INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER HARDWARE
Computer Hardware is the visible part of a computer PC system, the following are the major
components of a PC;
1. Motherboard
2. Processor
3. Primary Memory (RAM & ROM)
4. Secondary storage (Hard disk, SSD, CDROM & DVDROM)
5. Expansion cards (Video Graphics card, sound card, Network interface card etc.)
6. Casing
7. CPU cooling system
8. Power supply
9. Cabling (SCSI, SATA & IDE)
Peripherals includes the following;
1. Monitor (CRT and TFT)
2. Keyboard
3. Mouse
4. Printers
5. Scanners
6. Biometric devices
7. Webcam
8. Speakers
LAB 1: Identification of PC visible components
MOTHERBOARD
A motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) in a computer. The motherboard is a
computer's central communications backbone connectivity point, through which all components
and external peripherals connect.
Motherboards can be found in virtually all computers and portable devices.
MOTHERBOARD FORM FACTORS
Motherboard form factors refer to the physical dimensions, layout, and mounting points of a
motherboard. The form factor determines the size of the board, the location of mounting holes, the
arrangement of components, and the types of cases that are compatible.
The motherboards for desktop computers are always different from the motherboards for
laptops and portables
The following are the common form factors:
1. AT (Advanced Technology)
This was a standard motherboard form factor introduced by IBM in the 1980s but
currently its obsolete.
2. ATX (Advanced Technology eXtended)
Size: 305 mm x 244 mm (12 in x 9.6 in) This is the most common form factor for
desktops, ATX boards typically offer numerous expansion slots, multiple PCIe slots, and
various storage. This motherboard is installed in Tower casings
3. Micro-ATX (mATX)
Size: 244 mm x 244 mm (9.6 in x 9.6 in)
Smaller than ATX but still supports many of the same features. It usually has fewer PCIe
slots, but still offers decent expansion and connectivity. This motherboard is installed in a
Micro Towers casing.
4. LPX (Low Profile Extended) Suitable for slim desktops suitable for limited space
MOTHEERBOARD LAYOUT
LAB 2: Identification of the main motherboard components.
Identify the following motherboard components;
1. Processor slot
2. Motherboard Chipsets
3. Memory DIMM slots
4. SATA slots
5. SSD slot
6. Expansion slots
7. ROM BIOS
8. CMOS Battery
9. I/O chips