INTRODUCTION

TO PERSONAL
COMPUTERS
A personal computer (PC) is any general-purpose computer whose size,
capabilities, and original sales price make it useful for individuals, and
which is intended to be operated directly by an end-user with no
intervening computer operator. In contrast, the batch processing or time-
sharing models allowed large expensive mainframe systems to be used
by many people, usually at the same time. Large data processing systems
require a full-time staff to operate efficiently.
 
TYPES OF
PERSONAL
COMPUTERS
1. STATIONARY PC
A. Workstation
A workstation is a high-end personal computer designed for technical or scientific
applications. Intended primarily to be used by one person at a time, they are
commonly connected to a local area network and run multi-user operating systems.
Workstations are used for tasks such as computer-aided design, drafting and
modeling, computation-intensive scientific and engineering calculations, image
processing, architectural modeling, and computer graphics for animation and motion
picture visual effects.
B. Desktop computer
A desktop computer is a personal computer (PC) in a form intended for
regular use at a single location, as opposed to a mobile laptop or portable
computer. Early desktop computers are designed to lay flat on the desk,
while modern towers stand upright. Most modern desktop computers have
separate screens and keyboards.
 
C. Gaming Computer
A gaming computer (also gaming PC and gaming rig) is a personal computer that is capable of playing
computationally demanding video games. Gaming computers are very similar to conventional PCs, with
the main difference being the addition of a performance-oriented video card. However, while a gaming
PC is built to achieve performance for actual gameplay, enthusiast PCs are built to maximize
performance, using games as a benchmark.
D. Single unit
Single units PCs (also known as all-in-one PCs) are a subtype of desktop computers, which combine
the monitor and case of the computer within a single unit. The monitor often utilizes a touchscreen as
an optional method of user input, however detached keyboards and mice are normally still included.
The inner components of the PC are often located directly behind the monitor, and many are built
similarly to laptops.
E. Nettop
A subtype of desktops, called nettops, was
introduced by Intel in February 2008 to describe
low-cost, lean-function, desktop computers. A
similar subtype of laptops (or notebooks) are the
netbooks. The product line features the new Intel
Atom processor which specially enables them to
consume less power and to be built into small
enclosures.
F. Home theater PC
A home theater PC (HTPC) is a convergence device that combines the functions of
a personal computer and a digital video recorder. It is connected to a television or a
television-sized computer display and is often used as a digital photo, music, video
player, TV receiver and digital video recorder. Home theater PCs are also referred
to as media center systems or media servers. The general goal in a HTPC is usually
to combine many or all components of a home theater setup into one box.
2. MOBILE
a. Laptop
A laptop computer or simply laptop, also called a notebook computer, is a small personal computer
designed for portability. Usually all of the interface hardware needed to operate the laptop, such as USB
ports (previously parallel and serial ports), graphics card, sound channel, etc., are built in to a single unit.
Laptops contain high capacity batteries that can power the device for extensive periods of time, enhancing
portability.
 
 
B. Desktop replacement
A desktop replacement computer (DTR) is a personal computer that provides the full capabilities of a desktop
computer while remaining mobile. They are often larger, bulkier laptops. Because of their increased size, this
class of computer usually includes more powerful components and a larger display than generally used in smaller
portable computers and can have a relatively limited battery capacity (or none at all). Some use a limited range of
desktop components to provide better performance at the expense of battery life. These are sometimes called desk
notes, a portmanteau of the words "desktop" and "notebook," though the term is also applied to desktop
replacement computers in general.
 
C. Netbook
Netbooks (also called mini notebooks or subnotebooks) are a rapidly evolving category
of small, light and inexpensive laptop computers suited for general computing and
accessing web-based applications; they are often marketed as "companion devices,"
that is, to augment a user's other computer access. Walt Mossberg called them a
"relatively new category of small, light, minimalist and cheap laptops.
 
D. Tablet PC
A tablet PC is a notebook or slate-shaped mobile computer. Its touchscreen or graphics tablet/screen
hybrid technology allows the user to operate the computer with a stylus or digital pen, or a fingertip,
instead of a keyboard or mouse. The form factor offers a more mobile way to interact with a computer.
Tablet PCs are often used where normal notebooks are impractical or unwieldy, or do not provide the
needed functionality.
E. Ultra-mobile PC
The ultra-mobile PC (UMPC) is a specification for a small form factor of tablet PCs. It was developed as
a joint development exercise by Microsoft, Intel, and Samsung, among others. Current UMPCs typically
feature the Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7, or Linux operating system and low-voltage Intel
Atom or VIA C7-M processors.
a. Pocket PC
A pocket PC is a hardware specification for a handheld-sized computer (personal
digital assistant) that runs the Microsoft Windows Mobile operating system. It may
have the capability to run an alternative operating system like NetBSD or Linux. It
has many of the capabilities of modern desktop PCs.
 
Currently there are tens of thousands of applications for handhelds adhering to the
Microsoft Pocket PC specification, many of which are freeware. Some of these
devices also include mobile phone features and thus actually represent a
smartphone. Microsoft compliant Pocket PCs can also be used with many other add-
ons like GPS receivers, barcode readers, RFID readers, and cameras. In 2007, with
the release of Windows Mobile 6, Microsoft dropped the name Pocket PC in favor
of a new naming scheme. Devices without an integrated phone are called Windows
Mobile Classic instead of Pocket PC. Devices with an integrated phone and a touch
screen are called Windows Mobile Professional.
PARTS AND PERIPHERALS OF A
MODERN PC
Figure 1. An exploded view of a modern personal computer and peripherals:
Parts/Peripherals Name

1. Scanner
2. CPU (Microprocessor)
3. Primary storage (RAM)
4. Expansion cards (graphics cards, etc.)
5. Power supply
6. Optical disc drive
7. Secondary storage (Hard disk)
8. Motherboard
9. Speakers
10. Monitor
11. System software
12. Application software
13. Keyboard
14. Mouse
15. External hard disk
16. Printer
Basic PC Hardware
Figure 2. Shows a typical computer system. The big, important pieces have been labeled for your enjoyment. It’s
important that you know which piece is which and what the proper terms are.
a. Console: The main computer box is the console, though it may also be
called the system unit (geeky) or the CPU (incorrect). It’s a box that
contains your computer’s soul: electronic guts plus various buttons, lights,
and holes into which you plug the rest of the computer system.
b. Monitor: The monitor is the device where the computer displays
information, its output.
c. Keyboard: It’s the thing you type on; it’s the primary way you
communicate with the computer, with input.
d. Mouse: No rodent or pest, the computer mouse is a helpful device that lets
you work with graphical objects that the computer displays on the monitor.
e. Speakers: PCs bleep and squawk through a set of stereo speakers, either
external jobbies you set up, as shown in Figure 2, or speakers built into the
console or the monitor. Pay more money and you can even get a subwoofer
to sit under your desk. Now, that will rattle your neighborhood’s windows.
f. Printer: It’s where you get the computer’s printed output, also called
hard copy.
 A.1 THE SYSTEM UNIT (CONSOLE/COMPUTER CASE)
Figure 3. Front
a. CD-ROM or DVD drive: Like a music or video player, your computer digests CDs and DVDs through a slot
or tray on the front of the console. Some computers may have a dual CD/DVD drive, and others may have
one of each.
b. Future expansion: Some spots on the console’s nose may look like they’re CD-ROM or disk drives, but
they’re not! They’re simply blanks that cover holes — holes you can use for adding things to your computer
someday.
c. Floppy drive: This slot eats floppy disks. Some software comes on floppy disks, and you can use these disks
to move files from one PC to another. Not every PC sold today comes with a floppy drive.
d. Air vents: Okay, this one isn’t impressive, but most consoles support some type of air vent on the front.
Don’t block the air vents with books or sticky notes! The thing’s got to breathe.
e. The secret panel: Some PCs, especially home models, have a secret panel or door that pops open. Behind
it, you can find connectors for joysticks, microphones, headphones, or other handy items you may need to
plug and unplug from time to time. Having the secret panel is handier than having to reach around behind
the computer and fumble for plugs and holes.
f. Buttons and lights: Most of a computer’s buttons are on the keyboard. A few of the more important ones
are on the console, and these buttons on fancier
PCs are accompanied by many impressive tiny lights. These buttons and lights include the following:
 Power button: It’s no longer a plain on–off button — it’s the power button, and it can do more than just
turn the computer off or on.
 Reset button: Rare, but still found on some computers is a button that forces the computer into a restart
during times of woe. Consider it a plus if your PC has such a button.
Figure 4. Back

a. Power connection: This thing is where the PC plugs into a cord

that plugs into the wall.
b. Fan: Air gets sucked in here, blows around inside the console
to keep things cool, and then puffs out the vents.
c. Voltage switch: Use this item to switch power frequencies to
match the specifications for your country or region.
d. Expansion slots: These slots are available for adding new
components on expansion cards to the console and expanding
your PC’s hardware. Any connections on the expansion cards
appear in this area, such as the audio and video connectors on
a DVD expansion card.
e. Vents: The breathing thing again.
f. I/O panel: Aside from the power cord, and anything attached
to an expansion card, the rest of your PC’s expansion options
and plug-in type things are located in a central area I call the
I/O panel. Details of what you can find there are covered in the
next subsection.
The I/O panel
 
The PC’s console features an I/O panel on its rear.
That location is where you add various expansion options to the PC as well
as plug in the standard devices shown way over in Figure 5.
 Figure 5. The I/O Panel
a. Center/subwoofer: For a surround sound audio system, you plug the center speaker or subwoofer, or both, into this jack.
b. Headphones/speakers: Into this hole you plug in your PC’s external speakers or headphones, or it’s where you hook up the PC to a sound system.
(Also check the “secret panel” on the front of the console for a headphone connector.)
c. IEEE 1394 (FireWire): This type of versatile connector is similar to USB.
d. Keyboard: The keyboard plugs into this little hole.
e. Line In: You use this jack to plug a traditional audio-producing device (stereo, phonograph, or VCR, for example) into the PC for capturing sound.
f. Microphone: The computer’s microphone plugs into this jack. A similar jack might also appear on the front side of the console.
g. Mini 1394: This special version of the IEEE 1394 connector is designed specifically for digital video.
h. Mouse: This hole is generally the same size and shape as the keyboard connector, although a mouse icon nearby lets you know that the mouse plugs
in here.
i. Network: Plug in a local-area network (LAN) connector or attach a broadband modem to the PC.
j. SPDIF In, SPDIF Out: These connectors are used for digital audio. Special fiber optic cable is required: Audio coming into the computer plugs into the
In hole; the sound the computer generates goes out the Out hole.
k. Surround left/right: Also for surround sound, this jack is the one in which you plug the rear left and right speakers.
l. USB: Plug snazzy devices into these Certs-size Universal Serial Bus (USB) slots.
m. Video: Your PC’s monitor can plug into one of the video adapters on the I/O panel, either the traditional VGA adapter or, if you have a digital monitor,
the Digital video adapter. Newer PCs may even support an HDMI adapter for super digital video for more information on computer video.
I/O CONNECTION SHAPES AND
SYMBOLS
A.2 COMPUTER CASE

A computer case contains the framework to support a computer’s internal components while providing an enclosure for added
protection. Computer cases typically are made of plastic, steel, and aluminum and are available in a variety of styles.
The size and layout of a case is called a form factor. There are many types of cases, but the basic form factors for computer
cases include desktop and tower. Desktop cases may be slimline or full-sized, and tower cases may be mini or full-sized.
Computer cases are referred to in a number of ways:
 Computer chassis
 Cabinet
 Tower
 Box
 Housing
In addition to providing protection and support, cases also provide an environment designed to keep the internal components
cool. Case fans are used to move air through the computer case. As the air passes warm components, it absorbs heat and then
exits the case. This process keeps the computer’s components from overheating.
 
 
You must consider many factors when choosing a case:

 The size of the motherboard

 The number of external or internal drive locations, called bays
 Available space

When choosing a computer case, consider the following:

 Model type: There are two main case models. One type is for desktop PCs, and the other is for tower computers. The type of motherboard you
choose determines the type of case that can be used. The size and shape must match exactly.
 Size: If a computer has many components, it needs more room for airflow to keep the system cool.
 Available space: Desktop cases allow space conservation in tight areas, because the monitor can be placed on top of the unit. The design of the
desktop case may limit the number and size of the components that can be added.
 Power supply: You must match the power rating and connection type of the power supply to the type of motherboard you have chosen.
 Appearance: Some people don’t care how the case looks. Others do. You have many case designs to choose from if you want an attractive case.
 Status display: What is going on inside the case can be very important. LED indicators that are mounted on the front of the case can tell you if the
system is receiving power, when the hard drive is being used, and when the computer is on standby or sleeping.
 Vents: All cases have a vent on the power supply, and some have another vent on the back to help draw air into or out of the system. Some cases
are designed with more vents in the event that the system needs a way to dissipate an unusual amount of heat. This situation may occur when
many devices are installed close together in the case.
 
In addition to providing protection from the environment, cases help prevent damage from static electricity. Internal components of the computer
are grounded by attachment to the case.
 
 
 Note: You should select a case that matches the physical dimensions of the power supply and motherboard.

 
 B. POWER SUPPLY
The power supply converts alternating-current (AC) power coming from a wall outlet into direct-current (DC) power, which is a lower
voltage. DC power is required for all the components inside the computer.

Connectors

Most connectors today are keyed connectors. Keyed connectors are designed to be inserted in only one direction. Each part of the
connector has a colored wire with a different voltage running through it.

Different connectors are used to connect specific components and various locations on the motherboard:

1. A Molex connector is a keyed connector used to connect to an optical drive or hard drive.
2. A Berg connector is a keyed connector used to connect to a floppy drive. A Berg connector is smaller than a Molex connector.
3. A 20-pin or 24-pin slotted connector is used to connect to the motherboard. The 24-pin slotted connector has two rows of 12 pins
each, and the 20-pin slotted connector has two rows of 10 pins each.
4. A four-pin-to-eight-pin has two rows of two to four pins and supplies power to all areas of the motherboard. The four-pin-to-eight-
pin auxiliary power connector is the same shape as the main power connector, but smaller.
5. Older standard power supplies used two connectors called P8 and P9 to connect to the motherboard. P8 and P9 were unkeyed
connectors. They could be installed backwards, potentially damaging the motherboard or power supply. The installation required that
the connectors were lined up with the black wires together in the middle.