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Overview of Computer Hardware 25 Slides

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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
6 views

Overview of Computer Hardware 25 Slides

Uploaded by

Nati Eshetu
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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An Overview of Computer

Hardware and Its Components


Understanding the Physical
Foundations of Computing
Introduction
• Computer hardware refers to the physical
components of a computer system. These
components work together to process, store,
and communicate data. This presentation
provides an overview of the primary hardware
components.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• The CPU is often referred to as the brain of the
computer.
• • Executes instructions from programs.
• • Components include:
• - Control Unit (CU): Manages operations.
• - Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs
calculations.
Types of CPUs
• • Single-core CPUs: Handles one task at a
time.
• • Multi-core CPUs: Perform multiple tasks
simultaneously.
• • Example: Dual-core, Quad-core processors.
Memory Overview
• Memory stores data temporarily or
permanently for processing.
• • Two main types:
• - RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile,
for active processes.
• - ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile,
stores essential instructions.
Types of RAM
• • DRAM (Dynamic RAM): Common and needs
constant refresh.
• • SRAM (Static RAM): Faster, used in caches.
• • DDR (Double Data Rate): Modern standard.
Storage Devices
• • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Magnetic storage.
• • SSD (Solid-State Drive): Fast, durable storage
with no moving parts.
• • Hybrid Drives: Combine HDD and SSD
features.
Input Devices Overview
• Devices used to input data into the computer:
• • Examples include keyboard, mouse, scanner,
and microphone.
Types of Keyboards
• • Mechanical keyboards: Durable and tactile.
• • Membrane keyboards: Compact and quieter.
• • Wireless keyboards: Portable and cable-free.
Pointing Devices
• Devices used for navigation and control:
• • Examples: Mouse, trackpad, joystick, and
stylus.
Output Devices Overview
• Devices that display or project data from the
computer:
• • Examples: Monitor, printer, speakers, and
projectors.
Monitor Types
• • CRT (Cathode Ray Tube): Older, bulky
technology.
• • LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): Slim, energy-
efficient.
• • LED (Light Emitting Diode): Advanced and
high-quality.
Printers
• • Types:
• - Inkjet: Affordable for color printing.
• - Laser: Fast and efficient.
• - 3D: Produces physical objects.
Motherboard Overview
• The main circuit board connecting all
components.
• • Houses CPU, memory, and expansion slots.
• • Ensures communication between
components.
Motherboard Ports
• Common ports include:
• • USB ports for peripherals.
• • HDMI and VGA for displays.
• • Audio ports for headphones and speakers.
Peripheral Devices
• External devices that expand the computer's
functionality:
• • Examples: External drives, printers, and
controllers.
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Converts electrical energy into usable power
for components.
• • Measured in watts.
• • Types: Modular, semi-modular, and non-
modular.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
• Handles rendering of images, videos, and
animations.
• • Integrated GPUs: Built into CPUs.
• • Dedicated GPUs: Separate components for
high performance.
Cooling Systems
• Essential for maintaining optimal
temperatures:
• • Air cooling: Fans and heatsinks.
• • Liquid cooling: Advanced cooling using liquid
loops.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Enables computers to connect to networks:
• • Wired NICs: Ethernet-based connections.
• • Wireless NICs: Wi-Fi support for mobility.
Expansion Cards
• Enhance computer capabilities:
• • Examples: Sound cards, capture cards, and
RAID controllers.
BIOS and UEFI
• Responsible for booting up the computer:
• • BIOS: Basic Input/Output System.
• • UEFI: Modern replacement with advanced
features.
Ports and Connectors
• Physical interfaces for external devices:
• • USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt, and Ethernet are
common examples.
Data Storage Evolution
• Overview of storage trends:
• • From floppy disks to modern cloud storage
solutions.
Future of Computer Hardware
• Emerging trends and technologies:
• • Quantum computing.
• • AI-driven hardware designs.
• • Improved energy efficiency.
Conclusion
• Understanding computer hardware is essential
for effective use and troubleshooting.
• Advances in technology continue to redefine
hardware capabilities.

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