Lecture 03

Computer Hardware
Fundamentals
Components of a CPU
● Processor
● Memory - RAM
● Motherboard
● Storage Devices - HDD/SSD
● Graphics Card
● Power Supply
Processor
A processor, or central processing unit (CPU),
is the primary component of a computer that
executes instructions and performs
calculations necessary for tasks and
operations. It controls and coordinates the
activities of other hardware components to
ensure efficient functioning of the system.

Some common vendor of processor:

● Intel
● AMD
● Qualcomm
● Apple
Attributes of a Processor
● Generation
● Clock Speed
● Core Count
● Threads
● Cache Memory
● Thermal Design Power - TDP
● Fabrication Process
Generation
The generation of a processor refers to the iteration or version of a processor
family, typically denoting improvements in performance, efficiency, and
features over previous versions. Newer generations often incorporate
advanced technologies, smaller fabrication processes, and better power
management.

Example:
● The Intel Core i9-13900K is part of Intel's 13th generation of processors,
offering enhancements over the 12th generation Core i9-12900K.
● AMD Ryzen 9 7950X belongs to AMD's 7000 series, representing the latest
advancements over the 5000 series.
Clock Speed
The speed at which a processor executes instructions, measured in
gigahertz (GHz). Higher clock speeds generally indicate faster
processing capabilities, although actual performance also depends
on other factors like architecture and core count.

Example:
● Intel Core i9-11900K has a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz and can
boost up to 5.3 GHz
● AMD Ryzen 9 5900X has a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and can
boost up to 4.8 GHz.
Core Count
Core count refers to the number of independent cores within a
processor, with each core capable of executing its own thread of
instructions simultaneously. Higher core counts can significantly
improve multitasking and performance in multi-threaded applications.

Example:
● The Intel Core i9-13900K has 24 cores (8 performance cores and 16
efficiency cores)
● AMD Ryzen 9 7950X features 16 cores
Threads
Threads in a processor refer to the smallest sequence of programmed
instructions that can be managed independently by a scheduler. Modern
processors often support multiple threads per core, enhancing their
ability to handle numerous tasks simultaneously.

Example:
● The Intel Core i9-13900K supports 32 threads
● The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X supports 32 threads
Cache Memory
Cache in a processor is a small, high-speed memory located on the CPU
that stores frequently accessed data and instructions to speed up
processing. It reduces the time the CPU takes to access data from the
main memory, improving overall performance.

Example:
● The Intel Core i9-13900K features 36MB of cache (L2 + L3)
● The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X comes with 80MB of cache (L2 + L3)
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
Thermal Design Power (TDP) represents the maximum amount of heat a
processor is expected to generate under typical workloads, which the
cooling system must dissipate to maintain optimal performance. TDP
helps determine the cooling requirements and power consumption of a
CPU. Lower TDP processors typically consume less power and
generate less heat, which can lead to improved energy efficiency
and cooler operation.

Example:

● The Intel Core i9-13900K has a TDP of 125 watts

● The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X has a TDP of 170 watts
Fabrication Process
The fabrication process of a processor refers to the technology used to
manufacture the semiconductor components of the CPU, including
transistors and interconnects, typically measured in nanometers (nm).
Smaller fabrication processes generally result in smaller, more
power-efficient chips with improved performance.

Example:

● The Intel Core i9-13900K is fabricated using Intel's 10nm SuperFin

process
● The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is manufactured using TSMC's 7nm process
Intel Processor: Suffixes
K: Unlocked for overclocking. e.g. Intel Core i9-11900K

H: High-performance graphics. e.g. Intel Core i7-11800H

T: Optimized for efficient desktop computing. e.g. Intel Core i5-11500T

U: Optimized for laptop power efficiency. e.g. Intel Core i7 1245U

F: High-performance processor, no integrated graphics card (ex.

Gaming). e.g. Intel Core i9-11900KF

X: Unlocked for extreme desktop performance. e.g. Intel Core i9-

12900X
Intel Processor: Example
Intel Core i9-13900K
● Clock Speed: Base: 3.0 GHz, Boost: Up to 5.5 GHz
● Core Count: 24 cores (12 performance cores + 12 efficiency cores), 32 threads
● Cache: 36MB
● Fabrication Process: Intel 10nm
● TDP: 125 watts
Intel Core i9-12900K
● Clock Speed: Base: 3.2 GHz, Boost: Up to 5.2 GHz
● Core Count: 16 cores (8 performance cores + 8 efficiency cores), 24 threads
● Cache: 30MB
● Fabrication Process: Intel 10nm
● TDP: 125 watts
Intel Core i9-11900K
● Clock Speed: Base: 3.5 GHz, Boost: Up to 5.3 GHz
● Core Count: 8 cores, 16 threads
● Cache: 16MB
● Fabrication Process: Intel 10nm SuperFin
● TDP: 125 watts

For more, visit:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Intel_processors
AMD Processor: Suffixes
X: Denotes higher clock speeds or better performance within a product lineup.

G: Indicates processors with integrated graphics card.

U: Signifies processors optimized for ultra-low power consumption in laptops.

H: Typically found in high-performance laptop processors.

PRO: Designates processors tailored for professional applications and

enterprise use.

Threadripper: Indicates high-end desktop processors with a high core and

thread count, optimized for heavy multitasking and workstation use.
AMD Processor: Example
Ryzen 5 7600X
● Clock Speed: Base: 4.7 GHz, Boost: Up to 5.3 GHz
● Core Count: 6 cores 12 threads
● Cache: 32MB
● Fabrication Process: 5nm
● TDP: 105 watts
Ryzen 7 5700G
● Clock Speed: Base: 3.8 GHz, Boost: Up to 4.6 GHz
● Core Count: 8 cores 16 threads
● Cache: 16MB
● Fabrication Process: 7nm
● TDP: 65 watts
Ryzen 3 8300G
● Clock Speed: Base: 4.0 GHz, Boost: Up to 4.9 GHz
● Core Count: 4 cores, 8 threads
● Cache: 8MB
● Fabrication Process: 4nm
● TDP: 65 watts

For more, visit:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_AMD_Ryzen_processors
RAM
RAM (random access memory) is a computer's short-term
memory, where the data that the processor is currently
using is stored.
Attributes of a RAM
● Capacity
● Type
● Speed/Bandwidth:
● Voltage
● Channels
Attributes of a RAM (Type)
● The type of RAM refers to the specific technology and architecture it
uses, such as DDR3, DDR4, or DDR5, each offering different speeds,
bandwidths, and power efficiencies. Newer types, like DDR5,
provide higher performance and greater efficiency compared to
older types.
○ Example: Samsung DDR4 3200MHz - A common type of RAM used in many
modern PCs, offering a balance of speed and efficiency.
○ Example: G.SKILL Trident Z5 RGB Series 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR5 6000MHz -
Utilizes the latest DDR5 technology, providing high-speed performance and
improved power efficiency for demanding tasks and gaming.
Attributes of a RAM (Bus speed)
● Bus speed, also known as memory speed, refers to the rate at which
data can be read from or written to RAM by the processor, typically
measured in megahertz (MHz). Higher bus speeds enable faster data
transfer, improving overall system performance and responsiveness,
especially in tasks requiring frequent memory access.
○ Example: Samsung DDR4 3200MHz - This RAM module operates at a bus speed of
3200MHz, providing high-speed performance for gaming and professional applications.
○ Example: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 3600MHz - With a bus
speed of 3600MHz, this RAM is suitable for overclocking and high-performance
computing.
Attributes of a RAM (Voltage)
● The voltage of RAM refers to the electrical power required for it to
operate, typically measured in volts (V). Lower voltage RAM is more
energy-efficient, generating less heat and potentially extending the
lifespan of both the RAM and the system.
○ Example: Corsair Vengeance LPX DDR4 2400MHz - This RAM operates at
1.2V, making it energy-efficient and suitable for modern desktops.
○ Example: Crucial Ballistix MAX DDR4 4000MHz - With an operating voltage of
1.35V, this RAM is designed for high-performance overclocking while maintaining
stability.
Attributes of a RAM (Channel)
● The channel configuration of RAM refers to how multiple memory
modules are arranged to work together to increase data transfer
rates. Common configurations include single, dual, triple, and quad
channels, with dual and quad channels significantly improving
performance by allowing simultaneous data access.
○ Example: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB (2 x 8GB) DDR4 3200MHz - A dual-
channel kit that enhances performance by enabling parallel data processing.
○ Example: G.SKILL Trident Z Royal Series 32GB (4 x 8GB) DDR4 3600MHz -
A quad-channel kit designed for high-end systems, providing superior bandwidth
and performance for intensive tasks.
Motherboard
A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer
that holds and allows communication between crucial components such
as the central processing unit (CPU), memory, storage, and other
peripherals. It provides the fundamental connectivity and interfaces
necessary for these components to interact and function cohesively
within a computer system.
Motherboard : Components

Source:
https://www.tomshardware.com/reviews/motherboard-parts-explained,5669.html
Motherboard : Rear Ports
Motherboard : Types
Storage Devices

Hard Disk: Comparatively SSD - Solid State Drive:

inexpensive, slow, relatively Comparatively expensive,
short-lasting, and based on older extremely fast, relatively long-
technology. lasting, and based on new
technology. It is available in various
shapes and variants, such as SATA
SSD, M.2 SSD, etc. Currently, it is
very popular.
SSD: Types
2.5”
When shopping for SSDs, the first thing you’ll want to know is which form factor fits in your system. SSDs come in
many shapes and sizes. For example, 2.5” is the most common type of SSD and fits into most laptop or desktop
computers. It has a similar shape to a traditional hard disk drive (HDD) and connects over SATA cables so it offers a
very familiar experience to what many are already used to.

M.2
Another form factor, M.2, has become the standard type of storage for slim laptops and notebooks. Its tiny form factor
is often compared to a stick of gum and is easy to install right on the motherboard in most cases. It is available in
various lengths to enable different SSD drive capacities. The longer the drive, the more NAND flash chips can be
mounted on it, leading to higher capacity drives.

mSATA
mSATA, or mini-SATA, is essentially a smaller version of the full-size SATA SSD. It uses a compact form factor like M.2
but is not interchangeable. M.2 drives can support both SATA and PCIe interface options, whereas mSATA only
supports SATA. This form factor is designed for smaller form factor systems where space is limited.

U.2
Finally, there’s U.2, which looks like a 2.5” drive but is a bit thicker. It uses a different connector and sends data
through the PCIe interface. U.2 SSD technology is typically reserved for high-end workstations, servers and enterprise
applications that need greater storage. It allows higher operating temperatures and is more favourable for transferring
heat than the M.2 form factor.
SSD: Attributes
● Capacity: The amount of data the SSD can store, typically measured in gigabytes (GB) or
terabytes (TB).
● Form Factor: The physical size and shape of the SSD, such as 2.5-inch, M.2, or PCIe.
● Interface: The connection type used by the SSD, such as SATA, NVMe (Non-Volatile Memory
Express), or PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express).
● Read/Write Speeds: The rate at which the SSD can read and write data, measured in megabytes
per second (MB/s) or gigabytes per second (GB/s).
● NAND Type: The type of flash memory used in the SSD, such as SLC (Single-Level Cell), MLC
(Multi-Level Cell), TLC (Triple-Level Cell), or QLC (Quad-Level Cell).
● Endurance: The lifespan of the SSD, often measured in TBW (Terabytes Written) or DWPD (Drive
Writes Per Day).
● DRAM Cache: Some SSDs have a DRAM cache that speeds up data access and improves overall
performance.
● Power Consumption: The amount of power the SSD uses during operation, measured in watts
(W).
Graphics Card
A graphics card, also known as a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), is a crucial
component in a computer that handles rendering images, video, and
animations. It offloads these tasks from the CPU, enhancing performance in
graphics-intensive applications such as gaming, video editing, and 3D
rendering. Modern graphics cards come with their own dedicated memory
(VRAM) and processors to efficiently manage complex graphics computations.

Examples:
● NVIDIA: GeForce RTX 3080
● AMD: Radeon RX 6800 XT
● Intel: Intel Arc A770
Power Supply
A power supply unit (PSU) converts electrical power
from an outlet into usable power for the internal
components of a computer, distributing the appropriate
voltages to the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and other
peripherals. The wattage rating of a PSU determines its
capacity to provide sufficient power to all components,
which is crucial for system stability and performance.
High-quality PSUs also include features like
modular cabling, efficiency ratings (e.g., 80 PLUS
certification), and various protections against
overvoltage, undervoltage, and short circuits.
Power Supply: Wattage
The wattage rating of a PSU indicates the maximum amount of power it can supply to a
computer system. Choosing the appropriate wattage ensures that all components receive
adequate power, especially during peak performance.

Examples of Wattage Ratings:

500W PSU: Suitable for basic systems with integrated graphics or low-power dedicated
GPUs.

650W PSU: Common for mid-range gaming PCs or workstations with a single mid-range
GPU.

850W PSU: Ideal for high-end gaming systems or workstations with powerful GPUs and
multiple peripherals.

1000W PSU: Necessary for extreme gaming rigs, multi-GPU setups, or high-performance
workstations requiring substantial power. etc
Power Supply: Efficiency Ratings
Efficiency ratings indicate how effectively a PSU converts AC power from an outlet into DC power
for the computer components, with higher efficiency reducing wasted energy as heat. The 80
PLUS certification is a common standard that rates efficiency at different loads (20%, 50%, and
100%). Here are the main 80 PLUS certifications:

80 PLUS: 80% efficiency at 20%, 50%, and 100% load

80 PLUS Bronze: 82% efficiency at 20%, 85% at 50%, and 82% at 100% load

80 PLUS Silver: 85% efficiency at 20%, 88% at 50%, and 85% at 100% load

80 PLUS Gold: 87% efficiency at 20%, 90% at 50%, and 87% at 100% load

80 PLUS Platinum: 90% efficiency at 20%, 92% at 50%, and 89% at 100% load

80 PLUS Titanium: 90% efficiency at 10% load, 92% at 20%, 94% at 50%, and 90% at 100%
load