ASSIGNMENT # 1

Submitted By
Umme Habiba 24014156-221

Submitted To
Sir Bilal Tariq Butt

Fall 2024

Department of Information
Technology
 ALL COMPONENTS OF COMPUTER

A Computer consists of several key component ,each of which plays a vital role in its function .These

Components are divided into two main categories: hardware and software but focusing on

Hardware Below is a Breakdown of the main components:

Hardware components:

1.Central Processing Unit (CPU):

Function: Often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, the CPU performs calculations and
executes instructions from programs. It processes data and controls other components.
Example:

Micro processor

Dual core processor

Intel core

Intel pentinum

components

Control Unit (CU):

Manage the flow of data between the CPU memory and pheripherals by
decoding instructions and singnaling the necessary actions.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):

Execute arthimatic operations (addition subtraction) and logic operations

(AND,OR)

Registers:

Small ,Fast storage locations within the CPU used to hold temporary data and
instructions during processing .

2. Motherboard

Function:

The main circuit board that houses the CPU, memory, and other critical
components.

Example:

Micro ATX

ATX Motherboard

BTX Motherboard

Extended ATX

LPX motherboard
 Types of Motherboard:

Chipset:

Determines how data flows between the CPU, memory, and other
peripherals.

Slots and Connectors:

Includes DIMM slots for RAM, PCIe slots for expansion cards, and SATA
ports for storage devices.

BIOS/UEFI:

Firmware that initializes hardware during the boot process and provides
runtime services for operating system

3. Memory (RAM)

Function:

Random Access Memory (RAM) is the temporary storage that holds data and
instructions that the CPU needs while performing tasks.

. Types:

DRAM (Dynamic RAM):

Needs to be refreshed thousands of times per second.

SRAM (Static RAM):

Faster and more reliable than DRAM but more expensive; used in cache
memory

Read-Only Memory (ROM):

Function:

Contains permanent instructions for booting and hardware initialization. It is

not easily modified.

Types:

PROM (Programmable ROM):

Can be programmed once after manufacturing.

EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM):

Can be erased and reprogrammed using UV light.

EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM)

Can be erased and reprogrammed electrically.

Characteristics

Volatile memory (data is lost when power is off).

 Speed and size impact overall performance; more RAM allows for better
multitasking.

4. Storage Devices

Function:

Store data permanently or semi-permanently.

Types:

.Hard DISK DRIVE (HDD):

Mechanism:

Uses spinning disks (platters) coated with magnetic material. Data is

read and written using a moving read/write head.

Capacity:

Ranges from hundreds of gigabytes to several terabytes.

Speed:

Slower than SSDs, typically measured in RPM (Revolutions Per Minute).

Solid State Drive (SSD):

Mechanism:

Uses flash memory to store data, resulting in faster read/write speeds and improved reliability.

Types:

SATA SSDs:

Use the same interface as HDDs but are faster.

NVMe SSDs:
 Connect directly to the motherboard via the PCIe interface, offering even greater
speeds.

External Storage:

Function:

Provides additional storage capacity and portability.

Types:

USB flash drives

, external HDDs/SSDs

network-attached storage (NAS).

5. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Function:

Converts electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the computer's
internal components.

Example:
 Linear power supplies

Switch-mode power supplies

Uninterrupted power supplies

Characteristics:

Provides different voltage outputs, typically 3.3V, 5V, and 12V, and is essential for stability and efficiency.

Components:

Transformers:

Convert AC from the wall outlet to DC for the computer.

Capacitors:

Smooth out voltage fluctuations.

Efficiency Ratings:

Rated using the 80 PLUS certification system, which indicates efficiency at different load levels
(e.g., Bronze, Silver, Gold).

6. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Architecture:

GPUs are designed with hundreds or thousands of cores optimized for parallel
processing, making them ideal for rendering graphics and complex
computations.

Memory

Dedicated VRAM (Video RAM) allows for high-speed storage of textures and
frame buffers.

APIs:

Use of graphics APIs like DirectX and OpenGL enables developers to utilize GPU
capabilities efficiently graphics Processing Unit (GPU).

Types:

Integrated GPU

Built into the CPU; suitable for general tasks and light gaming.
Dedicated GPU

Separate card that provides higher performance for intensive graphic tasks.

7. Cooling System

Function:

aa Maintains optimal temperatures for components to prevent overheating.

Air Cooling: Utilizes fans and heatsinks to dissipate heat from the CPU and GPU. Fan size
and placement are crucial for effective airflow.

Liquid Cooling: Involves circulating liquid through tubes and radiators to absorb and
dissipate heat more effectively. Typically used in high-performance systems.

8. Input Devices

Function: Allow users to interact with the computer.

Examples: Keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, microphone, and scanners.

9. Output Devices

Function: Display or convey information from the computer to the user.

Examples: Monitors, printers, and speakers.

10. Network Interface Card (NIC)

Function: Allows the computer to connect to a network (wired or wireless) for internet
access and communication with other devices.

Types: Ethernet cards for wired connections, and Wi-Fi cards for wireless connections.

11. Peripheral Devices

Function: External devices that add functionality to the computer.

Examples: External drives, webcams, and game controllers.

Conclusion

Each of these components plays a crucial role in the overall functionality and
performance of a computer. Their interaction and integration determine how effectively
the computer can perform tasks and run applications. Understanding these components
helps in making informed decisions regarding upgrades, repairs, and new purchases.