RECAP NOTES Hardware Components of a Computer 1. CPU – The Brain of the Computer The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is often referred to as the brain of the computer. It carries out all the instructions of a computer program by performing basic arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output operations specified by the instructions. • Key Parts of CPU: • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Performs all arithmetic and logical operations. • CU (Control Unit): Directs the operation of the processor. • Registers: Small storage locations within the CPU used for quick data access. Do You Know? Modern CPUs can have multiple cores, allowing them to perform several tasks simultaneously. 2. Monitor and Screen Basics A monitor is an output device that displays information in visual form, using text and graphics. It is the main interface between the user and the computer. • Types of Monitors: • CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) • LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) • LED (Light Emitting Diodes) • OLED (Organic LED) • Screen Basics: • Resolution: Indicates the number of pixels on the screen (e.g., 1920x1080). • Refresh Rate: How often the screen updates per second (measured in Hz). Do You Know? OLED screens can display true black by turning off individual pixels. 3. Keyboard and Mouse Keyboard: An input device that allows the user to type data into the computer. It includes keys for letters, numbers, and functions. • Types of Keyboards: • Mechanical • Membrane • Virtual/On - Screen Mouse: A pointing device used to interact with items on the screen. It detects two - dimensional motion relative to a surface. • Types of Mouse: • Optical Mouse • Laser Mouse • Wireless Mouse Do You Know? The first computer mouse was made of wood and had only one button. 4. Input and Output Devices Input Devices: Allow users to enter data into a computer. These devices convert human actions into digital signals that the computer can understand • Examples: • Keyboard • Mouse • Scanner • Webcam • Microphone Output Devices: Display or output data from the computer. Output devices present information from a computer in a way a user can understand, like images, sounds, or text • Examples: • Monitor • Printer • Speakers • Projector Do You Know? Some devices, like touchscreens, function as both input and output devices. Conclusion Hardware components are the tangible parts of a computer system that enable input, processing, storage, and output. Understanding these components helps users make better choices when INTERVIEW QUESTIONS ON HARDWARE COMPONENTS 1. What is the CPU and what does it do? Answer: The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer. It processes instructions from programs and performs calculations and logical operations. It consists of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), Control Unit (CU), and registers. 2. What are the different types of input devices? Answer: Input devices are used to enter data into a computer. Examples include: • Keyboard • Mouse • Scanner • Microphone • Webcam • Joystick 3. What is the difference between input and output devices? Answer: • Input devices send data to the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse). • Output devices receive data from the computer and present it (e.g., monitor, printer, speakers). 4. What are the types of monitors? Answer: Common types include: • CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) • LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) • LED (Light Emitting Diodes) • OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diodes) 5. What is the function of RAM? Answer: RAM (Random Access Memory) is temporary memory that stores data and instructions that the CPU needs while performing tasks. It is volatile, meaning it is cleared when the computer is turned off. 6. What is the purpose of a motherboard? Answer: The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects and allows communication between all computer components, including CPU, RAM, storage devices, and peripherals. 7. Explain the role of the mouse in a computer system. Answer: The mouse is a pointing device used to interact with graphical elements on the screen. It allows users to select, open, move, and control objects in a GUI (Graphical User Interface). 8. What is screen resolution? Answer: Screen resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed on the screen horizontally and vertically (e.g., 1920x1080). Higher resolution means sharper and clearer images. 9. What are ports in computer hardware? Answer: Ports are physical connection interfaces on the computer used to connect external devices like USB drives, keyboards, monitors, and printers. 10. Can you name a device that functions as both input and output? Answer: Yes, a touchscreen is an example. It allows users to input data through touch and also displays output like a regular screen.