Computer Hardware Overview and Key
Concepts
RAM - correct answer ✔✔Volatile, temporary workspace for data. The more data you want to actively
work on, the more RAM you will need. RAM modules consist of PCB and RAM chips.
RAM Standards & Architecture - correct answer ✔✔Best practices include installing the same type and
speed of memory in a system. Different RAM standards include SDR SDRAM, DDR SDRAM, DDR2 SDRAM,
and DDR3 SDRAM.
Storage Device Cables (IDE & SATA) - correct answer ✔✔IDE supports 2 devices per cable with 40 and 80
pin varieties. SATA allows a single device per cable with a minimum cable length of 12 inches.
Storage Device Cables (eSATA, FireWire, SCSI) - correct answer ✔✔eSATA enables connection of SATA
enclosures externally. FireWire supports 60+ devices with speeds of 400 Mbps and 800 Mbps. SCSI is
used in enterprises and requires a host bus adapter.
Peripheral Cables (USB) - correct answer ✔✔USB supports 120+ devices and provides 5V power. Versions
include USB 2.0, USB 3.0, and USB 3.1 Gen 1.
Video Cables (HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, DVI) - correct answer ✔✔HDMI has different categories for
resolutions. DisplayPort standards include HBR, HBR2, and HBR3. VGA has a max resolution of 640x480
and uses a DB15 connector.
USB Versions & Connectors - correct answer ✔✔USB versions include 3.1 Gen 2, 3.2 Gen 1, and 4.0.
Connectors include USB Type A/B, miniUSB, microUSB, and USB-C.
Thunderbolt - correct answer ✔✔Thunderbolt versions include 1.0 with 2 channels at 10 Gbps each and
2.0 at 20 Gbps.
Network Cables (Copper) - correct answer ✔✔Twisted pair cables include UTP and STP with different
specifications for Cat 5, Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 6a.
