JANGIPUR GOVERNMENT
POLYTECHNIC
A computer is an electronic device that accepts data, processes it
according to instructions, and produces information. It performs
calculations and logical operations at high speeds, storing and
retrieving data as needed. A complete computer system includes
hardware (physical components) and software (programs), with a
central processing unit (CPU), memory, and input/output devices
working together.
Core functions of a computer
Input: A computer takes in raw data through input devices like a
keyboard or mouse.
Processing: The CPU processes this data using sets of instructions
from software programs.
Output: The processed data, now called information, is presented
through output devices like a monitor or [Link]: Computers
have memory to store data and instructions, both temporarily for
processing and for long-term use.
Motherboard
A motherboard is the main circuit board connecting all PC parts, featuring
key components like the CPU Socket (for the processor), RAM Slots (for
memory), Chipset (manages data flow), BIOS/UEFI Chip (startup
instructions), Expansion Slots (PCIe for GPUs/cards), Storage Connectors
(SATA/M.2 for drives), Power Connectors, and I/O Ports (USB, audio,
network) for peripherals, allowing everything to communicate and function
as a system.
Core Components
CPU Socket: Holds the Central Processing Unit (processor).
RAM Slots (DIMM Slots): Where Random Access Memory sticks are
installed.
Chipset: Manages communication between CPU, RAM, and other
components (often split into Northbridge/Southbridge, though modern
boards integrate functions).
BIOS/UEFI Chip: Firmware storing boot instructions, powered by a small
CMOS battery.
Expansion & Connectivity
Expansion Slots (PCIe/PCI): For adding graphics cards, sound cards, network
adapters.
Storage Connectors (SATA/M.2): Connects to hard drives (HDD), solid-state
drives (SSD).
Power Connectors (24-pin ATX, CPU Power): Receive power from the PSU.
Front Panel Headers: Connect case buttons (power, reset) and LEDs.
I/O Panel Ports: Rear ports for USB, Ethernet (LAN), Audio, Video
(HDMI/DisplayPort).
Other Key Parts:-
* CMOS Battery: Small coin battery powering the BIOS/UEFI.
* VRMs (Voltage Regulator Modules): Supply stable power to the CPU.
* Fan Headers: Connect case and CPU fans for cooling.
A CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the "brain" of a computer, a small chip that
interprets and executes instructions for all the computer's operations, including
running the operating system and applications. It performs basic arithmetic,
logic, and input/output (I/O) operations, handling data processing and control
functions for all hardware and software. Modern CPUs often contain multiple
cores for multitasking and are used in a vast range of devices, from
smartphones and laptops to servers and game consoles.
Functions of a CPU
Executes instructions: It reads and runs instructions from computer programs,
processing input and generating output.
Performs calculations: It carries out basic arithmetic and logical operations.
Controls operations: It acts as the control center, managing and coordinating
the activities of other components like memory and peripherals.
Handles input/output (I/O): It manages communication with memory and
other devices.
Key components:-
Control Unit: Interprets and executes program instructions.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and comparisons.
Memory: Stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to access quickly.
*How it works
The CPU fetches an instruction from memory.
The control unit decodes the instruction to
understand what needs to be done.
The ALU performs the required calculation or
operation.
The result is sent back to memory or another
component.
This cycle repeats for every instruction in a
program.
*Where CPUs are used:-
Personal computers: Desktops and laptops rely
on CPUs to run their operating systems and
applications.
Mobile devices: Smartphones and tablets have
CPUs to handle all their functions.
Servers: Data centers use powerful CPUs to run
applications and manage vast amounts of data.
Embedded systems: CPUs are found in a wide
array of specialized devices like smart
thermostats, gaming consoles, and even cars.
Main memory is RAM (Random Access Memory)
it's the computer's primary, volatile workspace for currently used data and programs,
allowing the CPU fast, random access to information, unlike slower, long-term storage.
RAM's key feature is its speed and ability to be accessed in any order, but its contents
disappear when the power is turned off.
Key Characteristics:
Working Memory: Stores the operating system, applications, and data actively being
used for quick access by the CPU.
Volatile: Data is temporary and lost when the computer shuts down.
Fast: Much quicker than secondary storage (like hard drives or SSDs).
Random Access: The CPU can jump to any memory location directly, without reading
through preceding data.
Types of RAM:
DRAM (Dynamic RAM): The most common type for main memory in PCs, storing
data as electrical charges in capacitors.
SRAM (Static RAM): Faster and more expensive, used mainly for CPU cache.
In essence, RAM is the "short-term memory" of your computer, essential for smooth
and efficient multitasking and processing.
Secondary storage (external/long-term):-
Magnetic Storage: Uses magnetic fields to store data.
Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Traditional mechanical drives that use spinning
platters to store large amounts of data for long-term use.
Floppy Disk: An older, removable magnetic disk format.
Magnetic Tape: Used for backups and archiving large amounts of data.
Flash Memory: Uses flash memory chips to store data, offering higher speeds
and durability than HDDs.
Solid-State Drive (SSD): Uses flash memory to store data, resulting in
faster performance than HDDs.
USB Flash Drive: Portable, removable storage devices commonly used for
transferring files.
Memory Cards: Small, portable flash memory cards used in devices like
cameras and smartphones.
SMPS (Switched Mode Power Supply)
It is a type of power supply, which is a broader term for any device converting
electrical power; SMPS uses high-frequency switching for high efficiency, making it
smaller, lighter, and cooler than older linear power supplies, common in PCs,
chargers, and modern electronics. Essentially, all SMPS are power supplies, but not
all power supplies are SMPS (some are linear).
Power Supply (PSU) (General Term)
Function: Converts electrical power from a source (like wall outlet AC) to the correct
voltage, current, and frequency for a load (like a computer or phone).
Types: Includes both older, less efficient linear supplies and modern, efficient
SMPS.
SMPS (Specific Type of PSU)
How it Works: Instead of just dropping voltage (like linear), it rapidly switches the
input power on and off at high frequencies, using capacitors and inductors to
smooth the output, making it highly efficient.
Advantages: High efficiency, smaller size, lighter weight, less heat generated.
Applications: Found in nearly all modern electronics: PC power supplies, phone
chargers, TVs, industrial controls, medical devices, etc..
Key Difference
Think of it like "Car vs. Sedan": A sedan is a type of car, just as an SMPS is a type of
power supply. SMPS are the dominant, modern solution due to their efficiency,
replacing many older linear power supplies
Smps or Power Supply
Input and Output Devices of Computer
Input devices send data to a computer for processing, such as a keyboard and mouse,
while output devices display or present the processed results to the user, like a
monitor and printer. Some devices, known as input/output (I/O) devices, can perform
both functions.
Presented by:- Deep Samanta