Computing Fundamentals: Introduction to Computers

Chapter 2

The System Unit

Learning objectives

• Recognize how data is processed
• Understand processors
• Understand memory types and functions
• Identify and use ports and buses
• Troubleshoot common system unit problems

Understanding CPUs

Understanding Memory

Understanding Motherboards

Understanding Power Supplies

Troubleshooting Common System Unit Problems

The heart of any computer is its system unit. As you learned in Chapter 1, “Computer Basics,” the system unit is the main body of the computer, containing the essential components it needs to function.

If you have ever shopped for a computer, you probably noticed that some models cost much more than others—many times more. The quality and features of the components inside the system unit are the ...