IT WORKSHOP

GXESL208

Experiment No. 1: Familiarization of Computer Hardware

Objective:
Familiarization: CPU Box, Motherboard, CPU & Chip-set, Interface cards, Card slots,
Hard disk, Cables, SMPS, NIC, Various ports, etc. Computer Peripherals - I/O Devices. Storage
devices, Interface cards – Buses – Firmware

Familiarization CPU Box

The CPU box, also known as the system unit, is the central enclosure that houses critical
computer components. It includes the motherboard, CPU, storage devices, power supply, and
various interface cards. Familiarizing with the layout, structure, and functions of these
components is essential for understanding computer hardware. Proper handling and knowledge
of its connections help in assembling, upgrading, and maintaining a functional computer system.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the components of a
computer. It contains the CPU socket, RAM slots, expansion slots, and chipsets that facilitate
communication between the processor, memory, and peripherals. It also features connectors for
power supply, storage devices, and external ports. A good understanding of its layout and
compatibility is crucial for building or upgrading a computer.

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CPU & Chip-set

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer, executing instructions
and managing processes. It works in tandem with the chipset, which coordinates data flow
between the CPU, memory, storage, and other peripherals. Modern CPUs are multi-core,
enabling them to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. The chipset ensures efficient
communication and plays a vital role in determining the computer’s overall performance.

Interface cards, Card slots

Interface cards, such as graphics cards, sound cards, and network interface cards (NICs),
provide additional functionality to the computer. They are inserted into expansion slots on the
motherboard and allow the system to handle specialized tasks like rendering graphics, processing
audio, or enabling network connectivity. Each card is designed to enhance a specific aspect of
the computer’s capabilities.

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 Card slots on the motherboard, such as PCI, PCIe, and AGP slots, are designed to
accommodate expansion cards. These slots vary in size and bandwidth, allowing users to
customize their systems by adding components like GPUs, NICs, or additional storage
controllers. Properly matching the card to the slot ensures optimal performance.

Hard disk

A hard disk drive (HDD) is a non-volatile storage device used for storing data
permanently. It consists of spinning magnetic disks and read/write heads. While traditional
HDDs are cost-effective and offer large storage capacities, solid-state drives (SSDs) are
becoming more popular due to their faster data access speeds and greater durability.

Cables, SMPS, NIC

Cables inside the CPU box connect various components and peripherals, enabling
communication and power delivery. Common cables include SATA for storage devices, power
cables from the SMPS, and data cables for the motherboard and external connections.
Organizing and securing cables properly ensures airflow and prevents accidental damage.

The SMPS(Switch Mode Power Supply) converts electrical power from an outlet into the
specific voltages required by the computer’s components. It supplies power to the motherboard,
storage devices, cooling systems, and peripheral connections. A reliable SMPS is critical for
maintaining stable and efficient operation of the entire system.

The Network Interface Card (NIC) is a hardware component that allows a computer to
connect to a network. It provides a physical interface, often Ethernet, for wired connections and
sometimes includes wireless capabilities. NICs are vital for enabling communication between
computers and accessing the internet or local networks.

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Various ports

Ports are physical interfaces on a computer that allow it to connect with external devices
and peripherals. Common ports include USB (Universal Serial Bus) for general connectivity,
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) for audio and video output, Ethernet ports for
network connections, and audio jacks for sound devices. Other specialized ports, such as VGA,
DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt, cater to specific use cases like video output or high-speed data
transfer. Understanding the functionality of these ports is crucial for effectively utilizing and
troubleshooting peripherals.

Computer Peripherals - I/O Devices

Input/Output (I/O) devices are external peripherals that allow users to interact with the
computer or expand its functionality. Input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, and
webcams, which send data to the computer. Output devices, like monitors, printers, and speakers,
receive and display or present processed data. Some devices, such as touchscreen monitors and
external drives, function as both input and output devices. Familiarizing oneself with these
peripherals helps in choosing the right tools for specific tasks and improving user experience.

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 Output Devices

Storage devices

Storage devices are essential for saving and retrieving data in a computer system, with
various types catering to different needs. Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) provide large capacities at

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lower costs but are slower due to moving parts. Solid State Drives (SSDs) are faster and more
durable with no moving parts but are costlier per gigabyte. Hybrid Drives (SSHDs) combine
HDD and SSD technologies to balance speed and storage. External devices like USB drives and
external HDDs/SSDs offer portability, while optical storage (CDs, DVDs) is now less common
but useful for archiving. Advanced options like Network Attached Storage (NAS) provide shared
access for multiple users, and cloud storage enables remote access via the internet, making it
highly scalable but dependent on connectivity. Each type is suited to specific applications, from
everyday use to professional and enterprise-level needs.

Buses – Firmware

Computer Bus
A bus is a set of physical connections (cables, circuits, etc.) that multiple hardware components
can share to communicate. Memory and input/ output devices are connected to the Central
Processing Unit through a group of lines called a bus. These lines are designed to transfer data
between different components.
Types of Computer Bus
1. Address Bus: A collection of wires used to identify particular location in main-
memory
2. Data Bus: A collection of wires through which data is transmitted from one part of a
computer to another
3. Control Bus: The connections that carry control information between the CPU and
other devices within the computer.

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Computer firmware is a type of software that's embedded in a device's hardware to help it
function. Firmware provides instructions for how a device starts up, interacts with other devices,
and performs basic input/output tasks.

Firmware software programs cannot be changed and they won’t be erased when there is no
power supply. But in the case of software whenever a programmer wants to change or delete the
software code or program it surely can be done. The programmer can Install and delete the
software at any point in time. On the other hand, Firmware, let’s say BIOS which is an example
of firmware present in the CMOS chip. It won’t be erased after the manufacturers of the system
write it

Types of firmware include: BIOS

The Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) has been a critical component of computers since the
very early days. The BIOS sits on a chip in a computer’s motherboard and issues a set of
instructions that enables the device’s operating system to load.

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