Computers
Computers are very useful in tech industry. You can use a computer to collect, store and process data. The purpose of a computer is to run software.With software, you can perform computations or search for data and make decisions or you can create content to be published on the Internet.
Computers are an essential part of civilization. They are used in almost every aspect of our lives, from the way we learn and work to the way we play and communicate. As technology continues to advance, computers will become even more powerful, smarter and more versatile.
You can buy a computer or you can build your own computer. Some computer stores allow you to select the components and will assable the computer for you for a small fee. Computers come in many shapes and sizes. Some common types of computers include: Personal computers (PCs), Laptops, Tablets, Smartphones, Smart TV, or Servers.
Compoenents
Is very important to understand the internals of a computer, especially if you want to build your own. Knowing how to chose components of a computer will make your computer more or les useful and more or less expensive. Also you can talk with specialists the same language to order components that match together and avoid overspending on the wrong parts.
Computer Parts
| Component | Description |
|---|---|
| CPU | The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer. It is responsible for carrying out instructions from software programs. |
| RAM | Random access memory (RAM) is used to store data that the CPU is currently working on. It is a volatile memory, meaning that the data is lost when the computer is turned off. |
| Storage | Storage is used to store data that is not currently being used by the CPU. It can be a hard drive, solid-state drive, or optical drive. |
| Graphics card | The graphics card is responsible for processing graphics. It is important for gaming and other tasks that require high-quality graphics. |
| Power supply | The power supply provides power to the other components in the computer. It is important to choose a power supply that can provide enough power for your computer's needs. |
| Motherboard | The motherboard is the main circuit board in the computer. It connects all of the other components together. |
| Case | The case is the enclosure that houses all of the other components in the computer. It protects the components from dust and damage. |
Processors
The central processing unit (CPU) is the brain of a computer. It is responsible for carrying out instructions from software programs. The speed and power of a CPU can have a significant impact on the performance of a computer.
Generic CPU immage
There are two main types of CPUs: Intel and AMD. Intel is the market leader, but AMD offers competitive pricing and performance. When choosing a CPU, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of work you will be doing on your computer. If you will be doing tasks that require a lot of processing power, such as gaming or video editing, you will need a more powerful CPU.
- The budget you have available. CPUs can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars.
- The other components in your computer. If you have a high-end graphics card, you will need a CPU that can keep up with it.
If you are not sure which CPU is right for you, it is a good idea to consult with a computer expert. They can help you choose the right CPU for your needs and budget. In next table we redirect you to homepage for several brands. Visit these pages to get yourself familiar with news about microprocesors.
| Link | Description |
|---|---|
| Intel | Intel is the world's largest semiconductor chipmaker and a major player in the processor market. Their processors are known for their high performance and power efficiency. |
| AMD | AMD is Intel's main competitor in the processor market. Their processors are known for their competitive pricing and strong performance in multi-threaded applications. |
| Apple | Apple uses their own custom-designed processors in their Mac computers. These processors are based on the ARM architecture, which is known for its energy efficiency. |
| Qualcomm | Qualcomm is a major chipmaker that specializes in mobile processors. Their processors are used in many Android smartphones and tablets. |
| MediaTek | MediaTek is another major chipmaker that specializes in mobile processors. Their processors are used in many budget-friendly smartphones and tablets. |
What is RAM?
Random access memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that stores data that the computer is currently using. It is a volatile memory, meaning that the data is lost when the computer is turned off.
RAM Memory Chipset
RAM is important for computer performance because it allows the computer to access data quickly. The more RAM a computer has, the more data it can store and access quickly.
Memory RAM has become faster and capacity is increasing every year. A modern computer require at least 4GB RAM. Here is a table of the different generations of RAM with a short description of each:
| Generation | Description |
|---|---|
| DDR | Double Data Rate, the first generation of DDR RAM. It doubled the data transfer rate of SDRAM by transferring data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. |
| DDR2 | Double Data Rate 2, the second generation of DDR RAM. It doubled the data transfer rate of DDR RAM by transferring data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. |
| DDR3 | Double Data Rate 3, the third generation of DDR RAM. It doubled the data transfer rate of DDR2 RAM by transferring data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. |
| DDR4 | Double Data Rate 4, the fourth generation of DDR RAM. It doubled the data transfer rate of DDR3 RAM by transferring data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. |
| DDR5 | Double Data Rate 5, the fifth generation of DDR RAM. It doubled the data transfer rate of DDR4 RAM by transferring data on both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. |
When choosing RAM, it is important to consider the following factors:
- The type of motherboard you have. Each motherboard has a specific type of RAM that it supports.
- The type of processor you have. Each processor has a specific speed of RAM that it supports.
- The amount of RAM you need. The amount of RAM you need will depend on the type of work you will be doing on your computer.
- The speed of RAM you need. The speed of RAM will affect the overall performance of your computer.
You can find the information about the type of RAM that your motherboard and processor support in the motherboard's manual or on the manufacturer's website.
Once you know the type of RAM that your motherboard and processor support, you can start shopping for RAM. When shopping for RAM, it is important to make sure that the RAM is compatible with your motherboard and processor. You can find this information on the RAM's packaging or on the manufacturer's website.
If you are not sure which RAM is right for you, it is a good idea to consult with a computer expert. They can help you choose the right RAM for your needs and budget.
Motherboard
A motherboard is the main circuit board in a computer. It connects all of the other components in the computer together, such as the CPU, RAM, and storage devices. It is a large circuit board that looks like the one below:
Modern Motherboard
Motherboards are typically classified into generations, with each generation supporting a different set of processors and memory types. Also motherboards have different sizes. On a small motherboard there are fewer components.
Generations
Here is a table of the different motherboard generations with a short description of each:
| Generation | Description |
|---|---|
| ATX | The first generation of motherboard form factor. It is still widely used today. |
| MicroATX | A smaller version of the ATX form factor. It is often used in smaller cases. |
| Mini-ITX | The smallest version of the ATX form factor. It is often used in HTPCs and other small form factor computers. |
| EATX | A larger version of the ATX form factor. It is often used in high-end workstations and servers. |
| BTX | A discontinued form factor that was designed to improve airflow and cooling. |
The type of processor that a motherboard supports is determined by the motherboard's chipset. The chipset is a set of integrated circuits that control the communication between the CPU, RAM, and other components on the motherboard.
The type of memory that a motherboard supports is also determined by the chipset. The chipset will specify the maximum amount of memory that the motherboard can support, as well as the type of memory that it can support.
Manufacturer
Here is a table of some popular motherboard manufacturers with links to their websites:
| Manufacturer | Website |
|---|---|
| Asus | https://www.asus.com/ |
| Gigabyte | https://www.gigabyte.com/ |
| MSI | https://www.msi.com/ |
| Asrock | https://www.asrock.com/ |
| Biostar | https://www.biostar.com.tw/ |
Features
Here are some of the main features that are typically integrated on a modern motherboard:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| CPU socket | The CPU socket is the physical connection between the motherboard and the CPU. |
| RAM slots | The RAM slots are where the memory modules are installed. |
| Storage slots | The storage slots are where the storage devices, such as hard drives and SSDs, are installed. |
| Expansion slots | The expansion slots are where add-on cards, such as graphics cards and sound cards, are installed. |
| Chipset | The chipset is a set of integrated circuits that control the communication between the CPU, RAM, and other components on the motherboard. |
| BIOS | The BIOS is a firmware that is stored on the motherboard and that controls the basic functions of the computer. |
| Fast storage | Modern motherboards often have one or more M.2 slots for installing high-speed solid-state drives (SSDs). |
The type of storage that is supported by a motherboard is determined by the chipset. For example, some chipsets support SATA drives, while others support NVMe drives.
The main trend features in motherboards have evolved over time to support new technologies and improve performance. Some of the most notable trends include:
- The move to DDR4 memory
- The increasing popularity of M.2 slots
- The addition of more USB ports
- The support for newer processors
- The integration of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
As new technologies emerge, motherboards will continue to evolve to support them. This will ensure that computers remain up-to-date and offer the best possible performance.
Compatibility Issues
When choosing components for a new computer, it is important to make sure that they are compatible with each other. One of the most common compatibility issues is between RAM and processors.
RAM DDR5 is the latest generation of RAM, and it is not compatible with older processors. If you want to use RAM DDR5, you will need to make sure that your processor supports it.
Another common compatibility issue is between motherboards and processors. Each motherboard has a specific socket type that is compatible with a certain type of processor. If you have a motherboard with an older socket type, you will not be able to use a newer processor with it.
In addition to compatibility issues, there are other factors to consider when choosing components for a new computer. These factors include:
- The type of work you will be doing on the computer. If you will be doing tasks that require a lot of processing power, such as gaming or video editing, you will need a more powerful processor and more RAM.
- Your budget. Computers can range in price from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before you start shopping for components.
- The size of the computer. If you are limited on space, you may want to consider a smaller form factor computer.
- The operating system you want to use. Some operating systems, such as Windows 11, require specific hardware specifications.
It is important to do your research before you buy any components for a new computer. This will help you to make sure that you are getting the right components for your needs and budget.
Here are some additional tips for choosing components for a new computer:
- Read reviews of different components before you buy them. This will help you to get an idea of the performance and reliability of different products.
- Compare prices from different retailers before you make a purchase. You may be able to find the same component for a lower price from a different retailer.
- Consider buying used components. Used components can be a great way to save money on your new computer. However, it is important to make sure that the components are in good working condition before you buy them.
By following these tips, you can choose the right components for your new computer and avoid compatibility issues.
Peripherals
Typical Peripherals
Some peribherals are mandatory like display monitor, keyboard and mouse and some are optional like camera or printer. We will not explain all peripherals. You can find numerous reviews on YouTube or searching specific products on a web store like Amazon or Micro-Center Electronics. Here is a short description:
- Keyboards Keyboards allow you to enter text into your computer. There are many different types of keyboards available, including wired keyboards, wireless keyboards, and ergonomic keyboards.
- Mice Mice allow you to control the cursor on your computer screen. There are many different types of mice available, including wired mice, wireless mice, and gaming mice.
- Monitors Monitors allow you to see what is happening on your computer. There are many different types of monitors available, including LCD monitors, LED monitors, and OLED monitors.
- Printers Printers allow you to print documents, photos, and other types of files from your computer. There are many different types of printers available, including inkjet printers, laser printers, and 3D printers.
- Scanners Scanners allow you to scan documents, photos, and other types of objects into your computer. There are many different types of scanners available, including flatbed scanners, document scanners, and portable scanners.
- External hard drives External hard drives allow you to store additional data on your computer. They are a great way to back up your files or to store large amounts of data.
- Webcams Webcams allow you to video chat with other people or to record videos. They are often built into laptops, but they can also be purchased as separate peripherals.
- Speakers Speakers allow you to hear sound from your computer. There are many different types of speakers available, including wired speakers, wireless speakers, and surround sound speakers.
- CD/DVD Burners A CD burner is relative old but yet efficient external storage device useful to backup your data. In this course we will analyze later multiple CD media standards.
There are many different brands and models of computer peripherals available on the market. When choosing peripherals, it is important to consider the quality, features, and price of the products. You should also make sure that the peripherals are compatible with your computer.
Read next: Graphic Cards