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CIT210Sciences3 Unitsintermediate

Computer Hardware

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to computer hardware. It covers the fundamental concepts of computer systems, including hardware architecture based on the Von Neumann model. Students will explore various computer hardware devices, components, and their interconnectivity. The course also delves into peripheral devices, processing units, memory and storage, digital systems, and cloud computing, equipping students with the knowledge to understand and work with computer hardware effectively.

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65h

Study Time

13

Weeks

5h

Per Week

basic

Math Level

Course Keywords

Computer HardwareVon NeumannCPUMemoryPeripheral Devices

Course Overview

Everything you need to know about this course

Course Difficulty

Intermediate Level

Builds on foundational knowledge

65%

intermediate

➕

Math Level

Basic Math

📖

Learning Type

Theoretical Focus

Course Topics

Key areas covered in this course

1

Computer Systems Fundamentals

2

Computer Software Types

3

Von Neumann Architecture

4

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

5

Memory and Storage Devices

6

Peripheral Devices (Input/Output)

7

Motherboard Components

8

Microchips Technology

9

Computer Networking

10

Multi-core Technology

11

Embedded Systems

12

Digital Systems

13

Cloud Computing

Total Topics13 topics

Ready to Start

No specific requirements needed

This course is designed to be accessible to all students. You can start immediately without any prior knowledge or specific preparation.

Assessment Methods

How your progress will be evaluated (2 methods)

assignments

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Written Assessment

final examination

Comprehensive evaluation of course material understanding

Computer Based Test

Career Opportunities

Explore the career paths this course opens up for you

Computer Technician

Apply your skills in this growing field

IT Support Specialist

Apply your skills in this growing field

Network Administrator

Apply your skills in this growing field

System Administrator

Apply your skills in this growing field

Hardware Engineer

Apply your skills in this growing field

Industry Applications

Real-world sectors where you can apply your knowledge

Information TechnologyTelecommunicationsManufacturingAerospaceHealthcare

Study Schedule Beta

A structured 13-week journey through the course content

Week

1

Module 1: Introduction to Computer Systems

4h

Unit 1: Fundamentals of Computer Systems

4 study hours

•Understand the definition of a computer and its basic components.
•Differentiate between hardware and software.
•Explore the data flow process within a computer device.

Week

2

Module 1: Introduction to Computer Systems

3h

Unit 2: Computer Software

3 study hours

•Define computer software and its relevance to hardware.
•Identify and describe different types of computer software, including operating systems, application software, and firmware.
•Understand the inter-relationship between hardware and software.

Week

3

Module 2: Computer Hardware Architecture

5h

Unit 1: Von Neumann Computer Architecture

5 study hours

•Understand the Von Neumann computer architecture and its major components.
•Describe the system unit and its internal components.
•Explain the function of computer communication buses.

Week

4

Module 2: Computer Hardware Architecture

5h

Unit 2: Central Processing Unit

5 study hours

•Comprehend the role and functions of the Central Processing Unit (CPU).
•Understand the functions of the control unit (CU) and arithmetic logic unit (ALU).
•Identify different types of CPUs and their characteristics.

Week

5

Module 2: Computer Hardware Architecture

5h

Unit 3: Computer Data Storage and Memory Devices

5 study hours

•Understand the organization and architecture of computer memory.
•Differentiate between primary and secondary memory.
•Explore different types of memory storage devices, including RAM, ROM, HDD, and SSD.

Week

6

Module 3: Computer Peripheral Devices

4h

Unit 1: Input Devices

4 study hours

•Understand the functions of input devices in a computer system.
•Identify various kinds of input devices, such as keyboard, mouse, scanner, and microphone.
•Explore the uses of pointing, scanning, and wireless input devices.

Week

7

Module 3: Computer Peripheral Devices

4h

Unit 2: Output Devices

4 study hours

•Identify different types of output devices, including monitors, printers, and speakers.
•Differentiate between input and output devices.
•Understand the functions of visual display units and printing devices.

Week

8

Module 4: Computer Hardware Components

5h

Unit 1: System board Motherboard

5 study hours

•Understand the function and components of a computer motherboard.
•Get familiar with the design and layout of computer motherboards.
•Explore computer communication ports and their uses.

Week

9

Module 4: Computer Hardware Components

5h

Unit 2: Microchips Technology

5 study hours

•Understand the functionalities of transistors and chips in computer hardware.
•Know the relevance of transistors and chips in hardware design.
•Explore the formation and types of microchips.

Week

10

Module 5: Hardware Interconnectivity and Embedded Systems

4h

Unit 1: Computer Networking

4 study hours

•Understand the concepts of system networking.
•Identify hardware devices relevant to computer networks.
•Explore different types of computer networks and network topologies.

Week

11

Module 5: Hardware Interconnectivity and Embedded Systems

4h

Unit 2: Multi-core Technology

4 study hours

•Understand the concepts of multi-core technology.
•Know more about parallel computing.
•Explore the benefits of multi-threaded software.

Week

12

Module 5: Hardware Interconnectivity and Embedded Systems

4h

Unit 3: Introduction to Embedded Systems

4 study hours

•Understand the concepts of embedded systems.
•Know more about micro-controller-based systems.
•Explore the applications of embedded systems and onboard computers.

Week

13

Module 6: Digital Systems

8h

Unit 1: Introduction to Digital Systems

4 study hours

•Understand the concepts of digital systems.
•Make use of the different digital systems.
•Explore analog-to-digital and digital-to-analog converters.

Unit 2: Cloud Computing

4 study hours

•Understand the concepts of cloud computing.
•Identify hardware resources available in the cloud.
•Learn how to make use of cloud computing services.

This study schedule is in beta and may not be accurate. Please use it as a guide and consult the course outline for the most accurate information.

Course PDF Material

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Study Tips & Exam Preparation

Expert tips to help you succeed in this course

1

Review the Von Neumann architecture and its components (Units 1-3 in Module 2). Create diagrams to illustrate data flow and control signals.

2

Focus on understanding the different types of memory (RAM, ROM, cache) and their characteristics (Unit 3 in Module 2). Use flashcards to memorize key differences.

3

Practice identifying various computer ports and their functions (Unit 1 in Module 4). Use online quizzes to test your knowledge.

4

Create concept maps linking the different network topologies (Unit 1 in Module 5). Pay attention to their advantages and disadvantages.

5

Understand the key concepts of cloud computing (Unit 2 in Module 6). Focus on the different service models (IaaS, PaaS, SaaS) and their use cases.

6

Review all Tutor-Marked Assignments (TMAs) and ensure you understand the solutions. Pay special attention to areas where you struggled.

7

Allocate specific study time for each module based on its weight in the final examination. Prioritize modules with higher weight.

8

Form a study group with fellow students to discuss challenging concepts and share exam preparation strategies.

9

Practice answering past exam questions under timed conditions to improve your speed and accuracy.

10

Ensure you have a solid understanding of the key terms and definitions covered in each unit. Create a glossary of terms for quick reference.

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