SlideShare a Scribd company logo
1
Lecture No.2: Introduction to Computer Hardware
Lecturer: Dr. Mazin Alkathiri
Department of Information Technology
,
College of Computers
Seiyun University
September , 2024
( ‫الماديات‬
Hardware
)
1
- ( ‫البرمجيات‬
Software
)
2
-
‫الماديــــات‬
Hardware
:
The term hardware refers to the physical components of
your computer such as, the electronic & Metallic parts electric cables …
etc.
1. Input Unit Devices.
2. Processing Unit .
3. Output Unit.
Components Of A Computer
?
Computer divided to two main parts:
Introduction to Computer Hardware
• Computer hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system.
• Hardware components work together to execute software instructions.
• They are essential for input, output, processing, and storage of data. The basic
Hardware Components
• Input Devices
• Output Devices
• Storage Devices
• Processing Devices
• Communication Devices
• Motherboard and Power Supply
4
BASIC ARCHITECTURE OF COMPUTER
Input Devices Overview
• Input devices allow users to provide data to the computer.
• Input devices convert human actions into machine-readable signals.
• Examples: Mouse, Keyboard, Microphone, Joy-stick, OMR, MICR, Light
Pen, Scanner, Camera.
• Keyboard: used to input text and commands into the computer.
• Includes letter keys, numeric keys, function keys, and control keys.
• Common types: Mechanical, Membrane, Wireless Keyboards.
• Mouse: a pointing device used to control the cursor on the screen.
• Optical and Laser Mouse are common types.
• It typically has two buttons and a scroll wheel for interaction.
6
Input Devices Examples
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• The CPU, often called the "brain" of the computer, is responsible for
executing instructions from programs and controlling other hardware
components.
• Example: Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 9
• Functions:
• Arithmetic and logic operations: The CPU performs basic arithmetic
operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
• Control unit: It directs the flow of data between the CPU, memory, and
input/output devices.
• Memory Registers: A register is a temporary unit of memory in the CPU to
temporarily hold some data during processing.
Output Devices Overview
• Output devices display or present data processed by the computer.
• These devices convert digital data into a Human Understandable format.
• Examples: Monitor, Printer, Speakers, Projector. Monitor(most common
form of output .The screen on monitor is made up of thousands of tiny
coloured dots called pixel), Projector, Printer, Plotter, Speaker,and
Headphone.
• Monitor: displays the graphical user interface and other visual outputs.
• Common types: LCD, LED, OLED displays.
• Screen resolution and refresh rate determine visual quality.
• Printer: creates a hard copy of digital documents and images.
• Types include: Inkjet, Laser, and Dot Matrix printers.
• Used for documents, photographs, and high-quality prints.
9
Output Devices Examples
Storage Devices
• Computer memory is the hardware that stores data and instructions for
processing by the computer’s CPU.
• It is essential for the performance and functionality of a computer
system.
• Memory is classified into two main types: primary memory (volatile)
and secondary memory (non-volatile). Let's break down each type in
detail, along with examples.
• Storage devices hold data permanently or temporarily.
• Primary storage: RAM (volatile) and ROM (non-volatile).
• Secondary storage: Hard Drives, SSDs, USB drives, and Cloud Storage.
11
1. Primary Memory (Volatile Memory)
• Primary memory refers to the computer's main memory, where data
is temporarily stored for quick access by the CPU while the computer
is running. It is volatile, meaning it loses its data when the power is
turned off.
• Types of Primary Memory:
a. Random Access Memory (RAM)
b. Cache Memory
c. Registers
12
a. Random Access Memory (RAM)
• RAM is a temporary storage area that the CPU uses to store data and
programs that are currently in use. The more RAM a computer has, the
better it can handle multiple tasks at once.
• Example:
• DDR4 16GB RAM: Common in modern computers and laptops.
• Uses:
• Storing operating system data and running applications.
• Allows quick read and write access, which speeds up tasks like opening files and
switching between programs.
• Characteristics:
• Volatile memory, meaning data is lost when the computer is shut down.
• Fast access time compared to secondary memory.
13
b. Cache Memory
• Cache memory is a small, high-speed memory located inside or near
the CPU. It stores frequently accessed data and instructions to speed
up processing.
• Example:
• L1, L2, and L3 cache found in modern processors like Intel Core i7 or AMD
Ryzen.
• Uses:
• Holding data that the CPU uses repeatedly, reducing the need to access slower
main memory (RAM).
• Characteristics:
• Extremely fast but small in size.
• Volatile memory that stores data temporarily.
14
c. Registers
• Registers are small, fast storage locations inside the CPU that hold
data and instructions that the CPU is currently processing.
• Example:
• Program counter, accumulator, instruction register in the CPU.
• Uses:
• Holding intermediate data during calculations and executing instructions.
• Characteristics:
• The fastest memory in a computer.
• Directly accessed by the CPU for immediate execution.
15
2. Secondary Memory (Non-Volatile Memory)
• Secondary memory provides long-term data storage and is non-
volatile, meaning data is retained even when the computer is
powered off. It is slower than primary memory but can store much
larger amounts of data.
• Types of Secondary Memory:
a) Punch Card
b) Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
c) Floppy Disk
d) Solid State Drive (SSD)
e) Optical Discs
f) USB Flash Drive
g) Memory Cards
a. Punch Card
• A punched card, punch card, IBM card, or Hollerith card is a piece of
stiff paper that contains digital information represented by the
presence or absence of holes in predefined positions.
17
b. Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
• HDDs are traditional mechanical storage devices that store data on
spinning magnetic platters.
• Example:
• Western Digital 1TB HDD
• Uses:
• Storing operating systems, applications, files, and media.
• Ideal for large amounts of data like photos, videos, and backups.
• Characteristics:
• Non-volatile, data is retained even when power is off.
• Slower compared to SSDs but cheaper for large storage capacities.
©
2001
Paradigm Publishing Inc
.
18
Hard Disk Storage
Sealed Metal Housing
The housing protects the internal
components from dust particles that could
block the gap between the read/write heads
and the platters, causing the hard drive to
crash
.
Drive Spindle
The drive spindle is connected to a
motor which spins one or more
magnetically coated platters at several
thousand revolutions per minute. More
platters mean greater disk storage
capacity
.
Head Actuator
This component moves the
collection of read/write heads
across the surface of the platters
with extreme accuracy. It aligns
the heads with the tracks that
lie in concentric circles
on the platters
.
Read/Write Head
These read/write heads move in
unison across the surfaces of the
platters. The heads write data to
the platters by aligning magnetic
particles on the surface and read
data by detecting the polarity of
the particles
.
Sector
When formatting the hard drive, the
computer divides the disk into radial
sections called sectors
.
Track
Circular and concentric paths
the read/write heads follow
when reading information from
the disk
.
c. Floppy Disk
• It is external to a computer and can be put into a floppy disk drive
(FDD) attached to a computer for reading and writing information.
• It also uses electro magnetic theory to store information. .
Standard capacity : 1.44 MB
• Types:
1. 5¼ inch >> 1.25MB
2. 3½ inch >>1.44MB
20
d. Solid State Drive (SSD)
• SSDs are flash memory-based storage devices that have no moving parts,
making them faster and more reliable than HDDs.
• Example:
• Samsung 970 EVO 500GB SSD
• Uses:
• Storing the operating system and frequently used applications for faster
performance.
• Used in modern laptops, desktops, and servers for improved speed and reliability.
• Characteristics:
• Non-volatile memory.
• Faster read/write speeds compared to HDDs.
• More expensive per GB of storage.
21
e. Optical Discs
• Optical discs use laser technology to read and write data on discs such
as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs.
• Example:
• DVD (4.7GB), Blu-ray Disc (25GB)
• Uses:
• Media storage, software distribution, and backup of files.
• Characteristics:
• Non-volatile.
• Limited storage capacity compared to modern storage technologies.
22
f. USB Flash Drive
• USB flash drives are portable storage devices that use flash memory.
They are small, durable, and can be easily connected via USB ports.
• Example:
• SanDisk 64GB USB Flash Drive
• Uses:
• Transferring files between computers and providing portable storage.
• Characteristics:
• Non-volatile memory.
• Limited storage compared to HDDs and SSDs but highly portable.
23
g. Memory Cards
• Memory cards are small, portable storage devices commonly used in
mobile phones, cameras, and tablets.
• Example:
• MicroSD Card 128GB
• Uses:
• Storing media files such as photos, videos, and music.
• Characteristics:
• Non-volatile memory.
• Small and portable with moderate storage capacity.
24
3. Tertiary and Offline Memory
• Tertiary memory is used for backup and archiving purposes, and is
often slower than secondary memory. Offline memory refers to
storage media that can be physically removed from the system.
• a. Magnetic Tape
• b. Cloud Storage
25
a. Magnetic Tape
• Magnetic tape is used for long-term archival storage, particularly in
large data centers and institutions where data longevity is more
important than access speed.
• Example:
• LTO-8 tape drive (30TB per tape)
• Uses:
• Backup and archival storage.
• Characteristics:
• Very high storage capacity.
• Slow read/write times but highly reliable for long-term storage.
26
b. Cloud Storage
• Cloud storage refers to storing data on remote servers that can be
accessed over the internet. Data is stored in data centers managed by
service providers.
• Example:
• Google Drive, Dropbox, Amazon S3
• Uses:
• Storing files and data online, accessible from anywhere with an internet
connection.
• Ideal for backups, collaboration, and file sharing.
• Characteristics:
• Non-volatile.
27
4. Virtual Memory
• Virtual memory is not a separate type of physical memory but an
extension of RAM. It allows the computer to compensate for a shortage
of RAM by using a portion of the hard drive or SSD as an extension.
• Example:
• Paging file (Windows), Swap partition (Linux)
• Uses:
• Enables a system to run more applications than the available RAM would
typically allow.
• Characteristics:
• Slower than physical RAM, as it uses disk storage.
• Helps improve multitasking when RAM is fully utilized.
28
Summary of Memory Types
Memory Type Volatility Speed Capacity Example
RAM Volatile Very fast
Medium (4GB-
32GB)
16GB DDR4
Cache Memory Volatile Extremely fast Very small (<10MB) L1, L2, L3 cache
Registers Volatile Fastest Small (<1MB)
CPU registers
(accumulator, etc.)
HDD Non-volatile Slow Large (500GB-4TB)
1TB Western Digital
HDD
SSD Non-volatile Very fast Medium (250GB-
2TB)
Samsung 970 EVO
SSD
USB Flash Drive Non-volatile Moderate Small (16GB-256GB) SanDisk 64GB USB
Optical Discs
(CD/DVD)
Non-volatile Slow Small (700MB-
25GB)
DVD, Blu-ray
Magnetic Tape Non-volatile Very slow Very large (30TB+) LTO-8 tape drive
29
Other Important HW Devices
• Motherboard
• Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
• Cooling System
• Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Expansion Cards
• Case (Chassis)
Motherboard
• The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the
hardware components together. It allows communication between
the CPU, memory, storage, and other peripheral devices.
• Example: ASUS ROG Strix, MSI MPG Z490
• Functions:
• Houses the CPU, RAM, and expansion cards.
• Provides connectors for other peripherals like storage devices, graphics cards,
and input devices.
Major Components of a Motherboard
SIMM RAM Bank
Single Inline Memory Module
stores data to be used by the
microprocessor
.
ROM BIOS
Basic Input/Output System
stores permanent instructions
that start the computer
.
Power Connector
Supplies power to the
motherboard
.
16
Bit ISA Slots
Allows expansion of computer
through modem, sound and
video cards
.
32
Bit PCI Slots
Allows expansion cards that
can transfer data faster than
ISA slots
.
Battery
Provides power
for the system
clock
.
Cache RAM
Stores and retrieves information
for the microprocessor at a faster
rate than SIMM RAM so
instructions can be executed faster
.
Microprocessor
Single integrated circuit that
executes the majority
of the instructions
to process
data
.
32
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• The PSU converts electricity from the wall outlet into a usable form
for the computer. It provides the necessary power to all the
components inside the computer.
• Example: Corsair RM850x, EVGA 600 W1
• Functions:
• Regulates voltage to prevent damage to components.
• Distributes power to the CPU, motherboard, and other hardware
components.
33
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
• The GPU is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations.
It offloads graphical tasks from the CPU, improving performance in
tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering.
• Example: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, AMD Radeon RX 6800
• Functions:
• Handles complex graphical computations, especially in gaming and design
software.
• Speeds up tasks like video encoding and machine learning in certain
applications.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
35
Cooling System
• Cooling components prevent the computer from overheating by
dissipating the heat generated by the CPU, GPU, and other
components.
• Example: Cooler Master Hyper 212, Corsair H100i liquid cooler
• Functions:
• Fans: Move air through the system to cool components.
• Heat Sinks: Absorb and dissipate heat from high-temperature components
like the CPU and GPU.
36
Network Interface Card (NIC)
• The NIC enables a computer to connect to a network and
communicate with other devices over the internet or a local network.
• Example: TP-Link AC1300 PCIe WiFi Card
• Functions:
• Facilitates wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi) communication.
• Provides access to shared resources like printers and files on a network.
37
Expansion Cards
• Expansion cards are additional components installed in the
motherboard to enhance the computer's capabilities.
• Examples:
• Sound card: Improves audio quality and allows for advanced audio output.
• Capture card: Captures and records video from external sources.
• Functions:
• Adds specialized functionality like high-quality audio or video processing.
38
Case (Chassis)
• The case houses all the internal hardware components and provides
protection, airflow, and organization.
• Example: NZXT H510, Fractal Design Meshify C
• Functions:
• Protects components from dust and physical damage.
• Provides space for proper ventilation and cooling.
Conclusion
• Computer hardware is the foundation of a computing system.
• Understanding each component is key to understanding how
computers function.
• Hardware and software work together to create a functional system.

More Related Content

PPT
Computer Introduction-Lecture02
PPT
Computer hardware and its components
PPTX
Computer Hardware And Configuration
PPT
Cisco task 1 power point
PPT
Cisco task 1 power point
PDF
CHAPTER 1pucnotessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.pdf
PPTX
Computer_Hardware_Maintenance_from_computerpptx
PPTX
Computer_Hardware_Maintenance_prepared for hard skill .pptx
Computer Introduction-Lecture02
Computer hardware and its components
Computer Hardware And Configuration
Cisco task 1 power point
Cisco task 1 power point
CHAPTER 1pucnotessssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssssss.pdf
Computer_Hardware_Maintenance_from_computerpptx
Computer_Hardware_Maintenance_prepared for hard skill .pptx

Similar to Computer Introduction (Hardware)-Lecture02 (20)

PPTX
Physical Components of computer,Computer Hardware.pptx
PPTX
Hsslive-xi-ch-2-computer-app-slide-shahija.pptx
PPTX
CHAPTER-8 COMPONENTS OF COMPUTER SYSTEM CLASS 9 CBSE
PPTX
Basic Computer skill-P1.pptx
PDF
Lecture 2_006ce463f6b1f768ce13b30d3bca6eea.pdf
PDF
Chapter 2 Hardware and Software
PPTX
ch1notes IP.pptx
PPTX
MODULE 2.pptx
PPT
Computer Organization
PPT
Computer Organization
PDF
Basic hardware familiarization
PPT
Computerpartsppt3197
PPTX
Chapter 2.pptx
PDF
PC techniques software and Hardware
PPTX
Chapter 4 Unit1Computer system organization.pptx
PPT
Basic hardware concept
PPTX
Upes ppt template
PPTX
Fundamentals of Computers and Operating System(OS)
PPTX
ICT, Basic of Computer, Hardware, Various parts of computer hardware, What is...
PPTX
Computer hardware
Physical Components of computer,Computer Hardware.pptx
Hsslive-xi-ch-2-computer-app-slide-shahija.pptx
CHAPTER-8 COMPONENTS OF COMPUTER SYSTEM CLASS 9 CBSE
Basic Computer skill-P1.pptx
Lecture 2_006ce463f6b1f768ce13b30d3bca6eea.pdf
Chapter 2 Hardware and Software
ch1notes IP.pptx
MODULE 2.pptx
Computer Organization
Computer Organization
Basic hardware familiarization
Computerpartsppt3197
Chapter 2.pptx
PC techniques software and Hardware
Chapter 4 Unit1Computer system organization.pptx
Basic hardware concept
Upes ppt template
Fundamentals of Computers and Operating System(OS)
ICT, Basic of Computer, Hardware, Various parts of computer hardware, What is...
Computer hardware
Ad

More from Dr. Mazin Mohamed alkathiri (20)

PPTX
Computer Introduction (Operating Systems)-Lecture06
PPTX
Mobile Application Development (local database) class-07
PPTX
Mobile Application Development (Shared Preferences) class-06
PPTX
Mobile Application Development((Handling User Input and Navigation) class-05
PPTX
Computer Introduction (Data Encryption)-Lecture05
PPTX
Computer Introduction (Computer Viruses )-Lecture04
PPTX
Mobile Applications Development class 04-Layout-04
DOCX
Appendix to Lecture 3 Building a flutter app
PPTX
Mobile Applications Development class 03-starting with flutter
PPTX
Mobile Applications Development class 02 ntroduction to Drat
PPTX
Computer Introduction (Software)-Lecture03
PPTX
Computer Introduction (introduction)-Lecture01
PPTX
Introduction to Academic Writing class 0-1
PPTX
Mobile Applications Development class 01 - Introduction
PPT
OS-operating systems- ch05 (CPU Scheduling) ...
PPTX
ESSENTIAL of (CS/IT/IS) class 07 (Networks)
PPTX
Advance Mobile Application Development class 07
PPTX
ESSENTIAL of (CS/IT/IS) class 06 (database)
PPT
OS-operating systems- ch04 (Threads) ...
PPTX
Advance Mobile Application Development class 05
Computer Introduction (Operating Systems)-Lecture06
Mobile Application Development (local database) class-07
Mobile Application Development (Shared Preferences) class-06
Mobile Application Development((Handling User Input and Navigation) class-05
Computer Introduction (Data Encryption)-Lecture05
Computer Introduction (Computer Viruses )-Lecture04
Mobile Applications Development class 04-Layout-04
Appendix to Lecture 3 Building a flutter app
Mobile Applications Development class 03-starting with flutter
Mobile Applications Development class 02 ntroduction to Drat
Computer Introduction (Software)-Lecture03
Computer Introduction (introduction)-Lecture01
Introduction to Academic Writing class 0-1
Mobile Applications Development class 01 - Introduction
OS-operating systems- ch05 (CPU Scheduling) ...
ESSENTIAL of (CS/IT/IS) class 07 (Networks)
Advance Mobile Application Development class 07
ESSENTIAL of (CS/IT/IS) class 06 (database)
OS-operating systems- ch04 (Threads) ...
Advance Mobile Application Development class 05
Ad

Recently uploaded (20)

PPTX
Institutional Correction lecture only . . .
PDF
The Lost Whites of Pakistan by Jahanzaib Mughal.pdf
PDF
2.FourierTransform-ShortQuestionswithAnswers.pdf
PDF
Black Hat USA 2025 - Micro ICS Summit - ICS/OT Threat Landscape
PDF
VCE English Exam - Section C Student Revision Booklet
PPTX
Lesson notes of climatology university.
PPTX
PPH.pptx obstetrics and gynecology in nursing
PPTX
GDM (1) (1).pptx small presentation for students
PDF
Abdominal Access Techniques with Prof. Dr. R K Mishra
PPTX
Introduction_to_Human_Anatomy_and_Physiology_for_B.Pharm.pptx
PPTX
BOWEL ELIMINATION FACTORS AFFECTING AND TYPES
PDF
ANTIBIOTICS.pptx.pdf………………… xxxxxxxxxxxxx
PDF
Anesthesia in Laparoscopic Surgery in India
PPTX
1st Inaugural Professorial Lecture held on 19th February 2020 (Governance and...
PDF
01-Introduction-to-Information-Management.pdf
PDF
BÀI TẬP BỔ TRỢ 4 KỸ NĂNG TIẾNG ANH 9 GLOBAL SUCCESS - CẢ NĂM - BÁM SÁT FORM Đ...
PDF
102 student loan defaulters named and shamed – Is someone you know on the list?
PPTX
Pharmacology of Heart Failure /Pharmacotherapy of CHF
PDF
Basic Mud Logging Guide for educational purpose
PPTX
school management -TNTEU- B.Ed., Semester II Unit 1.pptx
Institutional Correction lecture only . . .
The Lost Whites of Pakistan by Jahanzaib Mughal.pdf
2.FourierTransform-ShortQuestionswithAnswers.pdf
Black Hat USA 2025 - Micro ICS Summit - ICS/OT Threat Landscape
VCE English Exam - Section C Student Revision Booklet
Lesson notes of climatology university.
PPH.pptx obstetrics and gynecology in nursing
GDM (1) (1).pptx small presentation for students
Abdominal Access Techniques with Prof. Dr. R K Mishra
Introduction_to_Human_Anatomy_and_Physiology_for_B.Pharm.pptx
BOWEL ELIMINATION FACTORS AFFECTING AND TYPES
ANTIBIOTICS.pptx.pdf………………… xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Anesthesia in Laparoscopic Surgery in India
1st Inaugural Professorial Lecture held on 19th February 2020 (Governance and...
01-Introduction-to-Information-Management.pdf
BÀI TẬP BỔ TRỢ 4 KỸ NĂNG TIẾNG ANH 9 GLOBAL SUCCESS - CẢ NĂM - BÁM SÁT FORM Đ...
102 student loan defaulters named and shamed – Is someone you know on the list?
Pharmacology of Heart Failure /Pharmacotherapy of CHF
Basic Mud Logging Guide for educational purpose
school management -TNTEU- B.Ed., Semester II Unit 1.pptx

Computer Introduction (Hardware)-Lecture02

  • 1. 1 Lecture No.2: Introduction to Computer Hardware Lecturer: Dr. Mazin Alkathiri Department of Information Technology , College of Computers Seiyun University September , 2024
  • 2. ( ‫الماديات‬ Hardware ) 1 - ( ‫البرمجيات‬ Software ) 2 - ‫الماديــــات‬ Hardware : The term hardware refers to the physical components of your computer such as, the electronic & Metallic parts electric cables … etc. 1. Input Unit Devices. 2. Processing Unit . 3. Output Unit. Components Of A Computer ? Computer divided to two main parts:
  • 3. Introduction to Computer Hardware • Computer hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system. • Hardware components work together to execute software instructions. • They are essential for input, output, processing, and storage of data. The basic Hardware Components • Input Devices • Output Devices • Storage Devices • Processing Devices • Communication Devices • Motherboard and Power Supply
  • 5. Input Devices Overview • Input devices allow users to provide data to the computer. • Input devices convert human actions into machine-readable signals. • Examples: Mouse, Keyboard, Microphone, Joy-stick, OMR, MICR, Light Pen, Scanner, Camera. • Keyboard: used to input text and commands into the computer. • Includes letter keys, numeric keys, function keys, and control keys. • Common types: Mechanical, Membrane, Wireless Keyboards. • Mouse: a pointing device used to control the cursor on the screen. • Optical and Laser Mouse are common types. • It typically has two buttons and a scroll wheel for interaction.
  • 7. Central Processing Unit (CPU) • The CPU, often called the "brain" of the computer, is responsible for executing instructions from programs and controlling other hardware components. • Example: Intel Core i7, AMD Ryzen 9 • Functions: • Arithmetic and logic operations: The CPU performs basic arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. • Control unit: It directs the flow of data between the CPU, memory, and input/output devices. • Memory Registers: A register is a temporary unit of memory in the CPU to temporarily hold some data during processing.
  • 8. Output Devices Overview • Output devices display or present data processed by the computer. • These devices convert digital data into a Human Understandable format. • Examples: Monitor, Printer, Speakers, Projector. Monitor(most common form of output .The screen on monitor is made up of thousands of tiny coloured dots called pixel), Projector, Printer, Plotter, Speaker,and Headphone. • Monitor: displays the graphical user interface and other visual outputs. • Common types: LCD, LED, OLED displays. • Screen resolution and refresh rate determine visual quality. • Printer: creates a hard copy of digital documents and images. • Types include: Inkjet, Laser, and Dot Matrix printers. • Used for documents, photographs, and high-quality prints.
  • 10. Storage Devices • Computer memory is the hardware that stores data and instructions for processing by the computer’s CPU. • It is essential for the performance and functionality of a computer system. • Memory is classified into two main types: primary memory (volatile) and secondary memory (non-volatile). Let's break down each type in detail, along with examples. • Storage devices hold data permanently or temporarily. • Primary storage: RAM (volatile) and ROM (non-volatile). • Secondary storage: Hard Drives, SSDs, USB drives, and Cloud Storage.
  • 11. 11 1. Primary Memory (Volatile Memory) • Primary memory refers to the computer's main memory, where data is temporarily stored for quick access by the CPU while the computer is running. It is volatile, meaning it loses its data when the power is turned off. • Types of Primary Memory: a. Random Access Memory (RAM) b. Cache Memory c. Registers
  • 12. 12 a. Random Access Memory (RAM) • RAM is a temporary storage area that the CPU uses to store data and programs that are currently in use. The more RAM a computer has, the better it can handle multiple tasks at once. • Example: • DDR4 16GB RAM: Common in modern computers and laptops. • Uses: • Storing operating system data and running applications. • Allows quick read and write access, which speeds up tasks like opening files and switching between programs. • Characteristics: • Volatile memory, meaning data is lost when the computer is shut down. • Fast access time compared to secondary memory.
  • 13. 13 b. Cache Memory • Cache memory is a small, high-speed memory located inside or near the CPU. It stores frequently accessed data and instructions to speed up processing. • Example: • L1, L2, and L3 cache found in modern processors like Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen. • Uses: • Holding data that the CPU uses repeatedly, reducing the need to access slower main memory (RAM). • Characteristics: • Extremely fast but small in size. • Volatile memory that stores data temporarily.
  • 14. 14 c. Registers • Registers are small, fast storage locations inside the CPU that hold data and instructions that the CPU is currently processing. • Example: • Program counter, accumulator, instruction register in the CPU. • Uses: • Holding intermediate data during calculations and executing instructions. • Characteristics: • The fastest memory in a computer. • Directly accessed by the CPU for immediate execution.
  • 15. 15 2. Secondary Memory (Non-Volatile Memory) • Secondary memory provides long-term data storage and is non- volatile, meaning data is retained even when the computer is powered off. It is slower than primary memory but can store much larger amounts of data. • Types of Secondary Memory: a) Punch Card b) Hard Disk Drive (HDD) c) Floppy Disk d) Solid State Drive (SSD) e) Optical Discs f) USB Flash Drive g) Memory Cards
  • 16. a. Punch Card • A punched card, punch card, IBM card, or Hollerith card is a piece of stiff paper that contains digital information represented by the presence or absence of holes in predefined positions.
  • 17. 17 b. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) • HDDs are traditional mechanical storage devices that store data on spinning magnetic platters. • Example: • Western Digital 1TB HDD • Uses: • Storing operating systems, applications, files, and media. • Ideal for large amounts of data like photos, videos, and backups. • Characteristics: • Non-volatile, data is retained even when power is off. • Slower compared to SSDs but cheaper for large storage capacities.
  • 18. © 2001 Paradigm Publishing Inc . 18 Hard Disk Storage Sealed Metal Housing The housing protects the internal components from dust particles that could block the gap between the read/write heads and the platters, causing the hard drive to crash . Drive Spindle The drive spindle is connected to a motor which spins one or more magnetically coated platters at several thousand revolutions per minute. More platters mean greater disk storage capacity . Head Actuator This component moves the collection of read/write heads across the surface of the platters with extreme accuracy. It aligns the heads with the tracks that lie in concentric circles on the platters . Read/Write Head These read/write heads move in unison across the surfaces of the platters. The heads write data to the platters by aligning magnetic particles on the surface and read data by detecting the polarity of the particles . Sector When formatting the hard drive, the computer divides the disk into radial sections called sectors . Track Circular and concentric paths the read/write heads follow when reading information from the disk .
  • 19. c. Floppy Disk • It is external to a computer and can be put into a floppy disk drive (FDD) attached to a computer for reading and writing information. • It also uses electro magnetic theory to store information. . Standard capacity : 1.44 MB • Types: 1. 5¼ inch >> 1.25MB 2. 3½ inch >>1.44MB
  • 20. 20 d. Solid State Drive (SSD) • SSDs are flash memory-based storage devices that have no moving parts, making them faster and more reliable than HDDs. • Example: • Samsung 970 EVO 500GB SSD • Uses: • Storing the operating system and frequently used applications for faster performance. • Used in modern laptops, desktops, and servers for improved speed and reliability. • Characteristics: • Non-volatile memory. • Faster read/write speeds compared to HDDs. • More expensive per GB of storage.
  • 21. 21 e. Optical Discs • Optical discs use laser technology to read and write data on discs such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. • Example: • DVD (4.7GB), Blu-ray Disc (25GB) • Uses: • Media storage, software distribution, and backup of files. • Characteristics: • Non-volatile. • Limited storage capacity compared to modern storage technologies.
  • 22. 22 f. USB Flash Drive • USB flash drives are portable storage devices that use flash memory. They are small, durable, and can be easily connected via USB ports. • Example: • SanDisk 64GB USB Flash Drive • Uses: • Transferring files between computers and providing portable storage. • Characteristics: • Non-volatile memory. • Limited storage compared to HDDs and SSDs but highly portable.
  • 23. 23 g. Memory Cards • Memory cards are small, portable storage devices commonly used in mobile phones, cameras, and tablets. • Example: • MicroSD Card 128GB • Uses: • Storing media files such as photos, videos, and music. • Characteristics: • Non-volatile memory. • Small and portable with moderate storage capacity.
  • 24. 24 3. Tertiary and Offline Memory • Tertiary memory is used for backup and archiving purposes, and is often slower than secondary memory. Offline memory refers to storage media that can be physically removed from the system. • a. Magnetic Tape • b. Cloud Storage
  • 25. 25 a. Magnetic Tape • Magnetic tape is used for long-term archival storage, particularly in large data centers and institutions where data longevity is more important than access speed. • Example: • LTO-8 tape drive (30TB per tape) • Uses: • Backup and archival storage. • Characteristics: • Very high storage capacity. • Slow read/write times but highly reliable for long-term storage.
  • 26. 26 b. Cloud Storage • Cloud storage refers to storing data on remote servers that can be accessed over the internet. Data is stored in data centers managed by service providers. • Example: • Google Drive, Dropbox, Amazon S3 • Uses: • Storing files and data online, accessible from anywhere with an internet connection. • Ideal for backups, collaboration, and file sharing. • Characteristics: • Non-volatile.
  • 27. 27 4. Virtual Memory • Virtual memory is not a separate type of physical memory but an extension of RAM. It allows the computer to compensate for a shortage of RAM by using a portion of the hard drive or SSD as an extension. • Example: • Paging file (Windows), Swap partition (Linux) • Uses: • Enables a system to run more applications than the available RAM would typically allow. • Characteristics: • Slower than physical RAM, as it uses disk storage. • Helps improve multitasking when RAM is fully utilized.
  • 28. 28 Summary of Memory Types Memory Type Volatility Speed Capacity Example RAM Volatile Very fast Medium (4GB- 32GB) 16GB DDR4 Cache Memory Volatile Extremely fast Very small (<10MB) L1, L2, L3 cache Registers Volatile Fastest Small (<1MB) CPU registers (accumulator, etc.) HDD Non-volatile Slow Large (500GB-4TB) 1TB Western Digital HDD SSD Non-volatile Very fast Medium (250GB- 2TB) Samsung 970 EVO SSD USB Flash Drive Non-volatile Moderate Small (16GB-256GB) SanDisk 64GB USB Optical Discs (CD/DVD) Non-volatile Slow Small (700MB- 25GB) DVD, Blu-ray Magnetic Tape Non-volatile Very slow Very large (30TB+) LTO-8 tape drive
  • 29. 29 Other Important HW Devices • Motherboard • Power Supply Unit (PSU) • Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) • Cooling System • Network Interface Card (NIC) • Expansion Cards • Case (Chassis)
  • 30. Motherboard • The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the hardware components together. It allows communication between the CPU, memory, storage, and other peripheral devices. • Example: ASUS ROG Strix, MSI MPG Z490 • Functions: • Houses the CPU, RAM, and expansion cards. • Provides connectors for other peripherals like storage devices, graphics cards, and input devices.
  • 31. Major Components of a Motherboard SIMM RAM Bank Single Inline Memory Module stores data to be used by the microprocessor . ROM BIOS Basic Input/Output System stores permanent instructions that start the computer . Power Connector Supplies power to the motherboard . 16 Bit ISA Slots Allows expansion of computer through modem, sound and video cards . 32 Bit PCI Slots Allows expansion cards that can transfer data faster than ISA slots . Battery Provides power for the system clock . Cache RAM Stores and retrieves information for the microprocessor at a faster rate than SIMM RAM so instructions can be executed faster . Microprocessor Single integrated circuit that executes the majority of the instructions to process data .
  • 32. 32 Power Supply Unit (PSU) • The PSU converts electricity from the wall outlet into a usable form for the computer. It provides the necessary power to all the components inside the computer. • Example: Corsair RM850x, EVGA 600 W1 • Functions: • Regulates voltage to prevent damage to components. • Distributes power to the CPU, motherboard, and other hardware components.
  • 33. 33 Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) • The GPU is responsible for rendering images, videos, and animations. It offloads graphical tasks from the CPU, improving performance in tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. • Example: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, AMD Radeon RX 6800 • Functions: • Handles complex graphical computations, especially in gaming and design software. • Speeds up tasks like video encoding and machine learning in certain applications.
  • 35. 35 Cooling System • Cooling components prevent the computer from overheating by dissipating the heat generated by the CPU, GPU, and other components. • Example: Cooler Master Hyper 212, Corsair H100i liquid cooler • Functions: • Fans: Move air through the system to cool components. • Heat Sinks: Absorb and dissipate heat from high-temperature components like the CPU and GPU.
  • 36. 36 Network Interface Card (NIC) • The NIC enables a computer to connect to a network and communicate with other devices over the internet or a local network. • Example: TP-Link AC1300 PCIe WiFi Card • Functions: • Facilitates wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi) communication. • Provides access to shared resources like printers and files on a network.
  • 37. 37 Expansion Cards • Expansion cards are additional components installed in the motherboard to enhance the computer's capabilities. • Examples: • Sound card: Improves audio quality and allows for advanced audio output. • Capture card: Captures and records video from external sources. • Functions: • Adds specialized functionality like high-quality audio or video processing.
  • 38. 38 Case (Chassis) • The case houses all the internal hardware components and provides protection, airflow, and organization. • Example: NZXT H510, Fractal Design Meshify C • Functions: • Protects components from dust and physical damage. • Provides space for proper ventilation and cooling.
  • 39. Conclusion • Computer hardware is the foundation of a computing system. • Understanding each component is key to understanding how computers function. • Hardware and software work together to create a functional system.