Case Study: Building a Gaming PC

 

John wants to build a gaming PC and has asked for your advice. He wants to understand the hardware components involved and their functions in a computer system.

 

1. What is hardware, and what role does it play in a computer system?

Mark scheme: Definition of hardware and an explanation of its role in a computer system.

 

2. What are the main internal components of a computer system that John should consider when building a gaming PC?

Mark scheme: Correct identification of the main internal components, such as the CPU, processor, motherboard, graphics card, RAM, and storage devices.

 

3. What is the difference between RAM and ROM, and how do they function in a computer system?

Mark scheme: Explanation of the difference between RAM and ROM, such as RAM being volatile and used for temporary storage, while ROM is non-volatile and used for permanent storage. Description of the functions of each in a computer system, such as RAM being used for running programs and ROM holding the system's firmware.

 

4. What are some common hardware components that John should consider for his gaming PC, and what are their functions?

Mark scheme: Correct identification of common hardware components, such as graphics cards, sound cards, NICs, cameras, and storage devices. Explanation of their functions, such as graphics cards rendering high-quality graphics for gaming, sound cards producing high-quality audio, NICs allowing for network connectivity, cameras for video conferencing, and storage devices for storing and accessing data.

 

5. What are input and output devices, and what functions do they perform in a computer system?

Mark scheme: Definition of input and output devices and an explanation of their functions in a computer system, such as input devices allowing users to input data or commands into the system, and output devices producing visual or audio output for the user.

 

6. Which input devices should John consider for his gaming PC, and what are their functions?

Mark scheme: Correct identification of input devices, such as keyboard, mouse, and game controller. Explanation of their functions, such as the keyboard allowing for typing and command input, the mouse allowing for precise cursor control, and the game controller allowing for more immersive gaming experiences.

 

7. What output devices should John consider for his gaming PC, and what are their functions?

Mark scheme: Correct identification of output devices, such as a monitor, speakers, and headphones. Explanation of their functions, such as the monitor displaying high-quality graphics, the speakers producing high-quality audio, and headphones providing an immersive audio experience.

 

8. How do the components of a computer system work together to create a functional gaming PC?

Mark scheme: Explanation of how the components work together, such as the CPU and motherboard managing the data flow and communication between components, the graphics card rendering high-quality graphics, and the RAM providing temporary storage for running programs.

 

9. What are some important factors to consider when selecting hardware components for a gaming PC?

Mark scheme: Correct identification of important factors, such as performance, compatibility, and cost. Explanation of their importance, such as performance affecting the gaming experience, compatibility ensuring the components work together properly, and cost affecting the overall budget.

 

10. How can John ensure that his gaming PC remains functional and performs optimally over time?

Mark scheme: Explanation of best practices for maintaining a functional and optimal gaming PC, such as regularly cleaning the components, updating drivers and software, and avoiding overloading or overheating the system.