Assignment No:-03

Pc Components And Functions

W.A. IRESH GIMHANA PERERA

JR|24|CHTA|2|0012
 Monitor
1. Types of Monitors

• LCD (Liquid Crystal

Display): Common for
everyday use; thin and
lightweight.
• LED (Light Emitting Diode): A type of LCD that uses LEDs
for backlighting; offers better brightness and energy efficiency.
• OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode): Provides excellent
color accuracy and contrast; often used in high-end displays.
• CRT (Cathode Ray Tube): An older technology; bulky and
heavy, mostly replaced by LCDs and LEDs.

2. Resolution

• Common resolutions include:

o Full HD (1920 x 1080): Standard for most tasks and
media consumption.
o Quad HD (2560 x 1440): Higher detail for gaming and
graphic design.
o 4K (3840 x 2160): Ultra-high definition for professional
editing and gaming.

3. Refresh Rate

• Measured in Hertz (Hz); higher refresh rates (e.g., 60Hz,

144Hz, 240Hz) provide smoother motion, beneficial for gaming
and fast-moving content.

4. Aspect Ratio

• Common ratios include 16:9 (standard widescreen), 21:9

(ultrawide for immersive experiences), and 4:3 (older format).
5. Panel Types

• TN (Twisted Nematic): Fast response times but limited viewing

angles and color reproduction.
• IPS (In-Plane Switching): Better color accuracy and viewing
angles, suitable for design work.
• VA (Vertical Alignment): Good contrast ratios and decent
color reproduction, often a middle ground.

6. Connectivity Options

• Common ports include HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, and VGA.

The choice depends on your devices and desired quality.

7. Size

• Measured diagonally; common sizes range from 21 inches to 32

inches or larger for immersive experiences.

8. Special Features

• Adaptive Sync (e.g., G-Sync, FreeSync): Reduces screen

tearing in gaming.
• Blue Light Filter: Reduces eye strain during prolonged use.
• Adjustable Stands: For ergonomic positioning.

9. Use Cases

• General Use: Basic tasks like browsing and office work.

• Gaming: High refresh rates, low input lag, and adaptive sync
features.
• Professional: Accurate color reproduction for graphic design
or video editing.

10. Brand Examples

• Popular brands include Dell, ASUS, LG, Samsung, and Acer,
each offering a range of models for different needs.
System
Unit

1. Definition

• The system unit is the main body of a computer that houses

essential components such as the motherboard, CPU, RAM,
storage devices, and power supply.

2. Components

• Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects all

components.
• CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer,
executing instructions and processing data.
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for data
and instructions being used actively.
• Storage Devices:
o HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Traditional spinning disk
storage with larger capacity.
o SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster storage with no moving
parts, improving boot and load times.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts electrical power from an
outlet into usable power for the computer’s components.
 • Cooling Systems: Fans or liquid cooling solutions to dissipate
heat generated by components.

3. Types of System Units

• Desktop Towers: Traditional upright towers offering

expandability.
• Mini Towers: Smaller versions with limited expansion options.
• All-in-One PCs: Integrated design with components housed
behind the display.
• Gaming Towers: Larger cases with enhanced cooling and
aesthetics (e.g., RGB lighting).

4. Form Factors

• Common motherboard form factors include:

o ATX: Standard size for most desktops.
o MicroATX: Smaller, with fewer expansion slots.
o Mini-ITX: Compact size for small builds.

5. Connectivity Options

• Front panel ports may include USB (Type-A and Type-C),

audio jacks, and power/reset buttons.
• Rear panel typically has ports for power, video output,
Ethernet, and additional USB ports.

6. Cooling Solutions

• Air Cooling: Utilizes fans and heatsinks to dissipate heat.

• Liquid Cooling: Uses liquid to absorb and transfer heat, often
quieter and more efficient for high-performance builds.

7. Build Quality

• Materials can range from plastic to metal; sturdier builds often

use aluminum or tempered glass.
8. Expansion Capabilities

• Number of slots and bays for additional components, such as:

o PCIe slots for graphics cards and other expansions.
o Drive bays for adding extra storage.

9. Aesthetics

• Many users choose cases based on design features like RGB

lighting, tempered glass panels, and overall style.

10. Brands and Models

• Popular manufacturers include Corsair, NZXT, Cooler

Master, and Fractal Design, each offering various models for
different needs.

Key Board

Types of Keyboards

1. Mechanical Keyboards:
o Switches: Use individual mechanical switches for each
key, providing tactile feedback.
o Popular for: Gaming and typing due to durability and
responsiveness.
2. Membrane Keyboards:
 o Construction: Use a pressure pad system with a single
rubber membrane under the keys.
o Popular for: General use; typically, quieter and more
affordable.
3. Chiclet Keyboards:
o Design: Keys are flat and spaced apart, resembling a
chiclet candy.
o Popular for: Laptops and slim desktop keyboards; easy to
clean.
4. Ergonomic Keyboards:
o Design: Curved or split design to reduce strain on wrists.
o Popular for: long typing sessions to improve comfort.
5. Wireless Keyboards:
o Connection: Use Bluetooth or USB dongles for a cable-
free experience.
o Popular for: Reducing clutter and increasing portability.

Key Features

• Backlighting: Many keyboards have RGB or single-color

backlighting for aesthetics and visibility in low light.
• Key Rollover: Refers to how many keys can be pressed
simultaneously; important for gaming.
• Programmable Keys: Some keyboards allow customization of
key functions, macros, or shortcuts.
• Media Controls: Dedicated keys for volume, play/pause, etc.

Connection Types

• USB: Most common for wired keyboards; plug-and-play

functionality.
• Bluetooth: Wireless connection, good for portability; may
require battery changes or recharging.

Maintenance
 • Cleaning: Regularly remove dust and debris; some keyboards
have removable keycaps for easier cleaning.
• Replacement: Mechanical switches can sometimes be replaced
or repaired, while membrane keyboards usually need to be
replaced entirely.

Compatibility

• Operating Systems: Most keyboards work across Windows,

macOS, and Linux, but specific function keys may vary in
compatibility.
 Sound

Types of PC Sound Systems

1. Stereo Speakers:
o Description: Two speakers (left and right) for basic audio
output.
o Pros:
▪ Simple setup.
▪ Good for casual listening and basic gaming.
o Cons:
▪ Limited surround sound experience.
2. Surround Sound Systems:
 o Description: Typically, 5.1 or 7.1 setups, including
multiple speakers and a subwoofer.
o Pros:
▪ Immersive audio experience for gaming and movies.
▪ Better sound directionality.
o Cons:
▪ More complex setup and requires more space.
3. Soundbars:
o Description: A long speaker that houses multiple drivers,
often used as a single-unit solution.
o Pros:
▪ Space-saving design.
▪ Improved sound quality over built-in speakers.
o Cons:
▪ May lack the depth of a full surround sound system.
4. Headphones and Headsets:
o Description: Audio devices worn on or over the ears.
o Pros:
▪ Great for personal listening without disturbing
others.
▪ Many come with built-in microphones for gaming
and calls.
o Cons:
▪ Can be uncomfortable for long periods, depending
on the design.
5. Studio Monitors:
o Description: High-fidelity speakers designed for audio
production.
o Pros:
▪ Accurate sound reproduction.
▪ Ideal for music production and mixing.
o Cons:
▪ Typically, more expensive and less suited for casual
listening.
Key Components

• Speakers: The main output device; can be passive (require an

amplifier) or active (built-in amplification).
• Subwoofer: Enhances low-frequency sounds for a richer audio
experience, particularly important in-home theater setups.
• Sound Card: An internal or external component that processes
audio signals; can improve sound quality and provide
advanced features like surround sound processing.
• Amplifier: Boosts audio signals for passive speakers; necessary
for proper sound output in larger systems.

Connection Types

• Analog (3.5mm): Common for connecting speakers or

headphones directly to the PC's audio output.
• USB: Used for digital audio devices; often found in external
sound cards and headphones.
• HDMI: Carries both video and audio signals, commonly used
for connecting PCs to TVs and sound systems.
• Optical (TOSLINK): Provides high-quality digital audio, often
used in home theater setups.

Considerations

• Room Size: The size of the room can affect sound quality;
larger rooms may require more powerful speakers or
additional subwoofers.
• Audio Quality: Look for systems with good frequency response
and low distortion for better sound clarity.
• Budget: Determine how much you're willing to spend, as sound
systems can range from budget-friendly to high-end
professional gear.
• Purpose: Consider whether you need a system primarily for
gaming, music production, casual listening, or home theater
use.
Choosing the Right Sound System

• For Gaming: Look for surround sound systems or high-quality

headphones with good positional audio.
• For Music: Stereo speakers or studio monitors are great for
listening to music with high fidelity.
• For Movies: A surround sound system or soundbar will
enhance the cinematic experience.
 Mouse

1. Wired Mouse:
o Connection: Uses a USB cable.
o Pros:
▪ No battery needed.
▪ Lower latency and more reliable connection.
o Cons:
▪ Limited mobility due to the cable.
2. Wireless Mouse:
o Connection: Utilizes Bluetooth or a USB dongle.
o Pros:
▪ Greater freedom of movement.
▪ Less clutter on the desk.
o Cons:
▪ Requires batteries or charging.
▪ Potential for latency issues.
3. Gaming Mouse:
o Features: High DPI, customizable buttons, advanced
sensors, and sometimes RGB lighting.
 o Pros:
▪ Tailored for precision and speed.
▪ Often includes customizable software.
o Cons:
▪ Can be more expensive.
4. Trackball Mouse:
o Design: Features a ball on top that you roll to move the
cursor.
o Pros:
▪ Reduces wrist movement.
▪ Great for limited desk space.
o Cons:
▪ May require an adjustment period for new users.
5. Vertical Mouse:
o Design: Keeps the hand in a handshake position to reduce
strain.
o Pros:
▪ Ergonomically designed to minimize wrist
discomfort.
o Cons:
▪ May feel awkward for users accustomed to
traditional mice.

Key Features

• DPI (Dots Per Inch):

o Measures the sensitivity of the mouse.
o Higher DPI allows for faster cursor movement;
adjustable DPI settings are common in gaming mice.
• Polling Rate:
o Measured in Hz, it indicates how often the mouse reports
its position to the computer.
o Higher polling rates result in smoother and more
responsive movement.
• Programmable Buttons:
 o Extra buttons can be customized for specific tasks, such
as shortcuts or macros.
o Useful for gamers and productivity-focused users.
• Ergonomics:
o Mice are designed in various shapes to fit different hand
sizes and grip styles (palm, claw, fingertip).
o Some models feature cushioning or adjustable weight for
comfort.

Maintenance

• Cleaning:
o Regularly clean the mouse’s sensor and the underside to
prevent tracking issues.
o Use a soft cloth and isopropyl alcohol for the surface.
• Battery Management:
o For wireless mice, monitor battery levels and recharge or
replace batteries as necessary.

Compatibility

• Most mice are compatible with major operating systems like

Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Some gaming mice may require specific software for
customization, so check compatibility before purchasing.

Choosing the Right Mouse

• For Gaming: Look for features like high DPI, customizable

buttons, and a comfortable grip suited to your hand size.
• For Office Use: A reliable mouse with a good ergonomic design
will enhance comfort during long hours of work.
• For Creative Work: Consider a mouse with precision tracking
and additional buttons for shortcuts.
 Power Supply

Power Supply

A power supply converts electrical energy from a source (like the

mains or batteries) into the correct voltage and current for the
device it powers. There are several types:

1. Linear Power Supplies: These use linear regulation to provide

a stable output voltage. They are simple and have low noise but
are less efficient.
2. Switching Power Supplies: More efficient than linear supplies,
they convert power using high-frequency switches. They are
commonly used in computers and modern electronics.
3. Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS): These provide backup
power and protect against outages, surges, and voltage dips.
4. Battery Packs: Used in portable devices, these provide power
stored chemically and can be rechargeable or disposable.
 Power Supply Connectors

Connectors

Connectors are interfaces that allow electrical circuits to connect

and disconnect. They come in various forms, each designed for
specific applications:

1. Molex Connectors: Common in computer power supplies, used

for hard drives and optical drives.
2. SATA Connectors: Specifically for connecting hard drives and
SSDs in computers.
3. PCIe Connectors: Used for graphics cards and other expansion
cards in computers.
4. DC Power Connectors: Often found in portable devices, they
include barrel connectors and various proprietary designs.
5. USB Connectors: Widely used for data and power transfer
across a range of devices.
6. Anderson Powerpole Connectors: Popular in hobbyist
electronics and robotics for their reliability and ease of use.
 Casing

1. Form Factor

• ATX: Standard size, compatible with most motherboards.

• Micro-ATX: Smaller than ATX, suitable for compact builds.
• Mini-ITX: Even smaller, designed for ultra-compact systems.
• E-ATX: Larger than standard ATX, used for high-end systems.

2. Material

• Steel: Durable and affordable, commonly used for budget builds.

• Aluminum: Lighter and often more aesthetically pleasing, but
can be pricier.
• Plastic: Used for certain components, generally lightweight but
less durable.
• Tempered Glass: Often used in premium cases for aesthetic
appeal, providing visibility for RGB lighting.

3. Cooling Options
 • Airflow: Look for cases with good airflow designs, including
mesh panels and multiple fan mounts.
• Fan Support: Check how many fans can be installed (front, top,
rear).
• Liquid Cooling: Some cases support radiators for liquid cooling
systems, allowing for better thermal management.

4. Expansion Slots and Drive Bays

• Expansion Slots: Number of PCIe slots for graphics cards and

other expansion cards.
• Drive Bays: Support for HDDs and SSDs; can be 2.5” or 3.5” bays.
• Removable Drive Cages: Allows flexibility for additional storage.

5. Cable Management

• Features like cable routing holes, tie-down points, and behind-

the-motherboard space for cables can improve aesthetics and
airflow.

6. Front I/O Ports

• Check for USB ports (USB 3.0, USB-C), audio jacks, and
power/reset buttons.

7. Aesthetics

• RGB lighting, tempered glass panels, and overall design are

important for many users, especially gamers.

8. Size and Compatibility

• Ensure the case fits your components (e.g., GPU length, CPU
cooler height) and your intended setup (desk space, airflow
considerations).
9. Build Quality

• Consider the overall build quality, including the thickness of the

panels and the sturdiness of the frame.
 Mother Board

1. Form Factor

• ATX: Standard size with ample expansion slots; commonly used.

• Micro-ATX: Smaller than ATX; fewer expansion slots, but still
versatile.
• Mini-ITX: Compact size for small builds; limited expansion
options but great for space-saving.
• E-ATX: Larger than ATX, often used for high-performance
systems with additional features.

2. Socket Type

• The CPU socket determines which processors are compatible.

Common socket types include:
o Intel: LGA 1200, LGA 1700, etc.
o AMD: AM4, AM5, etc.
• Always match the socket type with the CPU you intend to use.

3. Chipset
 • The chipset affects the motherboard’s features, such as
overclocking support, number of PCIe lanes, and connectivity
options. Common chipsets include:
o Intel: Z-series (for overclocking), B-series (mid-range), H-
series (budget).
o AMD: X-series (high-end), B-series (mid-range), A-series
(budget).

4. RAM Support

• Slots: Most motherboards have 2 to 8 RAM slots.

• Type: DDR4 and DDR5 are common; ensure compatibility with
your RAM.
• Maximum Capacity: Check how much RAM the motherboard
supports.

5. Expansion Slots

• PCIe Slots: Used for GPUs, sound cards, and other expansion
cards. The number and version (e.g., PCIe 3.0, PCIe 4.0) can
affect performance.
• M.2 Slots: For NVMe SSDs, offering faster data transfer speeds.

6. Storage Options

• SATA Ports: Typically for HDDs and SATA SSDs. The number of
ports varies.
• RAID Support: Some motherboards support RAID configurations
for performance or redundancy.

7. Connectivity

• USB Ports: Check the number and types (USB 3.2, USB-C) for
peripherals.
 • Networking: Ethernet ports (gigabit, 2.5G, etc.), and some may
include built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
• Audio: Integrated audio chipset quality varies; look for
motherboards with better audio solutions for enhanced sound.

8. Power Phases and VRM

• Power Delivery: Higher quality VRM (Voltage Regulator Module)

and more power phases can support better overclocking and
stability.
• Look for features like heatsinks on VRMs for better cooling.

9. BIOS/UEFI

• The firmware interface for configuring hardware settings. A

user-friendly UEFI interface is preferred for ease of use.

10. Build Quality and Features

• Look for durable capacitors, reinforced PCIe slots, and good

thermal management features.

11. Price Range

• Prices vary widely based on features, brand, and build quality.

Decide your budget based on required features.
 CPU

1. Architecture

• x86/x64: Most common architecture for desktops and laptops;

x64 supports more RAM.
• ARM: Used in mobile devices and some laptops; known for
energy efficiency.

2. Cores and Threads

• Cores: The number of cores affects multitasking and parallel

processing. Common configurations range from dual-core to
octa-core and higher.
• Threads: Some CPUs support Hyper-Threading (Intel) or
Simultaneous Multithreading (AMD), allowing each core to
handle two threads, improving performance in multithreaded
applications.

3. Clock Speed

• Measured in GHz, clock speed indicates how fast a CPU can

process instructions. Higher clock speeds generally mean better
performance, but this can vary based on the architecture and
workload.
4. Cache Memory

• CPUs have multiple levels of cache (L1, L2, L3) for faster access to
frequently used data. Larger caches can improve performance.

5. Thermal Design Power (TDP)

• Measured in watts, TDP indicates the maximum amount of heat

generated under normal operation. It helps in selecting cooling
solutions.

6. Integrated Graphics

• Some CPUs come with integrated GPUs (e.g., Intel’s Iris Xe or

AMD’s Radeon Graphics), which can handle basic gaming and
graphics tasks without a dedicated GPU.

7. Socket Type

• The CPU socket must match the motherboard socket type (e.g.,
LGA 1200 for Intel, AM4 for AMD). Compatibility is crucial for
building or upgrading systems.

8. Overclocking

• Some CPUs are unlocked (like Intel’s K-series or AMD’s Ryzen),

allowing users to increase clock speeds beyond stock settings for
enhanced performance. This typically requires adequate cooling
solutions.

9. Performance Benchmarking

• Look for benchmarks and reviews that compare CPUs in real-

world scenarios, like gaming, content creation, and productivity
tasks. Common benchmarking tools include Cinebench,
PassMark, and Geekbench.
10. Manufacturing Process

• Measured in nanometers (nm), the manufacturing process

affects power efficiency and performance. Smaller processes
(like 7nm or 10nm) usually result in better performance per
watt.

11. Price and Value

• CPUs can range significantly in price. Consider your budget and

the performance needs of your specific applications (gaming,
video editing, etc.).

Popular CPU Families

• Intel: Core i3, i5, i7, i9 (with variations in performance and

price).
• AMD: Ryzen 3, 5, 7, 9 (also with variations in performance).

12. Special Features

• Some CPUs offer features like support for ECC memory (Error-
Correcting Code) for server-grade reliability or specific
optimizations for workloads like gaming or content creation.
 Ram

1. Types of RAM

• DDR (Double Data Rate): The most common type for modern
systems. Variants include:
o DDR3: Older standard; typically found in older systems.
o DDR4: Currently the standard for most desktops and
laptops.
o DDR5: The newest standard, offering higher speeds and
improved efficiency.

2. Capacity

• Measured in gigabytes (GB), common configurations include:

o 8GB: Suitable for basic tasks and light gaming.
o 16GB: Recommended for gaming, multitasking, and
productivity.
o 32GB or more: Ideal for heavy multitasking, content
creation, and professional applications.

3. Speed
 • Measured in megahertz (MHz), indicating how fast the RAM can
process data. Common speeds for DDR4 range from 2133 MHz to
3600 MHz or higher. DDR5 starts around 4800 MHz.

4. Latency

• Refers to the delay in data processing, often denoted as CL (CAS

Latency). Lower CL values generally indicate better performance,
although speed and capacity also play significant roles.

5. Dual-Channel vs. Single-Channel

• Dual-Channel: Using two identical RAM sticks (e.g., 2x8GB) can

improve performance compared to a single stick due to
increased memory bandwidth.
• Single-Channel: A single RAM stick can limit performance in
certain applications.

6. Form Factor

• DIMM: Standard size for desktops.

• SO-DIMM: Smaller size used in laptops and compact systems.

7. Heat Spreaders and RGB Lighting

• Many RAM modules come with heat spreaders to help with

thermal management and may feature RGB lighting for aesthetic
purposes.

8. Compatibility

• Ensure that the RAM is compatible with your motherboard

(check for supported types and speeds). Also, consider the
maximum capacity supported by the motherboard.

9. ECC vs. Non-ECC

 • ECC (Error-Correcting Code): Used mainly in servers and
workstations, ECC RAM can detect and correct data corruption.
• Non-ECC: Commonly used in consumer systems; does not have
error-correcting capabilities.

10. Price and Value

• RAM prices can fluctuate based on market demand, capacity,

and speed. Compare options to find the best value for your
needs.

11. Overclocking

• Some RAM is designed for overclocking (e.g., gaming RAM),

allowing users to push speeds beyond the rated specifications,
typically requiring a compatible motherboard and BIOS support.

Choosing the Right RAM

When selecting RAM, consider the following:

• Capacity: Match the amount of RAM to your intended use

(gaming, productivity, etc.).
• Speed and Latency: Look for a balance that suits your needs and
motherboard capabilities.
• Compatibility: Ensure it fits your motherboard’s specifications.
 Rom

1. Types of ROM

• PROM (Programmable Read-Only Memory): A type of ROM that

can be programmed once.
• EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory): Can be
erased and reprogrammed using UV light.
• EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only
Memory): Can be electrically erased and reprogrammed; used in
BIOS chips.
• Flash Memory: A type of EEPROM that can be easily
reprogrammed; widely used in SSDs and USB drives.

2. Firmware Storage

• ROM is primarily used to store firmware, such as the BIOS or

UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface). This firmware is
essential for booting the computer and initializing hardware
components.

3. BIOS/UEFI
 • BIOS: The basic firmware interface that initializes and tests
hardware during the booting process. It provides a low-level
interface between the operating system and the hardware.
• UEFI: A modern replacement for BIOS, offering a graphical
interface, faster boot times, and support for larger hard drives.

4. Non-Volatility

• Unlike RAM, which is volatile and loses its data when powered
off, ROM retains its contents without power, making it ideal for
storing firmware.

5. Upgrading Firmware

• Many motherboards allow users to update the BIOS/UEFI

through a process called "flashing." This can enhance
compatibility with new hardware, improve performance, or fix
bugs.

6. Storage Capacity

• The size of ROM varies based on the type and use case. BIOS
chips typically range from 4MB to 32MB, while firmware in SSDs
can be larger depending on the complexity of the firmware.

7. Applications Beyond PCs

• ROM is also used in embedded systems, appliances, and

consumer electronics, where firmware needs to be stored
permanently.

8. Importance in System Boot

• The ROM firmware initializes hardware components, performs

POST (Power-On Self-Test), and loads the operating system from
storage into RAM.
9. Security Features

• Some ROMs include security features to prevent unauthorized

access or modifications to the firmware, which is critical for
system integrity.
 ADAPTER CARDS

1. Graphics Card (GPU)

• Purpose: Handles rendering images, video, and animations for

display on the monitor.
• Types:
o Gaming GPUs: Designed for high-performance gaming and
graphics rendering (e.g., NVIDIA GeForce, AMD Radeon).
o Professional GPUs: Optimized for CAD, 3D modeling, and
video editing (e.g., NVIDIA Quadro, AMD Radeon Pro).
• Considerations: VRAM size, clock speeds, and cooling solutions.

2. Sound Card

• Purpose: Improves audio quality compared to onboard sound,

providing better sound output and recording capabilities.
• Features:
o Support for surround sound.
o High-quality DAC (Digital-to-Analog Converter).
 o MIDI support for musical instruments.
• Examples: Creative Sound Blaster series, ASUS Xonar series.

3. Network Interface Card (NIC)

• Purpose: Connects a computer to a network, either wired or

wireless.
• Types:
o Ethernet Cards: For wired connections (e.g., Gigabit
Ethernet).
o Wireless Cards: For Wi-Fi connections (may include
Bluetooth support).
• Considerations: Speed (e.g., 100Mbps, 1Gbps), Wi-Fi standards
(e.g., Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6).

4. Storage Controller Card

• Purpose: Manages storage devices and interfaces (e.g., SATA,

RAID).
• Types:
o SATA Controller Cards: Add more SATA ports for HDDs and
SSDs.
o RAID Cards: Provide hardware RAID functionality for data
redundancy and performance.
• Considerations: Number of ports, supported RAID levels.

5. Capture Card

• Purpose: Captures video and audio signals for streaming or

recording from consoles or cameras.
• Usage: Popular among gamers and content creators.
• Examples: Elgato Game Capture, AVerMedia Live Gamer.

6. USB Expansion Card

 • Purpose: Adds additional USB ports (e.g., USB 3.0, USB-C) to a PC.
• Considerations: Number of ports and type (USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB
3.1).

7. Thunderbolt Card

• Purpose: Provides Thunderbolt connectivity for high-speed data

transfer and daisy-chaining devices.
• Considerations: Thunderbolt version (e.g., Thunderbolt 3).

8. Modem Card

• Purpose: Connects a PC to a telephone line for dial-up internet

access (less common today).
• Types:
o Internal Modems: Installed directly into the motherboard.
o External Modems: Connect via USB or Ethernet.

9. Miscellaneous Cards

• TV Tuner Cards: Allow PCs to receive television signals.

• FPGA Cards: Used for specialized computing tasks and hardware
acceleration.

Considerations When Choosing Adapter Cards

• Compatibility: Ensure the card fits the motherboard’s expansion

slots (e.g., PCIe).
• Power Requirements: Some high-performance cards may require
additional power connectors.
• Cooling Solutions: High-performance cards often have dedicated
cooling systems; ensure proper airflow in the case.
 Storage Drivers

1. Hard Disk Drives (HDD)

• Type: Mechanical storage device using spinning disks (platters)

coated with magnetic material.
• Capacity: Ranges from hundreds of GB to several TB (terabytes).
• Speed: Slower compared to SSDs; common speeds are 5400 RPM
and 7200 RPM (rotations per minute).
• Use Cases: Suitable for mass storage, such as data backups and
media libraries, due to lower cost per GB.

2. Solid State Drives (SSD)

 • Type: Flash memory-based storage with no moving parts,
leading to faster access times.
• Capacity: Typically ranges from 128GB to several TB.
• Speed: Much faster than HDDs; SATA SSDs can reach speeds of
500 MB/s, while NVMe SSDs (using PCIe interface) can exceed
3500 MB/s.
• Use Cases: Ideal for operating systems, applications, and games,
where speed is critical.

3. NVMe SSDs

• Type: A subtype of SSDs that connect via the PCIe interface,

providing significantly higher data transfer rates than traditional
SATA SSDs.
• Capacity: Similar to standard SSDs, available in various sizes.
• Speed: Offers much faster read/write speeds due to direct
connection to the motherboard.
• Use Cases: Best for high-performance computing tasks, gaming,
and heavy multitasking.

4. Hybrid Drives (SSHD)

• Type: Combines HDD and SSD technology, featuring a small

amount of flash memory alongside traditional spinning disks.
• Capacity: Typically offers larger capacities (up to several TB) with
a small SSD cache (e.g., 8GB to 32GB).
• Speed: Offers better performance than traditional HDDs but not
as fast as pure SSDs.
• Use Cases: Good balance for users needing large storage with
improved performance for frequently accessed data.

5. External Storage Devices

• External Hard Drives: Portable HDDs or SSDs connected via USB;

used for backups and data transfer.
 • USB Flash Drives: Compact, portable flash memory devices;
useful for transferring files and as temporary storage.
• Network Attached Storage (NAS): A dedicated device connected
to a network for centralized data storage and sharing across
multiple devices.

6. Optical Drives

• Type: Uses lasers to read/write data on optical discs (e.g., CDs,

DVDs, Blu-rays).
• Capacity: Varies by type—CDs (up to 700MB), DVDs (4.7GB to
8.5GB), and Blu-rays (25GB to 100GB).
• Use Cases: Primarily for media playback, software installation,
and archival storage.

7. Tape Drives

• Type: Magnetic tape storage used primarily for data backup and
archival purposes.
• Capacity: High capacity (up to several TB per tape) and often
used in enterprise environments.
• Speed: Slower access times compared to HDDs and SSDs;
designed for sequential access.
• Use Cases: Ideal for long-term storage and backups in data
centers.

8. Memory Cards

• Type: Flash memory cards (e.g., SD cards, microSD cards) used in

cameras, smartphones, and other portable devices.
• Capacity: Ranges from a few GB to several TB.
• Speed: Varies by class and type (e.g., UHS-I, UHS-II), affecting
read/write performance.
• Use Cases: Commonly used for storing photos, videos, and
applications in mobile devices.
Considerations When Choosing Storage Devices

• Capacity: Determine how much storage you need based on your

usage.
• Speed: Consider SSDs for faster performance, especially for
operating systems and applications.
• Reliability: Look for reputable brands and check reviews,
especially for HDDs.
• Backup Solutions: Consider using multiple storage types for
redundancy (e.g., SSD for speed and HDD for backup).
Ports
1. USB Ports

• USB Type-A: The standard rectangular port used for most

peripherals (keyboards, mice, flash drives).
• USB Type-B: Typically found on larger devices like printers and
external hard drives.
• USB Type-C: A reversible connector that supports higher data
transfer speeds and power delivery; used in modern laptops and
smartphones.
• USB 3.0/3.1/3.2: Indicates faster data transfer rates (up to 20
Gbps for USB 3.2).
• Uses: Data transfer, charging devices, connecting peripherals.

2. HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)

• Description: A digital interface for transmitting high-definition

video and audio.
• Versions: HDMI 1.4 (supports 4K at 30Hz), HDMI 2.0 (supports 4K
at 60Hz), HDMI 2.1 (supports 8K and higher refresh rates).
• Uses: Connecting monitors, TVs, and projectors.

3. DisplayPort

• Description: A digital display interface that supports high-

resolution displays.
• Versions: DisplayPort 1.2 (supports 4K), DisplayPort 1.4 (supports
8K), DisplayPort 2.0 (supports up to 16K).
• Uses: Connecting monitors and supporting multiple displays from
a single output.

4. Audio Ports

• 3.5mm Jack: Commonly used for headphones and microphones.

• Optical Audio (TOSLINK): Used for high-quality audio output to
sound systems and receivers.
 • Line-In/Line-Out: Used for connecting audio devices; typically
found on sound cards and motherboards.

5. Ethernet Port (RJ-45)

• Description: A network port used for wired internet connections.

• Speeds: Common types include 1Gbps (Gigabit Ethernet) and
10Gbps (10 Gigabit Ethernet).
• Uses: Connecting to local area networks (LAN) and the internet.

6. VGA (Video Graphics Array)

• Description: An older analog video interface used for connecting

monitors.
• Limitations: Supports lower resolutions compared to HDMI and
DisplayPort; increasingly phased out in modern devices.
• Uses: Older monitors and projectors.

7. DVI (Digital Visual Interface)

• Description: A video interface that can transmit both digital and

analog signals.
• Types: DVI-D (digital), DVI-I (integrated, supports both).
• Uses: Connecting monitors; common in older setups.

8. Thunderbolt

• Description: A high-speed interface for data transfer and video

output, combining PCIe and DisplayPort technologies.
• Versions: Thunderbolt 2 (using Mini DisplayPort), Thunderbolt 3
(using USB-C), Thunderbolt 4 (improved specifications).
• Uses: Connecting high-performance peripherals, docks, and
displays.

9. PS/2 Ports
 • Description: Older ports for connecting keyboards and mice.
• Uses: Primarily found in legacy systems; being phased out in favor
of USB.

10. Serial and Parallel Ports

• Description: Legacy ports used for connecting older peripherals

(e.g., printers, modems).
• Uses: Rarely used today; mostly found in older equipment.

11. SATA Ports

• Description: Used for connecting storage devices (HDDs, SSDs) to

the motherboard.
• Versions: SATA III supports data transfer rates up to 6 Gbps.
• Uses: Internal storage connections.

12. M.2 Slots

• Description: Used for connecting NVMe SSDs and Wi-Fi/Bluetooth

cards directly to the motherboard.
• Uses: High-speed storage and network connections.