Computer Hardware Notes

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

  • The CPU is the "brain" of the computer and processes binary data.
  • It uses an instruction set to translate and perform functions on data.
  • The instruction set is a list of instructions the CPU can run (e.g., adding, subtracting, copying data).
  • Different CPU manufacturers may use different instruction sets, but they generally perform the same functions.
  • Examples of CPU manufacturers: Intel, AMD, Qualcomm.
  • Product names: Intel Core i7, AMD Athlon, Snapdragon 810, Apple A8.
  • Compatibility with the motherboard is crucial.
  • CPUs fit on motherboards using different sockets.
  • Two major types of CPU sockets:
    • LGA (Land Grid Array): Pins stick out of the motherboard.
    • PGA (Pin Grid Array): Pins are located on the processor.
  • Always ensure CPU and socket compatibility.
  • A heat sink is needed to keep the CPU cool.
  • CPUs have either 32-bit or 64-bit architecture, specifying how much data they can efficiently handle.

RAM (Random Access Memory)

  • RAM is the computer's short-term memory.
  • It stores data that needs to be accessed quickly.
  • Most RAM is volatile, meaning data is cleared when the machine is powered off.
  • To run a program, a copy of it is made in RAM so the CPU can process it.
  • More RAM allows running more programs simultaneously.
  • Typing in a document uses RAM.
  • Losing power results in unsaved data being lost.
  • DRAM(Dynamic Random Access Memory) is commonly used in computers.
    • Stores each bit in a microscopic capacitor, which is either charged (1) or discharged (0).
  • Different types of memory sticks:
    • DIMM (Dual Inline Memory Module).
  • RAM sticks are labeled by capacity (e.g., 8GB).
  • SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM) is synchronized to the system's clock speed.
  • DDR SDRAM (Double Data Rate SDRAM) is now commonly used.
    • Faster, uses less power, and has a larger capacity than earlier SDRAM.
    • Iterations: DDR1, DDR2, DDR3, DDR4.
  • Ensure motherboard compatibility with RAM sticks.

Motherboard

  • The motherboard is the foundation that holds the computer together.
  • It allows expansion of functionality by adding expansion cards.
  • It routes power from the power supply and allows different parts to communicate.
  • Key characteristics:
    • Chipset:Decides how components communicate.
      • Northbridge: Interconnects RAM and video cards.
      • Southbridge: Manages I/O (input/output) controllers like hard drives and USB devices.
      • In some modern CPUs, the Northbridge has been integrated into the CPU.
    • Expansion Slots give the ability to increase the functionality of our computer.
      • PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is the standard for expansion bus.
    • Form Factor The sizes or form factors determine the amount of stuff we can put in it and the amount of space we'll have
      • ATX (Advanced Technology Extended) The most common form factor for motherboards.
      • ITX (Information Technology Extended) are much smaller than ATX boards.
        • mini ITX, nano ITX, and Pico ITX.

Data Sizes

  • Bit: The smallest unit of data storage, storing a 1 or 0.
  • Byte: Comprised of 8 bits, can hold a letter, number, or symbol.
  • Kilobyte (KB): 1,024 bytes.
  • Megabyte (MB): 1,024 kilobytes.
  • Gigabyte (GB): 1,024 megabytes.
  • Terabyte (TB): 1,024 gigabytes.
  • Petabyte (PB): 1,024 terabytes.

Formula Conversion:
1 KB=1024 Bytes1 \text{ KB} = 1024 \text{ Bytes}
1 MB=1024 KB1 \text{ MB} = 1024 \text{ KB}
1 GB=1024 MB1 \text{ GB} = 1024 \text{ MB}
1 TB=1024 GB1 \text{ TB} = 1024 \text{ GB}
1 PB=1024 TB1 \text{ PB} = 1024 \text{ TB}

  • The average music file size is about 3 MB.
  • A 500 GB machine can store approximately 165,000 music files.

Hard Drive

  • Hard drive stores the computer's data.
  • Back up data to prevent data loss from hard drive crashes.
  • Types of hard drives:
    • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Uses a spinning platter and a mechanical arm.
      • Speed is measured in RPM (revolutions per minute).
      • More prone to damage due to moving parts.
      • Example: 500 GB with 5,400 RPM.
    • SSD (Solid State Drive): No moving parts; stores information on microchips.
      • Data travels faster than HDDs.
      • Less risky in terms of data loss but more expensive.
    • Hybrid Drives: offer SSD performance where you need it, but at Hard disk drives pricing.
  • Hard drive interfaces:
    • ATA (Advanced Technology Attachment) interfaces.
      • SATA (Serial ATA): Uses one cable for data transfers and is hot-swappable.
    • NVMe (NVM Express):
      • Added as an expansion slot for greater throughput and increased efficiency.

Power Supply

  • The power supply converts electricity from the wall to something usable for the computer.
  • Two types of electricity:
    • DC (Direct Current): Flows in one direction.
    • AC (Alternating Current): Changes directions constantly.
  • Computers use DC voltage, so the power supply converts AC to low voltage DC power.
  • Components of a power supply:
    • Fan.
    • Voltage information.
    • Cables.

Use example of water pipes:

  • Electricity is like water flowing from a faucet connected to a pressurized water tank.
  • Voltage is like the pressure. The higher the voltage, the more electricity will flow.
  • Amps are like the amount of water that can flow from a faucet.
  • Watts measure the amount of power consumption.
  • Formula:

Watts=Volts×Amps\text{Watts} = \text{Volts} \times \text{Amps}