Understanding computer hardware

• Write a definition of hardware?


  hardware is physical components that makes a computer e.g. keyboard and mouse
• What is Central processing unit?

  The unit, which controls the actions of the computer and operates the data needed for certain tasks.
• What does CPU stand for?

  Central processing unit.
• What's the main purpose of a CPU?

  to manage all hardware activities require to receive information and data, using input data and output the results.
• What does RAM stand for?

  Randon access memory
• What does ROM stand for?

  Read only memory
• What’s the Purpose of RAM?

  To store your files and data and it’s arranged in thin sticks that inserts into your motherboard
• What Is a hard drive?

  Where data and files are stored
• What’s the purpose of graphics card?

  This calculates where to lead in assets
• Whats the purpose of a motherboard?

  To ensure that data land instructions can be transferred or stored where they are needed and locate when required
• What’s the purpose of ROM?

  To store data permanently and provide essential instructions
• Write a contrast between RAM and ROM?

  RAM is a volatile memory used for temporary storage when turned on. ROM is non volatile snd used for permanent storage when turned off
• What is a disadvantage of ROM?

  the data that’s stored cannot easily be modified or updated
• What is the benefit of ROM?

  it store data permanently, even when the computer is switched off, meaning that intact information stored in ROM remains intact
• Why does fault rise?

  Fault arises for a various reasons such as power surges, poor maintenance and accidental damage
• How can IT technicians and help desk staff identify hardware faults?


  IT technicians or help desk staff must log the use on a fault log sheet to identify the, user, machine, date, fault and symptoms.
• What can you do to investigate the fault?

  State the tools you have used to identify the fault, record the actions needed to resolve the issue, such as replaced hard disc and the product specification of any new software or hardware.
• Explain communication hardware?

  It transmits analogue or digital signal over wired or wireless channels.
• What are examples of communication hardware?

  Network Hub, Switch, router and hybrid network
• Explain network hub?

  It's the central connection point for all devices in the network and receives copies of all transmissions
• Explain the switch communication hardware?

  A device that receives transmissions, process them and forwards them onto the specific device.
• Explain the router of communication hardware?

  The router forwards transmissions between network as it needs to be linked to at least two networks such as local area network and LAN
• Explain copper wire connections?

  Twisted pair is a common cable, used in telephone systems
• What are the 2 types of connectivity?

  Wired and wireless
• In coopper wire connections, explain the pair of insulated wired?

  Insulated wires are twisted together to form a twisted cable
• What are the types of cable pairs in copper wire?

  Unshielded twisted pair and shielded twisted pair
• Explain the shielded twisted pair (STP)?

  The shielded twisted pair combines shielding and cancellation and wire twisting.
• Explain unshielded twisted pair?

  Unshielded twisted pair cable is also good for data transfer at low speeds and requires no grounding.
• Explain each twisted pair of the wire in copper wire connections?

  Each twisted pair is encased in metallic jacket and 4 pairs of wires are wrapped in another metallic jacket.
• Explan fibre cables?

  Optical fibres provide the fastest data delivery by cable, as each fibre isn't thicker, as the thinner the fibre, the better the signal. The signal is sent down a glass rod.
• Explain the direction for optical fibres?

  Optical fibre transmissions can only go one way
• Explain the purpose of power supply?

   to convert the power from the source into the correct format and voltage
• What is cloud storage?

  This a type of services provided, where your data is stored an data being backed up remotely by a specialist data centre.
• Explain the importance of cloud storage?

  If a person needs to gain access to their data or files, you connect to the cloud storage servers over a network. In general however, data centres charges a fee for managing the data on your permission. The data servers at the data centre use thousands of secondary storage devices such as hard disk drive and solid state drives to retain the data.
• Give the advantages of cloud storage?

  Can easily access files from anywhere with a network connection. Data backup can be automatic with hourly or daily back up runs.
• Explain the benefits of cloud storage when it comes to organisations?

  The company doesn't need to purchase expensive servers. The business doesn't have to hire local IT staff for managing data which can save time for businesses.