Computer System Components

This chapter introduces the lower-level components used in the construction of computer systems. We begin with the metal-oxide-semiconductor (MOS) transistor, which is employed extensively in memory circuits and across virtually all other modern digital devices. We will examine the design of MOS transistor-based computer memory and its interface with the processor. We’ll look at modern computer input/output interfaces, with a focus on the use of high-speed serial communication within the computer case, as well as data transfer over cable connections to external components. The functional requirements of system I/O devices including the graphics display, network interface, keyboard, and mouse will be discussed. The chapter ends with a descriptive example of the specifications for a modern computer motherboard.

After completing this chapter, you will have a solid understanding of the hardware components of modern computer systems, from technical...