Ch 2: System Unit Components Flashcards
(13 cards)
What is a system unit?
where the major components used in processing data are housed
What is the system unit for a desktop PC?
a large box
What is the system unit for a laptop or tablet?
contains many of the same components, but it is smaller and packed together more tightly
What is the purpose of the power supply, also called power supply unit or psu?
converts alternating current (AC) from your wall outlet to direct current (DC) that computer components require
What does a desktop power supply usually contain?
one or more fans which cool both the power supply and the entire system unit
How is power supplied to a laptop?
power is supplied by a power converter block in the power cord
What supplies power to a desktop PC?
a large silver box inside the unit
What are the main components of the motherboard?
- central processing unit (CPU)
- internal memory
What is the CPU and what is its purpose?
Consists of one or more electronic chips that read, interpret and execute instructions that operate a computer and perform computing tasks
What is the main memory or (RAM) and what is its purpose?
consists of banks of electronic chips that provide temporary storage for instructions in data during processing
What is the motherboard and what is its purpose?
al large circuit board in the system unit that consists of various electronic components such as sockets, chips and connectors mounted onto a sheet of fiberglass or other material
What are electronic components connected by?
conductive pathways called traces
What is a chipset?
A controller chip or set of chips located within the motherboard used to control traffic
