Fundamentals of Computer Troubleshooting (CMIT 202) Latest Update Graded A

Fundamentals of Computer Troubleshooting (CMIT 202) Latest Update Graded A Hardware The physical components that compose a computer system or network. Includes: keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer; connectors, cables; hard disk drives; circuit boards Software Instructions or data that are stored electronically, either on a hard drive or a special chip. Includes: Operating systems; program applications; hardware drivers --special programs that tell the OS how to use the hardware. Input The movement of data or commands to the internal computer hardware Processing The flow of data through a series of procedures as defined by a set of instructions. Includes: CPU, RAM Storage devices Devices that contain non-volatile memory for saving or maintaining data. Include: Hard disk drives, Solid-state drives, Optical drives (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, and Blu-ray), Flask drives Output The process of the computer presenting, displaying, or otherwise giving data. Networking and communications The practice of connecting two or more computers in order to transfer data. Networking components include: CONNECTING MEDIA= copper cables, radio signals; CONNECTION DEVICES= routers, switches Firmware a special type of software that is embedded in the read-only memory of a hardware component. ABIOS chip is an example of this Componentization (in context of Modular Design) A functional PC is a combination of several constituent parts. Each part is considered a field-replaceable unit (FRU), meaning it can be quickly replaced when faulty or easily upgraded when needed. This principle keeps maintenance costs low and reduces downtime. Standardization (in context of Modular Design) Specifications that allow components from different manufacturers to be interchangeable. If a component meets the specified standards, it will work in the computer regardless of manufacturer. VGA Port (Video Graphics Array) Also called a DB-15 port, this 15-pin port is used to connect external display devices such as projectors and some monitors. This port: transmits analog video signal, has three rows of five pins, uses a DE-15 connector. All older monitors use this type of port. DVI (Digital Video Interface) port This port is used to connect display devices. This port: carries either an analog signal, a digital signal, or both; supports one of two cable and connector types, single link or dual-link. HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) port and DisplayPort These ports are used to send high-quality digital video and audio signals. The following devices use these ports: LCD monitors and HDTVs *HDMI (symmetrical notches) has a smaller form factor connector called an HDMI-mini connector. This connector is half the size of a standard HDMI connector and is used to connect smartphones, tablets, and digital cameras to external displays. Thunderbolt port This port combines PCI Express (PCIe) and DisplayPort signals into a single interface. It can also provide DC power. These ports