Functions

Question 1

Flashcard 1: Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Answer 1

• Interaction:
• Receives instructions from RAM for immediate tasks.
• Communicates with the storage (HDD/SSD) to retrieve or save data.
• Sends data to the GPU for image and video rendering.
• Relies on the motherboard to connect with other components

Question 2

Motherboard

Answer 2

• The CPU is installed directly onto the motherboard and communicates with other parts via the chipset.
• RAM is inserted into slots on the motherboard, allowing the CPU to access temporary memory for processing tasks.
• Storage drives (HDD/SSD) connect through SATA or NVMe slots.
• GPU, if standalone, is plugged into the PCIe slot.
• Peripheral devices (keyboard, mouse) connect through USB ports, controlled by the motherboard.

Question 3

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Answer 3

The CPU pulls data from RAM to execute instructions quickly.
• When the CPU requests data from the storage drive, it’s temporarily loaded into RAM to speed up processing.
• Without sufficient RAM, the system relies on slower storage (e.g., virtual memory on an SSD).

Question 4

Storage (HDD/SSD

Answer 4

The CPU retrieves data from the storage drive via the motherboard.
• Data is moved from storage into RAM for faster access when needed.
• During boot-up, the storage drive loads the operating system into RAM for the CPU to run.

Question 5

Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Answer 5

The CPU sends graphical tasks to the GPU for processing (e.g., game visuals or video editing).
• The GPU uses its own memory (VRAM) or relies on shared RAM to process data.
• The GPU outputs visual data to the monitor via HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA.

Question 6

Power Supply Unit

Answer 6

Provides power to the motherboard, which distributes it to the CPU, RAM, and storage.
• Supplies direct power to high-demand components like the GPU and cooling systems.
• Ensures a stable power flow to avoid damage or overheating.

Question 7

Cooling system

Answer 7

The CPU has a dedicated cooler (fan or liquid) to dissipate heat.
• The GPU has its own cooling system due to high processing loads.
• Case fans or liquid cooling systems manage airflow to regulate overall temperature.

Question 8

Input

Answer 8

• Devices like a keyboard or mouse communicate with the CPU via the motherboard.
• Commands are interpreted by the operating system and executed.

Question 9

Output

Answer 9

The GPU sends processed visuals to the monitor.
• Audio is sent to speakers via the motherboard or a dedicated sound card.
• Printed documents are sent to printers via USB or Wi-Fi.

Question 10

BIOS/UEFI

Answer 10

• Checks and configures hardware like the CPU, RAM, and storage during boot-up.
• Tells the CPU where to find the operating system to start the computer.