A+ What Is A Computer?

Class Notes:

IO

  • Input/ Output
  • Can be not just a keyboard and monitor, but a temperature sensor and an audible alarm

CPU – Processing

  • The “brain” of the computer
  • GPU are processors specific to graphics

Memory

  • RAM is the only data that the CPU can touch

Storage

  • Long term data storage

Connectivity

  • Can be Wifi, LTE, Bluetooth or Ethernet

Power

  • Can be connected to wall, or a battery

Cooling

  • Heat can destroy components
  • Heat sinks dissipate heat from components
  • Fans move air through case

Motherboard/ Mainboard

  • Connects all components

Case

  • Cases are more important then many realize.

Firmware

  • Firmware is software that resides on the components themsleves
  • Firmware can be upgraded

BIOS/ UEFI/ CMOS

  • Controls how motherboard controls components
  • ROM Chip stores BIOS or UEFI
  • ROM chip can be upgraded by being “flashed”
  • Settings are actually stored in  CMOS

OS

  • The OS gives the user a working interface

Drivers

  • Drivers allow the OS to talk to the hardware

Software

  • Software are the applications you actually use such as Word or Photoshop

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