Computing FundamentalsComputing Fundamentals
Computer Hardware
Computing Fundamentals
Objectives
Identify types of computers and how they process information
Identify the function of computer hardware components
Identify the factors to consider when buying computer equipment
Identify how to maintain computer equipment and solve common problems
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Introduction
When the computer was introduced, it’s said to be the greatest invention since man learned to use electricity.
Almost every aspect of people's lives is affected in some way by computers.
Computers are no smarter than the humans who program them.
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Some ways in which the computer is used:
• Word processing• Calculations• Communication• Computer-assisted learning• Research• Presentations• Database management• Automation• Entertainment
Next: Definition of ComputerBack
Computing Fundamentals
What is a computer?
Computer is an electronic device that accepts, processes, stores, and outputs data at high speeds according to programmed instructions.
There are two basic components that make up a computer: hardware and software.
Next: Parts of a ComputerBack
Computing Fundamentals
Parts of a Typical Computer
Next: Types of Computers
Monitor
System Unit
Keyboard Mouse
Printer
Back
Computing Fundamentals
IBM Blue Gene/L
Minicomputer
SupercomputerSupercomputer
MainframeNext: Types of Microcomputers
Microcomputer
Types of Computers
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Common Types of Microcomputers
Personal Computer (PC)
Laptop/Notebook
Handheld/PDA
Macintosh (Mac)
Back
Computing Fundamentals
The Four Main Components of a Microcomputer
Back
INPUT DEVICESInput devices allow us to enter information into the computer. They include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.
PROCESSING DEVICESProcessing components manipulate the information once it is "in" the computer. In the microcomputer there is a set of common components consisting of the central processing unit (CPU), interface components, and memory (RAM).
STORAGE DEVICESStorage devices store the entered information and programs for future use. Common storage devices include hard disks, floppy disks, and CD-ROMs.
OUTPUT DEVICESOutput devices are how the manipulated information is returned to us. They commonly include video monitors, printers, and speakers.
Parts of the System Unit
Computing Fundamentals
The System UnitThe System Unit
RAM
CD-ROM and/or DVD-ROM Drive
Back
Network Card
1. Common Hardware Problems
ROM-BIOS
2. Buying a computer 3. Next: Software
Computing Fundamentals
Input Devices
Other Input Devices
Keyboard
Mouse
Microphone
Scanner
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Other Input DevicesBarcode Reader
Joystick
Web Camera
Digital Camera
Back to MenuBack
Computing Fundamentals
Processing Devices
Back
Random-Access Memory (RAM)
CPU
CPU Speed Release Date
Pentium 4 1 GHz to 3 GHz Latest
Pentium III 450 MHz to 1 GHz 1999
Pentium II 266 MHz 1997
Pentium 133 MHz 1993
486 66 MHz 1989
386 25 MHz 1985
80286 12.5 MHz 1982
8088 8 MHz 1979Based on table courtesy of www.customguide.com
Measuring Memory
Computing Fundamentals
Storage Devices/Media
More Storage Devices/Media
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Floppy Disk Drive (FDD)
Diskette
Back
Computing Fundamentals
More Storage Devices/Media
USB Flash Drive
CD-ROM (or DVD-ROM Drive)
Types of CDs:
•CD-ROM
•CD-R
•CD-RW
Back to Menu
Flash Card
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Output Devices
Back
Monitor
Speakers
Printer
Projector
Computing Fundamentals
MonitorsMonitors
CRT (Cathode Ray Tube)
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display)
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Parts of the Keyboard
Alphanumeric KeysAlphanumeric KeysCursor KeysCursor Keys
Numeric KeypadNumeric KeypadFunction KeysFunction Keys
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Parts of a Mouse
Left Button
Back
Right Button
Wheel
(Not always available) Palm Rest
Mouse Actions:
1. Click
2. Double-click
3. Right-Click
4. Point
5. Drag
How to hold the mouse
Computing Fundamentals
How to hold the mouse
Courtesy:
www.internet4classrooms.com
Back
Computing Fundamentals
PrintersPrinters
Dot Matrix
Inkjet Laser Back
Computing FundamentalsBack to illustration
Motherboard
Computing Fundamentals
Measuring Memory
Unit Abbreviation Size
Bit - [Smallest Unit]
Byte - 8 Bits
Kilobyte KB 1, 024 bytes
Megabyte MB 1, 048, 576 bytes
Gigabyte GB 1, 073,741,824 bytes/1, 024 MB
Back
Computing Fundamentals
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Back to illustration
CPU Fan
Computing FundamentalsBack to illustration
DDRAM
Random-Access Memory
SDRAM Photo courtesy of: www.oamao.com
SDRAM
Computing Fundamentals
Hard Disk Drive
Back to illustration
Cross-section of HDD
Computing Fundamentals
3.5” Floppy Disk Drive
3.5 “ Floppy Disk
Back to illustration
Courtesy www.yedata.com
Computing FundamentalsBackPhoto courtesy of: www.coolnerds.com
PC Ports
Computing Fundamentals
CD-ROM Drive
CD-ROM
Back to illustration
Computing Fundamentals
Video Card
Back to illustration
Computing Fundamentals
AGP Port
Back to illustration
Computing Fundamentals
Power Supply
Back to illustration
Computing Fundamentals
Network Card
Back to illustration
Computing Fundamentals
ROM-BIOS
Back to illustration
Computing Fundamentals
Common Hardware Problems
• Computer won’t start– Be sure it is plugged in and there’s electricity– Bad power supply– Check the monitor– RAM problem– Bad hard drive
• Mouse is not working well/at all
• Keyboard is not working
• Printer: Paper Jams
Back
Computing Fundamentals
How to Buy a PC
• What is my purpose of buying a PC?
• What OS will best support the applications that I will use?
• Do I need portability?
• Do I need versatility?
• How about the warranties?
Maintenance Installing New SoftwareBasic TroubleshootingBack