TERM 2

BASIC CONCEPTS OF CHAPTER

HARDWARE 3
CHAPTER OVERVIEW
Unit 3.1 Types of hardware
Unit 3.2 Output devices
Unit 3.3 Storage devices
Unit 3.4 Motherboard
Unit 3.5 Computer or smartphone

Learning outcomes
At the end of this chapter, you will be able to:
● describe the different types of hardware, their usage and where they are used
● describe the difference between memory and storage
● compare the hardware components of a computer and a smartphone.

INTRODUCTION
In 1969, the Apollo 11 spacecraft blasted off from Earth to the moon. Four days
later, the spacecraft landed on the moon. Neil Armstrong became the first man to
set foot on the moon and history was written. In order, to guide the spacecraft from
the Earth to the moon, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (or
NASA) made use of five state-of-the-art computers (for 1969). Each of these
computers were as large as a refrigerator and had only 1 MB of memory. Can you
even imagine that?

This incredible improvement in the power of computers was first measured and
predicted in 1965 by a computer scientist called Gordon Moore. According to Figure 3.1: Today, this phone
Moore’s Law, it states that the number of transistors that can fit onto a circuit could put thousands of
board with a fixed size, doubles every two years. As a result, computers become spacecrafts on the moon
exponentially faster each year.

This chapter will look at the hardware and the improvements in hardware that
made these improvements possible.

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 UNIT

3.1 Types of hardware

Computer hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer and related devices. The internal hardware
parts of a computer are often referred to as components and the external hardware devices are usually
called peripherals.

In this unit, you will learn more about the types of hardware found in a computer. These are:
● Input
● Output
● Memory
● Storage
● Processing
● Communication.

INPUT DEVICES
An input device allows the user to interact directly with a computer. The devices give data and instructions
to the computer, such as:
● keyboards
● pointing devices (mouse)
● touchscreens
● touchpads
● tablet/pen input devices
● game controllers
● cameras
● microphones
● video capture devices
● scanners
● optical readers
● biometric devices
● data collection devices

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 Table 3.1: Hardware of desktop computers

COMPUTING DEVICE ADVANTAGES OR DISADVANTAGES ADAPTED FOR DISABILITY

Keyboard Advantages: Keyguards: Small plates that
● Most computers come with a keyboard supplied. allow users with a disability to
● People are used to using keyboards to enter data, rest their hands on the
they need very little training. keyboard without pressing any
● A skilled typist can enter data very quickly. keys.
Today, not all keyboards ● Specialist keyboards, such as, ergonomic or On-screen or virtual
are physical devices gaming keyboards, are available. keyboards: Displayed on a
with the same layouts. user’s screen and used with
Computers and
Disadvantages
● It is easy to make mistakes when typing in data. gesture-controlled pointers or
smartphones make use joysticks
● If you can’t touch type, it can be time consuming
of touchscreen
to enter data. Braille keyboards: Keyboards
keyboards.
● Disabled people often find keyboards difficult with Braille lettering, which can
to use. be used by blind or visually
● Excessive use can lead to health problems, such impaired users.
as, repetitive strain injury (RSI).

Did you know

Throughout this book, you will be presented with keyboard shortcuts (or hotkeys). These shortcuts are made up of a
combination of keys that you can press at the same time to complete a specific task. Try to remember these
shortcuts as they will save you a lot of time!

COMPUTING DEVICE ADVANTAGES OR DISADVANTAGES ADAPTED FOR DISABILITY

Mouse Advantages: Head-mounted pointers: Controlled by
● Ideal for desktop and laptop switches to simulate the function of a
computers. mouse. These switches can be on hand or
● Most computer users are familiar foot pads, or pedals or sensors that detect
with them and require little training. eye movement or facial expressions.
● Works well in conjunction with a Gesture-recognition devices: Recognise
keyboard for data entry. hand gestures, head or eye movements, or
A mouse is a common ● Usually supplied as part of a new read lips or sign language to input
type of pointing device. computer system. information into a computer.
Computers are generally Disadvantages Sip-and-puff devices: A switch that
sold with a mouse and ● They need a flat space close to a operates the computer when users breathe
a keyboard. computer to operate. into (puffing) or through (sipping) special
● Older style mice, which have roller tubes. Special software is used to interpret
balls, can become clogged with the sips and puffs and turn them into data
grease and grime and lose their the computer can use.
accuracy until cleaned. Mouse trackball: A stationary ball that can
● Excessive use can lead to health be spun in different directions to move the
problems, such as, repetitive strain mouse. This allows users to move the mouse
injury (RSI). by making very small hand gestures.
● If the battery wears out in a wireless
mouse, it cannot be used until it has
been replaced.

Did you know

Trackballs, joysticks, touchpads, and light pens are all similar to a mouse.

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 COMPUTING DEVICE ADVANTAGES OR DISADVANTAGES ADAPTED FOR DISABILITY
Touchscreens Advantages: ● Entering commands by voice
● Easy to use – intuitive, don’t ● Entering commands by pressing
need much training. the controls with a mouth stick,
● No extra peripherals such as a headstick, or stylus.
mouse are needed. ● Through variations in the
● Software can alter the screen device’s touch sensor
while it is being used, making it technology such as resistive
more flexible than a concept touchscreens, capacitive
keyboard which has a touchscreens, infrared
permanent overlay. touchscreens and surface
● Can make use of finger gestures acoustic wave (SAW) technology.
to make sophisticated actions
such as zooming and selecting.
Most modern smartphones and
● Excellent for selecting and
tablets rely exclusively on
controlling applications that have
touchscreens.
been designed with a touch
There are also some notebooks and screen in mind.
computers that have touchscreens.
Disadvantages:
When they are available,
● Not suitable for inputting large
touchscreens can replace
amounts of data.
computer mice.
● Not very accurate – selecting
POS (point of sale) systems refer to detailed objects can be difficult
the place where a sales transaction with fingers.
is completed, for example at cash ● Tiring to use for long periods.
registers in retail stores and shops, ● Less useful as a control input to
at bars and restaurants, hair salons a standard computer that makes
and spas, etc. Restaurant POS use of the mouse/keyboard
systems allow waiters to process combination, for example,
orders. laptop, desktop, pc.
These systems consist mostly of
payment terminals, touchscreens,
and a variety of other hardware and
software options.
Touchpad Advantages: Touch pads are useful to people who
● Useful for laptops when using a cannot hold a device such as a
mouse isn’t practical. mouse in their hands but can press
● The pad’s position is fixed in on the touchpad with a finger or an
relation to the keyboard. eraser pointer.
● Very short finger movements are
required to move the cursor.

Disadvantages:
● Takes practice and skill to control
Touchpads (or touch sensitive pads) the position of the cursor using
are small, square pads. By moving the touchpad.
your fingers across the touchpad, ● Moist, sweaty or calloused
you can move the mouse pointer on fingers can disrupt the signals
the screen. picked up by the sensors.

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 COMPUTING DEVICE ADVANTAGES OR DISADVANTAGES ADAPTED FOR DISABILITY
Tablet/pen input device Advantages: Tablets are devices that can be used
(pointing device) ● Tablets are easy to handle. by people without hand function.
● It is much more natural to draw This is done using a stylus or a splint
diagrams with a pencil type that can be inserted into a vertical
implement (the stylus) rather holder or strapped to the wrist.
than with a mouse.
● A great level of accuracy can
be achieved.

Disadvantages:
Tablets are accurate and, when ● Weaker capabilities than a
combined with the interactive pens, laptop or desktop.
allow artists to create art as if they ● The screen size is small.
were using a pen and paper. ● Fewer ports.
A Wacom tablet is a graphics tablet ● No fixed keyboard.
that is generally used in the graphic
design industry or by digital artists.
Wacom tablets allow a person to
draw by hand, capturing an image or
graphic in digital form. The drawn
image or graphic is then displayed
on the monitor of a connected
computer.

New words
eraser pointer – a pointing device that looks like a joystick or pencil eraser head and sits between the G, H and B
keys. When the eraser pointer is pushed in one direction, the cursor moves in the same direction
resistive touch screen – pressure sensitive touch screens that can be operated with any input device
capacitive touch screens – offer higher clarity for the visually impaired but cannot be operated using other input
devices
infrared touch screens – can be operated by either human touch or stylus and have high clarity
surface acoustic wave (SAW) technology – provides better image clarity, resolution, and higher transmission of
light. The technology has the longest life span and quick response time. It recognises the location and amount of
pressure applied

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 Table 3.2: Input devices
DEVICE USES PHOTO
Game controllers Game controllers are input devices designed specifically for use in
games. They have directional inputs as well as action buttons linked to
specific actions inside a game.

Cameras Cameras allow you to capture images. They are used for making video
calls, participating in video conferences and recording videos from
your computer.

Microphones Microphones allow you to record sounds and interact with a computer
using your voice.

Video capture Video capture devices allow you to record a live video stream using
devices your computer.

Scanners Scanners allow you to scan pictures of pages (such as, photos or
contracts) directly onto your computer. Scanners are often packaged
with optical character recognition (OCR) software that converts the text
on a picture to text that can be used in a word processing application.
Optical readers Optical readers are devices that can read data from a physical object
(such as, a QR code, barcode or a magnetic strip) into a computer.

Biometric devices These devices read data presented to a computer and compare it with
the saved data. Biometric devices include fingerprint, iris and retina
scanners, but these are not commonly used with desktop computers.

Data collection Data collection devices obtain data directly from a location where an
devices event or transaction takes place.

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 Activity 3.1

3.1.1 Define an input device.

3.1.2 Critique the virtual keyboard of a computer by comparing it with the touchscreen keyboard of a smartphone.
3.1.3 Do you use shortcut keys? Why or why not? If so, which shortcut keys do you use the most?
3.1.4 List three advantages and three disadvantages of using a computer mouse.
3.1.5 List and describe four pointing devices.
3.1.6 Define a touch-sensitive pad and state one use.
3.1.7 Define pen input and state one use.
3.1.8 Which hardware device(s) would you use for the following tasks and why?
a. You are going on a cricket tour, and you want to be able to take photos, upload them to social media and
send a few to your friends.
b. You have a desktop computer and monitor. You were given the task to type an essay for homework on your
computer. What additional hardware would you need to do this?
c. You have a disabled friend who cannot use his arms. Which five products would you recommend your friend
uses to ensure computers are more accessible to them?
d. You want to register for the IT Olympiad that will be held in Johannesburg this year. You remember the night
before registration closes that you must still complete all the registration forms by hand and send it to the
organisers of the event before 6 a.m. Which hardware device can you use to get the forms in a digital
format so that they can be emailed?
e. Which hardware device can you use to sign digital forms so that they can be emailed?
3.1.9 Which input devices have you used?
3.1.10 Which input devices do you think are found in high-end smartphones today?

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 UNIT

3.2 Output devices

An output device is any device that takes data stored on a computer and makes
it available to the user in an easy to understand way. This data may be made
available using pictures (such as on a monitor or printed to a page) or using
sounds (such as with speakers and earphones). The output devices can be
divided into the following:
● display devices – monitors (LCD, LED)
● printers (Inkjet, Ink tank, Laser, 3-D)
● data projectors (HDMI, VGA)
● speakers.

Figure 3.1: LED display matrix using Figure 3.2: LCD monitor (some LCD
LED lights monitors have LED backlighting and is
commonly referred to as LED monitors)

DISPLAY DEVICES

MONITORS
All computer software is built around a visual representation of data, therefore the
monitor is one of the most important output devices for any computer. To check
the quality of a monitor, we need to look at some important characteristics.

These are:
● Number of pixels: Each pixel can be seen as a tiny dot of colour on the
monitor. Pixels put together creates the picture that we see on the monitor.
The more pixels there are, the more detailed a picture can be. A good
monitor is a full HD monitor with 1 920 pixels across the width of the monitor
by 1 080 pixels across the height of the monitor. Some modern monitors
can have up to 3 840 × 2 160 pixels (called 4K).
● Screen size: The size of a monitor is measured diagonally (that is, from the
Did you know top left corner to the bottom right corner) and the size is given in inches.
● Refresh rate: The refresh rate of a monitor determines how quickly the
One inch is roughly 2,5 cm
image on the monitor can be updated with the newest information. Most
long, so a 24-inch monitor
has a diagonal length of monitors have a refresh rate of 60 Hz.
24 × 2,5 cm = 60 cm.
● Contrast ratio: A measure of the number of shades the monitor can show
between its blackest black and brightest white. The higher the number of
shades, the clearer and sharper the images will be, and the brighter and
truer to life the colours will be.
● Aspect ratio: This is the basic shape of the screen based on the ratio of the
width to the height measured in inches. For example, if a screen is 16 inches
(40,6 cm) wide and 10 inches (25,4 cm) tall, the aspect ratio is 16:10.

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 ● Brightness: Brightness is the perception of how intense or bright the light
coming from a screen is. The brighter the light, the more power will be
drawn from the computer.

Figure 3.3: The monitor is the most important output device

PRINTERS
A printer allows a computer to use data and output it to paper. There are three
main types of printers. These are:
● Dot-matrix printers: These printers use a series of small pins to strike a
ribbon coated with ink, causing the ink to transfer to the paper at the point
of impact. Dot-matrix printers are mostly outdated as a personal printer but
are still used in banks and manufacturing businesses where it is necessary
to use carbon paper to produce multiple copies of a document.
● Ink-jet printers: An inkjet printer operates by painting an image using a
spray of ink. This is done by hundreds of tiny nozzles that spray drops of ink
directly onto the paper while moving across it. There are two types of ink-jet New words
printers: continuous printers that are usually used for commercial purposes;
tactile device – a device
and on-demand printers. It is a good, all-round printer that is most that makes use of touch
commonly used for smaller jobs. They are however slightly less reliable.
carbon paper – thin paper
● Laser printers: A laser printer is a popular printer for personal use. These
coated with carbon or
printers use electrostatic technology. To start the process, the drum is another pigmented
given a positive electrical charge and while it rotates, the printer shines a substance, used for making
narrow laser beam over its surface, drawing or projecting the letters and a second impression of a
images to be printed as a pattern of electrical charges onto the surface of document as it is being
the drum. When the pattern is set, the drum is rolled in toner, which sticks written or typed
to certain parts of the drum, that is, the image. When rolled over a piece of electrostatic
paper, this image is ‘burned’ into the paper with heat and pressure. When technology – uses
the printing is done, the electrical charge is removed from the drum and the stationary electric charges
excess toner is collected. Laser printers are used for mass production instead of electric currents
printing because they are generally faster and more reliable but with worse toner – a very fine, dry,
quality prints. black powder-type of ink
● Ink-tank printer: These printers have print heads built into the printer and
use an integrated bulk ink system. This means that ink is supplied
continuously to the print head from an ink tank within the printer itself, no
expensive cartridges are needed. When the ink is finished, it can be refilled
from an ink bottle. Because of this, printing costs are much lower. They
produce low-cost, high volume printing.

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 ● 3D printers: 3D printing is a process of making three dimensional solid
objects from a digital file. The creation of a 3D printed object is achieved by
laying down successive layers of material until the object is created. Each of
these layers can be seen as a thinly sliced horizontal cross-section of the
eventual object e.g. prosthetics and movie props.

When evaluating printers, it is important to know what the printer will be used for
because different printers are good at different things.

Figure 3.4: A 3D printer Factors to consider when looking for a printer are whether it is black and white
and/or colour, how quickly it can print, and how much it costs to print a page.

Other factors to consider include:

● Dots per inch (DPI) measures how many dots a printer can print in one inch
(or 2.54 cm). The higher the DPI, the more detailed the prints.
● Pages per minute (PPM) measures how many pages of black text a printer
can print in a minute. The higher the PPM, the faster the printer can print.

DATA PROJECTORS
Projectors use a bright light to project the content displayed on a computer
Figure 3.5: Printers allow you monitor onto any flat surface. One example of where projectors are used is at the
to output data to paper cinema. They use large, high quality projectors to display the movie on the screen
in front of you. However, projectors can also be connected to computers at home
or in office settings, to display your computer’s screen on a wall or screen.

There are two types of cables connecting video output devices:

● VGA – an analog video-only connection.
● HDMI – a digital video audio connection.

Projectors provide the following advantages:

● they are easy to carry around
● they display the content from your computer at a large size.

Figure 3.6: A projector projects an image onto a flat surface

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 However, projectors also have disadvantages:
● replacing the lamps is expensive
● low-quality projectors can show washed-out or faded images
● low-brightness projectors need to be placed close to the screen, decreasing
the size of the image
● low-brightness projectors may require a dark room.

The quality of a projector can be measured using three main factors:

● Lumens, which measures the brightness of the projector.
● Resolution, which determines how many pixels can be displayed.
● Contrast ratio, which measures the difference between the darkest and
lightest parts of the image (that is, the contrast).

SPEAKERS AND HEADPHONES

Advantages of speakers:
● they can be useful for alerting computer users of events using audio
notifications, even when they’re busy
● text can be converted into sound.

Disadvantages of computer speakers:

● they can take up a fair amount of desk-space, compared to headphones.

HEADPHONES
There are many different types of headphones, let’s look at a few popular choices:

Closed-back headphones It creates an isolated audio experience so that only

you can hear the sounds you want to hear.

In-ear headphones Known for portability, versatility, and convenience.

They go a little more deeply into the ear to provide
comfort, sound isolation, and sound accuracy.

Bluetooth headphones Offer wireless connectivity to various devices through

radio transmitter technology (RF). They have a small
computer chip inside of them that allows you to pair
with the device you are playing music from.

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 INPUT/OUTPUT DEVICES
An input/output device is any hardware used by a human operator or other
systems to communicate with a computer. They are capable of sending data
(output) to a computer and receiving data from a computer (input).

An interactive whiteboard is a board that combines the technologies of a

computer, touchscreen, projector and whiteboard. You can connect an interactive
whiteboard to one or more laptops, a PC, tablet, or other electronic devices.

When used in a classroom environment, they give learners and teachers

opportunities to interact more than the traditional blackboard ever could.

ACCESSIBILITY DEVICES FOR THE DISABLED USER

Alternatives to audio output can assist the computer user who is hearing impaired.
For example, a speaker can be useful for visually impaired people in terms of text-
to-speech systems.

Activity 3.2

Choose the correct answer from the alternatives given.

3.2.1 What is a pixel?
a. Something that determines the brightness of the light coming from the screen.
b. Something that determines the shades the monitor can show.
c. A tiny dot of colour on the monitor.
3.2.2 What does NOT determine the quality of a projector?
a. Resolution
b. Lumens
c. PP
3.2.3 How is the quality of a computer speakers measured?

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 Activity 3.2 continued

3.2.4 Compare the following four printers by:

a. how they work
b. what they are usually used for (more specifically than saying they are used
to print).

HOW DOES THE PRINTER WHAT IS IT USED FOR

PRINTER
WORK SPECIFICALLY
Dot matrix
Ink-jet printer
Laser printer
Ink-tank printer

c. You want to buy a new printer on which to print your homework. What are the
three main factors that you should take into consideration to determine its
quality, and what does each factor measure?
3.2.5 In preparation for your school’s athletic competition, you need to ensure that the
school’s computer has all the output devices you will need to use during the
competition. Which output devices would you use to output the following
information:
a. the audio commentary of the event.
b. paper certificates for the winners.
c. video highlights that can be viewed by the crowd.
3.2.6 If you need to print high-quality paper certificates, would you recommend a
dot-matrix printer, Laser printer or an ink-jet printer? Give at least two reasons
for your answer.
3.2.7 Name and compare two types of cables connecting video output devices.
3.2.8 Name and compare two types of headphones.
3.2.9 Consider an interactive whiteboard. Is it an input or output device or both?
Provide reasons for your choice.

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 UNIT

3.3 Storage devices

Storage devices all serve the same general purpose: to store data. Because of
the differences in storage capacity, portability and speed, different storage
New words
devices are generally used for different reasons.
volatility – something
unstable or changeable When evaluating any storage device, there are certain things that you must take
reliability – the ability to into consideration. These are:
consistently perform ● function – that determines whether you need an SSD or an HDD.
according to its ● storage capacity – that determines how much information you can save on
specifications the device.
durability – how long ● portability – that determines how easily it can be carried around and moved
something can last from one computer to another.
secondary storage ● use – that determines what the storage device will most likely be used for.
device – holds data for the This includes transferring files and running applications.
long term. Data stored on ● volatility – that determines if the device will lose the data when turned off.
secondary storage devices You do not want a device that will lose all data in case of a power outage.
can only be removed by ● reliability and durability – that determines how likely the device is to
deleting it
break down.

In the section that follows, you will learn more about the differences between
Take note storage devices.

A 1-terabyte (TB) drive

has a capacity of TYPES OF STORAGE DEVICES
1024 gigabytes.
1 gigabyte (GB) = HARD DISK DRIVE (HDD)
1 billion bytes.
A computer hard disk drive is a secondary storage device consisting of
magnetic disks or platters that rotate at high speed. Its main function is to store
data permanently by controlling the positioning, reading and writing of data onto
the hard disk.

Currently modern hard drives can have huge storage space and are either internal
(fixed), or external (portable).

Sealed protective Spindle connected

metal housing to electric motor Magnetic
disk platter
Actuator axis

Bus interface
connector

Read/write head
arm actuator

Figure 3.7: An example of an internal hard drive

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 EXTERNAL (PORTABLE) HARD DRIVES
Portable (or external) hard drives are used outside of the computer case.

Portable hard drives are a lot easier to move around than fixed hard drives.
However, thanks to USB connectors, they can quickly be connected to different
computers and are ideal for transferring large amounts of data or backing up data
Figure 3.8: An example of an
outside of your computer. They are sensitive to rough handling. external hard drive

SOLID-STATE DRIVE
Solid-state drives (or SSDs) are a type of storage device that, unlike hard drives,
do not have any moving parts. Instead, SSDs make use of special floating gate
transistors to store data electronically. Solid state drives (SSDs) are generally
many times faster than normal hard drives. Since SSDs have no moving parts,
they are much quieter, more reliable and robust than HDDs. They also generate
less heat, thus increasing their life span, and uses less power than an HDD,
which means they are more suitable for mobile devices. Figure 3.9: An example of
an SSD
HYBRID STORAGE DEVICE
A hybrid storage device is a storage device that combines an HDD with an SSD.
By doing this, the hybrid storage device can take advantage of the storage
capacity of the HDD as well as the speed of the SSD.

Hybrid drives work by storing commonly used files that require high speeds (such
as operating system files) on the faster SSD storage, while storing large, less
commonly used files (such as media files) on the high capacity HDD.
Figure 3.10: An example of a
flash drive
FLASH DRIVES (DISKS)
Flash drives are very small, portable storage drives that store information using a
similar method to SSD. Flash drives connect to a USB port, which makes it easy
to transfer data quickly between devices.

SD/MEMORY CARDS
SD/Memory cards (especially MicroSD cards) are tiny electronic storage devices.
Because of their small physical size, SD cards are often used in portable devices
such as smartphones, tablets and cameras to provide storage capacity. Figure 3.11: An example of an
SD/Memory card
CD, DVD AND BLU-RAY DRIVES
CDs (compact discs), DVDs (digital versatile disc) Did you know
and Blu-ray discs are popular portable forms of
CDs (compact discs), DVDs
storage that can be read using a dedicated CD,
(digital versatile disc) and
DVD or Blu-ray drive. These discs store information
Blu-ray discs are all
optically, which means the information is stored examples of optical disks.
using lights or electromagnetic waves.
Figure 3.12: An example of a
The advantage of writing data to CDs or DVDs is that the discs are affordable. CD/DVD writer
These optical drives are also backwards compatible. This means that a newer
optical drive (like a Blu-ray drive), can read all older optical forms (like CDs and
DVDs). However, an older optical drive (like a CD drive) can only read CDs.

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 Activity 3.3

3.3.1 Evaluate three types of storage in a table format, looking at the definition, its use and
function.
3.3.2 Indicate whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE. Write ‘true’ or ‘false’
next to the question number. Correct the statement if it is FALSE. Change the
word(s) in bold text to make the statement TRUE where necessary. You may not
simply use the word ‘NOT’ to change the statement. NO mark will be awarded if
only FALSE is written down.
a. Because of the differences in storage capacity, portability and speed, different
storage devices are generally used for different reasons.
b. When evaluating any storage device, you must take its volatility into
consideration. This determines if the device will lose the data when turned on.
c. An internal hard drive is the main storage device in computers due to its high
speed, high storage capacity and low cost per storage space.
d. Flash drives are very small, portable storage drives that store information using
a small HDD.
3.3.3 Which storage device (HDD or SSD) will you use in each of the following situations?
Give a reason for your answer.
a. You are an enthusiastic multimedia user and download many files.
b. You need a storage device for your computer, but you do not have a lot of money.
c. You are always on the go. Sometimes you do not take good care of your laptop.
When in a hurry, you will often put it in your carry-bag without securing it or
shutting it off.
d. You are a general user that likes to stream your music online.
e. You must use a PC for your exams, for which you have a limited time. Which
storage device would you prefer?
3.3.4 How does a hybrid drive work?
3.3.5 What does it mean when we say that optical drives are backwards compatible?
Explain this in your own words.
3.3.6 Which storage device would you use for the following tasks and why?
a. Copying your assignment to a different computer to be printed.
b. Backing up all your images, videos and music files.
c. Storing your programs and games.
3.3.7 Itumeleng has recently bought a new external hard drive for his laptop because it
has started running out of space. The laptop has an SSD with a storage capacity of
128 GB while his new external hard drive a storage capacity of 1 TB.
a. Which of Itumeleng’s devices has the highest storage capacity?
b. Which of Itumeleng’s storage devices has the longest lifespan? Give ONE reason
for your answer.
c. Which device would be best suited to store the following information:
i. a large collection of movies and music
ii. an operating system that requires high-speed reading and writing
iii. documents that will be used on more than one computer?

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3.4 Motherboard

A computer’s motherboard is a large printed circuit board that physically

connects all the different components. On the motherboard, there are specific
positions where the CPU, GPU and RAM can be inserted. There are also
connectors that allow you to connect a power supply to a computer. Finally, the
motherboard has several ports that allow you to plug in devices, such as
keyboards, speakers and monitors easily.

Slot for GPU

Socket for CPU

Slots for RAM

Figure 3.13: An example of a motherboard

The functions of the motherboard is to:

● provide a place for other devices or interfaces to be connected to (such as
more memory or another graphics cards)
● distribute power to the various components
● act as a communication hub as the components send and receive
information through the motherboard.

PROCESSING DEVICES
Processing devices are responsible for carrying out instructions and performing
calculations.

In this section, you will learn about the most important processing devices:
● central processing unit (CPU)
● graphics processing unit (GPU).

CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT (CPU)

The central processing unit (CPU) is located inside the computer case on the
motherboard. It is the part of a computer responsible for receiving and carrying
out computer instructions (processing).

Each CPU can be made up of multiple cores, which are independent processing
units that can complete tasks on their own (multithreading vs multiprocessing).
By adding multiple cores to a CPU, the processing power available to the
computer can increase dramatically, with little heat gain. These types of Figure 3.14: A central
processors are called multi-core processors. processing unit

The CPU contains a control unit (CU) that coordinates all activities in the CPU,
and an arithmetic logic unit (ALU) where the logic operations and arithmetic
calculations are carried out.

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 GRAPHICS PROCESSING UNIT (GPU)
The graphics processing unit (GPU) is located on plug-in cards on the motherboard
or in the same chip as the CPU. It is responsible for creating and doing the
calculations needed to display images on the screen.

Figure 3.15: An GPU inside a computer

MEMORY
Random-access memory (or RAM), is physical hardware that temporarily saves
data. It serves as the computer’s ‘working’ memory. RAM provides space for
your computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU.
RAM is volatile, meaning that all data is lost once the electricity is disconnected
Figure 3.16: An example or the power is lost.
of RAM
MEMORY VS. STORAGE
When comparing memory and storage, we first need to identify the role of the
components. The computer’s main memory is the RAM. You can think of RAM as
HOW IT’S MADE – a workspace or workbench the computer uses to get work done. When you
COMPUTERS double-click on an app, or open a document, or do almost anything on your
computer, RAM gets used to store the code of the app and the data while the
processor (CPU) is working on it. The storage unit i.e. HDD, SSD or Flash drive,
by contrast, is the cupboard or storage shelf you might use to permanently store
your tools, apps, data and completed work. So, when the task is complete and
you click save in the app, the resulting output is stored permanently on the
storage unit.

https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=w5m84nStIIM
PORTS
https://qrs.ly/izab209
The following are some of the most important ports found on the motherboards.

Table 3.3: Ports found on a motherboard

PORT NAME COMPATIBLE DEVICES PURPOSE

USB Most input and output devices, flash disks To transfer data and instructions to and
and smartphones connect to the from the computer.
motherboard.
HDMI Monitors, projectors, televisions and Designed to transmit high-definition audio
speakers. and video signals.

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 PORT NAME COMPATIBLE DEVICES PURPOSE
3,5 mm Speakers, earphones and microphones. To enable these devices to produce sound.
Ethernet Network (Ethernet), UTP cable with RJ45 Ethernet port allows the motherboard to
plug. connect to a wired network and to send
and receive data within the network.

Thunderbolt port. Input and output devices. To connect high-speed devices to the motherboard for data
transfer to and from the device.

Activity 3.4

3.4.1 Choose a term/concept from COLUMN B that matches a description in COLUMN A. Write only the letter next to
the question number (e.g. 1– A). There can be more than one answer to a question. Some descriptions (column
A) can have more than one answer (column B).

COLUMN A COLUMN B
1. This device has connectors that allow you to connect a power supply to a A. Processing devices
computer as well as several ports in the back that allow you to easily plug in B. cores
devices like keyboards, speakers and monitors.
C. USB
2. Most input devices, most output devices (excluding monitors), flash disks,
D. RAM
printers and smartphones can plug into this type of port.
E. CPU
3. These devices are the computer devices responsible for carrying out
F. CPU (control unit)
instructions and performing calculations.
G. Motherboard
4. You can increase the processing power that is available to the computer by
adding multiple _____ to the CPU. H. GPU
I. HDMI
5. Monitors, projectors, televisions and speakers can plug into this type of port.
6. _____ are independent processing units that can complete tasks on
their own.
7. _____ is volatile, meaning that all data Is lost once the electricity is
disconnected or the power is lost.
8. The _____ is located on plug-in cards, in a chipset on the motherboard or in
the same chip as the CPU and is responsible for creating and doing the
calculations needed to display an image on the screen.
9. This unit coordinates the activities of all the other units in the system by
controlling the transfer of data and information between various units and
initiating the appropriate actions by the ALU.

3.4.2 Indicate whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE. Write ‘true’ or ‘false’ next to the question number.
Correct the statement if it is FALSE. Change the word(s) in bold to make the statement TRUE where necessary.
You may not simply use the word ‘NOT’ to change the statement. NO mark will be awarded if only FALSE is
written down.
a. The function of the motherboard is to provide a place for other devices or interfaces to be installed.
b. By adding multiple cores to a CPU, the processing power available to the computer can decrease dramatically.
c. All the arithmetic and logical operations are performed on the data that is available in the main memory and
sent back to the main memory after processing is done.
d. RAM provides space for your computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU.

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 Activity 3.4 continued

3.4.4 For each of the hardware devices below, state whether it is an input, output or processing device.
a. Mouse b. GPU
c. Monitor d. Touchpad
e. Speakers f. CPU
g. Keyboard
3.4.5 The following is an advertisement for two computers.

COMPUTER 1 COMPUTER 2
Intel Core i5 CPU (2.5 GHz) Intel Core i7 CPU (3.8 GHz)
4GB 2133 MHZ RAM Nvidia GeForce RTX 2060 GPU
1 TB HDD 8GB 2400 MHZ RAM
Windows 10 256 GB SSD
Mouse, keyboard and speakers Windows 10
21” HD monitor Mouse, keyboard and speakers
2-year warranty 27” Full HD monitor
2-year warranty
Based on these advertisements, answer the following questions.
a. The first computer does not include a separate GPU. Will this computer be able to display 3D graphics?
Give reasons for your answer.
b. What is the function of the Intel Core i7 CPU in the second computer?
c. The second computer has more RAM than the first computer. How do you think this will benefit the
second computer?
3.4.6 In modern games, the entire gaming world is created using three-dimensional (or 3D) characters and objects. The
effect of different light sources on these characters need to be calculated, as well as the effect these characters
have on light sources (such as casting shadows). To do this, your computer needs to have a powerful GPU.
With this information in mind, answer the following questions.
a. Expand the acronym GPU (i.e. what does GPU stand for)?
b. What is the role of the GPU?
c. Why does the GPU often use more processing power than the CPU in 3D games?
d. For each of the following instructions, state whether the CPU or GPU is responsible for carrying out the
instructions and give reasons for your answer.
i. Instructions related to the way the sun reflects from a car in a 3D racing game.
ii. General instructions related to the gameplay of a 3D racing game.
3.4.7 Compare and contrast the roles of memory and storage.

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3.5 Comparing a computer to a mobile device

MOBILE DEVICE
A mobile device performs many of the functions of a computer, such as browsing the internet and running
basic software programs. The majority of mobile devices like smartphones, make use of a touchscreen to
allow the user to interact with the programs and applications on the phone.

The following tables compare various aspects of a smartphone and a desktop computer.

Table 3.4: Comparison of input devices

HARDWARE DESKTOP SMARTPHONE DISCUSSION
Keyboard Full size keyboard Small, touchscreen The world typing record on a full-size
keyboard (USB On The Go keyboard is 216 words per minute,
(OTG) or Bluetooth) compared to 100 words per minute on a
smartphone.
Mouse Mouse, touchpad, Touchscreen, stylus Computers allow more accurate input using
touchscreen, a mouse. While smartphones rely on a
stylus touchscreen for input. A stylus can be used
with a touchscreen to improve the accuracy
of the input.
Cameras Purchase extra Built-in Most modern smartphones have high
quality cameras built-in, allowing you to
make video calls and take photos.
Microphone Purchase extra Built-in Since microphones are needed to make a
call, all smartphones have microphones
built-in.
Biometric devices Purchase extra Built-in on some models Many high-end smartphones are released
with fingerprint readers, retina scanners or
face identification.
These items are expensive additional
purchases on computers.

Desktops have larger output devices that are easier to use, but smartphones often have very high-quality
output devices.

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 Table 3.5: Comparison of output devices

HARDWARE DESKTOP SMARTPHONE DISCUSSION

Monitor 19” – 34” 3” – 6” While the monitors of
desktop computers are
much larger than those of
smartphones, the small
Did you know monitors of smartphones
Some devices allow you to often have a higher
connect your smartphone’s resolution, making them
display to a computer incredibly high quality.
monitor, allowing you to Speakers Purchase extra Built-in While smartphones have
work on a larger monitor. built-in speakers, these
speakers are usually of very
low quality, because of their
limited space.

Table 3.6: Comparison of storage devices

HARDWARE DESKTOP SMARTPHONE DISCUSSION
Internal storage Large built-in Very small Desktop computers are
HDD or SSD built-in NAND significantly better in terms
chips of storage space. The
average desktop computer
has almost 40 times more
storage space than a
smartphone.
External storage Purchase extra Purchase extra External storage can be
purchased for both desktops
and smartphones, although
it is more affordable for
desktops. Some
smartphones do not allow
you to add additional
storage.
CD/DVD Built-in or Purchase extra While it is possible to
purchase extra purchase a CD/DVD reader
for some brands of
smartphones, it is expensive
and not easy to use.

Desktop computers are considerably more powerful than smartphones in

processing power. While high-end smartphones have the power needed to
perform any tasks on the smartphone quickly and efficiently, there are many
processing intensive tasks that cannot run on smartphones. These include
complex mathematical simulations, video editing or rendering and certain
games.

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 Table 3.7: Comparison of processing devices
HARDWARE DESKTOP SMARTPHONE DISCUSSION
CPU Built-in Built-in Even though smartphone processors can be very fast,
they are still considerably slower than desktop
processors. These are also easily upgradeable or
replaceable with a faster version.
GPU Built-in or Built-in Not only are built-in desktop GPUs much faster than
purchase extra smartphone GPUs, you can pay extra to purchase an
even faster GPU for a desktop computer.
RAM Built-in Built-in While high-end smartphones can have the same amount
of RAM as average desktops, the RAM will be a lot
slower than general desktop RAM.

Smartphones are generally designed to be used on their own without any additional devices. As such,
smartphones have fewer ports (making it harder to connect smartphones to other devices like speakers
or monitors). However, this also means smartphones have all the important devices built-in to them. This
includes a wide variety of communication devices.

Table 3.8: Comparison of connectivity options

HARDWARE DESKTOP SMARTPHONE DISCUSSION

Motherboard Built-in Built-in While desktop motherboards may have
additional features, both desktop and
smartphone motherboards serve the same core
function: connecting the hardware.
Communication Ethernet, GSM, 2G, 3G, 4G, As smartphones need to be able to make calls
purchase others Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC and browse the internet from anywhere, they
extra come with more communication devices built-in.
Ports Many different USB Computers have a wide variety of ports for
ports 3,5 mm (some different devices, while most smartphones only
phones) have a single USB port. Some smartphones have
a 3,5 mm sound port, but many high-end
Docking station phones do not.

Activity 3.5

3.5.1 Compare the input, processing, output and storage devices of a desktop computer with a mobile device.

DESKTOP COMPUTER MOBILE DEVICE

Input devices
Processing devices
Output devices
Storage devices
3.5.2 In what ways is a desktop computer similar and in what ways is a desktop computer different when compared
to a mobile device. Support your answers.

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 CONSOLIDATION ACTIVITY Chapter 3: Basic concepts of hardware

Choose the correct answer for each of the following by writing down only the letter of the correct option.
1. Define hardware?
a. A group of two or more computing devices that are connected allowing the computers to communicate
electronically.
b. Computer hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer and related devices.
c. The part of a computer responsible for receiving and carrying out computer instructions.
2. Which of the following is one of the functions of an input device?
a. It allows you to interact directly with your computer.
b. Any device that takes data stored on a computer and makes it available to the user.
c. A device used to store data.
3. Which of the following are examples of ONLY output devices?
a. Monitor, printer, projector
b. Monitor, touchpad, DVD
c. Monitor, speaker, CPU
4. Which statement best describes a hard disk drive (HDD)?
a. A storage device without any moving parts and with a low storage capacity.
b. A storage device without moving parts and where the data is written and stored onto.
c. A storage device that consists of moving parts and stores data permanently.
5. Where are touchscreens usually NOT used?
a. On a tablet.
b. On a smartphone.
c. By a cashier in a restaurant.
d. On a desktop monitor.
6. Which processing device is described by the following statement: _____ is located inside the computer case on
the motherboard and is responsible for receiving and carrying out computer instructions.
a. GPU
b. CPU
c. ALU
7. What is the main function of RAM?
a. It permanently saves data.
b. It can hold data without power.
c. It temporarily saves data, serving as the computer’s working memory.
8. Which piece of hardware is described as a large printed circuit board that physically connects all the
different components.
a. Motherboard
b. Solid state drive
c. Central processing unit

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 CONSOLIDATION ACTIVITY Chapter 3: Basic concepts of hardware continued

9. What does DPI measure?

a. It measures how many pages of black text a printer can print per minute.
b. It describes the number of square pixels that show up in an inch of digital screen.
c. It measures how many dots a printer can print in one inch (or 2.54 cm).
10. Which of the following is an advantage of a touchpad?
a. People with hand injuries can use it without difficulty.
b. Usable when there is no flat surface for a mouse.
c. Enables the user to control the cursor better and do options such as drag and drop fast.
11. Indicate whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE. Write ‘true’ or ‘false’ next to the question number.
Correct the statement if it is FALSE. Change the word(s) in bold text to make the statement TRUE where
necessary. You may not simply use the word ‘NOT’ to change the statement. NO mark will be awarded if only
FALSE is written down.
a. A person can type faster on the keyboard of a smartphone that on a desktop computer’s keyboard.
b. External storage can be purchased for both desktops and phones, although it is more affordable for desktops.
c. Smartphone processors are considerably faster than desktop processors.
d. Smartphones have a greater variety of ports for different devices than computers.
12. Give a definition for a device which is both an input and an output device.
13. Give at least TWO examples of I/O devices.
14. Explain why you think learners often believe that a smartboard is an input and output device.
15. You have a friend with very bad eyesight. Although he is not blind, he can only vaguely make out letters and
shapes when looking at a desktop monitor.
a. What would you recommend he gets for himself so that he will be able to do his IT work on a computer?
b. List and explain any THREE devices that may help him.
16. Peter wants to buy a new monitor so that he can work on the desktop given to him by his brother. Going to the
closest computer shop, he starts looking at the monitors that are available. To his shock, he realises that there
are many different monitors, and that he has no clue what to look for. You are the salesperson and decide to
explain to Peter what the important characteristics of a monitor are.
a. How will you explain to Peter what FIVE of the important characteristics of a monitor are and how they affect
the quality of the monitor?
b. After telling Peter what to look for in a monitor, he tells you that he wants a monitor that can be used to
watch movies in the living room. In your opinion, which TWO of the characteristics are the most important
for him, and why do you say so?

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 CONSOLIDATION ACTIVITY Chapter 3: Basic concepts of hardware continued

17. Here are the advertisements of two computers; Siphiwe’s brother wants to buy one of them.

COMPUTER A COMPUTER B
Intel I3 2.8 GHz Intel I5 3.6 GHz
500 GB HDD 1TB HDD
4 GB RAM 16 GB RAM
21” LCD colour monitor 24” Monitor, 1920 × 1080 Resolution
DVD/CD Writer Combo-Drive Blue Ray Combo Drive
Microsoft Windows 10 Home Microsoft Windows 10 Home
Optical Mouse Wireless Mouse and Keyboard
Free Zeon Ink-jet printer Free: Multifunctional Laser Printer,
Free Flatbed Scanner 20 MP digital Camera,
An Ergonomically designed QWERTY Keyboard 5 in 1 card reader
Free Digital Camera With USB Hub included

To help him decide, he has asked you the following questions:

a. How can the screen size of a monitor measured?
b. Which of these computers has the largest monitor? Give the size of the monitor, as well as its resolution.
c. What is the speed of the CPU given in the specifications of Computer B?
d. In what units is the CPU speed measured?
e. What is the main function of the hard drive?
18. Complete the table categorising hardware.

HARDWARE EXAMPLE OF TWO DEVICES

Input
Output
Storage
Processing
19. Your school is hosting a large, inter-school athletics competition. You have been asked to record the results from
the competition using a desktop computer. Based on this information, answer the following questions.
a. Which device is better suited to capturing many competitors’ names and times? Give at least two reasons
for your answer.
b. Which input devices could you use to capture the following:
i. a photograph of the competition winners.
ii. the audio commentary of the event.
iii. an image of the certificates handed out during the event.
c. What are some of the disadvantages of using a touchscreen for data entry?
d. Your school wants to capture images from the event an almost immediately place them on several social
media platforms. Which device is most suited to carrying out this task and why?

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