Computing
Components
System Unit
Motherboard
CPU or Processor
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Hard disk or Hard drive
Computer fan
CD-ROM/DVD-ROM drives
Power supply unit (PSU)
Floppy disk drive
Processor
Processor
isthe logic circuitry that responds to and
processes the basic instructions that drive a
computer
Itis seen as the main and most crucial integrated
circuitry (IC) chip in a computer, as it is responsible
for interpreting most of computers commands.
Data Representation
Data Representation
The 0s and 1s used to represent digital data are
referred to as binary digits — from this term we get
the word bit that stands for binary digit.
A bit is a 0 or 1 used in the digital representation of
data.
A digital file, usually referred to simply as a file, is a
named collection of data that exits on a storage
medium, such as a hard disk, CD, DVD, or flash
drive.
Memory
Memory
It is used to store data and instructions.
Computer memory is the storage space in the
computer, where data is to be processed and
instructions required for processing are stored.
The memory is divided into large number of small
parts called cells.
Expansion Slots & Adapter Cards
Expansion Slots & Adapter Cards
Alternatively known as a bus slot or expansion port,
an expansion slot is a connection or port inside a
computer on the motherboard or riser card.
It provides an installation point for a hardware
expansion card to be connected.
For example, if you wanted to install a new video card
in the computer, you'd purchase a video expansion
card and install that card into the compatible
expansion slot.
Ports and Connectors
Ports and Connectors
A port is a connector at the back or side of a
computer where you plug in an external device such
as a printer, keyboard, scanner, mouse, or modem.
This connection allows instructions and data to flow
between the computer and the device.
These computer ports are also commonly referred
to as the Input/Output ports (I/O ports).
Buses
Buses
A bus is a subsystem that is used to connect computer
components and transfer data between them.
For example, an internal bus connects computer
internals to the motherboard.
A “bus topology” or design can also be used in other
ways to describe digital connections.
A bus may be parallel or serial.
Parallel buses transmit data across multiple wires.
Serial buses transmit data in bit-serial format.
Bays
Bays
An expansion bay or bay is an open computer
section used for expansion add-ons to your
computer, such as a hard drive and CD-ROM drive.
On a desktop, drive bays are available in 3.5-inch
and 5.25-inches.
Pictured is the front of a desktop computer with an
empty 3.5" and 5.25" drive bay
Power Supply
Power Supply
A power supply is an electronic circuit that converts
the voltage of an alternating current (AC) into a
direct current (DC) voltage.
It is basically consisting of the following
elements: transformer, rectifier, filter and regulator
circuits.