What is a Desktop Computer

Overview of a Desktop Computer

Before the use of a microprocessor, a computer that could fit in a desk was very small, and the computers that were mostly used were minicomputers which were large in size. Earlier computers took too much space so, the technology evolved, and instead, desktops were invented to fit in a desk. After that laptops came into the market and are widely used everywhere in the world. Although for casual use traditional desktops and laptops are not used but still desktop remains a firm figure in educational and commercial sectors.

The first desktop computer was Hewlett Packard 9100A, which was introduced in 1968. After, that many desktop computers were invented and used worldwide.

Different types of Desktop Computers

There are different types of desktop computers based on their size and function. They are as follows-

1. Full-Size desktops are recognized by different display and processing components. These components are connected with cables or wireless connections to each other. They are often seen in a tower form and are easily customized and upgraded as per the requirements of the users. Earlier, these were called Deskside computers.
2. Compact desktops have lesser physical proportions in comparison with full-sized desktops. They come in features which are better than other desktops as they are small, inexpensive, low-power consumption for performing tasks such as web browsing, accessing, applications, document processing, and audio/video playback. Their hardware specifications are reduced, which makes it useless for running complex functions on the computer.
3. All in one desktop computers combine the internal parts of a computer into the same class as display and occupy a smaller part with few cables that form a tower. These desktops were widely used earlier because of their reduced size as personal computers, but because of their inability to provide access to users for its upgradations, they were declined.
4. Gaming desktop computers are computers with high-performance CPU, GPU, RAM optimized especially, for playing video games at high resolution and frame. Gaming-based desktops require mechanical keyboards to make their users enjoy faster response time and a gaming mouse that tracks higher DPI movement.
5. Home theatre desktops are connected to systems that are typically for home entertainment or home amusement purposes. They consist of high-definition display, video graphics, sound, and TV tuner systems to complement PC features.
6. Internet Appliances like clouds have replaced traditional desktop computers for off-site computing solutions. Thin client computers are cheaper and smaller in size, and they consume less powerful hardware to work with.
7. A workstation is an advanced form of personal computer that is designed for the users and is more powerful than a PC. They have high definition, 3-D interfaces, and are generally used for engineering and scientific work. They can also connect with other workstations.
8. Desktop Servers were invented for small business class servers, typically at entry-level machines which are similar to workstations, gaming PC and with some other original server features. Thye have basic graphic abilities and can be converted into workstations.

What are the advantages of Desktop Computers?

They have easier to connect cables and drives and can insert discs into the computer. They are tough for children as they are not easily accessible. It allows you to show off your computer.

It keeps your computer desk and floor clean even provides space for more cleaning. Computers are safe from dust, hair, and dirt as the chances of these desktops getting dirty is less.

Desktops computers are still used by numerous people in the world, but are mostly seen in schools, offices, and are widely used by gamers. Desktops have a variety of components so, they have a range in prices, and users can decide according to their budget and requirement.

Desktops have powerful processors than other PCs and are large in size. They have a separate monitor for them. They may have multiple internal storage drives and other hard drives. Desktops make use of full-size keyboards, including a number pad as there is no limitation.
Most parts in a desktop are removable, which makes it easier for upgrades. They are useful for gamers as they can also use high-power video cards for better heat dissipation.

Desktops are a good choice for people as they are cheaper and can be upgraded as per the requirement of the user. They are larger in size and also have high processors.

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ROM or Read-only Memory contains the programming codes or valuable information that lets your computing device regenerate or startup whenever the switch is on. ROM is also one of the most important computer accessories that execute massive input and output tasks and also help safeguards software instructions or programs. There will be no deletion of the data stored on a ROM chip.

What is ROM

Mostly computers or PCs integrate a small amount of ROM that hosts the startup firmware. BIOS or Basic Input Output System is another terminology for the boot firmware. There are various set of codes that makes up this software that directs to the computer boot-up functions and processes. This further includes carrying out hardware and software diagnostics and loading OS (Operating System) into the RAM (Random Access Memory).

Where ROM is Used ?

ROM can be used in the console of video games. This further permits a computer to execute various games, as well as in optical storage, also featuring varying compact discs (CD) like CD-RW.

ROM can be easily used on your Mobile Phones. It also functions as a type of data storage. This is the data repository that makes sure that data is not deleted from your phone when you switch it off.

If your SD card or Memory Card is not available, then the camera storage (which is equivalent to ROM in computers) becomes the site that stores your digital data or information.

Different Types Of ROM

ROM is also sometimes called mask ROM (MROM). It is also called static memory as it has data programmed into a circuit by its producer.

Below are listed different types of ROM:

EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM) – This particular ROM type underwent its programming via exposure to ultraviolet light. It makes use of high voltages for a period of twenty minutes.

UV-ROM (Ultraviolet-Erasable ROM) – This UV-ROM can erase the data with the aid of UV light, and then easily be reprogrammed also as desired.

EEPROM (Electrically-Erasable programmable ROM) – This ROM type is frequently used to control the Basic Input/Output System, this ROM type also helps control more antiquated computer chips. You can easily wipe off the data and again reprogram it multiple times while enabling the writing and erasing of only one location simultaneously.

What ROM Stores?

ROM or Read-Only Memory is used in the storage of bootstrapping firmware, which is required to self-contained control internal devices like hard disks, graphic cards, TFT screens, and much more.

ROM does not require any further modification, it is well-suited or adapted for the storage of information or data that is not expected to change or be altered within the lifespan of the device. There is a number of benefits of using ROM like it finds its application in searching for look-up tables for logical, analytical, and mathematical functions evaluation. Let’s take an example like a floating-point number can compute the trigonometric functions to enable a quick estimation. This was very effective working during the period when CPUs were not working much faster and when RAM is also less expensive than ROM.

How ROM Works?

Just like RAM, ROM chips also contain a grid of rows and columns. But there is a difference in the intersection of the rows and columns of RAM and ROM. ROM makes use of a diode with which it links the lines in case the value is 1. On the other hand, RAM or Random Access Memory make use of transistors to accept or decline access to capacitors at each point of intersection. The lines will not get linked if the value comes out to be 0.

ROM chip works on programming of whole complete and perfect data when the ROM is produced. There can be a possibility that there will be no rewriting or reprogramming of a canonical ROM chip. The data or information would further require an update if it is inaccurate, or you have to discard the data and start with new. It is a very time-consuming and difficult process attempting to create a ROM chip’s original template using trial and error methods. The real chip will hardly cost just a few dollars when the template has been prepared or completed. These chips are highly reliable and consume lesser power and include all other factors needed to have the device controlled when dealing with any electronic devices.

Importance of ROM

ROM or Read-Only Memory is responsible for giving essential instructions needed for establishing an effective communication channel between the various components of the hardware. As stated above, it is vital for the operation and storage of the Basic Input/Output System. It can also be used for the primary management data, to write and read operations to peripheral devices, and to hold software for further fundamental processes of utilities.

Below are listed some of the uses of ROM:

1. Can be easily tested.
2. Does not require any refreshing operations.
3. The data or information stored in ROM can easily be verified.
4. ROM is more reliable than RAM due to its non-volatile nature.
5. ROM provides you with cheaper storage solution when placed side-by-side with RAM.

How Much ROM Do You Need?

Recent times have witnessed a huge surge in the demand and availability of information or data. This has further led to the production of storage media that can store several degrees of data or information, depending on their functions and processes. Nowadays most smartphones or androids are now containing ROM capacities of more than 32 GB.

ROM is a very essential part of the computer and finds its huge applications like it is used in USB flash drives, MP3 players, digital cameras, modems, and solid-state drives. The effective storage of your valuable data or information has now become one of the essential things for people in the modern era. We hope you like the article and gain sufficient knowledge required.

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It works on the data be it storing, retrieving, or processing, computers are one dynamic creation of humans that has changed human’s lives drastically in a good way. Computers are used widely and worldwide for any and everything. We play games on it, work on it, surf the internet, store data, send emails, and do any more useful things.

What is a computer

The first-ever computer that was introduced in the world was called ENIAC which was built during world war II. It was used for calculations without any error that was tougher for humans to do.

Its structure

Before we proceed in detail, let’s talk about its structure which is hardware and software- these are the two parts that the computers are made of.

Hardware is the physical part of the computer which you can see or touch such as keyboard, mouse, etc, while the software is the invisible part, it is a set of instructions on which the hardware works such as web browsers and processors. Software instructs the hardware on what to do and how to do stuff given by the humans.

There are different parts of a computer that help them work efficiently, which consists of- processor that performs tasks given by both hardware and software, memory works as primary storage, a motherboard that connects all the other components, and a storage device which is secondary storage and stores data permanently.

Different types of computers

Computers are classified as general-purpose, special-purpose, and specialized computers. A general-purpose computer includes desktop computers, which are generally used at work, home, and schools. Special-purpose computers are found in ATMs, cars, microwaves, TVs, and other electronic devices, which are also widely used. They cover the home appliances. Specialized computers are similar to a general-purpose computers with only one difference which is specialized computers are designed to perform simpler tasks.

How are computers used today?

Computers are now used as desktops, hybrid, laptops, mobiles, tablets, and notebook forms. Computers were a necessity in the past, present, and will be a necessity in the future as well. Today our ninety percent of the work depends on computers from smaller to bigger work we are relying on this machine. In schools, students are taught about computers from an early stage, and then while growing up, they get some insights about programming. One thing that is common for all the people that uses a computer is for the storage of data although, in today’s times’ many smartphones are made with large storage, they still can’t compare with the memory of computers. We work on computers using MS office, share data over mail, exchange information, do business virtually, etc. Computers are life saviors in today’s time because we humans can never be so accurate in calculations, arranging data, manipulating data, and storing information.

Applications of computers are unlimited, and today every educated person knows how to use a computer even, people who have not attended school can use mobile phones very easily. Technology has made it into our lives, and now we can’t survive without using it. Computers are used in every field which includes education, entertainment, medical field, industry, government, banking, and business, etc. Almost every business uses computers nowadays, and they are not limiting to it, computers help them keep a record of their employees and their information which might be needed in the future. In the field of education, computers have made the studies more informative and entertaining, which students find boring while reading books but, the same thing becomes interesting when seen on the projector. In the medical field, for doctors, computers have made it easier to analyze the diagnoses and research about the new drugs, and also, they can discuss their data with other medical experts.

Computers have made it easier for every sector of people all around the world. Our cars consist of a navigation system that helps you know exactly where you are on the planet. Weather forecasting is another good example of the usage of computers and it also processes a large amount of meteorological information. One of the good uses of computers in today’s time is security and surveillance- the creations like face recognition, thumb recognition have made our lives safer than before and which also saves us from any fraudulent activities, CCTVs are widely used in every house, business, buildings, and industries so that crimes can be lessened in this world.

The supporting character that helps computers become more useful is the internet, today, the internet is like electricity, if there is no internet then there is only darkness in the world. We are so dependent on them that they have become an important part of our lives, we do online shopping, books tickets, get appointments online, study, socialize online, and even date online. You can visit virtually just by sitting and relaxing on your sofa through the internet. You can research data from anytime the on your computer and learn new things whenever you want. Apple Macs and computers have set another trend in the market, and there is a huge demand for these brands among people, they are crazy over Apple brands and companies are more than competitive in today’s time.

Although computers have a big impact on our daily lives, there can be also some negative effects of these on our daily lives like people become more dependent on technology than trusting their memory even socializing becomes different, but if used in a better way, computers are a true partner for humans. The world is changing, and technology is evolving every day, and there will be a time where a computer will help us in a more good way in coming times. Computers still are a necessity for mankind and will always help humans to make their life easier.

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What is RAM

Every computing device has RAM i.e Random Access Memory, whether it’s your desktop computer, a tablet or your smartphone, or any other special-purpose computing device such as a smart TV. Nearly all computers also have some or the other way to store valuable information for longer-term access, too. But all the working processes are done in RAM.

How RAM Works?

RAM or Random Access Memory is temporary storage that runs away automatically once the power turns off. So there might be a question in your mind, then what is RAM used for,? RAM or Random Access Memory is ideal for various functions to perform efficiently when the computer is actively working on, such as applications that are currently running in the background.

RAM works twenty to a hundred times faster than any other Hard Disk, depending on the specific hardware type and task. There are certain factors to look for like because of its speed, RAM is used to process required information immediately. When you want to accomplish any specific tasks, computer operating systems will load huge data from the hard disk into RAM to process it, such as sorting a spreadsheet or displaying it on screen. When the task gets completed the computer saves it into long-term storage.

Extended use of RAM helps in previously accessed information to get available much more quickly. When you first turn on your PC or computer and launch any applications, such as PowerPoint, MS-excel, or Spotify, it takes a little time to load. However, if you close that particular program and then relaunch it, the software opens that instantly.

Whenever your application needs a lot of RAM, it often gives you a progress bar or any other status report. But that’s quite common when you load any game or any other powerful application. Whenever you launch any game, you may see a “loading” screen appearing on your screen while the computer copying information into RAM, such as maps, character models, and objects. There will be a “loading” message which appears on the screen to ensure that you will get to know something is happening when the developers cannot make the process work instantaneous!

How much memory do you require?

If your computing device has more RAM, the faster it will run. If your computer or PC is old, you might need to upgrade your hardware. Every open application including tabs in your web browser consumes high RAM.

Point to Note: If you turn off your PC or computer, the information stored is gone whereas on storage like SSDs, or HDDs that data will be saved.

How much RAM do you require? This totally depends on the kind of work you do, how many things you do at a time, and how much impatient you are. As with so many other parts or accessories of computing, we always want our devices to respond instantly!

Below listed are some of the recommendations, which can easily be applied to any operating system or personal computer hardware:

4 GB of RAM: If you’re only browsing the web and working with some basic Office applications then it will be fine working with 4 GB of memory.

8 GB of RAM: People who are multitaskers and quite interested in the gaming sector should choose a computer having 8 GB of RAM.

16+ GB of RAM: There are some tasks that are computing-intensive, like serious gaming, video editing tasks, programming, or coding. Users who never want to experience any slowdowns will need 16+ GB of RAM to be happy.

You can make your computer run faster with better performance by regularly clearing wasteful clutter out of your RAM. You can easily work on this job manually, but it will be better to do with a little help, such as the Sleep Mode function of Avast Cleanup, which helps disable wasteful background services.

Types of RAM

RAM or Random Access Memory comes in a variety of shapes, capacities, speeds, and architectures. There are some aspects that are very important to consider when upgrading your systems with RAM, as computer systems have to comply with strict compatibility guidelines.

Below are listed types of RAM:

Static RAM (SRAM)– SRAM or Static RAM is one of the two basic memory types. SRAM basically requires a constant power flow in order to function well. Due to continuous power flow, SRAM or Static RAM doesn’t require to be refreshed to remember the data being stored. This is the only reason why SRAM is called ‘static’ – means no change or action is required to keep data intact.

Dynamic RAM (DRAM)– DRAM or Dynamic RAM requires a periodic ‘refresh’ of power in order to function well without any technical issues. The capacitors that store data in Dynamic RAM gradually discharge energy. This is the only reason why DRAM is called ‘dynamic’ — constant change or action is required to keep data intact. DRAM is volatile in nature which means data stored becomes lost once the power is cut off.

Synchronous Dynamic RAM (SDRAM)– SDRAM or Synchronous Dynamic RAM is a classification of DRAM that usually operates in sync with the CPU clock, which means that it waits for the clock signal to receive before responding to data input. By contrast, DRAM or Dynamic RAM is asynchronous, which means that it responds immediately to data input. The main advantage of synchronous operation is that a CPU can process almost all overlapping instructions in parallel, also known as ‘pipelining’ which means the ability to receive or read instructions.

There is one last point to note that you can not install huge amounts of RAM in your system and expect it to work efficiently. In order to use more than 4 GB of memory, you need to run your 64-Bit version of Windows — 32-bit versions are limited to address or provide 3.5 GB of memory only.

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What is a Motherboard

It acts as a meeting point in the computer’s central part, which connects all the components and external peripherals of the computer. Motherboard consists of multiple forms which, are designed to fit the different types and sizes of computers.

Overview

PCB consists of different layers of fiberglass ranging from 6 to 14 and, they have different planes to ensure the power and signal of their computer. Other components can also be added to the motherboard through expansion slots. These expansion slots help people when they want to upgrade their motherboard.

The most commonly used motherboard in recent times is ATX, an advanced Intel on the AT design made by IBM. Other forms include extended ATX mini ATX, micro ATX, BTX, micro BTX, mini ITX, macro ITX, and nano ITX.

Types of motherboard

Every computer has its motherboard. You can identify the motherboard from your computer specs. Different type of motherboard analyzes what type of parts your computer can utilize and the measures the limits of upgradations of the computer in the future.

You can choose Motherboards based on size, shape, layout, and mounting patterns on them. If you have a business in computer building this is essential for the development of computer cases that follow the size of the motherboard.

Desktops, tablets, laptops, smartphones, and other classes of computers consist of motherboards, but usually, when one talks about motherboards they are mostly made for desktops. Motherboards used in making computer desktops follow a standard form factor and so people know exactly what size to build, what type of CPU to use, and what type of units they need to build a computer with particular specifications.

Some common types of Motherboard-
• XT Motherboard
• AT Motherboard
• Baby AT Motherboard
• ATX Motherboard

Components of a Motherboard

The motherboard serves as the main component of a computer. It works as a circuit board through which the other components connect to. It is the motherboard that connects components and is responsible for the functioning of a computer. It is the second most useful part of the component while making a computer.

Here are some interfaces and parts you will find on a Motherboard-
• CPU Sockets
• DIMM slots
• SATA connector
• Power connector
• Chipset
• Floppy connector
• IO Chip
• IO Connectors
• USB ports
• Audio connector
• IDE connector
• CMOS battery header
• PCI Express slots
• PCI slots
• ROM
• Clock generator
• Expansion slots
• Heat sinks

Importance of Motherboard

Motherboard plays a crucial role in the computer system, it is a part of computer hardware where all the other units of the computer connect and interacts. It ensures that all the elements of the computer work together for the proper functioning of the computer. Motherboards perform a variety of functions depending on the functions of the computer system. Some of them are-

1. Embedded motherboards are often used in ovens, calculators, cell phones, and digital cameras, which enhance the performance of these devices. Their smaller size makes them quicker to load. They utilize lesser resources which saves a lot of money. These embedded solutions can be attached to your computer to enhance your performance and speed up your internet browsing.
2. Accessories of motherboards can be used to enhance the functioning of the computer hardware. It upgrades productivity and ensures comfort for the gamers who are frequent as well as novice players. Various cooling devices coming under this prevents your system from overheating. Various CPU accessories help increase network productivity. A fan connector ensures proper airflow in your computer system, protects the data and improves its performance. Various computer accessories secure graphic and memory cards in place to reduce pressure on the motherboard.
3. Motherboards for server system differs for the persons using it at office and home. They come in designs that enhance the processing of loads and carry out heavy work effortlessly. The motherboard used for the server requires a capable power supply, a high-speed bus, fan, and I/O interfaces. It also offers two types of processors that help people boost their performance while gaming.
4. Motherboards used in computers are upgradable. It is completely normal and possible to upgrade the motherboard when the needs of a computer change. Make sure that the parts upgraded are compatible with the old ones. A versatile motherboard for your computer can not only save you money but also makes a good return on your investment.

What is the use of motherboards in our life?

Without the Motherboard, your PC won’t function properly. It connects the computer components, which is why it is termed as ‘Hub’, we don’t look inside the motherboard regularly, but it is wise to know about the ins and outs of your motherboard. The motherboard looks like flat cardboard with different wires soldiered to it.

Many people believe that a motherboard has minimal effect on the performance of your PC, but if you upgrade it, it will support a faster CPU, more memory, and faster disk interfaces. We all have great uses for computers in our daily lives. Be it professionally or personally, the demand for computers or technology never ends.

We need work done efficiently and quickly for that you need to have an upgraded motherboard for your computer. It not only loads data quickly but also improves your internet browsing speed. It does not cost much but saves you from hassle.

Motherboards are a very important part of computer hardware which performs numerous work and helps other parts to work properly. Without the motherboard, a computer is good for nothing device. It is used in all kinds of computers and has become essential in this generation where people want their work to be done in an instant.

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The display device in modern computer monitors is generally a thin film translator liquid card display with LED backlighting which has replaced cold cathode fluorescent lamp lighting. Earlier monitors used to have cathode rays tube and plasma displays.

Monitors are connected to the computer through VGA, digital visual interface, HDMI, display port, low-voltage differential signals or, other connectors and signals.

What is Monitor in a Computer

What is the use of a monitor?

Monitors were created mainly for data processing, and television sets were developed for entertainment. After the 1980s periods, computers have been used for both data processing as well as entertainment while, televisions have executed various computer functionalities and have enhanced their properties.

On your desktop computer, monitors are connected through a cable to a port on the computer’s video card or motherboard. Even though it is fixed outside the computer, it is essential for your computer. You can buy monitors from outside if they are not inbuilt on your computer.
Modern monitors have easy implementations and are easily changeable. It also comes with conventional TV sets. However, monitors differ in brands and may not come up with integrated speakers like TVs and might have to add external components for better functioning.
Monitors size ranges from 17 to 24 inches, some also come in 32 inches, and others come with wider gaming monitors for better display and quality. The performance of monitors is generally measured by their sizes.

Can computers work with no monitors on them?

The answer to this question is yes, computers can function without a monitor, but for the user to interact with the computer’s operating system you will need a monitor or any other output device. Without the monitor, users can’t understand what their computer is doing.
Computer monitors have evolved over the years, and the image quality is better now. Monitors are mainly for the graphic display of your computer. We have our tablets, smartphones which have touch displays, and we interact with our gadgets with our fingers. This function has made gadgets use simpler.

Types of monitor

1. CRT monitors, these monitors require more power and energy to work. They are bulky and heavy, and harsh on the naked eye, which is why these are not used in laptop monitors.
2. LCD monitors have replaced CRT monitors. Earlier CFL lights were used but they didn’t go well and were replaced with LED lights. These are more reliable monitors.
3. QLED (Quantum dot displays) monitors, were used to convert backlight to produce pure basic colors. The components used in these monitors reduce light loss and color crosstalk.
4. LED (light-emitting diode) monitors are mostly used by television manufacturers because these monitors illuminate the LCD image.

Benefits of monitor

Monitors set up is very easy, they can be instantly implemented through plug and play method. They are easy to clean, and they perfectly display the stuff you want on your computer. Computers have partially replaced televisions, be it entertainment or anything else. These are a lot better as you can store the video for the future.

There are minimal to no difficulties that come in its operations. If you still face any trouble, you just need to update the display, and it will start working again. However, if you want to buy a monitor for your computer, make sure to compare their compatibility for better performance.

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