Microcomputer Fundamentals and Peripherals
1. Microcomputer Definition
A microcomputer is a set of elements for the development and utilization of computer applications.
2. Basic Microcomputer System Functions
The basic function of a microcomputer system is receiving information, which is obtaining input data to execute a task.
3. CMOS Memory Function
The CMOS memory stores the system’s configuration, including the BIOS setup.
4. Booting Process
Booting is the process of starting the computer.
5. CMOS Memory Purpose
CMOS memory stores the hardware configuration of the computer.
6. Fastest Memory Type
The fastest memory type is static memory.
7. Main Memory Functions
Main memory works together with the microprocessor to store data and programs, providing faster access.
8. Power Supply
The power supply provides continuous voltage. ATX provides 12V, 5V, and 3.3V. PS-OK signal indicates correct tension. PW-ON signal indicates power on. STAND BY SB indicates Standby.
9. Ribbon Cable Identification
The red thread in a ribbon cable indicates pin 1 of the connector.
10. Chipset Functions
The chipset consists of two integrated circuits: The northbridge interconnects CPU-RAM with graphics, and the southbridge connects with other devices such as PCI, IDE, USB, etc.
11. DMA
DMA stands for direct memory access.
12. Microprocessor Core
The core of a microprocessor is the central part, consisting of the control unit, ALU, level 1 cache, internal buses, and registers.
13. Thermal Breakdowns
Thermal breakdowns occur when components change and lose their original properties due to thermal instability.
14. Types of Failures
Types of failures include permanent, intermittent, and warmers.
15. CMOS/BIOS Checksum Error
A CMOS or BIOS checksum error indicates a stack exhaustion or CMOS failure.
16. Rear Ports and Connectors
Rear Ports and Connectors are computer input/output interfaces.
17. USB Port Advantages
Advantages of USB ports include Plug & Play, Hot-Connection, and requiring only 1 IRQ and 1 Memory address.
18. USB vs. Firewire
USB and Firewire connectors are not equivalent; their pin configurations are different.
19. Peripheral Units
Peripheral units are devices that communicate with the outside world and store information, serving as auxiliary memory.
20. Mass Memory
Mass memory stores large amounts of information for extended periods.
21. Hard Disk Elements
Hard disk elements include plates, motor rotation, read-write heads, stepper motor controller, and target.
22. Hard Disk Capacity Calculation
Hard disk capacity is calculated as: Number of cylinders x heads x sectors x tracks x bytes.
23. FAT vs. NTFS
FAT stores the cluster information of each file. NTFS does not have reserved disk areas and saves information to the Master File Table (MFT).
24. Mass Storage Types
Mass storage types include Magneto-Optical, Uni-JAZZ, SuperDisk, Zip, and AEE.
25. IDE vs. SATA
SATA uses serial data transfer, offering increased data speed and hot-swapping capabilities, unlike the parallel communication of IDE.
26. Keyboard Matrix
The keyboard uses a matrix to detect which keys are pressed.
27. Micro PC vs. Laptops
Differences between Micro PCs and Laptops include less cooling, less energy consumption, and smaller size.
28. Touchpad Operation
A touchpad operates through the interaction of two electrode layers, modifying their mutual electrical properties.
29. Laptop Power Saving Modes
Laptops use different power-saving modes by changing core voltage and processor frequency to reduce energy consumption.
30. PCMCIA
PCMCIA is used for memory expansion, hard drives, network cards, etc.
31. Laptop Screen Brightness Issues
Laptop screen brightness issues can be caused by cables, a faulty inverter, or a bad inverter.
32. Laptop Memory Modules
SODIMM is the format for memory modules in laptops.
33. Inverter Function
An inverter is a specific circuit for CCFL screen technologies.
34. PDA vs. Pocket PC
The main difference between PDA and Pocket PC is the operating system.
35. Synchronization
Synchronization is the data transmission between PDA, PC, notebook, and updating information between storage devices.
36. PDA and Pocket PC Technology
PDA and Pocket PC technology includes Intel or Motorola processors, with newer Intel models available.
37. DSP Function in PDA
DSP in a PDA is a digital signal processor used for multimedia functions.
38. Analog to Digital Data Transmission
A modem is used to transmit digital data through an analog signal.
39. Analog Transmission
Analog transmission uses telephone networks and ADSL.
40. Transmission Channel Speed
Transmission channel speed is measured in bits per second (bps).
41. Transmission Time Calculation
Theoretical transmission time examples: 56kbps modem: 2MB = (2 x 1024 x 1024 x 8) bits / 56,000 bps = 300 seconds; 4Mbps ADSL: 4,000,000 bps = 4.19 seconds; 100Mbps LAN: 100,000,000 bps = 0.16 seconds.
42. Long Distance Transmission
Fiber optic networks are used for long-distance transmission.
43. Wireless Network Connection
A wireless access point connects two computers in a wireless segment.
44. Coaxial Cable Attenuation
In a coaxial cable, a larger diameter results in lower signal attenuation.
45. Wireless Network Standards
Wireless network standards include 802.11 Legacy, 802.11a/b/g/i, and the faster 802.11n.
46. Wireless Network Security
Wireless network security methods include encryption and MAC address filtering.
47. Automatic IP Address Assignment
DHCP is used for automatic IP address assignment on a network.
48. Subnet Mask Function
A subnet mask identifies a computer network and IP address range.
49. Local Network Hub
A concentrator (hub) connects multiple computers on a local network using twisted pair cables.
50. Internet Protocol
The internet protocol is TCP/IP.
51. Wireless Access Point
A wireless access point is a wireless network device that centralizes wireless features.
52. Wireless Network Security
Wireless network security includes encryption and MAC filtering.
53. Mini DIN Connector
A PS/2 connector is a Mini DIN connector.
54. Network Connector
RJ45 is the connector used for network cables.