This page has questions and answers concerning computers in general in windows operation system.

A computer virus is a program designed to spread itself by first infecting executable files or the system areas of hard and floppy disks and then making copies of itself.  Viruses usually operate without the knowledge or desire of the computer user.

 

6.What is a hard disk?

The hard disk is an internal storage device which holds programs and data used by your computer. It consists of magnetic platters with read/write heads that float above the platters to record and play back data. In many respects, it is similar to a phonograph turntable. It is susceptible to strong jarring, which could cause the heads to physically damage the disk. The disk is enclosed in an airtight casing to keep it dust-free. The minimum hard disk size that you should get on a new computer is 160 GB.

Solid-state drives are starting to become more affordable. They have no moving parts making them extremely reliable. SSDs will eventually replace hard disks.

7.What is a RAM?

RAM stands for Random Access Memory and is the primary area where the computer stores information as it is processed. Upgrading your RAM is one of the easiest upgrades to do on your computer. For new computers, many experts recommend at least 2 GB of RAM. If you plan to use a lot of video or game applications you should have as much RAM as possible. Once the computer uses all the physical RAM in the computer, it uses "virtual" RAM – free space on your hard disk. Virtual RAM is much slower than physical RAM since the computer needs to write and read information from the hard disk.

8.What is a Motherboard? 

The motherboard is the main circuit board of the computer and as such acts as the "circulation system" of the computer. All signals used by the computer are processed by the motherboard. Memory chips, the central processor, expansion boards and cables to disk drives all attach to the motherboard.

9.What is a Sound Card?

A sound card is an expansion card that is required in order to hear sounds from a CD-ROM or any audio file. Sound cards offer outlets for plugging in headphones or microphones.

10.Why do i need to back up my computer?

As mentioned previously, program files and data are stored on the computer’s hard disk. The hard disk is a mechanical device that is susceptible to physical damage from jarring or strong magnetic forces. Viruses may infect your computer and wipe out important data. Most programs come with installation disks, whether they are CD-ROMs or floppies. Your computer manufacturer or retailer should have supplied you with an original Windows program disc – if not, insist that they supply one to you. If they refuse, don’t buy the computer. A Windows backup program is supplied with every installation and can be found by selecting My Computer, right clicking on the C drive and selecting Properties / Tools / Backup. Backup any data that you store on the drive that can’t be replaced. Program files can be restored from the original program disks. You can use floppies, tape backup units, ZIP disks or USB drives.