Blog 5

Processor Frequency
The processor frequency is how fast that internal processor beats per second. It beats more times in one second that a heart in a lifetime!

Word Size
The number of bits that a processor can handle at one time.

Overclocking
Overclocking is were you chance the processor speed to run faster than it was meant to go. It takes more work for the processor but can speed up games and applications. Overclocking can also speed up older processors so you don’t need a new faster one.

Data Path
The number of bits that goes in and out of the processor.

SRAM
Stands for static ram. This keeps the information on the computer until it the computer shuts down. This does not need to be refreshed. SRAM is more costly that regular memory.

Primary Cache
Primary Cache is the fastest memory on a PC. It's in the processor and a very small amount, not more than 64kb. The Primary cache runs the same speed as the processor.

External Cache
This is external memory that is not part of the processor, but may be in the processor. External cache is also called Level 2 (L2)

Memory Cache
Memory cache is RAM and keeps all your data in its memory so the computer doesn't have to always go back and look for it. Memory cache is also called Level 1 (L1)

Power Supply for Mom

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16817152028

Mom, you need to go to newegg.com to buy this cool power supply for Dad.

It costs $39.89.

This has a 530W PSU which is the electrial power. A normal computer is from 200 to 600W. This should be great to run all Dad's stuff.

This delivers 28A on the +3.3V rail and 34A on the +5V rail plus 20A and 17A on the two 12V. This means that Dad's monitor that needs about 2A and his printer, about 2A and his CD drives that need about 1A and all his other drives will not even come close to using the 28 amps that this will provide.

This is an ATX so it will fit in Dad's common form factor machine.

The fan has a "Blue Glowing LED Fan", and I think that means is the fan is glowing, there is a charge in there, so tell him to be careful and not get shocked by the current that may still be in the power supply.

The 100 - 240 V is good, so incase of spikes, it can handle the extra volts.

I dont see an energy star rating, but it it states it delivers up to 80% efficiency. This could even save you $$ on your electric bill.

I hope this helps you! Have a great time in Bora Bora!!! Linda

What Does the Research Say About Technology's Impact on Education?

I read all the links on http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/te0cont.htm.

Research states that the Internet has become a vital part of learning. Students are researching more for their homework. Teachers need to monitor more due to “copying” from the internet.

Research shows that students that write down their homework retain more than copying and pasting from the internet.

There were so many research sites, but I noticed that very few gave actual grade statistics.

Students can get tutorials on line for science classes and it is much more effective than sitting and watching an outdated movie.

I think schools should stop buying books and start buying inexpensive laptops for students. I think the entire educational system should be evaluated as the technology grows. Grade schools are teaching out of date info because they can’t afford new books.

I do worry about children not learning the basics because of technology. Spelling is automatically correct, as is grammar. Math problems are solved in seconds. Students are lacking imagination.

My niece, who is 12, sends me “updates” on Facebook. I can’t understand half the words she is using the other half are spelled incorrectly.

Students may have more access to learning, but they are sadly under socialized.

Page 32 "Real Problems, Real Solutions" 1-8

Real Problems page 32-33

Linda Fluekiger

1. What is the system bus called? What 2 systems bus frequencies are offered?

The system bus is called a FSB and it is offered in 2.66G and a 2.93G

2. In the ad, what do you think P4 means?

The term P4 means Pentium 4.

3. What are the 4 choices of frequencies for the processor?

The 4 choices are 2.66, 2.93, 3.0 and 3.2G

4. What is the brand of the processor?

The brand of the processor is a Celeron

5. How much RAM is on the motherboard? What is the cost of doubling that amount of RAM

There are 512 of RAM and to $50 to double.

6. What type of expansion slot is used for the video card?

The expansion slot if a 900 w/16x PCI Express port

7. What terms describe the hard drive in the system?

The terms of the hard drive are 80GB SATA ATA 150

8. List the terms in the ad that you do not understand (many are not covered in this chapter) and save this list. You will need it in future chapters - The terms I don't understand are: ASUS, P5DG1-VM, SATA, ATX MB,