Flashcards on Computer Architecture and Internal Components

Computer Architecture and Internal Components: A Student's Guide

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What mistake involves confusing two different types of memory and storage capacities?

Confusing RAM and storage (e.g., saying a computer has 256 GB of RAM when 256 GB is storage). RAM is typically 4–32 GB; storage is measured in larger

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Desktop Computer Hardware

54 cards

Card 1

Question: What mistake involves confusing two different types of memory and storage capacities?

Answer: Confusing RAM and storage (e.g., saying a computer has 256 GB of RAM when 256 GB is storage). RAM is typically 4–32 GB; storage is measured in larger

Card 2

Question: What ESD precaution should you take when handling components like RAM?

Answer: Wear an antistatic wrist strap, work on a hard surface, and handle components by their edges.

Card 3

Question: What should you do instead of forcing a component that 'almost fits' into a slot?

Answer: Check orientation (components have a notch or key), rotate or recheck; do not force it.

Card 4

Question: What step is often forgotten after installing or replacing storage drives?

Answer: Changing the boot order in BIOS/UEFI so the system boots from the newly installed drive.

Card 5

Question: What compatibility mistake involves RAM and motherboards?

Answer: Buying incompatible components, such as DDR5 RAM for a motherboard that only supports DDR4; always check the motherboard manual or QVL.

Card 6

Question: How tight should motherboard standoff screws be tightened?

Answer: Snug — firm but not forced. Hand-tight plus a quarter turn; overtightening can crack the PCB.

Card 7

Question: List the primary desktop components and a simple metaphor for each given in the content.

Answer: CPU — the brain; RAM — the desk (holds active data temporarily); Storage (SSD/HDD) — the filing cabinet (holds data permanently); Motherboard — the ro

Card 8

Question: What defines physical compatibility among motherboard, case, and PSU?

Answer: Form factors (e.g., ATX) define physical compatibility and must match between motherboard, case, and PSU.

Card 9

Question: What component is usually hidden under a large fan and heatsink and performs the computer's main work?

Answer: The CPU (Central Processing Unit).

Card 10

Question: How are RAM sticks physically described and where are they located?

Answer: RAM sticks are long, thin strips that sit in slots near the CPU on the motherboard.