1.2 Computer Components

Manage functions of the computer system by processing data and instructions

Main circuit board of a computer, connected to other components such as RAM and CPU and contains PCI slots for expansion cards and ports.

• receives power from the mains power supply and converts it into a current which the computer can use. • converts Alternating current to Direct current

Cache, ROM and RAM

Read Access Memory • RAM is volatile storage which stores programmes which are currently running • RAM also stores part of the operating system to be accessed by the CPU

Cache • Cache is volatile storage that stores data which is frequently accessed by the CPU • Cache is quicker to access because it is more closer to the CPU than other types of memory such as RAM

Read Only Memory • ROM is non volatile storage that cannot be changed • ROM stores the boot up / BIOS programme for when the computer is switched on

• Magnetic hard disk drive is most common amongst desktop computers • A read / write head moves nanometres above the disk platter and the platter uses a magnetic field to read / edit data

• optical storage uses a laser to project beams of light onto a disc allowing it to read data from CD’s, DVDs and Blu-Ray • this makes optical storage the slowest out of the four secondary storage types

Solid State Drives • There are no moving parts in an SSD which makes it have the fastest access speed • SSD’s are replacing HDD’s because they are quicker and faster and use less power

• cloud storage is data which is stored on large servers owned by the company which can be accessed on different devices

• High capacity • Not portable • Not durable as moving it could damage it • Relatively quick access speed but slower than SSD’s

• Low capacity • Not durable, easy to get scratches etc. • High portability easy to move around • Slowest access speed

• High capacity • Durable but cheap SSD’s can snap or break • High portability as it is easy to move around • Highest access speed as there are no moving parts

• Huge capacity, more storage can be bought by getting a better subscription • Portability, Durability and access speed all rely heavily on the internet connect,

An expansion card is are optional hardware components providing additional functionality which are attached to the motherboard.

Processes graphical data such as videos and animations and converts it into a display or format on a monitor.

• Allows computers to connect to a network such as the internet wirelessly

• Allows data to be transferred between servers across a network • fibre channel cards allow for quick transfer speeds

• converts audio to digital binary when inputting audio into a computer through a device like a microphone • converts digital binary to audio to output audio through a device like a speaker

A port is the interface between external devices and the computer. Ports allow data to be transferred to and from these devices.

A usb port connects input devices and storage devices such as keyboard, mouse, external HD.

• developed for apple products • allows data to be transferred at higher speeds from devices such as camcorders and external hard drives • allows for networking

• an SD port allows data to be transferred from devices such as a camera to a computer