COMPUTER HARDWARE
COMPUTER HARDWARE REFERS TO THE PHYSICAL
COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM THAT INTERACT TO
PROCESS DATA, STORE INFORMATION, AND EXECUTE TASKS.
HARDWARE FORMS THE FOUNDATION OF COMPUTING,
ENABLING SOFTWARE APPLICATIONS TO RUN AND USERS TO
INTERACT WITH DIGITAL SYSTEMS.
MAJOR HARDWARE COMPONENTS
Input Devices: devices that allow users to enter data
into the computer.
• Keyboard (Standard, Mechanical, Membrane)
• Mouse (Optical, Laser, Wireless)
• Touchscreen
• Scanner
• Microphone
Output Devices: devices that convey processed data to the user.
•Monitor (LCD, LED, OLED)
•Printer (Laser, Inkjet, Thermal)
•Speakers
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer, responsible
for executing instructions.
•Components of the CPU:
• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) – Handles mathematical operations
• Control Unit – Directs operations within the system
• Registers – Temporary storage for immediate calculations
•CPU Types & Architectures:
•Intel vs. AMD Processors
Memory (RAM & ROM)
RAM (Random Access Memory)
•Volatile memory used for active processes
•Types: DDR3, DDR4, DDR5
ROM (Read-Only Memory)
•Non-volatile memory storing essential startup instructions
Storage Devices
Devices used to permanently store data.
•Hard Disk Drives (HDD)
•Solid State Drives (SSD)
•Flash Drives
•Cloud Storage
Motherboard
The main circuit board connecting all components.
•Chipsets & Buses
•Expansion Slots (PCI, PCIe)
•Ports & Connectors (USB, HDMI, SATA)
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
Converts electrical power to supply the computer components.
•AC to DC Conversion
•Wattage & Efficiency
Cooling Systems
Regulates the temperature of hardware components.
•Air Cooling (Fans, Heat Sinks)
•Liquid Cooling
CPU Performance Factors: Several things affect how well a
performs:
Clock Speed: Faster speeds mean quicker processing.
Number of Cores: More cores help with multitasking, like
running a game and music at the same time.
Cache Size: Bigger cache means faster access to data.
Instruction Set: This is like the CPU’s vocabulary. A better
instruction set means it can do more tasks efficiently.
Advantages of CPUs
•Versatile: CPUs can handle all kinds of tasks, from simple math to running complex
games.
•Fast: Modern CPUs process billions of instructions per second.
•Multi-tasking: Multi-core CPUs let you run many programs at once, like watching a
video while chatting with friends.
•Compatible: CPUs work with tons of software, so you can use the same CPU for
different apps.
Disadvantages of CPUs
•Heat: CPUs get hot when working hard, so computers need fans or cooling systems to
stay safe.
•Power Use: Powerful CPUs use a lot of electricity, which can raise power bills.
•Cost: High-performance CPUs, like Intel Core i9, can be expensive.
•Not Perfect for All Tasks: For tasks like graphics or video editing, specialized chips
CONTROL UNIT
The Control Unit (CU) is a core component of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) that directs the operation of the processor. It
tells the computer’s memory, ALU, input/output devices, and other components how to respond to a program’s instructions.
Main Functions of the Control Unit:
1.Instruction Fetching: Retrieves the next instruction from memory (RAM) via the Program Counter (PC).
2.Instruction Decoding: Interprets the instruction to determine what operation to perform and which components are involved.
3.Signal Coordination: Sends control signals to the ALU, memory, registers, and I/O devices to execute the decoded instructions.
4.Flow Control: Manages the flow of data and instructions within the CPU and across buses.
5.Timing and Sequencing: Ensures all operations occur in a synchronized manner using the system clock.
COMPONENTS OF A CU: The CPU is made up of a few key parts,
each with a special job
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): The ALU is like the CPU’s calculator. It does math (like adding or
subtracting) and logic (like comparing numbers). For example, when you score points in a game,
the ALU calculates your new score.
Control Unit (CU): The CU is the CPU’s director. It tells the other parts what to do and when,
making sure everything runs in the right order. It’s like a traffic cop for data inside the CPU.
Registers: Registers are tiny, super-fast storage spaces inside the CPU. They hold data that the
CPU is working on right now, like a desk where you keep your homework while you’re writing.
Cache: The cache is a small, speedy memory inside the CPU. It stores frequently used data so
the CPU can grab it quickly, like keeping your favourite snacks in a drawer instead of going to the
kitchen every time.
Modern Applications
CPUs are everywhere, not just in computers:
CPU in Personal Computers: In your laptop or desktop, the CPU
runs your games, apps, and homework programs, making sure
everything works smoothly.
Role in Mobile Devices: Your phone or tablet has a CPU too! It’s
smaller and uses less power but still handles calls, apps, and videos.
Use in Servers and Data Centers: In big data centers, CPUs power
websites like YouTube and Google, processing millions of requests
every second.
REVISION QUESTIONS
Application-Based Questions Basic Understanding
1. How does CPU architecture (CISC vs. RISC) affect computer 1. What is computer hardware?
performance?
2. Name five primary hardware components of a
2. Why is multi-core processing important in modern
computer system.
computing?
3. How does an external GPU enhance computer graphics? 3. What is the function of the CPU in a computer?
4. Why do gaming PCs require specialized cooling systems? 4. How does RAM differ from ROM?
5. Explain how a scanner converts physical documents into 5. What is the purpose of a motherboard?
digital files. 6. Explain the role of an input device and give examples.
6. What hardware components are necessary for assembling a
7. What are the advantages of using SSD over HDD?
personal computer?
7. How does cloud storage differ from local storage? 8. Why is a cooling system necessary in computers?
8. Why do businesses prefer server-grade processors over 9. What is the function of a power supply unit (PSU)?
consumer-grade CPUs? 10.List different types of storage devices used in
9. What factors should be considered when upgrading RAM? computers.
10.How do embedded processors contribute to smart devices?
REVISION QUESTIONS
Knowledge-Based & Advanced Questions
1. Describe the differences between x86 and ARM architectures.
2. How does overclocking impact CPU performance and lifespan?
3. What role does cache memory play in processing speed?
4. Explain how buses and chipsets influence motherboard efficiency.
5. What are the advantages and disadvantages of liquid cooling vs. air cooling?
6. How does virtualization benefit data centers and cloud computing?
7. Why is ECC (Error-Correcting Code) memory important for mission-critical applications?
8. What are the implications of Moore's Law on hardware development?
9. Explain the significance of PCIe lanes in a computer system.
10.What advancements in hardware technology are shaping future computing trends?
• What is the function of the control unit in a CPU, and how does it contribute to the execution of
instructions within a computer system?
