Chapter 2 Learning Objectives

SECTION A

After reading Section A, you should be able to:

• describe the difference between an analog device and a digital device
• define the term “binary”
• explain how the binary number system relates to computers
• provide examples of character data
• list at least two codes that are used by computers to represent character data
• differentiate between a “bit” and a “byte”
• explain ways in which a computer might represent words using bits
• define the prefixes “kilo,” “mega,” and “giga”
• identify the main components of a PC’s system unit
• explain the importance of an integrated circuit
• recognize common chip carriers
• define the term “motherboard”

SECTION B

After reading Section B, you should be able to:

• define the term “microprocessor”
• describe the role of the ALU
• discuss the relationship between microprocessor speed and computer performance
• explain how cache affects performance
• differentiate between CISC and RISC
• explain the differences in serial processing, parallel processing, and pipelining
• define the term “benchmark”
• discuss the importance RAM in the operation of a computer
• describe how RAM differs from disk storage
• differentiate between RAM and ROM
• explain the function of CMOS memory
• decipher the memory and microprocessor specifications found in computer advertisements

SECTION C

After reading Section C, you should be able to:

• name the two basic components of a data storage system
• describe how a storage system interacts with other components of a computer
• discuss the relative strengths and weaknesses of magnetic vs. optical storage technology
• define the term “read-write head”
• explain the difference between random access and sequential access
• compare storage devices using the criteria of versatility, durability, capacity, and speed
• describe the advantages and disadvantages of floppy disk technology
• explain the purpose of a write-protect window
• outline how a hard disk drive works
• list possible causes of a head crash
• explain the purpose of a tape drive
• differentiate between CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, and DVD technologies

SECTION D

After reading Section D, you should be able to:

• explain the importance of an expansion card
• name three major types of expansion slots
• list types of ports that are typically built into a desktop computer
• identify common expansion cable connectors
• explain the term “device driver”
• name the components of a computer display system
• explain the difference between CRT and LCD technology
• discuss the factors that affect the image quality on a display device
• describe the relationship between a monitor’s resolution setting and text size
• detail the general differences between desktop and notebook computer display systems
• list the features to be considered when choosing a printer
• compare and contrast the features of an ink-jet printer with those of a laser printer