Unit-1 Introduction to PC Hardware

1.1 Introduction of PC and its basic terminology.(Hardware,Software,Firmware)

→Computer:The computer is a programmable electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data.
A computer is a machine that manipulates data according to a list of instructions.
→Hardware:The computer hardware refers to the physical components of the computer, such as
Keyboard,monitor, memory chips, and different drives like hard disk drive, floppy disk drive.zip drive, CD
ROM drive etc. (we can see the hardware and also physically touch it).
→Software:The term software refers to the set of instructions/programs that directs the hardware to perform
their particular task. (We can see and fill the software but like hardware we cannot touch it).
→Firmware:Firmware is low-level software often stored on electrically programmable memory
devices.Firmware is given its name because it is treated like hardware and run ("executed") by other software
programs. Firmware is a combination of software and hardware. Computer chips that have data or programs
recorded on them are firmware. These chips commonly include the following:
ROMs (read-only memory)
PROMs (programmable read-only memory)
EPROMs (erasable programmable read-only memory).

● PC Block Diagram.

● Types of Computer system:

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 Personal computer(micro computer)

● The computer used in the house or in the office is known as a personal computer (PC).
● Initially PC made by IBM, the biggest and oldest computer manufacturer in the world.
● Later on IBM -freely allows other manufacturers to copy their design, so that PCs become
more popular in a short time, for personal use and small business groups.
● This PC is also known as IBM clones.

● This PC has low cost and smaller size.

● It is useful for individuals without intermediate computer operators.
● Basically the PC is identified by its processor such as Intel x86, Advanced Micro Devices
(AMD), Zilog Z80, Motorola 6800 etc.
● The most common operating systems such as Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, UNIX, LINUX
etc. are used in PCs.
● It can be capable of connecting with other PCs on LAN.

Mainframe computer
● A Mainframe computer is a large, powerful computer that handles the processing for many
users simultaneously (up to several hundred users).
● Mainframe computers are sometimes called "big iron".
● It is a high-performance computer which require greater availability and security than personal
computer.

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 ● In the past it was basically associated with centralized rather than distributed computing.
● Users connect to the mainframe using terminals and submit their tasks for processing by the
mainframe.
● A terminal is a device that has a screen and keyboard for input and output.
● But it does not do its own processing (they are also called dumb terminals since they can’t
process
● data on their own).
● The processing power of the mainframe is time-shared between all of the users.
● They are used in situations where a company wants the processing power and information
storage in a centralized location.

Minicomputer

● A minicomputer is a multi-user computer that is less powerful than a mainframe.

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 ● This class of computers became available when large scale integrated circuits made it possible
to build a computer much cheaper than the existing mainframes.
● The minicomputer has been largely taken over by high-end microcomputer workstations
serving multiple users.

Workstation computer

● A workstation is a powerful, high-end microcomputer.

● They contain one or more microprocessor CPUs'.
● They may be used by a single-user for applications requiring more power than a typical PC.
● The term "workstation" also has an alternate meaning: In networking, any client
computer connected to the network that accesses server resources may be called a workstation.
● Such a network client workstation could be a personal computer or even a "workstation".
● The UNIX operating system has often been used as the workstation operating system.
● Among the most successful makers of this kind of workstation are Sun Microsystems,
Hewlett- Packard, DEC. and IBM.
Supercomputer

● A supercomputer is a mainframe computer that has been optimized for speed and processing
power.
● A supercomputer is typically used for applications that must handle very large databases
and/or do a great amount of computation.
● Most supercomputers are multiple computers that work parallel.

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 ● The "Blue Pacific". IBM's supercomputer, which was built to simulate the physics of a nuclear
explosion.
● It is operated at 3.9 trillion operations per second.
● 15,000 times faster than the average PC.
● It consists of 5,800 processors containing a total of 2.6 trillion bytes of memory.

1.2 List and identify components of a PC and specify its importance.

Most of PC configuration consists of following main part:
Microprocessor: CPU
● The microprocessor is a single integrated circuit(IC) which contains sophisticated circuitry
that allows it to perform simple arithmetic calculations to more complex program
controlling.
● Two main parts of the microprocessor are the bus interface unit and the execution unit.
● The bus interface unit does data transfer to all the circuits on the system.
● The execution unit is the part that actually carries out the instruction.
Power supply
● The power supply is generally located in the right corner of the desktop PC.
● It converts the AC power to DC and creates the various voltages needed to power your
computer’s devices.
● The power supply has several important things like input voltage, frequency, output voltage etc.
Motherboard
● The motherboard is the main circuit board of the pc.
● It has various electronic components and chips which are linked together by metal tracks
called traces.
● In addition to these components and chips the motherboard may contain extra sockets (slot) for
optional items.

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 ● A socket is soldered into the circuit board and contains holes into which you can plug a
chip's pins.
Memory module
● There are different types of memory in the system. The most common are ROM, RAM
and Cache memory.
● The ROM is used for storing small programs like BIOS.
● The RAM used for storing temporary programs and data for the CPU.
● Cache memory is very costly and fast memory is generally used for storing very small
amounts of information.
Storage devices like hard disk, floppy disk and CD drive
● These are used for storing permanent data or programs.
● The hard disk has a very high capacity storage capability compared to floppy disks and CDs.
● The hard disk stores the operating system and other programs while floppy disks and CDs are
used to store small amounts of data and transfer that data from one computer to another
computer.
Keyboard and mouse
● The keyboard and mouse are generally used for input devices in a PC.
● The keyboard is similar to a typewriter.
● It has all of the same keys, along with additional keys for different uses.
● However, instead of typing onto paper, the text and characters appear on the monitor and
operate the computer.
● There are many types of keyboards, some with many keys and others with fewer keys, but
all of them function in the same way.
● There is no separate power button once the main computer box is on, the keyboard will also be
on.
● The mouse is a component that functions as a pointing device. It is a small plastic case that
fits under your hand.
● When you slide the mouse across a flat surface, you will see an arrow, or pointer, move across
the screen.
Monitor
● The monitors are used as an output device for display text and graphics.
● The monitor looks like a television screen. It is connected to the main computer box.
● There are several types of monitors; but they all function in the same way.
● The power button is usually located on the front of the monitor, beneath the screen.
● Often, there will be a small light to indicate if the power is on.
● Monitor is available in different sizes and resolutions.

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 ● Also they can build using different technology like CRT, LCD etc.
Printer
● Most printers have a parallel interface and are linked to the computer by a cable that is
attached to the computer's parallel port.
● Printers come in a wide variety of types, prices, speed and capabilities.
● The most common types of printer are: dot matrix, inkjet, laser and impact.
1.3 Prepare the latest specification of PC/Laptop.

Minimum recommended computer specifications:

● Processor: Intel i5 or equivalent AMD

● Memory: 8 GB RAM minimum
● Storage: 500 GB solid state (SSD) minimum
● Web camera and mic
● Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
● Wireless: 802.11 g/n dual band (2.4/5.0 GHz)
● Operating System: Windows 10 Professional / MacOS

Recommended computer specifications:

● Processor: Intel i5, equivalent AMD or greater processor

● Memory: 16 GB RAM
● Storage: 1 TB solid state (SSD) hard drive or larger
● Web camera and mic
● Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
● Wireless: 802.11 g/n dual band (2.4/5.0 GHz)
● Operating System: Windows 10 Professional / MacOS

AutoCAD/ Software intensive classes:

● Processor: Intel i7, equivalent AMD or greater processor

● Graphics: 4 GB GPU w/ 106 GB/s Bandwidth and DirectX 11 Compliant
● Memory: 16 GB RAM
● Storage: 1 TB solid state (SSD) hard drive or larger
● Web camera and mic
● Network: 10/100/1000 BASE-T Ethernet
● Wireless: 802.11 g/n dual band (2.4/5.0 GHz)

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 ● Operating System: Windows 10 Professional / MacOS

Additional Recommendations

● Accessories:
● When purchasing wireless accessories choose dual band technology (2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz
capable).
● Cable​s:
● You may need to purchase accessories that are not included with a new computer purchase such
as a DVI, HDMI or display port cable for your monitor, network cable, and surge protector.
● Operating Systems:
● We support computers running Windows 10/ MacOS and newer.
● Student Software:
● Microsoft Office (Free), Adobe Creative Cloud are available to students, at a reduced price
compared to what you will pay from a computer vendor.
● Warranty
● Most retail computers have a 1-year warranty; we suggest you upgrade the manufacturer's
warranty to at least 3 years.

Note: Laptop warranties generally do not cover screen damage, such as cracking. Check with the
manufacturer to see if they offer accidental damage coverage in lieu of the standard warranty.

1.3 List and identify various types of ports and connectors found in Pc/Laptop with their
purpose.
Types of Computer Ports
1. Serial port(COM Port):
A serial port is also called a communication port and they are used for connection of external devices like a
modem, mouse, or keyboard (basically in older PCs). Serial cables are cheaper to make in comparison to parallel
cables and they are easier to shield from interference. There are two versions of it, which are a 9 pin model and
25 pin model. It transmits data at 115 KB/sec.

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2. Parallel Port (LPT ports):
Parallel ports are generally used for connecting scanners and printers. It can send several bits at the same time as
it uses parallel communication. Its data transfer speed is much higher in comparison with the serial port. It is a
25 pin model. It is also known as Printer Port or Line Printer Port.

3. USB (Universal Serial Bus):

In 1997 USB was first introduced. This can connect all kinds of external USB devices, like external hard disk,
printer, scanner, mouse, keyboard, etc. There are a minimum of two USB Ports provided in most of the computer
systems. It is a kind of new type serial connection Port that is much faster than the old serial Ports and These
USB Ports are much smarter and more versatile, as it allows the “daisy chaining” of up to 127 USB peripherals
connected to one port. The data transfer rate in this is Data12 megabits per second. It also provides plug & play
communication.

4. PS/2 Port:
PS/2 ports are special ports used for connecting old computer keyboards and mouse. It was invented by IBM. In
old computers, there were a minimum of two PS/2 Ports, each for the keyboard and the mouse. It is a 6 pin mini
Din connector.

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5. VGA Port:
VGA ports also known as Video Graphic Array connector are those which connect the monitor to a computer’s
video card. The VGA port has 15 holes and it is similar to the serial port connector. But VGA Ports have holes
in it and the serial port connector has pins in it.

6. Sockets:
Microphones and speakers are connected with the help of Sockets to the sound card of the computer.

7. FireWire Port:
The IEEE 1394 interface, which was developed in the late 1980s and early 1990s by Apple as FireWire. It can
transfer large amounts of data at very high speed. It is used to connect camcorders and video equipment to the
computer. It comes up with three variants which are 4-Pin FireWire 400 connector, 6-Pin FireWire 400
connector, and 9-Pin FireWire 800 connector.

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8. Infrared Port:
An Infrared(IR) port is used to send and receive infrared signals from other devices. It is a kind of wireless type
port with a limited range of 5-10ft.

9. Game Port:
These ports are used previously to connect a joystick to a PC. But nowadays it is replaced by USB ports.
10. Modem Port:
As the name suggests, a Modem port is used to connect a PC’s modem to the telephone network.

11. Digital Video Interface(DVI) Port:

DVI Port is used to connect LCD(flat panel) monitors to the computer’s high-end video graphic cards and it is
very popular among video card manufacturers.

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12. Ethernet Port:
Ethernet Port helps to connect to a network and high-speed Internet(provided by LAN or other sources). It
connects the network cable to a computer and resides in an Ethernet card. It provides a data travel speed of 10
Mb to 1000 Mb(megabits) per second.

C Power, Mic/Line Input, Speaker/Headphone Output, USB, Ethernet, VGA, Serial RS-232, eSATA, Parallel
DB25, Displayport
AC Power, Mic/Line Input, Speaker/Headphone Output, USB, Ethernet, VGA, Serial RS-232, eSATA, Parallel
DB25, Displayport , DVI, Firewire, USB

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TYPES OF CONNECTORS

PS/2, USB, Serial, Parallel

LEGACY CONNECTORS:
(many of these are still in use today)
MONITOR CONNECTORS

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HD15 15 pins in three rows, pins are skinnier than a usual "DB" connector, thus it's got an "H" for High Density.
Used for PC's SVGA video cards and monitor cables.

DB15 15 pins in two rows, pins are just like a DB9 or DB25. Used for Mac monitors.

BNC connectors are used on Macs, Sun's and just about anything that's old and good.

DB9 9 pins in two rows, used on older monitors, and VGA's. PS/2 style Serial ports also use DB9 connectors.

13W3 a bunch of "DB" style pins and three funny looking coax contacts. Used on Sun and Mac monitors.

OTHER PC/MAC CONNECTORS

Parallel Printer

CN36 (female) This is the connector you see on the back of most printers.

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CN36 (male) This is the connector used by most printer cables.

DB25 (female) This connector is used for parallel printer output on the PC. It is also used for SCSI output,
especially on the Mac.

DB25 (male) This is used for parallel printers (and other parallel port devices) as well as SCSI and serial ports.
If you see a male on the back of your computer, it is usually your COM2 serial port.

HPCN36 male This is the new "Type-C" IEEE-1284 Parallel port connector which is used on some new laser
printers.

MINIDIN-8 (female) Serial Mac connector. Mac Printers, Mac printer and modem outputs, etc.
Serial

DB25 serial connector. On a computer, this would be a male not a female as pictured above. DB9 serial
connectors. On the computer there should be a "male" connector, the mouse or other serial device (modem,
digital camera) would have a female.

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USB and Firewire connectors

This is a 6-pin Firewire/IEEE-1394 connector.

"i.Link" connector. This is basically a 4-pin Firewire/i.link/IEEE-1394 connector. "Firewire" connector.

USB C is the newest standard USB connector

USB type "A" connector. Connects to computer or USB Hub. USB type "B" connector. Connects to peripheral
or to USB Hub.

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Micro USB

Mini USB connector used on many new USB digital cameras. Mini USB 2.0 connector used on many new USB
digital cameras.

Other Connectors

S-Video connector, sometimes called S-VHS or Y/C video. There're 4 little pins in there, it's called a DIN4.

RCA (above) connector. Standard stereo connector.

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3.5 mm Mini Phone Plug connector, (below) used on computer sound cards and phones

SC connector, fiber optic network connector.

ST connector, fiber optic network connector.

MTRJ fiber optic network connector.

Toslink connector. Used for digital audio.

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