Shared Flashcard Set

Details

A+ 701 Study Guide: Complete
All note card from Domain 1-6
316
Computer Science
Professional
08/21/2013

Additional Computer Science Flashcards

 


 

Cards

Term
FDD: Floppy Disk Drive
Definition
Magnetic storage device that uses a read/write head to read, record and erase data onto a floppy disk.

Data is stored in binary fashion (0s and 1s).

Considered obsolete since PC99 standards
Term
FDD: Storage space
Definition
1.44 MB

Have a range of 360KB - 2.88 MB
Term
HDD: Hard Disk Drive
Definition
Basic unit of permanent storage for computers.

Majority of hard drives use magnetic storage and mechanical spindles and armatures, which make hard drives a vulnerable point for failure.
Term
HDD: Common interface types for Internal drives
Definition
- SCSI
- EIDE
- SATA (current standard)
Term
HDD: Common interface types for External drives
Definition
- USB
- IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
Term
HDD: Solid State Drives (SDD)
Definition
use non-volatile flash memory to store data, similar to USB flash drives.

Much faster, have no mechanical parts (less prone to failure), last longer.

Far more expensive and not in same sizes as traditional HDDs
Term
Optical Drives
Definition
Storage device that uses a laser to read data encoded on discs in pits and lands that mimic, 0's and 1's.
Term
Optical Drives: Progression
Definition
1. CD-ROM drives
2. CD-RW drives
3. DVD-ROM
4. DVD-R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW
5. Blu-ray
Term
Optical Drives: Common interface types
Definition
Internal:
- SCSI
- EIDE
- SATA

External:
- USB
- IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
Term
Removable Storage:
Tape Drive
Definition
Magnetic media devices using rolling magnetized read/write head to read/write data onto cassettes using magnetic ribbon, or "tapes," as storage.

Data can only be accessed sequentially and are slow compared to other media

Storage Capacity:
20GBs to greater than 1TB
Term
Removable Storage:
Tape Drive; Common Formats
Definition
- DDs-1
- DAT72
- DLT-4
- TR-7
Term
Removable Storage:
Solid State Devices
Definition
Storage units that have no mechanical parts, use non-volatile flash memory to store data.

Do not generate excessive heat and also use less power.

utilized mainly in smaller devices like USB flash drives and SD cards, cell phones and cameras.

Some manufacturers are using 2.5" SSD drives in their laptops
Term
Removable Storage:
External CD-RW
Definition
Optical drives that can "erase" certain types of discs by altering the physical state of the reflective layer of these discs, from an amorphous solid to a crystalline state.

More sensitive than CD-ROM and CD-R discs.

virtually identical to internal CD-RW drives except have an integrated circuit board and connector

Connects via USB or IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
Term
Removable Storage:
Hot-Swappable
Definition
Can be plugged into a computer without shutting the machine down and used with little to no effort from the user.

Virtually all USB devices are hot-swappable.

Some early SCSI drives were hot-swappable
Term
Motherboard:
Form Factor
Definition
Physical dimensions of a product.

Each form factor commonly used has a specific format and set of specifications
Term
Motherboard:
Form Factor:
ATX
Definition
ATX
- Standardized many aspects of motherboards
- 12" x 9.6"
- use of PS/2 ports for mouse/keyboard
-
Term
Motherboard:
Form Factor:
ATX:
Power supply
Definition
- 20-pin P1 power connector to provide 3.3 volts, +5 volts and +12 volts.
- Later revisions provided auxiliary 4-pin and 8-pin connectors for processors, as well as the newer 24-pin P1 power connectors
- use of "soft power" switches to control power supply instead of direct hardware switch
Term
Motherboard:
Form Factor:
BTX
Definition
- 12.8" x 10.5"
- Intended to replace ATX
- emphasize low thermal footprints
- airflow parallel to major components
- placement of components to minimize latency
- not compatible with ATX cases
- use ATX power supply
Term
Motherboard:
Form Factor:
microATX
Definition
- 6.75" x 6.75" to 9.6" x 9.6"
- uses less power that full ATX board by integrating many functions (video, sound, NIC)
- reduced number of expansion slots to max of 4
Term
Motherboard:
Form Factor:
NLX
Definition
- 10" x 9"
- intended for low-end PCs and to replace LPX specifications
- used riser card for expansion slots
- Motherboard had only 1 slot (used for riser card)
- been supplanted by the microATX and similar form factors
Term
I/O interfaces
Definition
Various ports and expansion slots used to connect the computer to various hardware devices
Term
I/O interfaces:
Sound
Definition
Often integrated into motherboard, allows capture and playback of digital and analog sound files
Term
I/O interfaces:
Sound:
Cards
Definition
- Use PCI or PCI-Express slots
- have traditional TRS jacks (mini-jacks), and S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interconnect Format) as output connectors.
- 2 to 8-channel stereo
- have internal connectors allowing CD/DVD drives to connect directly
Term
I/O interfaces:
Video
Definition
Designed to output data to a monitor or display mechanism that will display the signal as visual data. Common interfaces include VGA, DVI and HDMI, which is used for high definition TVs and monitors.
Term
I/O interfaces:
Video:
Cards
Definition
- AGP or PCI-Express slots
- sometimes contain separate memory, processors, and cooling systems
Term
I/O interfaces:
USB 1.1
Definition
- 1.5 to 12Mb/s transfer rate
- Daisy chained up to 127 devices
- 4 wires: 2 power, 2 signal transmission
- max length of wire: 3 meters
Term
I/O interfaces:
USB 2.0
Definition
- 480Mb/s transfer rate
- backward compatible with USB 1.1
- Daisy chained up to 127 devices
- 4 wires: 2 power, 2 signal transmission
- max length of wire: 5 meters
Term
I/O interfaces:
USB 3.0
Definition
- 5 Gb/s transfer rate
- Daisy chained up to 127 devices
- 4 wires: 2 power, 2 signal transmission
Term
I/O interfaces:
Serial
Definition
- First connectivity standards on PCs
- aka DB9 and DB25 ports (depending on # of pins)
- utilized for mice, external modems
- Defined by RS-232 and RS-232c standard
- Referred to as COM 1/2/3/4 ports
- Send data one bit at a time
- Generally male connectors
- Can be disables in the BIOS
Term
I/O interfaces:
Serial:
IRQs
Definition
Interrupt Request
COM1
- 3F8 and IRQ4
COM2
- 2F8 and IRQ3
Term
I/O interfaces:
IEEE 1394/FireWire
Definition
- Data is sent without interruption (isochronously)
- Hot-pluggable
- Daisy-chained up to 63 devices
Term
I/O interfaces:
IEEE 1394a
Definition
FireWire 400
- transfer rate of 400 Mb/s
- max length of cable 4.5 meters
- use 4 and 6-pin connectors
Term
I/O interfaces:
IEEE 1394b
Definition
FireWire 800
- transfer rate of 3.2 Gb/s
- practical maximum of 800 Mb/s
- Max cable length 100 meters
- use 9-pin connectors
Term
I/O interfaces:
Parallel
Definition
-Transmit data over several lines at once (8 bits at a time)
- Originally unidirectional (Standard Parallel Port, SPP)
- Became bidirectional and faster (Enhanced Parallel Port, EPP, and Extended Capabilities Port, ECP)
- Current standard is IEEE 1284
- Suggested max length 4.5 meters
Term
I/O interfaces:
Parallel:
Extended Capabilities Port (ECP)
Definition
- Use Direct Memory Access (DMA) to increase transmission rates
Term
I/O interfaces:
Parallel:
Connections
Definition
- DB-25 (25 pin)
- 36-pin micro ribbon
- 50-pin
- are generally female connectors
Term
I/O interfaces:
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Definition
- Virtually all use Ethernet standard (RJ-45 jack)
- Generally connects to Cat5, 5e or 6 cabling
- every card has unique 48-bit Media Access Control (MAC) address utilizing hexadecimal numbers (0-9, A-F)
- Support 1 Gb/s ethernet
Term
I/O interfaces:
Modem
Definition
- stands for "modulator/demodulator"
- current are Digital Subscriber Lines (DSL)
- use phone lines, coaxial cable tv networks, or fiber optics
- transfer rates from 640Kb/s - 12Mb/s and faster
- Connect to computer via USB or ethernet
Term
I/O interfaces:
PS/2
Definition
- Standard port for mice and keyboards until USB
- 6-pin mini-DIN connectors and were color coded
- Green = mouse
- Purple = keyboard
Term
Memory Slots:
RIMM
Definition
- Created by Rambus
- use 16 or 32-bit bus
- came in Error-Correcting Code (ECC) and non-ECC versions
- speed range: 800-1066 MHz
- sized: 64MB - 512MB
- Often used as video memory due to high bus speed
Term
Memory Slots:
RIMM:
16-bit
Definition
- 2 notches and 184 pins
Term
Memory Slots:
RIMM:
32-bit
Definition
- 1 notch and 232 pins
Term
Memory Slots:
RIMM:
Disadvantages
Definition
- architecture required all memory slots to be filled
- users needed continuity RIMM (C-RIMM) if not enough memory sticks were available
- Very expensive
- Generate significant amount of heat
- substantially higher latency than most available memory
Term
Memory Slots:
Dual Inline Memory Module (DIMM)
Definition
- Standard form of system memory, RAM, today
- several configurations: 100-pin (printers) to 240-pin (Double Data Rate, DDR3)
- use 64-bit path
- run in sync with system clock for increased performance (unless DDR)
- can be double (dual-ranked) or single-sided (single-ranked)
Term
Memory Slots:
DIMM:
DDR
Definition
- runs at twice the speed of system clock and uses less power
Term
Memory Slots:
DIMM:
Access and speeds
Definition
- can have up to 3 DIMMS, channels, with special hardware and configuration
- when utilizing more than 1 channel, must be matched in size, speed, and latency
Term
Memory Slots:
DIMM:
Speeds
Definition
Speeds in either MHz or PC ratings (transfer rate multiplied by the MHz rating)
- Range from PC2-6400 to PC3-10600
- PC2: DDR2 memory
- PC3: DDR3 memory
Term
Memory Slots:
Small Outline DIMMs (SODIMMs)
Definition
- smaller versions of DIMMs
- 72, 100, 144, and 200-pin configurations
- have differently placed notches on bottom edges (like DIMMs) to signify the DDR rating of the module
- 72 and 100-pin have 32-bit data path
- 144 and 200-pin have 64-bit path
Term
Memory Slots:
Single In-Line Memory Module (SIMM)
Definition
- prior standard of memory; completely supplanted by DIMMs
- 30 and 72-pin modules
- most had just a 32-bit data path, some 30-pin only had 16-bit
- Access times much slower for SIMMs
- some SIMMs used parity as an error-checking technology
Term
Memory Slots:
SIMM:
3-types
Definition
Fast Page Memory (FPM)
- used with 30- and 72-pin SIMMs

extended data out (EDO)
- faster than FPM
- used with 72-pin SIMMs and 168-pin DIMMs

burst EDO (BEDO)
- rarely used technology
Term
Memory Slots:
SIMM:
Parity Error
Definition
- a ninth bit was included with every byte (8 bits) of data.
- supplanted by ECC technology
Term
Processor Sockets:
General Info
Definition
Socket for processor and chipset determines what type of processor and feature set a system can use.

Intel processors use different sockets than Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) processors

- Both use zero insertion force (ZIF) sockets
Term
Processor Sockets:
Intel
Definition
- presently use lang grid array (LGA) architecture; utilizes lands (pads) instead of pins to connect to the CPU

- early versions used PGA
Term
Processor Sockets:
Intel:
LGA
Definition
- introduced with LGA 775 (775 lands)
- current is LGA 1366
Term
Processor Sockets:
AMD
Definition
- use Pin-grid Array (PGA) architecture, with rows of pins placed around the socket, to make contact with the CPU
Term
Processor Sockets:
AMD:
PGA
Definition
Pin Grid Array

- current AMD socket style is the AM3
Term
Processor Sockets:
DDR2 sockets
Definition
- AM2 and AM2+
- LGA771 (Socket J)
- LGA775 (Socket T)
Term
Processor Sockets:
DDR3 sockets
Definition
Requires a motherboard with
- AM3
or
- LGA1366 socket
Term
Bus Architecture
Definition
Subsystem that carries data, electrical power, control signals, and memory addresses between components
Term
Expansion Bus
Definition
- Does not run in sync with the system clock
- connects to the chipset's South Bridge ( the slowest end)
Term
Local Bus
Definition
- Synchronized with the system clock
- Connected with North Bridge
- Faster end of the chipset
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCI (Peripheral Control Interconnect):
Version 1
Definition
- Connects various expansion cards to motherboard: NIC, or video cards

- 32-bit data path
- supplied 5V at 33 MHz
- First bus to allow expansion cards to run in sync with CPU
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCI:
Version 2.x
Definition
- 64-bit data path
- 3.3V
- notches in the slot distinguish between 5V and 3.3V (universal PCI can use either)
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCI:
PCI-X
Definition
- developed for server hardware
- fully-backward compatible, except for 5V cards
- can use either 32- or 64-bit data paths
Term
Bus Architecture:
AGP (accelerated graphics port)
Definition
Standard graphics card. Recently replaced by PCI-E

- 3 standards
- Pro version with greater slot length
- 4 speeds: 1x-8x
- 3 voltages: 0.9-3.3V
- 6 different slot specifications (placement and number of notches indicated slot voltage, version, and type)
- Max throughput ranged from AGP 1.0's 266MB/s to AGP 3.0's 2.12 GB/s
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCI-Express (PCI-E or PCIe)
Definition
- Not backward compatible to PCI
- Will eventually replace PCI altogether
- allows transmit of data faster by using packets
- Connect to both South and North Bridges
- 4 sizes: x1, x4, x8, x16 (# of physical wires/lanes, available for data)
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCI-E 1.1
Definition
- boosted available attage to expansion cares from 150W to 225W via two 6-pin connectors
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCI-E 2
Definition
- Doubled the signal frequency (and thus the data capacity)
- raised the number of possible lanes to 32
- total wattage to 300 via new 8-pin connector
- Fully backward compatible, but issues may occur
Term
Bus Architecture:
AMR (audio/modem riser)/CNR (communications/networking riser)
Definition
- Found in lower-end motherboards
- used in order to save space and reduce number of circuits
- Slots share circuitry with a controller on the motherboard
- similar in size to a PCI slot
- Very rare
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCMCIA (personal computer memory card international association)
Definition
- Primarily in laptops and mobile computers
- used for modems, NICs, and hard drives
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCMCIA:
PC Card
Definition
- used 16-bit ISA bus
- Hot swappable

3 types:
1 - 3.3 mm thick used for RAM
2 - 5.5 mm thick used for modems
3 - 10.5mm thick for hard drives or two Type 1 or 2 cards
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCMCIA:
CardBus
Definition
- used 32-bit PCI bus
- backward-compatible with PC Card devices
- Can't be used in 16-bit PC Card slots (raised strip across the connector end)
- Slots are: Type 2 or Type 3 slots.
- Hot-swappable
Term
Bus Architecture:
PCMCIA:
ExpressCard
Definition
- uses PCI-E or USB 2.0
- come in 34mm and 54mm widths
- are 75mm in length and 5mm thick
- not backward-compatible with PC Card or CardBus
- Hot-pluggable, hot-swappable, and can be autoconfigured
Term
PATA (Parallel Advanced Technology)
Definition
- Interface Standard for storage devices
- IDE, EIDE, and PATA are used interchangeably
Term
PATA:
IDE (integrated Drive Electronics)
Definition
- Has controller integrated into the drive unit instead of motherboard
- came to refer to the 40-pin ribbon cable standard.
- IDE motherboards have a primary and secondary controller that can support 2 devices: master and slave
Term
PATA:
EIDE (enhanced IDE)
Definition
- same basic tech as IDE
- Can incorporate the use of an 80-pin ribbon cable to increase data transmission and clarity
- All recent IDE devices are EIDE
Term
SATA (Serial ATA)
Definition
- Newer standard for storage devices
- uses round 7-pin cable that has greater maximum length (1 meter)
- sends data serially via packets
- transfer rates range from 1.5Gb/s-6Gb/s
- Most motherboards support 6 or more SATA connections
- Hot-pluggable and hot-swappable
Term
eSATA (External SATA)
Definition
- allows external devices to use SATA connections via expansion card or motherboard
- offers up to 6 times transfer rate of USB
- offers length up to 2 meters long
Term
RAID (redundant array of inexpensive/independent disks)
Definition
- Used primarily for servers
- uses multiple drives to work together to provide increased performance and the ability to survive a malfunction or loss of data (fault tolerance)
Term
RAID 0
Definition
- 2 or more drives are grouped into one logical drive
- Data is striped across the hard disks (written evenly across the drives)
- improves performance, but no fault tolerance.

AKA: Striped volumes
Term
RAID 1
Definition
- Data written is mirrored on all drives
- no performance benefits
- Disk duplexing: separate controllers used for the drive

AKA: Mirrored Drives
Term
RAID 5
Definition
- Data is striped across multiple drives + parity data
- arrangement requires 3 volumes
- offers both fault tolerance and performance benefits
- most expensive

AKA: RAID 5 Volumes
Term
Chipsets
Definition
- collection of controllers and microchips that function together to support the processor socket and type, as well as control the system memory, various buses, and peripheral devices

- Consists of a Northbridge and Southbridge
aka: Accelerated Hub Architecture
Term
Chipset:
Manufacturers
Definition
- Intel
- AMD
- NVIDIA
- SiS
Term
Chipset:
Northbridge
Definition
- Fast end
- graphics and memory controller are found here
- location where system bus and hub are joined
Term
Chipset:
Southbridge
Definition
- Slow end
- I/O controller is located here
- where every I/O device joins the hub
Term
BIOS (Basic Input/output system)
Definition
- used interchangeably with CMOS and Firmware

Collection of settings responsible for:
- starting a computer
- making sure hardware is ready and able to operate once power is applied
- finding and loading the OS
Term
CMOS (complimentary Metal-oxide semiconductor)
Definition
- used interchangeably with BIOS and Firmware

- stores all the BIOS information on volatile memory
- must have power to keep settings and system clock accurate
Term
Firmware
Definition
- used interchangeably with BIOS and CMOS

- General term for programming that is stored in a nonvolatile fashion on a chip, and can be used to refer to BIOS
Term
POST (Power on self test)
Definition
- Initial diagnostic program stored as part of the BIOS that runs when computer is turned on

It checks:
- Memory
- CPU function
- storage devices
- various I/O devices
Term
Riser card/daughterboard
Definition
an expansion card that plugs into a slot on the motherboard to provice additional capabilities:
- more expansion slots and storage connectors

this is uncommon technology and is mainly seen on NLX and LPX motherboards
Term
AC Adapter
Definition
- power supply that is external
- takes regular house current (AC) and converts it to direct current (DC)
Term
Identifying CPU Types:
factors
Definition
- system bus supported
- core frequency in gigahertz (GHz)
- socket and supported chipset
- multitasking ability
- included memory cache
- type of system memory supported
- specific technologies the CPU can use and the voltage and power consumption
- Manufacturer
Term
Identifying CPU Types:
Intel
Definition
4 Major families of processors:
- Core (mid to high-end systems)
- Pentium (older systems)
- Celeron (low-end systems)
- Atom (low-end mobile systems)

All Core 2 Quad processors have a 5-character identifier beginning with 'Q'.

Every Intel processor also has a sSPec number
Term
Identifying CPU Types:
AMD
Definition
Generally less expensive than Intel processors

6 families of processor:
- Phenom
- Athlon
- Sempron
- Turion Mobile
- Athlon for notebook
- Semprom for notebook

easier to identify a speciic AMD processor due to fewer processors on the market
Term
Hyperthreading/HyperTransport
Definition
technology for processors that allows each logical processor in a system to handle an individual thread in parallel with other threads instead of having to wait and handle them in a series.
Term
Multi-core
Definition
- Each processor has 2 or more cores that are independent of each other but run at the same frequency.

- Each core functions as a logical processor, with two arithmetic logic units (ALUs) per core, allowing each core to process two sepearte instructions simultaneously.

- Each core has it's own L1 cache, L2 cache, but shares it's L3 cache with processor system
Term
Cache memory
Definition
small section of RAM that is used by processors to contain data and instruction sets that the memory controller expects to processor to need next.

- Made of static RAM that doesn't need to be refreshed
Term
Processor Speed
Definition
Cycles per second the processor runs internally

Determined by multiplying the system bus by the multiplier.
Term
32-bit vs. 64-bit
Definition
Term
32-bit Vs. 64-bit
Definition
- 64-bit processing is faster, but uses more resources.
- 64-bit operating systems require 64-bit kernel mode device drivers, which should come from the hardware manufacturer.
- 64-bit OS's can run either 32-bit or 64-bit applications, but 64-bit apps will be faster. The inverse is not true: 32-bit OSs can only run 32-bit applications.
- Because of the limited number of memory addresses available to a 32-bit OS, only 4 GB of RAM can be addressed by the OS; more can be installed, but the OS has no way to see the memory. On the other hand, 64-bit OSs can in theory address up to 1 TB of RAM, though current hardware can only hold 12-16 GB of RAM.
- If the memory, processor, motherboard, OS, drivers and applications are all 64-bit, users will see a significant performance difference, particularly with multiple windows open and applications using resources.
Term
Cooling the Machine:
Heat Sinks
Definition
- set of fins that draw heat away from the processor and conduct it outward
- generally made of copper and/or aluminun
Term
Cooling the machine:
CPU and Case Fans
Definition
- a fan that cooler the entire computer case
-
Term
Cooling the machine
Definition
Due to the damage potential of heat, keeping the processor cool – meaning below the maximum temperature of 185 degrees Fahrenheit (85 degrees Celsius) and preferably in the 90-110 degrees Fahrenheit (32-43 degrees Celsius) range – is one of the more important tasks in a computer.
Term
Cooling the machine:
Liquid cooling system
Definition
- use a pump to circulate water or other liquids through tubes that draw heat from the components out to an area where fans can cool the liquid.
Term
Cooling the machine:
Thermal compound
Definition
Thermal Grease
- paste-like material applied to the top of a processor or bottom of heat sink. Conducts heat better than air and eliminates air pockets
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
DRAM
Definition
- does not hold data
- must be constantly refreshed by memory controller
- volatile
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
SRAM
Definition
- volatile
- cache memory
- very fast, very expensive
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
SDRAM
Definition
Synchronous DRAM
- foundation of most RAM in use today
- runs in time with comp processor and system clock
- rated by its frequency in MHz/GHz
- DIMMs using SDRAM generally have 168 pins
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
DDR/DDR2/DDR3
Definition
Double Data Rate
- next step after SDRAM
- instead of 1 cycle per clock cycle, it does 2
- generally 184-pins

DDR2/DDR3
- use less power
- run at quicker frequencies
- uses 2 channels to memory controller simultaneously
- generally 240-pins

DDR3
- uses three channels to the memory controller simultaneously
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
Rambus
Definition
Rambus Memory Module (RIMMs)
- made in 1990's
- 184-232-pins
- 16- or 32-bit bus
- error-correcting code (ECC) and non-ECC
- speed 800-1066 MHz
- video memory
- requires all memory slots to be filled for use
- expensive
- ran very hot and high latency
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
Parity V. Non-parity
Definition
Parity
- error-checking tech used with SIMMs
- used a 9th bit of info with every byte
- made a requirement of a 36-bit path instead of 32
- parity memory never took off due to 36-bit path and now non-parity is the standard
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
ECC V. Non-ECC
Definition
- similar to parity
- used an extra 8-bits to work with
- ECC memory modules have an odd number of chips, last being ECC submodule
- ECC DIMMs require a 72-bit data path
- ECC more expensive than non-ECC
- normally reserved for servers
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
Single-sided V. Double-sided
Definition
- All SIMMs are single sided
- some DIMMs can be single or double sided
- DIMMs that are quad sided are for servers
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
Single-channel v. Dual-channel
Definition
- motherboard and all systems must support dual-channel access for it to work
-
Term
Compare memory type, chars, purpose:
Speed
Definition
- given in frequency (MHz/GHz)
or
- PC rating (data path width in bytes times 2 (DDR) times the frequency/max data transfer rate per second)

Examples:
PC133: 133 MHz
 PC2700: 166 MHz * 8 * 2 = 2700 MB/s (approximately)
 PC3200: 200 MHz * 8 * 2 = 3200 MB/s
 DDR3-1600: The 1600 refers to the megatransfers (MT), or operations, per second. Multiplying the MT/s by the data path width gives the maximum transfer rate; in this case, 1600 MT/s * 8 bytes (64-bit) = 12800 MB/s.
 DDR2-667: With DDR2, the transfer rate is determined by multiplying the memory clock rate by 2 (for the bus clock multiplier) times 2 (for DDR) times the data path width in bytes. In this case, the memory clock rate is 166 MHz, so 166 * 2 * 2 * 8 = 5300 MB/s (approximately).
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)
Definition
- use electron guns to construct and image on screen line-by-line.
- obsolete
- better at showing motion than LCD
- higher refresh rates than LCD
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD)
Definition
- creates images by using layers of electrodes to manipulate a sandwiched layer of easily polarized material and a color layer
- use less energy
- responds more quickly
Term
Display devices and their chars:
LCD technologies:
Resolution
Definition
 VGA (Video Graphics Array): 640 x 480 (4:3 ratio between horizontal and vertical pixels)
 SVGA (Super VGA): 800 x 600
 XGA (eXtended Graphics Array): 1024 x 768
 SXGA (Super XGA): 1280 x 1024 (first standard to support 5:4 ratio between horizontal and vertical pixels)
 SXGA+: 1400 x 1050
 WSXGA+ (Wide SXGA+): 1680 x 1050
 UXGA (Ultra XGA): 1600 x 1200
 WUXGA (Wide UXGA): 1920 x 1200
 QWXGA (Quad Wide XGA): 2048 x 1152, used on 23‖ monitors
 WQXGA (Wide Quad XGA): 2560 x 1600, used on 30‖ monitors
Term
Display devices and their chars:
LCD technologies:
Contrast Ratio
Definition
- difference, or contrast, between true black and true white
Term
Display devices and their chars:
LCD technologies:
Native resolution
Definition
LCD have a native resolution limit due to the size of the screen/pixels
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Connector types:
VGA
Definition
- standard method of passing analog signals to video card
- VGA ports send 3 separate signals: red, green blue (RGB)
- 15-pin connectors
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Connector types:
DVI
Definition
- First standard used by digital LCD
- two varieties:
DVI-I
- supports analog and digital signals
DVI-D
- only supports digital signals
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Connector types:
Composite/component
Definition
- mix RGB signals into one, send together
- commonly used with TV
- not as shard as RGB
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Connector types:
S-video
Definition
Super-Video
- send one signal for color and one for brightness
- sharper video than composite
- not as good for monitors as RGB
Term
Display devices and their chars:
Connector types:
HDMI
Definition
- send high-def audio and video
Term
Video Settings:
Refresh rate
Definition
- number of times the display is built in one second
CRT = 70 Hz or 70 refresh rate
LCD = 16ms ~ 60Hz
Term
Video Settings:
Multi-monitor
Definition
- capacity for multi-monitor use is based on the operating system and graphics card
Term
Video Settings:
Degauss
Definition
- CRT monitors experience a buildup of magnetic field. cleared by using the degauss button to clear
Term
Peripherals:
Mouse
Definition
Ports
- PS/2 green
- USB
- wireless
- serial ports (obsolete)
- DIN connectors (obsolete)
Term
Peripherals:
Keyboard
Definition
Ports
- PS/2 purple
- USB
- wireless
- serial ports (obsolete)
- DIN connectors (obsolete)
Term
Peripherals:
Bar code reader
Definition
Ports
- serial or keyboard (splitter required)
- wireless
- USB
- Bluetooth

Installation
- requires drivers
Term
Peripherals:
multimedia devices
Definition
Ports
- USB
- IEEE 1394 (FireWire)
- MIDI port
Term
Peripherals:
Biometric devices
Definition
Ex: fingerprint reader
Ports
- wireless
- USB
- PC Card device
Term
Peripherals:
Touch screen
Definition
- use touch-sensitive grid inlay
Ports
- USB
- Serial
Term
Peripherals:
KVM (keyboard, video, mouse) switch
Definition
used to allow one set of devices to be used on multiple computers
Term
Adapter cards:
Video:
PCI
Definition
Connects various expansion cards to motherboard, usually NIC or video card

First version
- had a 32-bit data path
- 5V at 33MHz
- ran in sync with CPU

Version 2.X
- expanded data path to 64-bit
- allowed 3.3V
Term
Adapter cards:
Video:
PCIe
Definition
- Not backward compatible with PCI
- serial bus tech
- connects to North and South bridges
- four sizes: x1, x4, x8, x16

PCI-E 1.1
- boosted wattage from 150W to 225W
- used two 6-pin connectors

PCI-E 2
- doubled signal frequency
- raised number of lanes to 32
- raised wattage to 300
- used 8-pin connector
Term
Adapter cards:
Video:
AGP
Definition
Pro
- greater slot length
- four speeds: 1x-8x
- three voltages: 0.8-3.3V
- six slot specifications
- max throughput range: 266MB/s-2.12GB/s
Term
Multimedia:
Definition
use of visual, audio, and animation data to present information in as lifelike fashion as possible
Term
Multimedia:
capture cards
Definition
- related to TV tuner cards, records and saves display files
- integrated into a TV Tuner card or video card
- only refers to video capture cards
Term
I/O ports:
SCSI (small computer system interface)
Definition
- primarily used for storage devices in servers, but also for printers, scanners, optical drives
- supports up to 15 devices
- faster than PATA but more expensive and complicated
- every device on chain needs an ID

Standards:
- SCSI-1 (regular)
- SCSI-2 (fast)
- SCSI-3 (ultra)
- SAS (serial attached SCSI)
Term
I/O ports:
Serial
Definition
aka DB9 or DB25
- used for mice, external modems, specialist input devices (bar code reader)

RS-232 and RS-232c standard define specifications
- generally male connectors
- can be disables in BIOS
Term
I/O ports:
USB
Definition
- daisy chain up to 127 devices
- max cable length: 3 meters 1.0, 5m
USB 1.0
- 12Mb/s
USB 2.0
- 480Mb/s
USB 3.0
- 5Gb/s
Term
I/O ports:
Parallel
Definition
- standard connection for printers
- current standard is IEEE 1284
- transmit 8 bits (1 byte) at a time
- max length: 4.5m

EPP (enhanced parallel port)
- bidirectional
Extended Capabilties Port (ECP)
- bidirectional
Term
Communication:
NIC
Definition
- Primary method for computer interfacing with network
- virtually all network cards (NICs) use RJ-45 jack to connect to Ethernet cables, Cat5, 5e, or 6
- most cards today support 1Gb/s ethernet
- backward compatible with 10Mb/s and 100Mb/s systems
Term
Communication:
Modem
Definition
Modulator/demodulator
- transmit data at speeds of 640Kb/s to 12Mb/s and faster
Term
Laptops:
Expansion cards:
PCMCIA (personal computer memory card international)
Definition
covers 3 different card specifications:
Type I
- RAM
Type II
- Modems
Type III
- Portable hard drive or 2 typeI/II ports
Term
Laptops:
Expansion cards:
mini PCI-Express
Definition
- 52-pin
- come in type I/II (100-pin)/III (124-pin)
- look similar to mini PCI slots but are smaller with no clips on the side
- often used for wireless adapters, cellular WAN, bluetooth
Term
Laptops:
Expansion cards:
Docking station
Definition
- external device that a notebook can plug into that provides ports for external monitor, keyboard, mouse, power adapter, storage devices, and expansion cards.

- similar to port replicators, offer more features and auxiliary slots
- easy way to expand laptop/notebooks capabilities
Term
Communication Connections:
Bluetooth
Definition
- short-range (10 meters)
- transfer up to 3Mb/s
- operates at 2.4GHz frequency
-
Term
Communication Connections:
Infrared
Definition
- line-of-sight tech
Term
Communication Connections:
Cellular WAN
Definition
3 standards:
- Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM): used internationally
- Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA): most domestic US carriers
- Time Division Multiple Access (TDMA): older tech in US

Cellular WAN
- must be able to connect to Third Generation (3G)
- Are full duplex: data can be passed by both endpoints of a network segment at same time
Term
Communication Connections:
Ethernet
Definition
- Network standard for all wired networking
- RJ-45 jack
- cable generally: Cat5, 5e, 6
- every device connected has unique MAC address assigned by manufacturer
- support 1Gb/s speed
- all NICs have light indicators that show state of network traffic
Term
Communication Connections:
Modem
Definition
- Plain old telephone service (POTS)
- Point-to-point protocol (PPP) to transfer data packets
- max speed: 53.3 Kb/s
- used RJ-11 phone jacks
- used V .92 standard
Term
Power/electrical input devices:
Auto-switching
Definition
- allows power adapters to automatically change from providing 110V to 220V of AC
- prevents burnout of comp components
-
Term
Power/electrical input devices:
Fixed-input power supplies
Definition
- seen in desktops and laptops
- only provides one level of power
Term
Power/electrical input devices:
Batteries
Definition
Types:
- nickel-cadium (Ni-Cad): outdated
- nickel-metal-hiydride: outdated
- lithium-ion (Li-Ion)
- direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC): future of batteries
Term
Laptops Input Devices:
stylus/digitizer
Definition
digitizer aka graphics tablet
- generally connect via USB
Term
Laptops Input Devices:
Function keys
Definition
extra row of keys that have specific tasks tied to them when pressed in conjunction with the Fn key
- some can be used outside operating system like to interrupt the boot sequence to enter BIOS
Term
Laptops Input Devices:
point devices
Definition
- touchpad
- point stick
Term
Printer configuration:
Laser
Definition
- popular among businesses and large corps
- includes speed, quantity, quality
- print one page at a time
- require memory
- use black, cyan, magenta, yellow
- replace toner cartridges more often, then drum, fuser assemblies, and transfer assemblies
Term
Printer configuration:
Laser:
process
Definition
Clean or prepare
- print drum cleaned by sweeping strip and blade and residual charge by erase lamps

Conditioning
- primary corona charges roller to -600V

Writing
- laser discharges high current (-600V) or low charge (-100V) where toner is applied to drum

Developing
- Toner placed on drum where charge is reduced to -100V

Transferring
- transfer corona produces positive charge on paper, pulling toner from drum onto paper
- must use correct laser paper

Fusing
- heat from fuser assembly (410 F) melts plastic particles that make up toner
Term
Printer configuration:
Inkjet
Definition
- more common
- use liquid filled cartridges spraying ink droplets onto page
- electrical charge imparted on ink and magnetically charged plates shape the path of the ink to create image
Term
Printer configuration:
Thermal
Definition
use heat to print characters on paper
Term
Printer configuration:
Thermal:
Thermal wax transfer
Definition
- print head melts wax-based ink from transfer ribbon to page
- uses an equivalent panel of ink for every page, regardless of how much print is transferred
- common for barcodes
Term
Printer configuration:
Thermal:
Direct thermal
Definition
- used in many early fax machines
- printer burns dots onto coated paper when paper passes heating elements
Term
Printer configuration:
Impact
Definition
- print by striking paper, driving ink into page
- dot-matrix printer
-
Term
Printer configuration:
Local Connections
Definition
common
- USB
- parallel
uncommon
- SCSI
- IEEE 1394
- serial port
Term
Printer configuration:
network connections
Definition
- ethernet port and network driver
Term
Printer configuration:
consumables
Definition
- paper
- toner cartridges
- fuser
- image drum
- transfer belts
- ink ribbons
- color sticks
Term
Identify the problem:
important information
Definition
- System configuration
- Specific error message
- User-actions during system error
- Time frame/frequency
- Reproducability
Term
Symptoms/problems of the OS:
BSOD
Definition
- caused when a kernel mode process is corrupted or unable to continue causing a complete halt in Windows.
- appears with an error code and general message
- commonly caused by defective or incompatible hardware, drivers, software, registry issues, viruses, malware
Term
Symptoms/problems of the OS:
Kernel mode process
Definition
aprocess that has full access to all system resources
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
System lockup
Definition
Symptoms
- Computer locks up/freezes and must be restarted
- generally no error messages
Caused by
- overheating
- hardware/driver issues with motherboard or video card or memory
- configuration issues within BIOS (most often RAM)
- CPU issues
Solution
- use Event Viewer applet to narrow down causes
- diagnostic tools (Windows Memory Diagnostics, or DxDiag (checks directX drivers))
- Visual and audio clues from computer
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
I/O device issues
Definition
Symptoms
- unusual behavior: hesitation or jerky movement of cursor; static when typing or moving cursor; simple failure to work at all

Caused by
- BIOS configuration issues
- Windows and/or driver issues
- poor cabling/connection
- defective port hardware

Solution
- Check device manager and find yellow exclamation mark icon
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Application install
Definition
Symptoms
- generates an error message when installing

Caused by
- not enough space
- app not meeting system requirements
- root folder for install insufficient space
- incompatibility with version of Windows


Solutions
- update windows
- make more room
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Application Start/Load issues
Definition
Symptoms
- app doesn't start or unable to complete load process

Causes
- something preventing the app to load

Solutions
- Possibly invalid working directory (missing or damaged shortcut used to launch app)
- incompatibility issues with hardware, system config, OS
- application components improperly listed in the system registry
-
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Windows-specific printing problems
Definition
Symptom
- test-page can print from printer but nothing else
- prints page of incomprehensible characters

Caused by
- printer spooler stalling
- corrupted/incompatible driver

Solution
- eliminate hardware issues
- remove driver from Device Manager or update through Windows Update or printer manufacturer's update tool
Term
Hardware Symptoms/problems/solutions:
Excessive heat
Definition
Symptoms
- computer lockups
- shutting down randomly
- refuse to turn on

Caused by
- overheating
- incorrectly installed fans/cooling devices
- missing slot covers

Solution
- check various fans in the system (power supply, case fan, CPU fan, heat sink, auxiliary fans)
- clean dirt and dust from fans
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Noise
Definition
Symptoms
- changes in volume or pitch of noise
- hard drive clicking and thump

Caused by
- hardware issues
- fan malfunction

Solutions
- clean fans
- get new hard drive
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Odors
Definition
Symptoms
- odor
- smoke

Caused by
- spill of liquid
- potential electrical issue

Solutions
- shut down computer immediately
- clean up spill
- locate problem and address its needs
- check for electrical damage
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Status light indicators
Definition
Symptom
- Status lights on NIC or laptops appear

Caused by
- Network traffic
- low battery

Solution
- check if there is an issue
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Alerts
Definition
Symptom
- alert

Caused by
- tasks in Windows set to go off when a certain condition is met (low battery)

Solution
- Follow direction on alert
Term
Symptoms/problems/solutions of the OS:
Visible damage
Definition
Symptom
- unusual odor

Caused by
- stripped or burned cables
- cracks in cases
- smoke and melted plastic

Solution
- always check after an electrical event or impact
Term
General Printing Troubleshooting:
Definition
o Check that the printer is plugged into the wall socket or power strip.
o Ensure the printer is online.
o Check the cable connection between the printer and the computer or network.
o Once the obvious hardware issues have been settled, techs should look at the interaction between the printer and the computer.
Term
Troubleshooting Basic Laptop Problems:
Power Issues
Definition
1. find out which system is not functioning
- check outlet
- check connection on AC adapter
- check battery installation and levels
2. if battery runs very hot or is warped, replace it
Term
Troubleshooting Basic Laptop Problems:
Video
Definition
- Connect an external monitor to see if problem persists
- check graphics controller or motherboard
- determine issue:

1. Internal display is intermittenly working then goes white while external works fine
- connector between motherboard and display could be loose

2. internal display is white constantly
- LCD is cracked and needs replacement

3. LCD cutoff switch (utilized when laptop opened or closed) fails
- repair or replace display panel

4. apparently dead screen
- backlight failure
- replace backlight

5. Dead pixel
- consult laptop manufacturer to see options
- lightly tap screen over dead pixel
Term
Troubleshooting Basic Laptop Problems:
Keyboard
Definition
1. Keyboard malfunctioning/not working
- Connect an external keyboard and test

2. external keyboard fails to work
- keyboard assembly is problem
- motherboard has failed and needs replacement
- disconnect primary keyboard and reconnect multiple times.
- order replacement parts from manufacturer

3.
Term
Troubleshooting Basic Laptop Problems:
Pointer
Definition
Identical to keyboard:

1. Keyboard malfunctioning/not working
- Connect an external keyboard and test

2. external keyboard fails to work
- keyboard assembly is problem
- motherboard has failed and needs replacement
- disconnect primary keyboard and reconnect multiple times.
- order replacement parts from manufacturer
Term
Troubleshooting Basic Laptop Problems:
wireless card issues
Definition
1. antenna issues
- check Device Manager to see NIC is working

2. NIC may be loose or damaged
- remove and reinstall NIC
- replace NIC
Term
Useful Tools/cleaning materials:
Compressed air
Definition
- cleans out dust and dirt from computer components
Term
Useful Tools/cleaning materials:
Lint-free cloth
Definition
- use where regular cloths might scratch or cause ESD
- useful for using cleaner in areas that can't be sprayed
Term
Useful Tools/cleaning materials:
Computer Vacuum and compressors
Definition
Handheld units made from antistatic materials
- use where compressed air is insufficient
Term
Useful Tools/cleaning materials:
power devices
Definition
- surge protectors
- uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
Term
Proper environments
Definition
Temperature
- 50-95F
- 60% humidity
Term
Basic info:
Windows 2000
Definition
- 32-bit
- built on NT kernel
- Classic Windows GUI (95)
- for corporate environments
- not backward compatible with older hardware/software products
Term
Basic info:
Windows XP
Definition
- backward compatible
- 32-bit and 64-bit
- had XP-Professional and XP-Home
- first to allow simultaneous logins of multiple users
- 2-column Start menu
- first Windows Firewall
Term
Basic info:
Windows Vista
Definition
- New GUI + a 3D version (Aero)
- 32- and 64-bit
- heavy system reqs, lack of compatibility with legacy products
- 5 versions, Home basic - Ultimate
Term
Basic info:
Windows 7
Definition
- 32- and 64-bit
- 5 versions, Starter - Enterprise
Term
System Requirements:
Windows 2000
Definition
Required
- 133 MHz processor
- 64 MB of RAM
- 650 MB of free space on a 2GB partition
- either a CD-ROM or floppy
Term
System Requirements:
Windows XP
Definition
Required
- 233 MHx processor
- 64 MB of RAM
- 1.5 GB of free space on a 2GB partition
- CD-ROM or DVD-ROM
Term
System Requirements:
Windows Vista
Definition
Requires
- 800 MHz processor
- 512 MG of RAM
- 15 GB of free space on 20 GB partition
- CD-ROM or DVD-ROM
Term
System Requirements:
Windows 7
Definition
- 1GHz processor
- 1 GB or RAM
- 16 GB of free space
- DVD-ROM
Term
System limitations
Definition
32-bit systems
- can only address 4GB of RAM

64-bit systems
- Vista limited to 128 GB of RAM
- 7 limited to 192 GB of RAM
Term
Windows Upgrade list:
preserves files
Definition
 Windows 2000 -> XP Professional
 XP Home -> XP Professional
 XP Professional -> Vista Business 32-bit, Vista Ultimate 32-bit
 XP Home -> Vista Home Basic/Home Premium/Business/Ultimate 32-bit
 XP Media Center -> Vista Home Premium 32-bit, Vista Ultimate 32-bit
 Vista Home 64-bit -> Any 64-bit Vista version
 Vista Business -> Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, Ultimate
 Vista Enterprise -> Windows 7 Enterprise
 Vista Home Basic -> Windows 7 Home Basic, Home Premium, Ultimate
 Vista Home Premium -> Windows 7 Home Premium, Ultimate
 Vista Ultimate -> Windows 7 Ultimate
Term
"x86"
Definition
another term for 32-bit

- references older processor types which ended in "86"
Term
"x86-64"
Definition
Term used to describe a 64-bit processor that can run 32-bit and 64-bit programs
Term
Windows Program Compatibility Mode
Definition
Used to run legacy applications

DO NOT USE with anti-virus, disk/utilities incompatible with current version

Windows Vista:
- Start -> Control Panel -> Programs -> Use and Older Program with This Version of Windows (program features)

Windows XP
Start->Program->Accessories
Term
Command Prompt Utilities:
telnet
Definition
Allows a user to make a text-based connection to a remote computer or device and use it as if the user was physically at the machine.

To use telnet, open a command prompt and type telnet a.computer.com, where a.computer.com is the remote computer.

Note that remote computers must be configured to accept telnet access,

and TCP port 23 must be open for a telnet connection to work
Term
Command Prompt Utilities:
Ping
Definition
Used to discover if a specific IP address is available and/or receiving traffic. Generally used with loopback address (127.0.0.1) or to see if traffic is reaching an address on a network. Syntax: ping . Switches and other information can be looked up by typing ping /?.
Term
Command Prompt Utilities:
Ipconfig
Definition
Used to display network configuration information of computer, such as IP address and default gateway. Also used to discover if settings have been erased or corrupted, and can be used to reset information. Syntax: ipconfig Switches and other information can be looked up by typing ipconfig /?.
Term
Run line utilities:
msconfig
Definition
Opens the Microsoft System Configuration Utility, or msconfig, can be used to selectively disable startup programs and services.

Used
- troubleshoot slow operation
- intermittent issues
- startup/shutdown issues
Term
Run line utilities:
msinfo32
Definition
The System Information utility details the settings and specifications for the hardware and software installed in the computer, ranging from audio codecs to print jobs to the amount and type of RAM.

Used
- check system memory
check BIOS version
- check drivers successfully loaded at startup
Term
Run line utilities:
dxdiag
Definition
a utility used to analyze and diagnose the video card, specifically with regard to DirectX drivers.

use
- identifies which drivers are digitally signed
- identifies version of DirectX and any issues
- Info about video/sound cards
Term
Run line utilities:
cmd
Definition
opens a DOS-like window where technicians can type in various commands for troubleshooting and diagnostic purposes.
Term
Run line utilities:
regedit
Definition
Runs the Windows Registry Editor, used to make changes or fixes to the registry.

use
 Viewing a system setting invisible to regular methods.
 Add, modify or remove a key that cannot be changed through regular methods, which is sometimes needed to delete all traces of a program or driver that was uninstalled improperly, or to allow a new device or program to be installed.
 Back up the registry, which should always be done before editing.
Term
Admin tools:
Performance Monitor
Definition
used to determine memory usage on a comp and whether more should be added

Run-> perfmon.exe
Term
Admin tools:
Event Viewer
Definition
right click My Computer->Manage->Event Viewer

3 important logs:
- Application
- Security
- system logs
Term
Admin tools:
Services
Definition
services.msc

runs background services
Term
Admin tools:
Computer Management
Definition
one-stop shop for admin tools
Term
File systems:
FAT32
Definition
- supports 32-bit file allocation table
- uses 8KB allocation unit size for drive as large as 16GB
- handles logical partitions up to 2TB
- only recommended for hard drives if backward compatibility is needed with older versions of Windows that don't support NTFY
Term
File Systems:
NTFS (New Tech File Systems)
Definition
- can configure access control for objects
- native ability to compress files
- theoretical partition limit of 16 exabytes (EBs)
- individual recycle bins for each acct
- support for encryption
- ability to mount drives
- disk quota support
- hot swap drives
- indexing service
Term
Disk preparation:
Partitions:
Primary partition
Definition
- gives hard drive a single drive letter
- can be made active (bootable)
-
Term
Disk preparation:
Partitions:
Extended partition
Definition
- cannot take a drive letter
- can contain multiple logical drives that can take drive letters
- can't be bootable, neither can drives contained
- only 1 extended partition per physical drive
Term
User State Migration Tool (USMT)
Definition
command line tool used to migrate user files and settings for one or more computers

uses 2 utilities:
- Scanstate.exe
- loadstate.exe
Term
Virtual memory
Definition
aka Paging file

- part of the ahrd drive used as backup storage for the OS when RAM is full
- much slower than RAM
-
Term
Boot Options:
Safe Mode
Definition
Starts system with minimal set of drivers.
Term
System Recovery options:
Automated System Recovery (ASR)
Definition
Restores the system state
- user accounts
- drive and network configs
- video settings
- hardware and software settings
- OS boot files

In order to perform an ASR restore, the user needs to have the following components:
 Windows XP Professional installation CD
 ASR backup
 ASR floppy disk
 Floppy drive installed
Term
Create ASR Backup
Definition
 In order to create an ASR backup, the user must follow this process:
 Open NTBackup, switch to Advanced Mode if NTBackup starts in Wizard mode and click the Automated System Recovery Wizard button.
 Click Next when the wizard’s dialog box opens.
 Select the location where the backup will be stored. Click Next.
 Click Finish to complete the wizard, and the backup will begin. When prompted to provide a floppy disk to store configuration files, load a floppy disk and continue. If the system doesn’t have a floppy drive installed, obtain a supported USB floppy drive and connect it before beginning this process. The ASR floppy disk will contain three files: asr.sif, which has storage device information; asrpnp.sif, which has Plug and Play (PnP) information; and setup.log, which lists system state and critical files that were backed up.
Term
System recovery options:
Emergency Repair Data/Disk (ERD)
Definition
created by following this process:
 Boot the machine with the Windows CD, or the Windows setup floppy disks if CD boot wasn’t available. Insert the CD when prompted.
 Select Repair when prompted, then Emergency Repair.
 When prompted, select Choose Fast Repair, which performs all three listed options under Manual Repair: Inspect Startup Environment, Verify System Files and Inspect Boot Sector.
 If available, insert the ERD when prompted.
 After the damaged or missing files are replaced, remove the ERD as prompted and reboot the computer.
Term
System recovery options:
Recovery Console
Definition
used in place of ERD
- replace indidiual files

use when boot files are missing or corrupt, or when Safe Mode is unavailable due to system file issues.

In order to start the Recovery Console from the XP CD, follow this process:
 Boot the computer from the Windows XP CD.
 Press R to start the Recovery Console when prompted. In Windows 2000, press R for Repair, then C for the Recovery Console.
Term
IP address
Definition
- 32-bit logical address
- or 128-bit for IPv6 address
- expressed in four-octet form
- each octet is 1 byte (8 bits)
Term
subnet mask
Definition
used to partition IP addresses into a network ID and host ID

- allows formation of subnets (mini-networks)
- usually conjoined with routers
Term
Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP)
Definition
Provides all information needed to get on the network automatically, including IP addresses
Term
IP address classes:
Class A
Definition
- Reserved for large corporations, ISPs, and gov't agencies.
- Octet range is 1-127
- IP range is 0.0.0.0 to 127.255.255.255
- default subnet mask is 255.0.0.0
Term
IP address classes:
Class B
Definition
-Reserved for mid-size corporations and ISPs.
- Octet range is 128-191
- IP range is 128.0.0.0 to 191.255.255.255
- Subnet mask is 255.255.0.0
Term
IP address classes:
Class C
Definition
- Reserved for small offices and home networks
- Octet range is 192-223
- IP range is 192.0.0.0 to 223.255.255.255
- Subnet mask is 255.255.255.0
Term
IP Adress notes
Definition
- Network ID cannot be 127
- Network and Host ID cannot both be 255
- Network and Host ID cannot both be 0
- Host ID must be unique for a given network ID
Term
Bandwidth
Definition
- width of the "pipe"
- # of bits that can be sent over the network over a given time (1 second)
Term
Latency
Definition
- Delay time in transmissions
- measured by length of time a data packet takes to make a trip from its source to its destination and back again
Term
Status indicators
Definition
Steady Green light
- connectivity

blinking Yellow light
- sending and receiving traffic

steady orange light
- lack of connectivity
Term
Protocols:
TCP/IP:
HTTP/HTTPS (hypertext transfer protocol)
Definition
- used by web browsers to view web content
-
Term
Protocols:
TCP/IP:
SSL (secure socket Layers)
Definition
- form of encryption tech on secure websites
- browsers must support identical encryption to enter site
- standard is 128-bit encryption
Term
Protocols:
TCP/IP:
TLS (transport Layer Security)
Definition
- replacement for SSL
- prototyped by SSL 3.0
Term
Protocols:
TCP/IP:
HTML (hypertext markup language)
Definition
- coding language used to create web pages
- special format text files using tags (bracketed commands) to format and present multimedia files, written docs, and hyperlinks
Term
Protocols:
TCP/IP:
FTP (file transfer protocol)
Definition
- designed to allow access to specialised servers for file transfers up and down to users
- FTP us used by both specialist FTP clients and Web browsers
- relatively insecure
- supplanted by SecureFTP
Term
Protocols:
TCP/IP:
SSH (secure shell)
Definition
- designed to create a secure channel for data transmission between computers
- more secure than FTP and telnet
- requires port 22 open
Term
Protocols:
NETBIOS
Definition
NetBEUI (NetBIOS Extended User Interface)
- simplest network protocol
- used to ested peer-to-peer networks and small Windows NT-based networks
- cannot be routed or connect to the internet
Term
Full-duplex
Definition
- Data transmission is bidirectional
- doubles network speed, increases chance of network snarl
Term
Half-duplex
Definition
- Data can be sent OR transmitted by a given device, but not simulatenously
Term
Workgroup
Definition
- Logical grouping of computers and users that share resources and do not have a centralized admin or control.
- each workstation controls its own resources and security
- used in peer-to-peer networks with no centralized control
Term
Domain
Definition
- Group of network devices and computers that are united by a centralized database that provides user access information, security.
- used in clien/server networks
Term
Common ports
Definition
port is a specific communications channel that can be used by a service or process.

Windows recognizes 65,536 ports
Term
Common ports:
FTP
Definition
port 21
Term
Common ports:
SSH
Definition
port 22
Term
Common ports:
Telnet
Definition
port 23
Term
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol (SMTP)
Definition
port 25
Term
Common ports:
DNS
Definition
port 53
Term
Common ports:
HTTP
Definition
port 80
Term
Common ports:
Post Office Protocol (POP)
Definition
port 101
Term
Common ports:
HTTPS
Definition
port 443
Term
Hub
Definition
- central connectin point on a network that sends messages to all computers connected to it
- subdivides the network bandwidth among its connected devices
Term
Switch
Definition
- device that directs data from one system to another on a set path
- can be combined with routers or wireless access points
- much faster than hubs
- support the full network bandwidth at each port
Term
Router
Definition
- route data from one network to another across different protocols and topologies
- often integrated with wireless access points and switches
Term
VPN (virtual private networks)
Definition
- a way of sending data securely over public networks
- establishes a secure channel of communication between a user and server called a tunnel

- utilizes multiple security authentications:
- EAP
- SPAP
- CHAP
- MS-CHAP

Protocols used
Term
VPN's protocols used
Definition
- Point-to-Point Tunneling Protocol (PPTP)
- Layer Two Tunneling Protocol (L2TP)
- Secure socket Layer (SSL)
- or IP Securit (IPSec)
Term
IP address classes:
Class D
Definition
- octet begins with 224-239
- used for sending messages to multiple hosts
- webinars
Term
IP address classes:
Class E
Definition
- octet begins with 240-254
- reserved for research and experimental purposes
- addresses on the internet set to class E ranges will not work properly
Term
IPv6
Definition
- use 128 bits
- uses 8 octets of 16-bit hexadecimal digits
- max unique addresses = 3.4 x 10^38
- expected to create greater flexibility in routing, eliminate need for NAT
- not compatible with IPv4
Term
IPv4
Definition
- standard for TCP/IP networks
- used since 1980s
- use 32-bits
- use 4 octets
- max unique addresses = 4.3 x 10^9
- not compatible wih IPv6
Term
Cabling:
Plenum
Definition
- used in between spaces in floors in buildings
- coated with teflon and doesn't give off toxic fumes if burned
- 2-3x more expensive than PVC
Term
Cabling:
PVC
Definition
- sheathes Cat5/5e/6 cables
- gives off toxic fumes if burned
Term
Cabling:
UTP (unshielded twisted pair)
Definition
- consists of four pairs of twisted wires (totaling 8 wires)
- ranges from Cat3-Cat6
- least expensive
Term
Cabling:
STP (shielded twisted Pair)
Definition
- Same as UTP but has an extra covering around the wires inside.
- offers added protection from outside electromagnetic interference sources
- more expensive than UTP
Term
Cabling:
Fiber
Definition
- use glass strands to transmit pulses of light as information
- cable is fragile and difficult to use

Multiple connectors
- Strait tip (ST)
- Standard connector (SC)
- local connector (LC)
- Mechanical transfer (MT-RJ)

all connectors can use single-mode or multimode cables
Term
Cabling:
coaxial
Definition
- used for cable TV
- oldest networking type
- consists of core copper wire with braided shield surrounding
- requires a bus topology to work (networks must be terminated at either end and can't use a hub or switch)
Term
Connectors:
RJ-45
Definition
- standard for ethernet
- eight wires inside
- used on UTP and STP
Term
Connectors:
RJ-11
Definition
- standard for telephone
- 2-3 pairs of wires
Term
Network types:
DSL (digital subscriber line)
Definition
2 types:
- Asynchronous DSL (faster downloads than uploads)
- Synchronous DSL (idetical speeds both ways)
- uses telephone line
Term
Network types:
Cable
Definition
- delivered through coaxial cable
- speeds from 1Mb/s-10Mb/s+
-
Term
Network types:
Satellite
Definition
- use parabolic dish antennas
- connect via USB or Ethernet port
- FCC requires professional installation for satellite internet service
Term
Network types:
Fiber
Definition
- dedicated line from ISP to the business or residence (Point-to-point; PTP)
-
Term
Wireless:
802.11
Definition
- Blanket term for a set of wireless protocols compatible with wired ethernet (WLAN)
-
Term
Wireless:
802.11:
802.11a
Definition
- runs in 5GHz range
- max data throughput: 54Mb/s
Term
Wireless:
802.11:
802.11b
Definition
- runs in 2.4 GHz range
- max throughput: 11Mb/s
- interoperable with g
Term
Wireless:
802.11:
802.11g
Definition
- 2.4 GHz
- max throughput: 54 Mb/s
- interoperable with b, n
Term
Wireless:
802.11:
802.11n
Definition
- 2.4 GHz and 5GHz (optional)
- max throughput 600Mb/s (300Mb/s typical)
- interoperable with b, g, and a (in 5GHz frequency)
Term
WEP (wired equivalent privacy)
Definition
- first encryption protocol in 802.11b
- used 64- or 128-bit encryption (referred to as 40-bit WEP encryption)
- not supported in 802.11n
Term
WPA (Wi-Fi protected access)
Definition
- key length from 8-63 alphanumeric characters, including punctuation marks
- allows RADIUS authentication server
-

2 levels of security:
WPA
- TKIP encryption

WPA2
- AES encryption
Term
SSID (service set identifier)
Definition
- essentially the name of the wireless access point
-
Term
MAC filtering
Definition
- it's possible to change the MAC address of a network device because MAC addresses are not encrypted
Term
DHCP
Definition
- All routers and WAPs are configured to act as DHCP servers
- best recommendation for security is to disable DHCP and assign static IP addresses to devices
Term
Bluetooth
Definition
- short range wireless network tech
- designed for peer-to-peer
- uses 2.4GHz
- minimizes interference by using spread-spectrum frequency-hopping signaling
Term
Encryption:
EFS (encrypted file system)
Definition
- to run, hard drive must be formatted with NTFS
- encyrpted files stay encrypted if moved to another NTFS drive
Term
Encryption:
Bitlocker
Definition
- allows user to encrypt an entire volume on the drive
- based on AES (advanced encryption standard)
- uses 128-bit encryption key
- native only to Windows

To use BitLocker, a user will need:
 A Trusted Platform Module (TPM), which is a motherboard module that stores the encrypted keys, or an external USB key to store the encrypted keys. The Group Policy will need to be changed in order to use BitLocker without a TPM.
 A hard drive with two volumes, preferably created during Windows installation. One volume, which will be encrypted, is for the OS, while the other is the active unencrypted volume so the computer can boot. If the computer was configured with only one drive, download the BitLocker Drive Preparation Tool from Windows Update.
Term
Hard drive recycling/destruction
Definition
- remove hard drives platters and smash with hammer; recycle scrap
- zero-filling (overwrite hard drives) or disk scrubbing/wiping
Term
Data Security:
Compliance
Definition
- must follow rules and regulations
Term
Data Security:
Classifications
Definition
- defines who 'owns' the data or is responsible for it
- backed up data must follow classifications as well
Term
Data Security:
Social Engineering
Definition
- a technique involving tricking people to give up classified or important information
Term
Data Security:
Social Engineering:
Pretexting
Definition
- hacker pretends to be from a service provider and asks for login credentials for routine maintenance.
Term
Data Security:
Social Engineering:
Phishing
Definition
- uses bogus websites or fraudulent emails to trick users into providing personal or financial information
Term
Data Security:
Social Engineering:
Trojan Horse
Definition
- involve malware programs disguised as popular videos or web links that trap keystrokes or transmit sensitive information
Term
Data Security:
Social Engineering:
Baiting
Definition
- involves leaving physical media (flash drive) with what appears to be confidential information somewhere easily found
- when inserted media automatically runs and delivers various malware payloads, including backdoor access to organizations network
Term
Data Security:
Social Engineering:
Protection
Definition
 Ask for ID when approached in person by somebody claiming to be from a service provider.
 Ask for a name and supervisor name when contacted by phone by someone claiming to be from a service provider.
 Obtain contact information for the service provider and call an authorized contact person to verify the service call or information request is legitimate.
 Log into systems themselves and provide the tech the computer, rather than giving out login information.
 Change passwords immediately after service calls.
 Report any potential social engineering calls or in-person contacts, even if no information was exchanged. Social engineering experts can gather background information from several users and use it to create a plausible narrative and thus gain restricted system access.
Term
Windows Security Center
Definition
looks for
- viruses
- trojans
- worms
- spam
- spyware
- adware
- grayware
Term
BIOS security:
drive lock
Definition
aka HDD password
- prompts for a password to be entered for the hard drive when the machine boots
Term
BIOS security:
Passwords
Definition
- password to prevent users from altering BIOS
- if password is forgotten, settings can be reset via a jumper setting on the motherboard or by removing the CMOS battery for several minutes
Term
BIOS security:
intrusion detection
Definition
- uses a sensor connected to pins on the motherboard to detect if the case is opened.
- if so, an interrupt is sent by the sensor which is recorded by the BIOS
Term
BIOS security:
TPM (trusted platform module)
Definition
- motherboard chip used to store encrypted keys for various encryption methods, including Bitlocker
- if HDD is removed, the drive would not allow access without TPM's encrypted keys
- if Motherboard failure, a backup copy of the keys will be needed to access any data
Term
Locking workstation:
Hardware
Definition
- BIOS pws can be used when system is powered down
- drive locks can prevent access
Term
ESD (electrostatic discharge)
Definition
- discharge of electrical energy that occurs when two objects of opposite charge and differeng potential come into contact
- 30V can damage components
Term
ESD:
procedures:
equipment
Definition
AC/DC multimeter with ohm and continuity outlets
- tests power in case and power outlets

grounded AC circuit tester
- testing home/office wiring

antistatic mat and wrist strap
- equalize electric potential to prevent ESD

electrical tape
- temp fix for work insulation

battery tester
- ensure CMOS and other batteries functioning
Term
EMI (electromagnetic interference)
Definition
- causes performance issues and power fluctuations

Messes with:
- network interference
- magnets
Term
RFI (radio frequency interference)
Definition
same as EMI but for radiowaves

affects:
- cordless phones
- microwaves
Term
MSDS (material safety data sheets)
Definition
- safety equipment for any area that has chemicals in it
- divided into 16 standardized sections
- details how to safely handle substances, and how to dispose
Supporting users have an ad free experience!