a guide to components of hardware which includes all concepts and details for this topic in clear and concise manner.
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Language: en
Added: Jul 20, 2024
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Component of computer (hardware) Miss Fareeha Shakeel
Computer A computer is an electronic device capable of receiving, processing, and storing data to perform a variety of tasks according to programmed instructions. It typically consists of hardware components such as a central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices, input and output devices, and a motherboard to facilitate communication between these components. Computers can range from personal devices like laptops and desktops to large-scale systems used in businesses and organizations. They play a crucial role in various fields, including education, entertainment, communication, science, engineering, and business
Components of computers Central Processing Unit (CPU) Memory (RAM - Random Access Memory) Storage Devices Motherboard Power Supply Unit (PSU) Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) Input Devices Output Devices
Central Processing Unit (CPU) The CPU is often referred to as the brain of the computer. It executes instructions from programs stored in memory. Components of the CPU include: Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and logical operations. Control Unit (CU): Coordinates the activities of the CPU, manages data flow, and controls the execution of instructions. Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU used to temporarily hold data and instructions.
Memory (RAM - Random Access Memory) RAM is volatile memory used by the CPU to store data and program instructions that are actively being used. It is faster than storage devices like hard drives but loses its data when the computer is powered off. RAM capacity affects the computer's multitasking ability and overall performance.
Storage Devices: Hard Disk Drive (HDD): HDDs use spinning magnetic disks to store data. They provide large storage capacities at a relatively low cost but are slower than SSDs. Solid-State Drive (SSD): SSDs use flash memory to store data, providing faster read/write speeds compared to HDDs. They are more expensive but offer better performance, especially in terms of boot times and application loading times
Motherboard: The motherboard is the main circuit board of the computer, connecting all components together. It houses the CPU socket, memory slots, expansion slots, and connectors for various peripherals. Components on the motherboard include the chipset, BIOS/UEFI firmware, and connectors for power and data transfer.
Power Supply Unit (PSU): The PSU converts alternating current (AC) from a power outlet into direct current (DC) used by the computer's components. It provides power to all components of the computer, including the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage devices.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): The GPU is responsible for rendering images and videos on the computer's display. It is essential for tasks such as gaming, video editing, and graphical design. Modern GPUs often come with dedicated memory (VRAM) and specialized processing units for parallel computation.
Input Devices: Input devices allow users to interact with the computer. Examples include keyboards, mice, touchpads, joysticks, and game controllers. Input devices convert user input into signals that the computer can understand and process. Output Devices: Output devices present information generated by the computer to the user. Common examples include monitors (displays), printers, speakers, and headphones. Output devices convert electronic signals from the computer into human-readable forms such as text, images, or sound.