Lesson 1: Computer Hardware
Week of Mon, Sep 14 · lesson closes Sun, Sep 20
By the end of this lesson you can:
- →Explain how RAM and storage devices work together to support running programs. CCR-5 MSDE-CTE-IT-2.1 MSDE-CTE-IT-3.1 FC0-U71 2.5
- →Identify common peripheral connection types and display standards used in modern computers. CCR-5 MSDE-CTE-IT-2.1 MSDE-CTE-IT-3.1 FC0-U71 2.1
- →Describe the role of the CPU, chipset, and firmware in a computer system. CCR-5 MSDE-CTE-IT-2.1 MSDE-CTE-IT-3.1 FC0-U71 2.1
- →Apply safe handling and power management practices when working with computer hardware. CCR-5 MSDE-CTE-IT-2.1 MSDE-CTE-IT-3.1 FC0-U71 2.1
Take Meerk's quiz for Lesson 1
This lesson's items
Exact due times are in Canvas.
Watch — Professor Messer
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Know these cold
Processors and Motherboards
- The CPU (Central Processing Unit) fetches, decodes, and executes instructions measured in GHz clock speed and core count.
- The motherboard connects all components; the chipset manages communication between CPU, RAM, storage, and I/O.
- CPU sockets are vendor-specific: Intel uses LGA (pins on socket), AMD uses AM5 (pins on CPU).
- The BIOS/UEFI firmware runs before the OS loads and initializes hardware; stored on a flash chip on the motherboard.
Memory and Storage
- RAM is volatile (loses data on power loss); DDR5 is the current standard for desktops; SO-DIMM is the laptop form factor.
- HDDs use spinning magnetic platters and read/write heads — mechanical and slower; best for high-capacity, low-cost storage.
- SSDs use NAND flash with no moving parts — faster, more durable, quieter, use less power than HDDs.
- NVMe SSDs connect via the M.2 slot and PCIe bus, delivering far higher speeds than SATA SSDs.
Power and Cooling
- ATX power supplies provide +12V, +5V, and +3.3V rails; wattage must exceed the system's total power draw.
- The CPU requires active cooling (heatsink + fan or liquid cooler); thermal paste between CPU and heatsink is essential.
- Case fans create airflow: intake at front/bottom, exhaust at rear/top; positive pressure reduces dust ingress.
- Electrostatic discharge (ESD) can destroy components; use an anti-static wrist strap and mat when handling hardware.
Peripherals and Connectors
- USB standards: USB 2.0 (480 Mbps), USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 Gbps), USB 3.2 Gen 2 (10 Gbps), USB4 (40 Gbps).
- Video connectors: HDMI (carries audio + video), DisplayPort (higher refresh rates, daisy-chaining), VGA (analog, legacy).
- Monitor specs: resolution (1080p/1440p/4K), refresh rate (Hz), response time (ms), panel type (IPS vs TN vs VA).
- Printers: laser (toner, fast, low per-page cost), inkjet (photo quality), thermal (receipt printers, no ink needed).
Quick check — before the quiz
1. Which component executes program instructions?
2. Which storage type has NO moving parts?
Meerk's quiz — open the Lesson 1 gate
10 questions, no time limit. 85% on your first attempt in a 24-hour window opens the gate. Retakes inside the window are practice — they help you learn, they don't count. Work alone; the point is to know it, not to have seen it.
Stuck?
Raise your hand. Mr. James gets a message right away and can help you remotely. Nothing else is stored — just your last name, grade, and where you're stuck.
Dinner Table Question
Ask at home: If you had to build a computer for gaming vs. one for an office worker, what parts would be different?
En español: Si tuvieras que construir una computadora para juegos vs. una para un trabajador de oficina, ¿qué partes serían diferentes?