Study Notes for INFO-0101 Session 5: Computer Components

Course Overview

  • Course Title: Introduction to Information Systems

  • Instructor: Sheldon Landau

  • Session: Session 5: Computer Components

  • Date: September 2023

Topics Covered

  • Components of the System Unit

  • Processor Components and the Machine Cycle

  • Types of Memory

  • Data Representation

  • Adapters and Buses

  • Power Supplies and Batteries

Inside the Case

  • Function of the Case:

    • Contains and protects the electronics of the computer or mobile device from damage.

  • Components Inside the Case:

    • Video card

    • Sound card

    • Power supply and fan

    • Battery

    • Integrated sound

    • Ports and circuitry

    • Processor

    • Heat sink and fan

    • Memory modules

    • Interior configurations for desktops and laptops.

Motherboard and Chip

  • Motherboard:

    • Main circuit board of the computer.

  • Computer Chip:

    • Contains integrated circuits, vital for processing data.

Processors

  • Definition:

    • The processor, also known as the Central Processing Unit (CPU), interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate a computer.

  • Multi-core Processors:

    • A single chip with two or more separate processor cores.

  • Components of a Processor:

    • Control Unit:

    • Directs and coordinates most operations in the computer.

    • Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):

    • Performs arithmetic, comparison, and other operations.

  • Basic Operations of the Processor:

    • For every instruction, a processor repeats a set of four fundamental operations known as the machine cycle.

  • Registers:

    • Temporary storage for data and instructions within the processor.

  • System Clock:

    • Controls the timing of all computer operations.

    • Clock Speed:

    • The pace of the system clock, typically measured in gigahertz (GHz).

  • Leading Manufacturers:

    • Intel

    • AMD

  • Heat Generation Mitigation:

    • Processor chips generate heat, which can lead to malfunctions or failures.

    • Cooling methods include:

    • Heat sinks

    • Liquid cooling technology

    • Cooling pads

Data Representation

  • Analog vs. Digital Signals:

    • Analog signals are continuous and vary in strength and quality.

    • Digital signals have two states: on (1) or off (0). Most computers operate digitally.

  • Binary System:

    • Uses two unique digits (0 and 1), forming the basis of all computer data.

  • Bits and Bytes:

    • Eight bits grouped together form a byte, which represents a single character in a computer or mobile device.

  • Conversion of Characters to Binary:

    1. A user presses the capital letter T on the keyboard, creating a special code known as the scan code.

    2. The scan code for the capital letter T is sent to the computer's electronic circuitry.

    3. The circuitry converts the scan code to ASCII binary code (01010100) and stores it in memory.

    4. The binary code is then converted to an image and displayed on the output device.

Memory

  • Definition:

    • Memory consists of electronic components that store:

    • Instructions waiting to be executed.

    • Data needed by those instructions.

    • Processing results.

  • Categories of Stored Items:

    • Operating System and other programs

    • Applications

    • Data being processed and the resulting information.

  • Memory Structure:

    • Each location in memory has a specific address.

    • Memory size is commonly measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB).

  • Types of Memory:

    • Volatile Memory:

    • Loses its contents when power is turned off.

    • Example: RAM (Random Access Memory).

    • Nonvolatile Memory:

    • Retains contents when power is off.

    • Examples: ROM (Read-Only Memory), flash memory, and CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor).

  • Program Instructions in RAM:

    1. Operating system files are loaded into RAM from the hard drive when the computer starts, displaying the user interface.

    2. Application instructions (e.g., a browser) are loaded into RAM from the hard drive when run, appearing on the screen.

    3. Similar processes occur for various applications (e.g., paint application) loaded into RAM.

    4. Upon exiting applications, their instructions are removed from RAM.

  • Types of RAM:

    • Dynamic RAM (DRAM)

    • Static RAM (SRAM)

  • SRAM Description:

    • Retains data bits as long as power is supplied. Does not require constant refreshing unlike DRAM. Provides better performance and lower power usage.

  • Memory Module and Slots:

    • RAM chips reside on memory modules and are inserted into designated memory slots.

  • Memory Cache:

    • Speeds up computer processing by storing frequently used instructions and data.

  • Read-Only Memory (ROM):

    • Stores permanent data and instructions, often referred to as firmware.

  • Flash Memory:

    • Can be electronically erased and rewritten.

    • CMOS:

    • Uses battery power to retain information when the computer is off.

  • Access Time:

    • The time required for the processor to read from memory, measured in nanoseconds.

Adapters

  • Adapter Card Functionality:

    • Enhances functions of a desktop or server system unit component and/or provides connections to peripherals (e.g., sound card and video card).

  • Expansion Slot:

    • A socket on a motherboard that holds an adapter card.

  • Plug and Play Functionality:

    • Allows the computer to automatically recognize peripheral devices upon installation.

  • USB Adapter:

    • Enhances mobile computer functions and/or provides connections to peripheral devices.

Buses

  • Definition:

    • A bus allows communication between various devices inside and attached to the system unit.

    • Types of Buses:

    • Data Bus

    • Address Bus

  • Word Size:

    • Number of bits the processor can interpret and execute simultaneously.

  • Types of Buses in a Computer:

    • System Bus

    • Backside Bus

    • Expansion Bus

Power Supply and Batteries

  • Power Supply Function:

    • Converts wall outlet AC power into DC power necessary for the computer's operation.

  • Power for Mobile Devices:

    • Mobile computers and devices can operate using either a power supply or batteries.

    • Batteries:

    • Typically are rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.

Conclusion

  • Session conducted by Sheldon Landau in September 2023.