Hardware Introduction Course
1. Fundamentals of Hardware
What is hardware?
The physical components
of a computer system,
everything you can touch.
(but perhaps shouldn't)
2. Categories:
Input devices (keyboard, mouse, microphone)
Output devices (monitor, printer, speakers)
Storage devices (hard drive, SSD, USB stick)
Processing components (CPU, GPU, RAM)
Networking hardware (routers, switches, network cards)
3. Core Components
CPU (Central Processing Unit): The “brain” that executes instructions.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Short-term memory for active tasks.
Storage (HDD/SSD): Long-term memory for files and programs.
Motherboard: The central board that connects all components.
Power Supply (PSU): Converts electricity into usable energy for components.
GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): Specialized processor for graphics and parallel tasks.
4. Peripheral Devices
Input: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, camera.
Output: Monitor, projector, printer.
Hybrid: Touchscreens (both input and output).
5. Networking Hardware
Router: Directs traffic between networks.
Switch: Connects devices within a local network.
Network Card (NIC): Enables a computer to connect to a network.
6. Practical Skills
Identifying components: Learn to recognize the parts inside a PC.
Basic assembly: How to safely install RAM, storage, or a GPU.
Troubleshooting:
- No power → check power supply and cables.
- No display → check GPU/monitor connection.
- Slow performance → check RAM/storage.
7. Closing Thought
Hardware is the canvas—software is the paint.
Understanding hardware means knowing
both the limits and the possibilities of the system.
8. Q & A -- Hardware Quiz
Question 1
If you install too little RAM, what happens first?
A) The computer refuses to turn on
B) Programs run slowly or crash
C) The GPU stops working
D) The power supply overheats
Answer: B) Programs run slowly or crash
Explanation: Insufficient RAM causes performance issues, not power or GPU failure.
Question 2
Which of these is not a storage device?
A) SSD
B) HDD
C) RAM
D) USB stick
Answer: C) RAM
Explanation: RAM is volatile memory, not permanent storage.
Question 3
A student says: “My router makes my computer faster.” What’s the misalignment?
A) Routers don’t exist
B) Routers only direct traffic, they don’t speed up the computer itself
C) Routers are storage devices
D) Routers are part of the motherboard
Answer: B) Routers only direct traffic, they don’t speed up the computer itself
Explanation: Routers manage connections, not processing speed.
Question 4
Which part of a PC is most likely to be called the “canvas” in our scroll metaphor?
A) Software
B) Hardware
C) GPU
D) Power supply
Answer: B) Hardware
Explanation: Hardware is the canvas; software is the paint.
Question 5
If your computer shows no display, which of these is the least likely cause?
A) GPU/monitor connection issue
B) RAM not seated properly
C) Power supply failure
D) Keyboard unplugged
Answer: D) Keyboard unplugged
Explanation: A missing keyboard won’t stop the display; the other issues can.