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• Computer architecture: Recognize the function of the central processing unit (CPU) in a computer and understand the definition of a microprocessor.
• Computer architecture: Identify the functions of the components within a CPU in a Von Neumann architecture and describe the fetch-decode-execute (FDE) cycle, detailing the role of each component involved.
• Input and output devices: Recognize the definition of an input device and its necessity. Examples include barcode scanners, digital cameras, keyboards, microphones, optical mice, QR code scanners, touch screens (resistive, capacitive, and infra-red), and both two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) scanners.
• Input and output devices: Recognize the definition of an output device and its necessity. Examples include actuators, digital light processing (DLP) projectors, inkjet printers, laser printers, light emitting diode (LED) screens, liquid crystal display (LCD) projectors, LCD screens, speakers, and 3D printers.
• Data storage: Recognize the concept of primary storage, including its direct access by the CPU and the functions of random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM), as well as the necessity of both types and their differences.
• Data storage: Recognize the concept of secondary storage, which is not directly accessible by the CPU and is essential for the long-term storage of data.
• Network hardware: Recognize that a computer requires a network interface card (NIC) to connect to a network. Note: A network interface card is assigned a MAC address.
• Network hardware: Comprehend the meaning and purpose of a media access control (MAC) address, including its structure. Note: MAC addresses are typically assigned at manufacturing and are expressed in hexadecimal format, derived from the manufacturer code and serial number.