Basic Computer Concepts
Defination: A microcomputer is a type of computer which is based internally on a
microprocessor, plus a number of additional components. At its simplest, a
microcomputer will consist of a microprocessor, plus random access memory (RAM),
read only memory ROM, and an input/output section, connected by the three main
communication buses
A microprocessor is a component that performs the instructions and tasks involved in
computer processing. In a computer system, the microprocessor is the central unit that
executes and manages the logical instructions passed to it.
Computer Components and Electrical communication
Inside computers, there are many internal components. In order for these components
to communicate with each other they make use of wires that are known as a ‘bus’ .
A bus is a common pathway through which information flows from one computer
component to another. This pathway is used for communication purpose and it is
established between two or more computer components. We are going to check
different computer bus architectures that are found in computers.
Different Types of Computer Buses
The Computer Buses | Source
Functions of Buses in Computers
Summary of functions of buses in computers
1. Data sharing - All types of buses found in a computer transfer data between
the computer peripherals connected to it.
The buses transfer or send data in either serial or parallel method of data transfer. This
allows for the exchange of 1, 2, 4 or even 8 bytes of data at a time. (A byte is a group
of 8 bits). Buses are classified depending on how many bits they can move at the same
time, which means that we have 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit or even 64-bit buses.
2. Addressing - A bus has address lines, which match those of the processor. This
allows data to be sent to or from specific memory locations.
3. Power - A bus supplies power to various peripherals connected to it.
4. Timing - The bus provides a system clock signal to synchronize the
peripherals attached to it with the rest of the system.
The expansion bus facilitates easy connection of more or additional components
and devices on a computer such as a TV card or sound card.
Computers have two major types of buses:
1. System bus:- This is the bus that connects the CPU to main memory on the
motherboard. The system bus is also called the front-side bus, memory bus, local
bus, or host bus.
2. A number of I/O Buses, (I/O is an acronym for input / output), connecting various
peripheral devices to the CPU. These devices connect to the system bus via a ‘bridge’
implemented in the processors chipset. Other names for the I/O bus include
“expansion bus", "external bus” or “host bus”.
Basic Computer Components
The basic components of a microcomputer are: 1) CPU 2) Program memory 3) Data
memory 4) Output ports 5) Input ports 6) Clock generator. These components are
shown in figure below: Central Processing Unit: The CPU consists of ALU (Arithmetic
and Logic Unit), Register unit and control unit.
PC Maintenance Tools
Computer maintenance is the practice of keeping computers in a good state of repair.
Computer valeting is the in-depth cleaning of the physical components of a personal
computer. Computer maintenance describes various steps to keep your computer
functioning at an optimal performance level from a software and hardware point of
view.
A toolkit should contain all the tools necessary to complete hardware repairs. As you gain
experience, you learn which tools to have available for different types of jobs. Hardware
tools are grouped into four categories:
• ESD tools
• Hand tools
• Cleaning tools
• Diagnostic tools
Maintenance Tools
To troubleshoot and repair laptop systems properly, you need a few basic tools. If you
intend to troubleshoot and repair systems professionally, you may want to purchase
many more specialized tools as well. These advanced tools enable you to more
accurately diagnose problems and make jobs easier and faster. Here are the basic tools
that should be in every troubleshooter’s toolbox:
• Simple hand tools for basic disassembly and reassembly procedures, including
a selection of flat-blade and Phillips screwdrivers (both medium and small
sizes), tweezers, an IC extraction tool, and a parts grabber or hemostat. Most
of these items are included in $10–$20 starter toolkits found at most
computer stores. Although most of the same toolkits sold for conventional
desktop systems will have these tools, for portable systems you may also need
sets of smaller-sized flat-blade and Phillips screwdrivers and a set of small Torx
drivers or Torx bits as well. For laptops, you may encounter Torx screws as
small as T5, so consider purchasing a set including bits down to that size.
• Diagnostics software and hardware for testing components in a system.
• A multimeter that provides accurate measurements of voltage and resistance,
as well as a continuity checker for testing cables and switches.
• Chemicals (such as contact cleaners), component freeze sprays, and
compressed air for cleaning the system.
• Foam swabs, or lint-free cotton swabs if foam isn’t available.
• Small nylon wire ties for "dressing" or organizing wires or small cables (such
as internal Wi-Fi/Bluetooth antennas).
You may want to consider the following items, although they’re not required for most
work:
• Memory-testing machines (used to evaluate the operation of memory
modules). Note these can be very expensive, on the order of $1,000 or more,
but can be useful for professional shops or larger companies with a lot of
systems to support.
• Serial and parallel loopback (or wrap) plugs to test serial and parallel ports.
• A network cable tester or scanner (many types with varying functionality
are available, from simple loopback jacks to full-blown Time Domain
Reflectometers).
