Quiz on Basic Computer Hardware Components

📚 Quick Study Guide: Basic Computer Hardware

• 🧠 CPU (Central Processing Unit): Often called the 'brain' of the computer, it performs calculations, executes instructions, and manages data flow. Key components include the ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) and Control Unit.
• ⚡ RAM (Random Access Memory): This is your computer's short-term, volatile memory. It stores data that actively running programs and the operating system need quick access to. Data is lost when the computer powers off.
• 💾 ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile memory that stores essential firmware, such as the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface), which helps boot up the computer. Its contents cannot be easily changed.
• ⚙️ Motherboard: The main printed circuit board that connects all hardware components of the computer. It allows them to communicate with each other.
• 💽 Storage Devices (HDD/SSD): Non-volatile memory for long-term data storage. HDD (Hard Disk Drive) uses spinning platters, while SSD (Solid State Drive) uses flash memory, offering faster speeds and durability.
• 🖥️ GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Often found on a dedicated graphics card, its primary role is to render images, animations, and videos for display on your monitor. Crucial for gaming, video editing, and graphic design.
• 🔌 PSU (Power Supply Unit): Converts alternating current (AC) from the wall outlet into direct current (DC) that the computer components can use. Provides power to the entire system.
• 🧊 Cooling Systems: Essential for maintaining optimal operating temperatures. Includes components like heatsinks, fans, and sometimes liquid cooling systems to dissipate heat generated by the CPU, GPU, and other components.

📝 Practice Quiz: Computer Hardware Fundamentals

1. Which component is often referred to as the 'brain' of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations?

   1. A. RAM
   2. B. Motherboard
   3. C. CPU
   4. D. GPU

2. What type of memory is volatile and stores data for actively running programs, losing its contents when the computer is turned off?

   1. A. ROM
   2. B. SSD
   3. C. RAM
   4. D. HDD

3. Which hardware component serves as the main circuit board, connecting all other components and allowing them to communicate?

   1. A. Graphics Card
   2. B. Motherboard
   3. C. Power Supply Unit
   4. D. Hard Disk Drive

4. Which storage device uses flash memory for faster data access and greater durability compared to traditional spinning platters?

   1. A. HDD
   2. B. ROM
   3. C. SSD
   4. D. CD-ROM

5. What is the primary function of the GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)?

   1. A. To store the operating system permanently.
   2. B. To convert AC power to DC power for the components.
   3. C. To execute all general-purpose instructions.
   4. D. To render images and videos for display.

6. Which component is responsible for converting the incoming AC power from an outlet into the DC power usable by the computer's internal components?

   1. A. Motherboard
   2. B. CPU
   3. C. PSU
   4. D. RAM

7. Which type of non-volatile memory stores the essential firmware (like BIOS/UEFI) required for the computer to start up?

   1. A. RAM
   2. B. SSD
   3. C. ROM
   4. D. Cache Memory