optical drives.

  • BERG (4 PIN): Powers floppy disk drives.