Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 2
The System Unit
Learning objectives
◽
Recognize how data is processed
Understanding CPUs
◽
Understand processors
Understanding Memory
◽
Understand memory types and functions
Understanding
Motherboards
◽
Identify and use ports and buses
Understanding Power
Supplies
The heart of
any computer is its system unit. As you learned in
Chapter 1,
“Computer Basics,”
the system unit is the main body of the computer, containing
the essential components it needs to function.
If you have ever shopped for a computer, you probably noticed that some models
cost much more than others—many times more. The quality and features of the
components inside the system unit are the primary reason why cost varies so widely.
Two computers can look identical from the outside but be very different in their
capabilities and performance levels.
In this chapter, you will learn what happens inside the system unit, and what role
each key component plays in making the computer fast and efficient at performing
the tasks you ask of it. When you understand these things, you will be able to deci-
pher a computer's technical specifications with confidence and select the models
that have the best balance of cost and features for your situation.
