Introduction to

Computers
Computers are electronic devices that process information. They are used
for a wide range of tasks, from simple calculations to complex simulations.
Computers consist of hardware and software. Hardware are the physical
parts of a computer, while software are the programs that tell the hardware
what to do.

d
Hardware Components
Central Processing Unit (CPU) Memory (RAM & ROM)
The brain of the computer. It performs all calculations and RAM stores temporary data, while ROM stores permanent data.
instructions.

Storage Devices Input & Output Devices

Hard drives and SSDs store data permanently. Input devices let users interact with the computer, while output
devices display results.
Central Processing Unit
(CPU)
1 Processing Power 2 Cores and Threads
The CPU processes data Multi-core CPUs allow
and instructions, parallel processing for
controlling the computer's increased efficiency.
operations.

3 Clock Speed 4 Cache Memory

Measured in GHz, it Small, fast memory used to
determines the speed at store frequently accessed
which the CPU processes data for quick retrieval.
data.
Memory (RAM and ROM)
RAM (Random Access Memory) ROM (Read Only Memory)

Volatile memory that stores temporary data and programs Non-volatile memory that stores permanent data, such as the
currently in use. Data is lost when the computer is shut down. BIOS, which boots up the computer.

• Data cannot be changed or erased by the user.

• Faster access speeds than storage devices. • Contains essential instructions for the computer to start.
• Allows for multitasking by storing multiple programs
at once.
• Measured in GB.
Storage Devices (Hard Disk,
SSD, USB)
Device Type Speed Capacity Durability

Hard Magnetic Slowest Highest Less

Disk durable
Drive
(HDD)
Solid Flash Fastest Lower More
State memory than durable
Drive HDDs
(SSD)

USB Flash Medium Lowest Very

Drive memory durable
Input Devices (Keyboard, Mouse, Touchscreen)

Keyboard Mouse Touchscreen

Used to enter text, numbers, and Used for controlling the cursor and Allows users to interact directly with
commands. interacting with graphical elements. the screen by touching it.
Output Devices (Monitor, Printer, Speakers)

Monitor Printer Speakers

Displays visual output, such as text and Produces hard copies of documents and Produce sound output, such as music
images. images. and system notifications.
Motherboard and Expansion
Slots
1 Motherboard
The main circuit board that connects all the components.

2 Expansion Slots
Allow users to add additional components, such as graphics
cards or sound cards.

3 Chipset
A group of integrated circuits that manage communication
between different components.
Operating System and Software

Operating System Software Applications

The software that manages the computer's resources and Programs that perform specific tasks, such as word processing,
provides an interface for users to interact with. web browsing, and gaming.
Computer Networking and Connectivity
1 Network Interface Card (NIC) 2 Ethernet Cable
Allows the computer to connect to a network. A physical connection for high-speed data transfer.

3 Wi-Fi 4 Bluetooth
Wireless connection for internet access. Wireless technology for connecting peripherals, such as
headphones and keyboards.
The System Unit

The system unit is the heart of any computer, housing

the essential components that power your digital life.
This presentation will delve into the inner workings
of this critical component, explaining the roles and
functions of its key parts.
da
 Motherboard: The Central Hub
The motherboard acts as a central hub, connecting all the other components of the system unit. It provides
a foundation for the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and other crucial elements to communicate and operate
together.

Primary Functions Critical Components Importance

Provides a framework for connecting all The motherboard contains numerous Without a motherboard, the system unit
components, enabling data flow and essential components, each with a would be nothing more than a collection
communication. specific role. of disconnected parts.

• Provides power and data • CPU Socket: Houses the processor. • Connects and facilitates the
pathways for components. interaction of all components.
• RAM Slots: Holds the system's memory.
• • • Acts as the foundation for the
Supports the installation and Expansion Slots: Allows for
operation of various peripherals. adding peripherals. system's functionality.

• • Enables efficient communication

• Offers expansion slots for Chipsets: Control communication
between components. and data transfer.
additional functionality.
Processor (CPU): The Brain of the System

The CPU is the brain of the system unit, responsible for processing instructions and executing tasks.
It's a highly sophisticated component that performs complex calculations at lightning speeds,
enabling the computer to function.

1 Core Function 2 Multi-core Architecture

The CPU acts as the central processing Modern CPUs often feature multiple
unit, responsible for carrying out cores, allowing them to handle multiple
instructions and computations. tasks simultaneously.

3 Performance Impact 4 Clock Speed

The speed and power of the CPU The clock speed, measured in gigahertz
directly affect the computer's overall (GHz), indicates the number of
performance and responsiveness. instructions the CPU can execute per
second.
RAM: Temporary Data Storage
RAM, or Random Access Memory, acts as short-term data storage for the CPU. It stores data
that the CPU needs to access quickly and efficiently for ongoing operations.

1 Data Transfer

The CPU constantly reads data from and writes data to RAM.

2 Temporary Storage

RAM holds data only while the computer is powered on. When the system
shuts down, the data is erased.

3 Performance Impact

The amount of RAM available directly affects the computer's multitasking

capabilities and responsiveness.
Power Supply: Powering the System
The power supply is a vital component that converts household electricity into a usable form for
the computer's components. It acts as the primary source of power for the entire system unit.

AC Input
The power supply receives alternating current (AC) power from the wall outlet.

DC Output
It converts AC power into direct current (DC) power, which is suitable for
computer components.

Voltage Regulation
The power supply regulates the voltage output to ensure that components receive
the correct amount of power.
Storage Devices: Permanent Data
Storage
Storage devices provide permanent data storage for the computer, allowing users to save
files, applications, and operating systems.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Solid-State Drive (SSD)

HDDs use spinning platters and SSDs use flash memory chips to store
read/write heads to store data data, providing faster read and write
magnetically. They are known for speeds compared to HDDs. They are
their high capacity and relatively low more expensive but offer better
cost. performance.

Optical Drives
Optical drives read and write data on optical media, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray
discs. They are becoming less common due to the rise of digital storage.
Expansion Slots: Connecting Peripherals

Expansion slots are connectors on the motherboard that allow users to add peripherals and expand the
computer's functionality.

Network Cards Graphics Cards

Network cards enable the computer to connect to Graphics cards enhance the computer's ability to
a network, allowing for file sharing and internet display images and videos, providing better
access. visual quality and performance.

Sound Cards USB Controllers

Sound cards improve the audio output of the USB controllers provide support for connecting
computer, providing better sound quality and various USB devices, such as printers, scanners,
features. and external hard drives.
Cooling System: Maintaining
Optimal Temperature

The cooling system plays a crucial role in regulating the temperature of

the system unit, preventing overheating and ensuring stable operation.

Fan Circulates air to dissipate heat.

Heat Sink Absorbs heat from

components and transfers it to
the air.
Thermal Paste Improves heat transfer
between the CPU and the heat
sink.
Input/Output Ports: Connecting Devices
Input/output (I/O) ports provide connections for external devices, allowing users to interact with the computer and transfer data.

USB Ports HDMI Ports

USB ports are versatile connectors for connecting a wide range of HDMI ports provide high-quality digital video and audio output,
devices, including keyboards, mice, printers, and external storage. commonly used for connecting monitors and TVs.
Conclusion: The Importance of
the System Unit

The system unit is the fundamental building block of any computer,

housing the essential components that enable it to function.
Understanding its internal workings and the roles of its various parts is
crucial for appreciating the complexity and functionality of modern
computers.
 The Motherboard

The motherboard is the central component in any computer system,

connecting all other components and enabling communication between
them. It is a complex and essential piece of hardware that underpins the
functionality of your PC.
CPU Socket
The CPU socket is the physical interface on the motherboard that holds the central processing unit (CPU). It's a complex design
with hundreds of pins that precisely align with the CPU, enabling electrical communication.

Types of Sockets Upgrading the CPU

Different motherboards use different CPU sockets, such as The CPU socket determines which CPUs are compatible
LGA 1200, AM4, and LGA 1700. Each socket supports with the motherboard. Upgrading the CPU requires
specific CPUs from a particular manufacturer. ensuring compatibility with both the socket and the
motherboard's chipset.
RAM Slots
RAM slots are where you install Random Access Memory (RAM) modules, which
provide short-term storage for data that the CPU needs to access quickly. Different
motherboards offer varying numbers of RAM slots, with each slot supporting specific
RAM types.

1 DDR4 vs. DDR5 2 Dual-Channel Memory

DDR4 and DDR5 are two Some motherboards support dual-
common types of RAM. DDR5 is channel memory, where two RAM
newer and offers faster speeds and modules are paired together to
lower power consumption. enhance performance.

3 XMP Profiles
XMP stands for Extreme Memory Profile. It's a technology developed by Intel to
simplify the process of overclocking your RAM (Random Access Memory).
Essentially, XMP profiles are pre-configured settings stored on your RAM modules.
These profiles allow you to easily increase your RAM's speed, timings, and voltage
beyond its default settings (JEDEC standard).
PCI/PCIe Slots
PCI and PCIe slots are expansion slots on the motherboard that allow you to install various components, such as graphics cards, network cards, and
sound cards.

1 PCI
PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) is an older bus standard that is still used for some legacy devices.

2 PCIe
PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a newer, faster bus standard that is used for most modern expansion cards.

3 Different Versions
PCIe comes in different versions, such as PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0, with each version offering faster data transfer speeds.
SATA Ports
SATA ports are connectors on the motherboard that are used to connect
storage devices such as hard drives and solid-state drives (SSDs). They
provide a reliable and efficient way to access data stored on these drives.

SATA I 1.5 Gbps

SATA II 3.0 Gbps

SATA III 6.0 Gbps

M.2 Slots
M.2 slots are a modern interface for connecting high-speed storage
devices, such as NVMe SSDs. They offer faster data transfer speeds and
smaller form factors compared to traditional SATA drives.

NVMe SSDs Wi-Fi/Bluetooth

Modules
NVMe SSDs are a type of
SSD that utilizes the NVMe Some M.2 slots can also be
protocol for faster data used to install Wi-Fi and
transfer speeds and lower Bluetooth modules, allowing
latency. for wireless connectivity.
Power Connectors
Power connectors are essential for supplying power to the motherboard and its connected
components. They ensure the motherboard receives adequate power for its operation.

ATX Connector
The ATX connector is the primary power connector for the motherboard,
providing the main power source.

EPS Connector
The EPS connector, also known as the 8-pin connector, provides
additional power for high-end CPUs.

Peripheral Connectors
Peripheral connectors provide power to additional components, such as
fans, LEDs, and other accessories.
BIOS/UEFI
BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a firmware that
acts as a bridge between the hardware and the operating system. It loads when the computer boots up
and initializes the hardware before launching the operating system.

Boot Settings Security Features

The BIOS/UEFI allows you to configure boot BIOS/UEFI includes security features, such as
order, enabling you to choose which storage password protection and boot security settings,
device to boot from. to protect your system.

System Time & Date Overclocking

You can set the system time and date within the Advanced BIOS/UEFI settings allow you to
BIOS/UEFI settings, ensuring accurate system overclock components, such as the CPU and
information. RAM, to boost performance.
Chipset
The chipset is a group of integrated circuits that control communication between the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and other components on the
motherboard.

Northbridge Southbridge
The northbridge handles communication between the CPU, RAM, The southbridge manages communication with storage devices,
and graphics card. peripherals, and other I/O devices.
Conclusion
The motherboard is a fundamental part of any computer system,
connecting all components and enabling them to communicate.
Understanding the different parts and their functions is essential for
building and troubleshooting your PC.
Multimedia Storage
Devices
Multimedia storage devices play a crucial role in modern life. They
enable us to store, access, and share digital content, including photos,
videos, music, and documents.
Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)
Traditional Technology Mechanical Components Widely Used

HDDs use spinning platters and The moving parts in HDDs make HDDs are commonly found in
magnetic heads to store data. They them susceptible to physical damage desktop computers, laptops, and
are known for their high storage and impact performance. They are external storage devices. They offer a
capacity and affordability. generally slower than SSDs. reliable and cost-effective solution
for storing large amounts of data.
Solid-State Drives (SSDs)

1 Flash Memory 2 Durability and Performance

SSDs utilize flash memory chips to store data electronically. SSDs are more durable and resistant to shock than HDDs.
This eliminates the need for moving parts, resulting in faster They offer significantly faster read/write speeds, leading to
access speeds. quicker boot times and application loading.

3 Higher Cost 4 Common in Laptops

SSDs typically have a higher cost per gigabyte compared to SSDs are becoming increasingly popular in laptops and other
HDDs. However, their performance and durability often mobile devices. Their compact size and low power
justify the premium. consumption make them ideal for portability.
Optical Discs (CDs, DVDs, Blu-
ray)
Type Capacity Read/Write Speed

CD 700 MB 150 KB/s

(maximum)

DVD 4.7 GB (single-layer) 1.35 MB/s

(maximum)

Blu-ray 25 GB (single-layer) 8.5 MB/s

(maximum)
USB Flash Drives

Portability Plug and Play

USB flash drives are incredibly They are easy to use, simply plug
small and lightweight, making them into a USB port and access
them easy to carry around. your files.

Data Transfer Backup Solution

USB flash drives offer a They can also serve as a portable
convenient way to transfer files backup solution for important
between devices. data.
Memory Cards (SD, microSD, CompactFlash)
SD Cards 1
SD cards are commonly used in digital cameras,
camcorders, and other portable devices.
2 microSD Cards

microSD cards are even smaller than SD cards, ideal for

smartphones, tablets, and drones.
CompactFlash Cards 3
CompactFlash cards are larger and typically used in
professional cameras and high-performance devices.
Network Attached Storage (NAS)

Centralized Storage Data Backup

NAS devices provide a They offer a convenient way
centralized storage solution for to back up data from multiple
multiple users on a network. computers and devices.

Remote Access Media Streaming

NAS devices allow you to Many NAS devices support
access your files from media streaming, allowing you
anywhere with an internet to share videos and music over
connection. your network.
Cloud Storage Services

Remote Data Storage File Sharing Data Backup Accessibility

Cloud storage services store Cloud services allow you to Cloud storage provides a Access your data from any
your data on remote servers, easily share files with others, secure backup solution for device with an internet
accessible via the internet. regardless of their location. your important files. connection.
Comparison of Storage Device Characteristics

Device Capacity Speed Durability Cost

HDD High Slow Low Low

SSD Moderate Fast High High

Optical Disc Low Slow Moderate Low

USB Flash Drive Moderate Moderate Moderate Low

Memory Card High Fast Moderate Moderate

NAS Very High Moderate High High

Cloud Storage Unlimited Moderate High Variable

Choosing the Right Multimedia
Storage Solution

The best multimedia storage solution depends on your specific needs and
priorities. Consider factors such as storage capacity, speed requirements,
portability, durability, and budget. For large data storage and high
performance, HDDs and SSDs are excellent choices. For portability,
USB flash drives and memory cards are convenient options. For remote
access and data backup, cloud storage services offer flexibility and
scalability. Choose a solution that balances your needs and budget.