The Visible Computer

Question 1

How does a computer work?

Answer 1

Stored data is loaded into RAM so it can be worked on by the processor.
Users Provide input that directs how the data should be processed.
The output is processed data, usually viewed on a monitor.

Question 2

What is a system unit?

Answer 2

The main computer and everything inside the case including the motherboard that provides processing and storage.

Question 3

What is a peripheral?

Answer 3

Monitors, keyboards, mice, speakers, printers,scanners etc..

Question 4

What are two types of peripherals?

Answer 4

Input and output devices

Question 5

What are the different external ports

Answer 5

USB (Most all peripherals devices)
Ethernet (Internet RJ45)
External SATA (External hard drive)
S/PDIF (Audio fiber optic)
DVI (Video ouput)
HDMI (Carries audio and video)
Mini Audio (Used for speakers/microphones etc..)
Power (Power)
Firewire (On the way out but is used for video cameras)

Question 6

What are the legacy ports

Answer 6

9 pin male Dsub serial connector (used by mice, printers)
25 pin serial connector Dsub  (used by printers)
VGA connector (Used by monitors)
PS2 connectors ( Used by keyboards and mice)

Question 7

Components inside a PC

Answer 7

Power Supply
Video Card
Random access memory (RAM)
CPU, Heatsink, and CPU Fan
Motherboard
Hard Drive
CD Drive
Front Panel Connections
Power and reset button connectors