Lecture Notes: Computer Organization and Architecture Course - Chapter 1: Introduction to the Personal Computer

Course Objectives

• Explore personal computer components:
  • Motherboard
  • CPU
  • Memory types

What is a Personal Computer?

• A device to interact with hardware, perform calculations, or functions.

Key Components of a Personal Computer

• Input/Output Devices:
  • Scanner: Inputs documents into a computer.
  • Monitor: Displays visual output.
  • Speakers/Headphones: Provide audio output.
  • Printers: Produce hard copies.
• Core Components:
  • CPU (Microprocessor): Interprets and executes commands.
  • RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage, volatile memory.
  • Motherboard: Connects components; defines form factor.
  • Storage Devices: SSDs, HDDs, optical drives.
• Peripheral Devices:
  • Expansion cards (e.g., video cards)
  • Power supplies, optical disks

Electrical Safety

• Be cautious with electrical devices:
  • Ensure correct AC adapters.
  • Avoid opening power supplies unless trained.
  • High voltage components can cause injuries or fires.

Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Safety

• Occurs due to electrical charge buildup.
• Prevent ESD with:
  • Anti-static bags
  • Grounding mats
  • Anti-static wrist straps

PC Components Detailed

Cases

• Purpose: House internal components (power supply, CPU, etc.)
• Form Factors: Horizontal, full-size tower, compact tower, all-in-one.

Power Supplies

• Converts AC to DC power.
• Types: AT, ATX, ATX 12V, EPS 12V.
• Connectors: Modular and built-in.

Motherboards

• Role: Backbone of the computer, connects all components.
• Components:
  • CPU socket
  • RAM slots
  • Expansion slots
  • BIOS
  • Chipset (Northbridge/Southbridge)
• Form Factors: ATX, Micro ATX, ITX.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

• Executes commands and processes data.
• Configurations: PGA, LGA.

Cooling Systems

• Ensure components are kept cool.
• Types:
  • Active: Fans, liquid cooling.
  • Passive: Heat sinks.

Memory

• Types of Memory:
  • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile.
  • RAM: Volatile; enhances system performance.
• Memory Modules: DIP, SIM, DIMM, SODIMM.

Storage Devices

• Types: HDD, SSD, Optical drives, Tape drives.
• Interfaces: SATA, ETE, NVMe.

Adapter Cards

• Increase computer functionality.
• Common Types: NIC, video cards, sound adapters.
• Expansion Slots: PCI, PCIe, AGP.

Input Devices

• Examples: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, touch screen, webcam.

Output Devices

• Examples: Monitors, projectors, printers, speakers.

Summary

• Reviewed PC components, safety measures, and technologies involved.
• Emphasized understanding of new terms related to computer architecture.