CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The advent of computer technology has revolutionized the way we live, work, and
communicate (Brynjolfsson & McAfee, 2014). Computers have become an
indispensable tool in various aspects of life, from education and healthcare to
entertainment and commerce (Laudon & Laudon, 2016). The increasing demand for
high-performance computing has driven the development of advanced computer
hardware and software (Hennessy & Patterson, 2017).

The concept of building a custom computer date back to the early days of computing.
In the 1970s and 1980s, hobbyists and enthusiasts began constructing their own
computers using kit-based systems (Freiberger & Swaine, 2000). The introduction
of the IBM PC in 1981 marked a significant milestone in the development of
personal computers, sparking a wave of innovation and competition in the industry
(Ceruzzi, 2012).

The 1990s saw the emergence of commodity-based computer hardware, enabling

users to build custom systems using off-the-shelf components (Langlois, 2002). This
shift democratized access to computing, allowing individuals to create systems
tailored to their specific needs (Mowery & Simcoe, 2002).

Today, building a custom computer remains a popular option for gamers, content
creators, and professionals requiring high-performance computing (Kshetri, 2017).
The rise of online communities and forums has facilitated knowledge sharing and
collaboration, making it easier for individuals to design and build their own systems
(Wasko & Faraj, 2005).
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Despite the growing demand for high-performance computing, individuals and

organizations face significant challenges in accessing affordable and efficient
computer systems. The complexity and cost of pre-built systems often limit
accessibility, while the lack of standardization and compatibility among components
hinders the ability to build custom systems.

1.3 AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY

The primary aim of this study is to investigate the design and construction of a high-
performance computer system, exploring the impact of hardware configurations on
system performance and cost-effectiveness.

1. To design and construct a high-performance computer system.

2. To contribute to the existing body of knowledge on computer hardware and
system design.
3. To provide insights for individuals and organizations seeking to build custom
computers.

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

This study contributes to the existing body of knowledge on computer hardware and
system design, providing valuable insights for:

1. Individuals seeking to build custom computers for personal or professional

use.
2. Organizations requiring high-performance computing solutions.
3. Researchers exploring the impact of hardware configurations on system
performance.
1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

This study focuses on the design and construction of a custom computer system,
exploring the impact of hardware configurations on system performance. The scope
includes:

1. Literature review of computer hardware components (CPU, motherboard,

RAM, GPU, storage).
2. Analysis of different hardware configurations and their impact on system
performance.
3. Design and construction of a custom computer system.
4. Testing and evaluation of system performance.

1.6 DEFINITION OF TERMS

1. Computer Hardware: Physical components of a computer system, including
CPU, motherboard, RAM, GPU, storage, and peripherals.
2. Computer System: A combination of hardware and software components that
process, store, and communicate information.
3. High-Performance Computing (HPC): Computing systems designed to
deliver exceptional performance, speed, and efficiency for demanding
applications.
4. Custom Computer: A computer system built from individual components to
meet specific user requirements.
5. Pre-Built Computer: A computer system assembled and sold by a
manufacturer or vendor.
6. Hardware Configuration: The specific combination of hardware
components used in a computer system.
7. System Performance: The efficiency and effectiveness of a computer system
in executing tasks and applications.
8. Cost-Effectiveness: The ratio of benefits to costs associated with building a
custom computer versus purchasing a pre-built system.
9. CPU (Central Processing Unit): The primary component responsible for
executing instructions and handling computations.
10.Motherboard: The main circuit board connecting hardware components.
11.RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for data and
applications.
12.GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): A specialized processor for graphics
rendering and computations.
13.Storage: Permanent storage for data, programs, and operating systems.
14.Peripherals: Input/output devices, such as keyboards, mice, and monitors.
 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 OVERVIEW OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS
A computer system is a complex entity comprising hardware, software, and firmware
components that work together to process, store, and communicate information
(Bryant & O'Hallaron, 2014). It is a multifaceted system designed to perform various
tasks, from simple calculations to complex simulations.

2.2 COMPUTER

A combination of hardware and software components that process, store, and

communicate information, providing a platform for computational tasks, data
storage, and communication." (Hennessy & Patterson, 2017)

A computer system consists of:

1. Hardware: Physical components, such as the central processing unit (CPU),

memory (RAM), storage devices (HDD, SSD), input/output (I/O) devices, and
communication interfaces.
2. Software: Programs, operating systems, and applications that run on the
hardware.
3. Firmware: Permanent software stored in non-volatile memory devices.

2.3 CHARACTERISTICS OF A COMPUTER

Computer systems exhibit the following characteristics:

1. Input: Receive data or instructions.

2. Processing: Execute instructions and perform calculations.

3. Output: Produce results or display information.

4. Storage: Retain data, programs, and operating systems.

5. Communication: Exchange information with external devices or systems.

2.4 TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Computer systems can be categorized into:

1. Personal Computers (PCs): Desktops, laptops, and mobile devices.

2. Servers: Specialized systems for network resource management.
3. Mainframes: Large-scale systems for enterprise computing.
4. Embedded Systems: Specialized systems integrated into devices.
5. Distributed Systems: Networks of interconnected computers.

2.5 HARDWARE COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The primary component executing instructions, performing calculations, and

controlling data transfer.

Types: Microprocessors, Multi-Core Processors, Embedded Processors.

Functions:

1. Instruction execution
2. Data processing
3. Control unit management
4. Arithmetic logic unit (ALU) operations

Examples: Intel Core i9, AMD Ryzen 9.

2. Motherboard

The main circuit board connecting hardware components, providing power and
signal paths.

Types: ATX, Micro-ATX, Mini-ITX.

Functions:

1. Component connectivity
2. Power distribution
3. Signal routing
4. Peripheral support

Examples: ASUS PRIME Z390-A, MSI MPG Z490 GAMING PLUS.

3. Memory (RAM)

The Random Access Memory is for temporary storage for data and applications,
allowing fast access and processing.

Types: DRAM, SRAM, DDR, SDRAM.

Functions:

1. Data storage
2. Application support
3. Cache memory
4. Virtual memory

Examples: Corsair Vengeance LPX 16GB, Kingston HyperX Fury 32GB.

 4. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

The GPU is a specialized processor handling graphics rendering, computations, and

gaming.

Types: Integrated, Dedicated, Hybrid.

Functions:

1. Graphics rendering
2. Compute tasks
3. Gaming performance
4. Video decoding

Examples: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080, AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT.

5. Storage Devices

These are permanent storage for data, programs, and operating systems.

Types: Hard Disk Drives (HDD), Solid-State Drives (SSD), Flash Drives.

Functions:

1. Data storage
2. Program storage
3. Operating system storage
4. File retrieval

Examples: Western Digital Caviar Blue 1TB, Samsung 970 EVO Plus 1TB.

6. Power Supply

This component in the computer converts AC power to DC power for computer

components.
Types: ATX, SFX, TFX.

Functions:

1. Power conversion
2. Voltage regulation
3. Current supply
4. Efficiency optimization

Examples: EVGA SuperNOVA 650 GA, Corsair RM650x.

7. Input/Output (I/O) Devices

These are devices interacting with users, receiving input, and displaying output.

Types: Keyboards, Mice, Monitors, Printers.

Functions:

1. User interaction
2. Input reception
3. Output display
4. Communication

Examples: Logitech G512 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Dell U2419 Monitor.

8. Sound Cards

This component in the computer Processes audio signals, providing sound output.

Types: Integrated, Dedicated.

Functions:

1. Audio processing
2. Sound output
 3. Audio enhancement
4. Noise reduction

Examples: Creative Sound Blaster X7, ASUS Xonar SE.

9. Network Interface Cards (NICs)

This component helps the computer Connect to networks, transmitting/receiving

data.

Types: Ethernet, Wi-Fi.

Functions:

1. Network connectivity
2. Data transmission
3. Data reception
4. Network management

Examples: Intel Ethernet Controller I350-T4, TP-Link Archer T9E.

10. Cooling Systems

This component regulates temperature, preventing overheating.

Types: Fans, Liquid Cooling, Heat Sinks.

Functions:

1. Temperature regulation
2. Heat dissipation
3. Cooling efficiency
4. Noise reduction

Examples: Noctua NH-U14S TR4-SP3, Corsair Hydro Series H115i RGB Platinum.
2.6 EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS

Computer systems have evolved significantly since their inception, with

advancements in:

1. Processing Power: Increased CPU speed and core count.

2. Memory and Storage: Expanded capacity and reduced latency.
3. Networking: Improved communication speeds and protocols.
4. Software: Sophisticated operating systems and applications.

2.7 IMPORTANCE OF COMPUTER

Computer systems play a vital role in:

1. Business: Operations, management, and decision-making.

2. Education: Learning, research, and collaboration.
3. Healthcare: Medical records, diagnostics, and treatment.
4. Entertainment: Gaming, multimedia, and social media.

2.8 CHALLENGES FACED BY COMPUTERS

Computer systems face challenges related to

1. Security: Data breaches, malware, and unauthorized access.

2. Scalability: Handling increased workload and user demands.
3. Reliability: Ensuring system uptime and minimizing downtime.
4. Energy Efficiency: Reducing power consumption.

2.9 FUTURE DIRECTIONS

The future of computer systems holds promise for:

1. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Integration of AI and machine learning.

2. Cloud Computing: Centralized resource management.
3. Internet of Things (IoT): Interconnected devices.
4. Quantum Computing: Next-generation processing.
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hardware/software interface. Morgan Kaufmann.
Bryant, R. E., & O'Hallaron, D. R. (2014). Computer systems: A programmer's
perspective. Prentice Hall.
Buyya, R. (1999). High-performance cluster computing: Architectures and systems.
Prentice Hall.
Hennessy, J. L., & Patterson, D. A. (2017). Computer architecture: A quantitative
approach. Morgan Kaufmann.
Kim, J., Park, J., & Kim, J. (2014). Thermal optimization of computer systems.
Journal of Thermal Science and Engineering Applications, 6(2), 021001.
Kshetri, N. (2017). The economics of computer hardware. Journal of Economic
Issues, 51(2), 331-344.
Langlois, R. N. (2002). The vanishing hand: The changing dynamics of industrial
capitalism. Cambridge University Press.
Mowery, D. C., & Simcoe, T. (2002). Is the Internet a US invention? An economic
and technological history of computer networking. Research Policy, 31(8-9), 1369-
1387.
Patterson, D. A., & Hennessy, J. L. (2013). Computer organization and design: The
hardware/software interface. Morgan Kaufmann.