Nt1310 Unit 3 Components

What is a form factor (both motherboard and computer case)?
A form factor is the configuration of the actual computer hardware object. The size of the configuration is also taken into consideration typically. When discussed in the context of software, computer techs tend to remark that the form factor is the amount of memory associated with the program where it needs to run effectively (White & Downs, 2007). Technicians assert that form factors assist in preventing incompatibilities between specific hardware that operates within a computer. In other words, a Dell form factor will not work with an HP form factor.
What is a Field Replaceable Unit (FRU)?
According to Intel (1999), FRUs or field replaceable units are used to offer information

on the inventory about the motherboard. The objective here is that field replaceable unis provide information that allows software to be read effectively. All field replaceable units have what is referred to as an FRU Information Device that yields the version number or part number of the particular software. The FRU Information Device when discussed is divided into six areas that include: the common header, which houses the overall format specification information and helps to offset the other areas of information. The other areas of information are not always available due to the specific device application and when this occurs, it is noted as null or not present. In addition to the common header, there is also the internal use area, which "provides private, implementation-specific information storage for other devices that exist on the same FRU as the FRU Information Device" (p.1). The Chassis Info Area is another area of the FRU Information Device that holds the part number, serial number as well as system chassis. The board info area contains other pertinent information and also contains the part number and serial number also. The product information area, will be available if the FRU is separate from everything else. Finally, there is a multirecord information area that holds the record information and formats associated with the headers (Intel, 1999). In sum, the field replaceable unit is an informative component that assists in helping to identify a particular hardware device.
How do you calculate what size/power supply you should use for a PC?
In order to calculate the size and power needed for a PC, the computer user needs to use a power supply calculator. Power Supply Calculator (2014) notes that the calculator usually works through the use of calculating the computer's thermal design power, which is received from the system's main parts (p.1). It is important to note that the calculations are only predictions or rather a rough estimate as opposed to the actual power. This, however, is the most accurate data that can be gleaned in such calculations.
What are the most current CPU’s offered in modern computers and describe what a dual core and a quad core CPU is and how they work.
When consumers are considering a new CPU processor, it becomes important to look at the various aspects associated with them.

Most computer technicians argue that Intels are some of the best on the market for both budget and performance, however, there are others that are just as good. The following is a list of some of the best CPUs currently available. Bourgie (2014) writes that in addition to Intel, that Vishera is a quality brand and Kaveri also (p.1). Consumers should look at various websites and consumer reviews to determine the best CPU to purchase and to also understand as much as possible the most compatible with their system. Weighing the pros and cons is recommended in all instances, particularly because of the fact that CPUs can be quite

costly.
Bourgie (2014) goes on to state what consumers should be looking for with respect to the pros of a CPU. These components include: price, video card, how much power is being consumed as well as the performance. In addition to this, over locking capability should also be considered and whether it is a dual core or quad core CPU (p.1). It becomes important to explain what a dual core and quad core CPU are and how they work.
In understanding dual core along with quad core processors, what seems to be discussed the most is how fast the system runs. Some users argue that dual core processors provide faster function, but that quad cores allow for multiple tasks to be performed at once. Thus, coming to the conclusion on which is best is a user decision. Quad core processors provide more power than dual core and this translates to more efficiency in computer use and minimal impeding of programs and processes that are running. Moreover, quad core processes improve the overall operating system functionality. This does not mean that dual cores aren't worth it. As one might assume, dual cores tend to be cheaper in price and do provide a quality operation when in a laptop or desktop computer. Background tasks can still be performed, however, because there are only two cores, freeing up one core to be used for another process becomes more difficult than with a quad core. It is important then for the consumer to examine how well a computer performs with both a dual and quad core.
Visiting a computer shop and even testing one out provides or rather should provide a sufficient and adequate amount of information on which will aid them in what they are trying to do. There is also relevance in the type of dual core or type of quad core processor that is in the computer that is being used. This affects productivity in terms of speed and functionality also. Thus, even though a user may opt for a quad core processor, they could end up with one that is just as good as a proficient dual core processor.
What is RAM? What is its function?
White & Downs (2007) define RAM as random access memory.

This memory is assists in allowing the computer to simultaneously read and write data at the same time. Simply put, RAM is the most common form of memory that is utilized by computers as well as other devices. There are specific types of RAM that include dynamic random access memory and static random access memory, or DRAM and SRAM respectively. These two RAM are very different in terms of how they allow data to be read and written. Dynamic random access memory is often considered the most frequent type found in computers. Static random access memory is also found in computer, and is usually referred to as the faster of the two types due to the fact that refreshing of this form of memory is not needed whereas with dynamic random access memory it is. The term RAM is often used to describe what the computer uses to function. It is the main memory or primary memory whereby all processes and software run. Since it is random access memory, it is only available at the time a certain process is needed and is not stored anywhere on the computer specifically (2007). This is what makes random access memory often confusing to understand particular since computers also have what is known as read only

memory.
White & Downs (2007) write that when compared to random access memory, read only memory is a certain type of memory that is particular to diagnostic processes in a computer. With random access memory, it is only accessed when required by the computer. Random access memory is stored in an integrated circuit, which is composed of both capacitors and transistors. A capacitor is described as an electron storage unit (2007). Computer users often wonder how much RAM they need when considering a computer purchase. While it is true that one can never have enough memory, the more RAM available, the better the computer is able to access the hard drive. In essence, optimal performance is recommended in computer use and therefore, the amount of RAM needed will depend on operating system. For example, one operating system may only need 65 MB, while another form of operating system may need additional random access memory for specific processes to function and for exceptional performance.