INTERNAL ASSIGNMENT

NAME R. TEJA

ROLLNUMBER 2314102166

PROGRAM BCA
SEMESTER 1

COURSE NAME UNDERSTANDING PC AND

TROUBLESHOOTING

CODE DCA1104

SET-1

1. Explain CPU and its essentials using a diagram. Discuss various modern CPU
concepts?
Answer: The basic requirements for any CPU are BUSES and Processor modes. There is a
diagram below,

BUSes:
Typically, the BUS is the common way of transferring data, and data transfer occurs between
all devices linked to it. BUSes are also known as processor signals. The many sets of these
signals are classified into three major groups, namely:

• Data BUS:
• Address BUS:
• Control BUS:
Processor mode:
Before we go into CPU principles and architecture, it's a good idea to refresh your memory
on certain processing mode fundamentals. In general, mode is a method for creating a system
for itself.
The development and functioning of a processor. Processor mode is in charge of managing
and controlling system memory and its usage. Processor modes are divided into three types:

• Real mode
• Protected mode
• Virtual real mode

Modern CPU:
Modern CPUs have evolved significantly over the years, with new concepts and technologies
being developed to improve performance and efficiency. Here are some of the key modern
CPU concepts:

• Multicore Processors: A multicore processor is a CPU that contains multiple

processing cores, each of which can execute instructions independently. This allows
the processor to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, improving performance and
efficiency. Multicore processors are now common in most desktop and laptop
computers.

• Hyper-Threading: Hyper-threading is a technology that allows a single CPU core to

execute multiple threads simultaneously. Each thread is treated as a separate virtual
CPU, allowing the processor to perform more tasks at once. This technology is
commonly used in high-end desktop and server CPUs.

• Pipelining: Pipelining is a technique used by modern CPUs to improve performance

by allowing multiple instructions to be executed simultaneously. This is achieved by
breaking down the execution of each instruction into multiple stages, with each stage
being executed independently. This allows the CPU to work on multiple instructions
at once, improving performance.

• Branch Prediction: Branch prediction is a technique used by modern CPUs to improve

performance by predicting the outcome of a conditional branch instruction before it is
executed. This allows the CPU to begin executing the instructions that follow the
branch immediately, without waiting for the outcome of the branch to be determined.
 • Out-of-Order Execution: Out-of-order execution is a technique used by modern CPUs
to improve performance by executing instructions in a different order than they are
written in the program. This allows the CPU to execute instructions that are not
dependent on each other simultaneously, improving performance.

• SIMD and AVX: SIMD (Single Instruction Multiple Data) and AVX (Advanced
Vector Extensions) are technologies used by modern CPUs to improve performance
in tasks that require the manipulation of large amounts of data, such as multimedia
applications. These technologies allow a single instruction to be applied to multiple
data elements simultaneously, improving performance.

• Caches: Caches are small, high-speed memory locations built into modern CPUs.
They are used to store frequently accessed data and instructions, allowing the CPU to
access them more quickly than if they were stored in main memory. Caches are
essential for improving the performance of modern CPUs.

• Power Management: Power management is a critical concept in modern CPUs,

especially in mobile devices. CPUs are designed to operate at different clock speeds
and voltages depending on the workload. This allows them to save power when
performing light tasks and operate at full power when performing demanding tasks.

• Integrated Graphics: Integrated graphics are now common in modern CPUs,

especially in mobile devices. Integrated graphics allow the CPU to perform graphics
processing tasks without the need for a separate graphics card, reducing power
consumption and cost.

2. Discuss in detail various components of motherboard?

Answer: The motherboard is a computer's main printed circuit board (PCB), which links and
manages all of the hardware. It serves as the framework for all other computer parts and
offers a way for them to communicate and transmit data. The motherboard is made up of a
number of parts that cooperate to guarantee the computer's efficient operation. I'll go into
great depth on the different parts of a motherboard in this response:
CPU Socket: The central processing unit (CPU) is installed in the CPU socket, which is often
referred to as the CPU slot, on the motherboard. The CPU, which manages all processing
tasks, is the computer's brain. The CPU's socket must be compatible with the socket, which
differs based on the brand and model of the CPU.
RAM Slots: RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of memory that holds the data that the
computer is currently using. RAM modules can be put in the motherboard's RAM slots. The
number of RAM slots on a motherboard varies with its design, as does the maximum amount
of RAM that it can support.
PCI Slots: PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) slots are used to link various expansion
cards, including as graphics cards, sound cards, and network cards, to the motherboard. These
slots are normally near the bottom of the motherboard and are white in colour.
Storage Interfaces: The motherboard also has storage interfaces for attaching various
storage devices such as hard disc drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and optical
drives. Depending on the motherboard's design, these interfaces can take the form of SATA
(Serial Advanced Technology Attachment) connectors or M.2 slots.
Power connections: The motherboard contains a number of power connections that supply
power to various components. The ATX power connector and the CPU power connector are
the most significant of these, as they supply power to the motherboard and the CPU,
respectively.
CMOS: The CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) battery is a tiny battery
that powers the motherboard's real-time clock (RTC). Even when the computer is shut off,
this clock maintains the time and date.
Chipset: A chipset is a group of chips on the motherboard that manages the flow of data
between the various components. The northbridge and the southbridge are the two primary
components of the chipset. The northbridge manages communication between the CPU,
RAM, and graphics card, while the southbridge handles communication between PCI slots,
storage devices, and other components.
BIOS: BIOS (basic input/output system) is a programme that is stored in non-volatile
memory such as ROM (Read Only Memory) or flash memory and allows you to set up and
access your computer system at the most basic level. Although most users do not need to deal
with a computer's BIOS, knowing about BIOS might be beneficial. It can be found on
motherboards and is a pre-installed programme on Windows-based computers that runs when
the computer is turned on. The CPU contacts the basic input/output system (BIOS) before
loading an operating system. The BIOS then examines all of the hardware connections and
detects all of your devices.

3.Explain password trouble shooting in CMOS. Discuss briefly features of BIOS?

Answer: Password Troubleshooting in CMOS: A CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide
Semiconductor) is used to store the BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) settings on a
motherboard. The system's date and time are also stored in CMOS memory, which also
manages the computer's power settings. In order to restrict unauthorised access to the BIOS
setup application, the user can additionally specify a password using CMOS.

There are few steps where we can troubleshoot the issue:

 • CMOS Memory: Clearing the CMOS memory will return all BIOS settings,
including the password, to their initial state. Either the CMOS battery must be
removed, or the CMOS memory must be reset using the motherboard's jumper.
• BIOS Password Reset: You can reset the BIOS password using a jumper that is
located on some motherboards. On the motherboard, this jumper is typically situated
close to the CMOS battery.
• Backdoor Password: In the event that a user forgets their password, certain
motherboard makers offer a backdoor password that can be used to access the BIOS
setup software. These manufacturer-specific passwords can be found online with only
a short search for the backdoor password for a specific motherboard.

Features of BIOS:
When a computer is turned on for the first time, a programme called the BIOS (Basic
Input/Output System) begins to execute. Before loading the operating system, it runs a
number of tests to ensure sure all the parts are functioning properly. Listed below are a few
BIOS features:

• Boot Order: The BIOS enables the user to modify the computer's boot order. This
decides whether the hard drive, CD/DVD drive, or USB drive will be used to launch
the machine.
• Hardware Configuration: The BIOS software enables users to change the settings
for the CPU, RAM, and storage devices. Setting the CPU's clock speed and the
RAM's timings are part of this process.
• Power Management: The user can adjust the power management options of the
computer in BIOS, such as shutting off the display or putting it to sleep after a
predetermined amount of inactivity.
• Security: By requiring a password to boot the machine, BIOS enables users to secure
the boot process and prevent unauthorised access to the BIOS setup tool.
• Overclocking: Some BIOS versions permit users to boost the CPU and RAM's clock
speeds over the factory settings. This can boost the computer's performance, but if
done incorrectly, it can potentially affect stability.

SET-2

4. Describe construction of a hard drive with diagram?

Answer: Computers use hard drives as data storage devices to store and retrieve digital data.
Hard drives are built from a variety of parts, including as platters, read/write heads, actuator
arms, spindle motors, and circuit boards.
• Platters: These are circular disks coated with a magnetic material that stores the data.
Most modern hard drives have several platters stacked on top of each other.
 • Read/Write Head: This is an electromagnetic device that writes data onto the platters
by magnetizing specific areas and reads data by detecting the magnetic fields. The
head is mounted on a moving arm, which positions it over the correct location on the
platters.
• Spindle Motor: This is a motor that rotates the platters at a high speed, usually
between 5,400 and 15,000 revolutions per minute (RPM).
• Track: A track is a circular path on the surface of a hard drive where data is stored. A
hard drive consists of multiple tracks stacked on top of each other. Each track is
divided into smaller regions called sectors, which are the smallest unit of data that can
be read or written on a hard drive.
• Sector: A sector is a fixed-sized block of data that can store a certain amount of
information, typically 512 bytes. The sectors are numbered sequentially from the
outermost track to the innermost track, with the numbering starting from zero.

5. Discuss maintenance and troubleshooting of a Keyboard?

Answer: A keyboard is a piece of peripheral equipment that lets users enter text into
computers and other electronic devices. The simplest method for a user to interact with a
computer is through the use of a keyboard, which is an input device. Although the keys or
letters are placed to serve as electronic switches, this device is modelled by its predecessor,
the typewriter, which gave the keyboard its layout. The keys contain punctuation,
alphanumeric, and special keys with specified roles, such as the Windows key and different
multimedia keys.
Any computer system must have a keyboard because they are so widely utilised. As a result,
it's crucial to maintain and troubleshoot them to make sure they work properly. Here are some
pointers on caring for and fixing a keyboard:

Maintenance:

• Maintain it: Wipe down your keyboard on a regular basis to stop dirt, dust, and other
debris from getting in between the keys. To get rid of filth and debris, use a can of
compressed air or a brush with soft bristles. A moist towel or a microfiber cloth can
also be used to clean the surface of the keys.
• Keep it dry: To prevent harm to your keyboard's electronics, don't spill anything on
it. If you accidentally spill something on your keyboard, shut it off right away, unplug
it from your computer, and wipe it down with a dry cloth.
• Use it gently: Avoid slamming the keyboard or pressing the keys too firmly. The
keys and the electronic components may be harmed as a result.
• Store it properly: Keep your keyboard in a dry, clean area if you won't be using it for
an extended amount of time. A dusty or damp atmosphere should not be used to store
it.

Troubleshooting:

• Connection: check the connection where it's connected properly or not, if it is a

wireless check, it's pair or not.
• Restart: If your keyboard is not responding, restart your computer and try again.
• Updates: Ensure that your keyboard drivers are up to date.
• Test keyboard: If the keyboard is not working in your pc just plug it into another pc.

6. Discuss functioning of Compatibility mode, Nibble mode and EPP mode in parallel
port?
Answer: Parallel ports have been used for a long time as a standard way to connect printers
and other devices to computers. Over the years, different modes of operation have been
developed to optimize the performance of parallel ports for different devices. Three of the
most common modes are compatibility mode, nibble mode, and EPP mode.

Compatibility Mode:
Compatibility mode is the most basic and widely used mode of operation for parallel ports.
This mode is primarily used for backward compatibility with older devices that do not
support the faster data transfer rates of newer parallel ports. In compatibility mode, the
parallel port operates at a slower speed of approximately 150 Kbps, which is the same as the
original Centronics printer interface. The Centronics standard was developed in the 1970s
and is named after the company that developed it.
In compatibility mode, the parallel port uses a simple handshaking protocol to communicate
with devices. The host computer sends data to the device in chunks, and the device responds
when it is ready to receive more data. This process continues until all the data has been sent.
Compatibility mode is reliable but slow, making it suitable for devices that do not require
high-speed data transfer, such as printers.

Nibble Mode:
Nibble mode is a variation of compatibility mode that allows data to be transmitted in 4-bit
nibbles instead of 8-bit bytes. This mode was developed to support older printers with limited
buffer capacity. When a printer receives data in 8-bit bytes, it may not be able to handle all
the data at once, leading to data loss or corruption. In nibble mode, data is sent in smaller 4bit
chunks, which the printer can handle more easily.
Nibble mode also uses a simpler handshaking protocol than other modes, which can reduce
the likelihood of errors. The host computer sends a nibble of data to the device, waits for a
response, and then sends the next nibble. This process continues until all the data has been
sent. Nibble mode is slower than compatibility mode but faster than other modes, making it
suitable for older printers that cannot handle high-speed data transfer.

EPP Mode:
EPP mode is an advanced mode of operation for parallel ports that was developed in the
mid1990s. It is designed to support devices that require high-speed data transfer, such as
external hard drives, scanners, and video capture cards. In EPP mode, data can be transmitted
at speeds of up to 2 Mbps, which is much faster than compatibility or nibble mode.
EPP mode uses an advanced handshaking protocol that can help prevent data errors. The host
computer sends a packet of data to the device, and the device sends an acknowledgement
back to the host. This process continues until all the data has been sent. EPP mode is faster
than compatibility and nibble mode but more complex, making it suitable for devices that
require high-speed data transfer and can handle more advanced communication protocols.