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ICT Lecture 3 Hardware Computer System and Its Component

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22 views3 pages

ICT Lecture 3 Hardware Computer System and Its Component

Uploaded by

ibrarbattani24
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Hardware : Computer Systems and Components

Introduction
Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer system that you can touch and see.
Each piece of hardware plays a specific role to ensure the system functions effectively, from
processing data to storing information and allowing user interaction. Let’s break down the
main hardware components and understand how each contributes to the system.

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)


The CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is often called the 'brain' of the computer. It processes
instructions from software and performs calculations, logic operations, and command
executions.
- Key Parts of the CPU:
- Control Unit (CU): Manages and directs data flow within the CPU, fetching instructions
from memory and interpreting them.
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Handles mathematical operations (addition, subtraction,
etc.) and logical comparisons (such as greater than or equal to).
- Cache Memory: A small, high-speed memory within the CPU that temporarily stores
frequently accessed data, speeding up data retrieval.
How the CPU Works: The CPU follows a cycle called 'fetch-decode-execute.' It fetches an
instruction from memory, decodes it to understand what needs to be done, and then
executes the command.

2. Memory (RAM and ROM)


Memory is essential for storing data that the CPU needs to access quickly.
- RAM (Random Access Memory): This is the temporary memory that holds data and
instructions that the computer needs while it’s on. RAM is volatile, meaning it clears when
the power is off.
- Function: RAM allows for quick access to data that the CPU needs at that moment. The
more RAM a computer has, the more data it can handle simultaneously, improving
performance.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): This permanent memory holds essential system instructions
needed for the computer to start and function correctly.
- Function: ROM stores the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System), which contains instructions
for starting up the system. Unlike RAM, ROM retains its data even when the power is off.

3. Storage Devices
Storage devices retain data even when the computer is off. They differ from RAM in that
they provide long-term storage for applications, files, and the operating system.
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): A traditional storage device with spinning disks inside. HDDs can
store large amounts of data at a relatively low cost.
- Pros and Cons: HDDs offer high storage capacity but are slower than other storage types
and more prone to physical damage due to moving parts.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): SSDs use flash memory (no moving parts) to store data, making
them much faster than HDDs.
- Pros and Cons: SSDs are faster and more durable but generally more expensive per
gigabyte than HDDs.
- USB Flash Drive: A portable device that can be plugged into the computer’s USB port,
useful for storing files and transferring data between computers.
Key Terms:
- Storage Capacity: Measured in gigabytes (GB) or terabytes (TB), indicating how much
data can be stored.
- Data Access Speed: SSDs offer faster read and write speeds than HDDs, improving overall
system responsiveness.

4. Motherboard
The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the components in a computer.
It has various slots, sockets, and connectors that house the CPU, memory, storage devices,
and more.
- Key Components on the Motherboard:
- Processor Socket: Holds the CPU in place.
- RAM Slots: Used to install memory sticks.
- Expansion Slots: Allow for additional cards like graphics, sound, and network cards.
- BIOS Chip: Stores essential instructions for booting the computer.
- Chipset: Manages data flow between the processor, memory, and other peripherals.
Importance of the Motherboard: The motherboard serves as the 'backbone' of the
computer, allowing components to communicate and work together seamlessly.

5. Cooling System

The cooling system prevents the computer components from overheating. Components like
the CPU and GPU generate heat, and without cooling, they could become damaged.

Types of Cooling Systems:

Air Cooling: Uses fans and heat sinks to disperse heat away from components.

Liquid Cooling: Circulates liquid around key components to absorb and dissipate heat,
commonly used in high-performance computers.

Importance: Effective cooling ensures that the system remains stable and prevents
performance loss due to high temperatures.

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU)


The power supply unit converts AC power from a wall outlet into DC power that the
computer components can use. The PSU provides electricity to all parts of the system,
ensuring they function properly.

Power Ratings: Measured in watts (W), the power rating of a PSU indicates how much
power it can provide. Higher-powered computers with multiple components require a
stronger PSU.

Why It’s Important: Without a reliable PSU, a computer cannot run. A high-quality PSU
ensures a stable power supply, protecting components from power fluctuations.

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