1.02.4 Install and configure motherboards, central processing units (CPUs), and add-on cards - Expansion Cards
Introduction
Think of your computer as a toolbox with basic tools like the CPU and memory. Expansion cards are like adding new tools for specialized tasks, such as a graphics card for gaming or a network card for faster internet. These cards are inserted into the motherboard, boosting your computer's capabilities.
Just as extra tools make you more versatile, expansion cards allow your computer to handle more demanding tasks efficiently. Let’s learn about some of the most common expansion cards.
Sound Card:
Enhances audio quality for music, movies, and gaming.
Converts digital audio signals into analog for speakers or headphones.
Installed on the motherboard to provide better sound than built-in options.
Functionality:
Facilitates audio playback through speakers or headphones via 3.5 mm audio jacks (TRS connectors).
Supports recording from microphones, often through the same type of jack.
Can provide various audio experiences, from basic stereo to advanced surround sound using multiple speakers.
Types:
Basic sound functionality is often integrated into the motherboard.
Higher-quality audio, including pro-level features like onboard memory and multiple input/output options, is available through PCIe or PCI expansion sound cards.
Video Card (Graphics Card)
Functionality:
Generates the signal to display images on a monitor or projector.
Essential for tasks like 3D gaming, CAD, and digital artwork.
Types:
Basic graphics are often integrated into the motherboard or CPU (onboard graphics).
More powerful graphics for demanding tasks are provided by dedicated video cards, installed via PCIe slots.
Key Features:
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): A specialized microprocessor optimized for rendering 2D and 3D images. Performance is often measured by the frame rate it can produce.
Graphics Memory: High-end cards may have up to 12 GB of dedicated GDDR RAM for handling complex textures and effects. Lower-end cards might share memory with the system RAM.
Video Ports: Includes various connectors like HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt for connecting to monitors and other displays.
Capture Card
Functionality:
Records video input and saves it as a movie or streaming media file.
Often used for capturing footage from computer games, game consoles, or live camera sources.
Types:
Gaming Capture Cards: Designed to record gameplay from PC or console via HDMI.
TV Tuner Capture Cards: Records video from broadcast TV sources.
Installation: Can be installed internally via a PCIe slot or used as an external device connected via USB or Thunderbolt.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Functionality:
Provides wired or wireless network connectivity for a computer.
Most computers have a built-in Ethernet adapter as part of the motherboard.
Reasons for Adding/Upgrading a NIC:
To support a different network type (e.g., fiber optic vs. copper cable).
To add multiple network ports, which can be bonded for higher bandwidth.
To add Wi-Fi capability for connecting to wireless networks, supporting various 802.11 standards.
To enable connection to cellular data networks.
Installation: Can be installed as an add-on card via PCIe or as an external adapter.
Summary
Expansion cards enhance your computer's capabilities by adding specialized functions.
Sound Cards: Improve audio playback and recording, offering features like surround sound.
Video Cards (Graphics Cards): Boost graphical performance, essential for gaming and design work.
Capture Cards: Allow video recording from sources like gaming consoles, cameras, or broadcast TV.
Network Interface Cards (NICs): Provide or upgrade network connectivity, supporting various network types, additional ports, or wireless capabilities.