Hardware + Software Flashcards
(34 cards)
What is hardware?
The physical parts of a computer system you can touch, like the CPU, monitor, keyboard, and storage devices.
What is software?
Programs and operating systems that run on hardware, enabling it to perform tasks.
What are the two main types of software?
System software (e.g., operating systems) and application software (e.g., word processors, games).
What is an operating system (OS)?
Software that manages hardware resources and provides a user interface, e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux.
What is application software?
Programs designed to perform specific tasks for users, like Microsoft Word or web browsers.
What is software upgrading?
Installing a newer version of software to fix bugs, improve features, or enhance security.
What is RAM and why upgrade it?
volatile memory used by the CPU to store data temporarily;
More RAM = better multitasking and faster performance
What is storage and why upgrade it?
Storage holds data permanently; upgrading from HDD to SSD increases speed and reliability.
What factors should be considered when upgrading hardware?
Compatibility, power requirements, cooling, budget, and performance gains.
What are the main components of a PC?
CPU (Central Processing Unit): processes data
RAM (Random Access Memory): temporary data storage for running programs
Storage devices (HDD, SSD): long-term data storage
Motherboard: connects all hardware
Power supply: provides electrical power
Input devices (keyboard, mouse) and output devices (monitor, printer)
What does the motherboard do?
Connects all components and allows communication between CPU, RAM, storage, and peripherals.
What is a GPU?
Graphics Processing Unit; handles rendering images and video.
What does the PSU do?
Power Supply Unit; converts electricity from an outlet to usable power for components.
What is secondary storage?
Non-volatile storage like HDDs, SSDs, and optical discs used to store data long-term.
What is a cache?
Small, fast memory inside the CPU that stores frequently accessed data for quick retrieval.
What is an input device?
Hardware used to enter data into a computer, e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner.
What is an output device?
Hardware that presents data from a computer, e.g., monitor, printer, speakers.
What factors should be considered when choosing a storage device?
- Storage capacity (how much data it holds)
- Storage speed (how fast data is read/written)
- Volatility (data retention when powered off)
- Reliability and durability
What are the pros and cons of internal hard drives?
Pros:
- Large storage capacity (up to 12 TB)
- Store OS, software, personal files
Cons:
- Mechanical parts can fail or wear out
- Slower than SSDs
Pro’s and cons of external hard drives?
Pros:
- Portability and easy data transfer
- Large storage sizes available
cons:
- Can be expensive
- Still mechanical, prone to damage if dropped
What are flash drives used for and what are their limitations
used for
- Quick, portable file transfers
- Storing small files like documents, photos
limitations:
- High cost per GB
- Not ideal for large-scale storage
What are optical dics used for and what are their limitations
used for
- Reading/writing CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays
- Producing multiple copies of discs
limitations:
- Limited storage space
- Becoming outdated
What is cloud storage?
- Internet-based storage service (e.g., iCloud, Google Drive)
- Free limited space with option to purchase more
- Accessible from any device with internet
How does storage differ from memory?
Storage = permanent data saved when powered off
Memory (RAM) = temporary workspace for active data
