[GEM] Computer Hardware Component Review Flashcards
(48 cards)
What is the system unit in a desktop computer?
The enclosure that houses and protects all internal components
It provides physical protection, structural support, airflow management, and EMI shielding.
List the common form factors of system units (3).
- Tower Cases (Mini-Tower, Mid-Tower, Full-Tower)
- Desktop Cases
- Small Form Factor (SFF) Cases
What is the main function of the motherboard?
Acts as the primary communication hub for all components
It connects the CPU, RAM, storage, and peripherals.
What is housed directly on the motherboard (7)?
- CPU Socket
- RAM Slots (DIMM Slots)
- Chipset
- Expansion Slots
- Storage Connectors
- Front Panel Connectors
- BIOS/UEFI Chip
What is the purpose of the CPU socket on the motherboard?
To install the Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Compatibility is crucial, as different CPUs require different socket types.
What are the two main types of chipsets on a motherboard?
- Northbridge
- Southbridge
What does the CPU do in a computer?
Performs calculations and processing
It is often referred to as the ‘brain’ of the computer.
Define clock speed in relation to the CPU.
Measures how many processing cycles the CPU can execute per second, typically in GHz.
What is the function of cache memory in a CPU?
To store frequently accessed data and instructions for faster retrieval
Cache levels include L1, L2, and L3.
What does TDP stand for, and why is it important?
Thermal Design Power; it represents the maximum heat the CPU generates under normal conditions.
What is the difference between CPU Cache Memory and RAM?
- Cache: Very fast, small, integrated into the CPU
- RAM: Larger, slower, separate modules on the motherboard
What is Random Access Memory (RAM)?
The primary working memory of a computer where active data is stored for quick access.
List the key characteristics of RAM (6).
- Capacity (GB)
- Speed (MHz/MT/s)
- Type (DDR4, DDR5)
- Form Factor (DIMM, SO-DIMM)
- Latency (CAS Latency)
- Dual-Channel and Quad-Channel configurations
What does DDR stand for in RAM specifications?
Double Data Rate
What is the primary difference between HDDs and SSDs?
- HDDs: Use spinning magnetic platters; slower
- SSDs: Use flash memory chips; faster
*What are the key characteristics of Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) (6)?
- Capacity (GB/TB)
- Speed (RPM)
- Interface (e.g., SATA)
- Durability
- Noise
- Power Consumption
*What are the key characteristics of Solid State Drives (SSDs)(6)?
- Capacity (GB/TB)
- Speed (faster than HDDs)
- Interface (e.g., SATA, NVMe)
- Durability
- Noise
- Power Consumption
What is the purpose of storage devices in a computer?
To permanently store data, including the operating system, applications, and personal files.
What does the acronym UEFI stand for?
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface
Fill in the blank: The CPU checks the cache first; if the data isn’t there, it retrieves it from _______.
RAM
True or False: RAM is non-volatile memory.
False
What are the key characteristics to know about HDDs and SSDs (6)?
Capacity, speed (RPM for HDD, general speed advantage for SSD), interface (SATA, NVMe/PCIe/M.2), durability, noise, power consumption.
What is the primary interface for Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)?
SATA (Serial ATA).
What are the different revisions of SATA and their maximum data transfer speeds?
- SATA I: 1.5 Gb/s
- SATA II: 3 Gb/s
- SATA III: 6 Gb/s
