Chapter 3 - CIS - Evaluating Hardware: For Home and Work

Processor Info

A processor core is a unit on the processor with the circuitry necessary to execute instructions. Processors with more cores typically perform better and are more expensive. A processor with multiple cores is referred to as a multi-core processor. If a processor uses specific data frequently, it can store that data in a processor cache. A processor cache stores this data next to the processor so that it can quickly be retrieved. CPU executes instructions (converts input into output) with the control unit and the arithmetic logic unit. - control unit controls flow of instructions within the processor - arithmetic logic unit (ALU) performs arithmetic operations in the CPU.

Registers

A processor contains small, high-speed storage locations, called registers, that temporarily hold data and instructions. - part of the processor, not part of memory or a permanent storage device. - many different types of registers, each with a specific storage function. Register functions include - storing the location from where an instruction was fetched, - storing an instruction while the control unit decodes it, - storing data while the ALU calculates it, and - storing the results of a calculation.

form factor

After you have determined the platform and hardware requirements for the computer you want to purchase, you will select a form factor. The form factor refers to the shape and size of the computer. Not all form factors may support the hardware you need. For example, a tablet might not contain adequate hardware specifications for editing videos. Various types of computers exist, including desktop computers, all-in-one computers, laptops, tablets, and other mobile devices.

Protect Computer Equipment

Although the electrical power is generally constant in its "force" (voltage), there may be occasional increases or decreases that can impact sensitive electrical devices, particularly computers.Table 3-5. A surge protector can defend computer equipment from spikes, surges, and noise. - lies between computer and outlet and absorbs any electrical change so that it does not reach the computer equipment. Noise is an electrical disturbance that can degrade communications.

peripheral device (add-on device)

An add-on device, also referred to as a peripheral device, is a device such as a keyboard, mouse, printer, or speakers that can connect to and extend the capability of a computer.

input device

An input device communicates instructions and commands to a computer. - On a computer, the most common input device might be a keyboard, which can communicate text and instructions. - On a mobile phone, the most common input device might be its touchscreen. - Additional types of input devices include, but are not limited to, a mouse, stylus, scanner, webcam, microphone, and game controller.

output device0

An output device conveys information from the computer to the user. On a computer or mobile device, the most common output device might be its display device. Other types of output devices include speakers, headphones, projectors, and printers.

Inside the Case

Cases - made of metal or plastic, are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. - Desktop cases are separate from the monitor. On most laptops, the case is under the keyboard. - tablets and smartphones, the case is behind the display. - wearable devices (such as smartwatches), portable media players, digital cameras, and handheld game devices typically consumes the entire device and houses the display and input devices.

Memory Info

Computer memory holds data and programs as they are being processed by the CPU. Different types of memory: random access memory (RAM) read-only memory (ROM) virtual memory (VM)

Network Communication Devices

Creating a network requires: - two or more devices that need to communicate, - a way to communicate, and - the infrastructure necessary to facilitate the communication. For a computer to connect to a network, it should have a network interface card (NIC) - a circuit board that connects a computer to a wired or wireless network. - often internal to the device - Some can connect a computer to a wired network, while other NICs can connect a computer to a wireless network. - Some have a visible antenna that is used to better communicate with the wireless network. Most of today's modems are digital, which means that they send and receive data to and from a digital line. two common types of digital modems: - Cable - DSL (digital subscriber line) - The type of modem required for your network will depend on your ISP. ---- A cable modem - sends and receives digital data over a cable TV connection - may be part of a set-top cable box, or it may be a separate device. ----- A DSL modem - uses existing standard copper telephone wiring to send and receive digital data. Some modems also function as a wired and/or wireless router. ---For example, if you have a cable modem that you connect to your home's cable television lines, you might also be able to connect multiple wired and wireless devices if the cable modem also functions as a router

Network Connection Components

Devices on a network, also called nodes, might include: - computers, tablets, mobile phones, printers, game consoles, and smart home devices. Most networks also include additional components: - hubs, switches, and routers. - These devices help connect multiple devices and facilitate the connections among the devices that are communicating. A hub is a device that provides a central point for cables in a network and transfers all data to all devices. A switch is similar to a hub in that it provides a central point for cables in a network; however, it transfers data only to the intended recipient. - used more frequently today than hubs. A router is a device that connects two or more networks and directs, or routes, the flow of information along the networks. - can be used to connect computers to the Internet, so that multiple users can share a connection. -----For example, you might have a router installed at your house to which all devices connect, and the router is typically connected with a wire or cable to a device called a modem which provides the Internet connectivity. - Many routers used at home are wireless routers -----provide wireless network access to compatible devices. modem - a communications device that connects a communications channel, such as the Internet, to a sending or receiving device, such as a computer. - connects your network to the Internet through an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Most ISPs offer broadband connectivity capable of transmitting large amounts of data at high speeds.

Dispose of Hardware Responsibly

E-waste is electronic waste from discarded digital devices Computer parts contain metals that are toxic, such as lead and mercury., which may eventually contaminate the ground and water supply, causing harm to the environment. Three responsible methods for disposing of your devices include the following: - recycling - Donate - technology store or firm Sustainable Electronics Management (SEM) promotes the reduction of e-waste. - buy green - donate - recycle

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is an applied science that specifies the design and arrangement of items that you use so that you and the items interact efficiently and safely. Arms. - parallel to the floor at approximately a 90-degree angle. Eyes. - distance to the screen is 18-28 inches from the eyes, and the - viewing angle is downward at about 20 degrees to the center of the screen. Feet. - flat on the floor. Use a proper chair with adjustable height and multiple legs for stability. Standing at your desk can reduce RSIs and neck strain.

Machine Cycle

For every instruction, a processor repeats a set of four basic operations, which comprise a machine cycle: Fetching obtaining a program, application instruction, or data item from memory. Decoding translating the instruction into signals the computer can execute. Executing carrying out the commands. Storing writing the result to memory (not to a storage medium). - In some computers processor does one set of instruction at a time. - With others, the processor fetches a second instruction before the first instruction completes its machine cycle, resulting in faster processing. - Some use multiple processors simultaneously to increase processing times.

HOW LETTER IS CONVERTED TO BINARY FORM

HOW LETTER IS CONVERTED TO BINARY FORM 1. typing character creates corresponding code called a scan code 2. which is then sent to the electronic circuitry in computer --> 3. scan code is converted to ASCII binary code and is stored in memory for processing --> 4. after processing binary code, character is converted to image and displayed in output device (such as the monitor)

Hardware

Hardware refers to the device itself and its components, such as wires, cases, switches, and electronic circuits. Computer hardware can include internal components that you cannot see, or they can be externally connected devices. Computers include a variety of hardware types: central processing unit (chip) RAM ROM peripheral devices

Restore a Device

If you are experiencing a problem with your computer or device, you might need to take corrective actions such as restoring the operating system or correcting display problem operating system problem often characterized by: -programs and apps not properly starting, -persistent error messages, or - slow performance consider restoring the operating system. - Before attempting to restore: copy all personal files to a separate storage device, such as a USB flash drive or external hard drive. restoring is reverting all settings back to their default, or migrating back to the operating system's previous version. - To restore: review the help documentation and follow the specified steps. You should still back up your files as a preventative measure. problems with your display device, such as it not displaying video output properly, make sure any external monitor or display device is properly connected. If you still experience problems, the video card might be defective. video card is a circuit board that processes image signals. - Consider taking the computer to a professional for repair. If you are experiencing issues with other accessories or peripheral devices, you may need to update the device driver.

Info / Data / Input / Output

Information is data that has been processed to become meaningful. Data is raw facts, such as text or numbers. Input is any data and instructions entered into the memory of a device. Output is information processed into a useful form, such as text, graphics, audio, video, or any combination of these

Install and Evaluate Hardware

It is a good idea to fully charge the battery before using the device for the first time Some devices, called Plug-and-Play devices, will begin functioning properly as soon as you connect them to your computer. Other devices might require that you manually install special software, called a device driver, to work properly. A device driver is a program that allows your computer or device to issue controls to a separate device, such as a printer, monitor, or video card.

Laptops

Laptops have: - input devices (such as a keyboard, touchpad, and webcam) - output devices (such as a screen and speakers) -one or more storage devices (such as a hard drive) and - communication capabilities.

How Computers Represent Data

Most computers are digital and use a binary system to operate A binary system is a number system that has two digits, 0 and 1. The digit 0 indicates the absence of an electronic charge, and a 1 indicates the presence of an electronic charge. These electronic charges (or absence thereof), when grouped together, represent data. Each 0 or 1 is called a bit. A bit (short for binary digit) is the smallest unit of data a computer can process. When 8 bits are grouped together, they form a byte. A byte can represent a single character in the computer or mobile device (a single letter, symbol or number for example) input -- the computer translates them into the corresponding bits and bytes that it can understand and prevents having to manually type the bits for each number, letter, or special character. output device -- the computer translates the various bits back to numbers, letters, and special characters that you can understand.

Perform Data Backups

One of the most important preventative measures is to create data backups on a regular basis. - data backup means copying files from a device, such as a computer's hard drive, that are then stored in a remote location, such as the cloud. - can protect against hardware malfunctions, user error, software corruption, and natural disasters. - can also protect against cyberattacks because they can restore your data after an attack or malfunction. Online backup services use special software on the computer to monitor what files have changed or have been created; these then are automatically uploaded to a cloud server. Because these backups are performed automatically and stored at a remote location, these online backup services provide the highest degree of protection to most users. You can schedule your online backup service

Inside the Case: Motherboard Components 3

Processor chips for laptops, desktops, and servers can generate quite a bit of heat, which could cause the chip to malfunction or fail. - Some computer cases locate additional fans - Heat sinks, liquid cooling, and cooling pads often are used to help further dissipate processor heat. heat sink - small ceramic or metal component with fins on its surface that absorbs and disperses heat produced by electrical components, such as a processor. - Many have fans to help distribute air dissipated by the heat sink. - Some are packaged as part of a processor chip. - Others are installed on the top or the side of the chip. Liquid cooling technology - uses a continuous flow of fluid(s), such as water and glycol, in a process that transfers the heated fluid away from the processor to a radiator-type grill, which cools it, and then returns the cooled fluid to the processor. cooling pad - rests below a laptop and protects the computer from overheating - protects the user's lap from excessive heat. - Some contain a small fan to transfer heat away from the laptop. These types of cooling pads often draw power from a USB port. - Instead of using power, other pads absorb heat through a conductive material inside the pad.

Random access memory (RAM)

Random access memory (RAM) is the storage location that is part of every computer and temporarily stores running apps and document data while a computer is on - stored on one or more chips connected to the main circuit board of the computer (motherboard), and temporarily stores data needed by the operating system and apps you use motherboard is a circuit board inside a computer that contains: - the microprocessor - memory - other internal devices. ** When you start an app on your computer, the app's instructions are transferred from the hard drive to RAM. Accessing an app's instructions from RAM results in increased performance, but contents of RAM are lost when power is removed. Ram uses volatile memory Memory that loses its contents when power is removed is said to be volatile. Memory that is nonvolatile does not lose its contents when power is removed. When running operating system and other apps, the operating system and each app will require a certain amount of RAM to function properly. As you run more apps simultaneously, more RAM will be required. If your computer runs low on RAM, it may need to swap the contents of RAM to and from the hard drive. When this takes place, your computer is said to be using virtual memory, which is the capability of an operating system to temporarily store data on a storage medium until it can be "swapped" into RAM. The area of the hard drive temporarily used to store data that cannot fit in RAM is called a swap file, or paging file. Depending on the type of hard drive installed on your computer, using virtual memory may decrease your computer's performance.

Read-only memory (ROM)

Read-only memory (ROM) is permanently installed on your computer and is attached to the motherboard. - The ROM chip contains the BIOS (basic input/output system), which tells your computer how to start and performs a power-on self test (POST), which is a sequence at startup that tests all computer components for proper operation. - The ROM also provides the means of communication between the operating system and hardware devices. - Computer manufacturers often update the instructions on the ROM chip called firmware. These updated instructions, or firmware version, can enable your computer to perform additional tasks or fine-tune how your computer communicates with other devices.

Protect Mobile Devices

Several of the most common attacks are directed toward wireless networks that support these devices. Wi-Fi network - a wireless local area network (WLAN). - Devices can send and receive info using radio frequency (RF) transmissions at high speeds. wireless routers central connection devices needed for a home-based Wi-Fi network - acts as the "base station" for the wireless devices, sending and receiving wireless signals between all devices, as well as providing the "gateway" to the external Internet. The router connects the user's modem to the Internet. Wi-Fi networks are vulnerable to several risks, such as: - reading wireless transmissions - Viewing or stealing computer data -Injecting malware -Downloading harmful content Security concerns also arise when using a public Wi-Fi network - rarely protected so attackers can read any wireless transmissions sent to and from the user's device. - attacker may set up what is referred to as an evil twin, which is another computer designed to mimic an authorized Wi-Fi device. A user's mobile device may unknowingly connect to this evil twin instead of the authorized device so that attackers can receive the user's transmissions or directly send malware to the user's computer. ----be sure you are connecting to the approved wireless network. ----limit the type of activity you do on public networks to simple web surfing or watching online videos. inattentional blindness occurs when a person's attention is diverted while performing a natural activity, such as walking. Diverted attention is particularly pronounced when people are using a mobile device, especially with headphones or earbuds. Technology-related inattentional blindness is also called digital distraction.

Inside the Case: Motherboard Components 2

The processor relies on a small quartz crystal circuit called the system clock to control the timing of all computer operations. - generates regular electronic pulses, or ticks, that set the operating pace of components of the system unit. Each tick equates to a clock cycle. Processors today typically are superscalar, which means they can execute more than one instruction per clock cycle. Current personal computer processors have clock speeds in the gigahertz range. Giga = prefix for billion hertz = one cycle per second. gigahertz (GHz) = one billion ticks of the system clock per second. ---Example: A computer that operates at 3 GHz has 3 billion (giga) clock cycles in one second (hertz). The faster the clock speed, the more instructions the processor can execute per second. Other factors of computer perf: -type of processor chip, - amount of cache, - memory access time, - bus width, and - bus clock speed

Evaluate the Performance of Computer Hardware

The processor's clock speed measures the speed at which it can execute instructions. A cycle is the smallest unit of time a process can measure. The efficiency of a CPU is measured by instructions per cycle (IPC). The bus speed and width is another factor that affects a computer's performance. bus is an electronic channel that allows the CPU and various devices inside or attached to a computer to communicate. The bus width determines the speed at which data travels and is also referred to as the word size. The wider the bus, the more data that can travel on it. (A 64-bit bus, for example, transfers data faster than a 32-bit bus.) If you have a fast CPU but the bus speed is slow, that can cause a condition called bottlenecking. manufacturers advertise performance factors such as clock speed and bus speed, other factors can affect processor performance. For this reason, you should research benchmark test results for the processor(s) you are considering. A benchmark is a test run by a laboratory or other organization to determine processor speed and other performance factors. Benchmarking tests compare similar systems performing identical tasks. You typically can find benchmarking information online.

Maintain Computer Hardware

To protect from power fluctuations, consider purchasing and connecting : - uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is a device that maintains power to computer equipment in case of an interruption in the primary electrical source - surge suppressor is a device that prevents power fluctuations from damaging electronic components. Make sure you have enough free space on your device. When you run low on available storage space, performance can quickly deteriorate. If you are unable to free enough space, consider deleting files or apps from the computer or device and storing them on the cloud. Regularly back up your data, and keep your hard drive away from extreme temperatures.

tablets

Two popular form factors: - slate tablet resembles a letter-sized pad and does not contain a physical keyboard. - convertible tablet is a tablet that has a screen in its lid and a keyboard in its base, with the lid and base connected by a swivel-type hinge. You can use a convertible tablet like a traditional laptop, or you can rotate the display and fold it down over the keyboard so that it looks like a slate tablet. -Tablets often are less powerful than other types of computers - It often is not possible to upgrade a tablet; if your tablet's performance begins to deteriorate or cannot keep up with the latest operating systems and apps, it may be necessary to replace the device.

text coding schemes (binary)

When a computer translates a character into bits and bytes, it uses a text coding scheme. Two popular text coding schemes are : - ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange) is an 8-bit coding scheme, which means that 8 bits are used to represent uppercase and lowercase letters, mathematical operators, and logical operations. - Unicode is a 16-bit coding scheme that is an extension of ASCII and can support more than 65,000 symbols and characters, including Chinese, Japanese, Arabic, and other pictorial characters.

Platform

computer's platform refers to the software, or operating system, it uses. When two computers use the same platform, it typically is easier to transfer files between the computers. Two of the most common operating systems on today's computers are Windows and macOS. Other operating systems include ChromeOS, UNIX, Linux, Google Android, and Apple iOS.

Network Hardware

all networks have the same basic characteristics and hardware. Networks - allow computers to share resources (hardware, software, data, and information). - requires a combination of hardware and software to operate. - Smaller networks require simple hardware and can rely on the operating system's features to connect to other devices on the network, - larger networks typically require more sophisticated hardware and software.

all-in-one computer

all-in-one computer is similar to a desktop computer, but the monitor and system unit are housed together. -take up less space than a desktop computer and are easier to transport but are typically more difficult to service or upgrade because the components are housed in a very limited space. ---sometimes are more expensive than a desktop computer with equivalent hardware specifications.

The Arithmetic Logic Unit

arithmetic logic unit (ALU) - - performs arithmetic, comparison, and other operations. Arithmetic operations - basic calculations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Comparison operations - involve comparing one data item with another to determine whether the first item is greater than, equal to, or less than the other item.

Behavioral Health

behavioral hazards: technology addiction Sedentary lifestyle. Psychological development. Social interaction - may hinder social skill development or even cause social withdrawal.

central processing unit (CPU)

central processing unit (CPU) is a complex integrated circuit consisting of millions of electronic parts - primarily responsible for converting input (data) into meaningful output (information). - a chip in the device - Data travels in and out of the CPU through embedded wires called a bus. The processor most affects a computer's speed.

Social Health

cyberbullying - considered more harmful than general bullying for several reasons. SEE PHOTO Doxxing form of cyberbullying in which documents (dox) are shared digitally that give private or personal information about a person -doxxing laws are difficult to define and enforce - harassment laws can be applied. - can be charged if the information is obtained illegally Cyberstalking use of technology to stalk another person through email, text messages, phone calls, and other forms of communication. -laws against stalking often are used in prosecution.

desktop computer

desktop computer typically consists of the system unit, monitor, keyboard, and mouse. The system unit (or chassis) refers to the case on a desktop that contains and protects the motherboard, hard drive, memory, and other electronic components. Components that typically occupy space outside of a desktop include peripheral devices, such as a keyboard, mouse, webcam, speakers, and printer. not very portable; however, these computers often can be more powerful and contain more storage than their mobile equivalents, such as laptops and tablets. Hardware components, such as the hard drive and RAM, can be more easily upgraded in desktop computers than in other types of computers.

External Storage Solutions

external hard drive - can add storage capacity to your computer, - is housed in a separate case, -typically connects to your computer using a USB cable - Similar to internal hard drives, external hard drives can use either magnetic or solid-state technology. - can be transported from one computer to another Optical media - use laser technology for storage and playback - include CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs (BDs), but their use is declining. - required special software or capabilities within the operating system. - easy to transport, but if the discs get damaged, you might not be able to access your stored files. - Instead of optical discs, many individuals now use USB flash drives, external hard drives, and cloud storage to transport files. Cloud storage - involves storing electronic files on a remote server connected to the Internet, not on a local computer, a practice that is called storing data on the cloud. - enables you to store your files remotely on servers that could be in a different city, state, or part of the world. - typically requires only a computer or mobile device with an Internet connection - might not require as much storage on your computer because you can store your files remotely. - Cloud storage companies host and maintain the servers and provide access to your files. -Cloud-based files can be shared by providing link to the location. - You also can store large audio files without downloading them, as well as store off-site backups of your data.

Examples of storage devices

internal and external hard drives solid-state drives optical media.

Internal Storage Solutions

most common storage medium is the internal hard drive - can store data magnetically, or they can use solid-state storage. - installed in the computer you are using. (storing on an internal hard drive = you will not be able to access the file from a different computer) unless you copy the file to the other computer either by using an external hard drive, USB flash drive, or sending it electronically. Magnetic hard disk drives (HDDs) - typically have greater storage capacity - less expensive than their solid-state equivalents - have several moving parts, making it inadvisable to move the computer while they are running. A solid-state drive (SSD) - hard drive without moving parts - faster and more durable than magnetic drives. - often are used on mobile devices, such as laptops and tablets, and are available in various physical sizes.

Inside the Case: Motherboard Components

motherboard - Many electronic components, such as the processor and memory, attach to it - other components are built into it computer chip - small piece of semiconducting material, usually silicon, on which integrated circuits are etched. - Most are no bigger than one-half-inch square. - Manufacturers package them so that they can be attached to a circuit board, such as a motherboard. - On desktop and laptop computers, the circuitry for the processor, memory, and other components reside on a computer chip(s) integrated circuit - contains microscopic pathways that carrying electrical current. - Each one can contain millions or even billions of elements such as resistors, capacitors, and transistors. ----transistor can act as an electronic switch that opens or closes the circuit for electrical charges.

Reducing Hardware Risks

primary advantage of a mobile devices is that it can be easily transported. This mobility, however, is also one of its greatest weaknesses: a thief can easily grab an unattended device. risks to your device include malware (malicious software), such as viruses and spyware, that can: delete or corrupt files and gather personal information, dust and other debris, environmental irregularities, and power fluctuations. To prevent laptops from being stolen, you can use a cable lock. Most portable devices (and expensive computer monitors) have a special security slot built into the case. A cable lock can be inserted into the security slot and rotated so that the cable lock is secured to the device and then be connected to an immovable object. How to reduce theft: - keep out of sight - limit use of headphones - use 2 hands when holding - dont use near escalator or train doors - take not of thief's description if theft occurs / contact wireless carrier and change all pws for accounts

Define and Prevent Risks to Physical Health

repetitive strain injury (RSI) - Many users of technology devices report aches and pains associated with repeated and long-term usage of the devices, known as this - impacts your muscles, nerves, tendons, and ligaments. - most often affects the upper parts of the body RSI most often is caused by three factors - SEE PHOTO Most computer users suffer from RSI that is brought about through using an improper technique for sitting at a computer