Hardware Computer
Systems and
Components
Understanding the Building Blocks of a Computer
System
Objectives
• 1. Understand the role and importance of hardware in a computer
system.
• 2. Identify and explain the key components of a computer system.
• 3. Explore the interconnection between hardware components.
• 4. Engage in practical examples to solidify learning.
What is Hardware?
• Definition: Physical components of a computer that can be touched and seen.
Types of Hardware:
• Input Devices
• Output Devices
• Processing Units
• Storage Components
• Example: The keyboard, monitor, CPU, and hard drive are all examples of hardware.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• Role: The brain of the computer, executing instructions.
Components:
• Control Unit (CU): Directs operations.
• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations.
• Cache Memory: High-speed memory for frequently accessed data.
• Performance Metrics: Clock speed, number of cores.
Memory Systems
Primary Memory:
• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary, volatile storage.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile, stores boot instructions.
Secondary Memory:
• Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Magnetic storage.
• Solid State Drive (SSD): Flash-based storage, faster than HDDs.
• Other Storage Devices: USB drives, Optical Discs (CD/DVD).
Input Devices
Definition: Allow users to input data into the system.
Examples:
• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Scanner
• Microphone
• Touchscreen
Output Devices
Definition: Present processed data to the user.
Examples:
• Monitor (Display Screen)
• Printer
• Speakers
• Projector
• Real-World Application: Monitors for gaming vs. office use.
Motherboard
Definition: The main circuit board connecting all components.
Components:
• CPU Socket
• RAM Slots
• Storage Connectors (SATA, NVMe)
• Expansion Slots (PCIe)
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Role: Converts and supplies power to computer
components.
Types: Modular, semi-modular, non-modular.
Example: High-wattage PSU for gaming PCs.
Cooling Systems
• Importance: Prevents overheating and maintains performance.
• Types:
• Air Cooling: Fans, heat sinks.
• Liquid Cooling: Advanced cooling for high-performance
systems.
• Example: Liquid cooling in gaming rigs or high-end
workstations.
Expansion Cards
• Purpose: Enhance system functionality.
• Examples:
• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): For rendering images
and videos.
• Sound Cards: For high-quality audio.
• Network Cards: For advanced networking.
Networking Devices
• Purpose: Enable communication between computers and
other devices.
• Examples:
• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Modems
• Routers
• Switches
Summary
• Key Takeaways:
• Hardware is the foundation of any computer system.
• Components like the CPU, memory, and motherboard work
together seamlessly.
• Input and output devices connect the user to the system.
• Importance of understanding hardware for troubleshooting
and system design.
Thank You
Hardware is the heartbeat of
computing. Master it, and you
unlock infinite possibilities!
