Catalog / Hardware & Electronics Cheatsheet
Hardware & Electronics Cheatsheet
A quick reference guide covering essential hardware components, basic electronics concepts, common tools, and troubleshooting techniques.
Essential Hardware Components
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Function: The brain of the computer, executes instructions. |
Considerations: Compatibility with motherboard, thermal design power (TDP), integrated graphics (iGPU). |
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Function: Short-term memory for active processes. |
Storage Devices
Solid State Drive (SSD) |
Function: Fast storage using flash memory. |
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) |
Function: Traditional storage using magnetic platters. |
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Function: Handles graphics rendering for display. |
Considerations: Power consumption, cooling requirements, monitor resolution and refresh rate. |
Motherboard
Function: Connects all components. |
Basic Electronics Concepts
Ohm's Law
Formula: V = IR (Voltage = Current * Resistance)
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Series and Parallel Circuits
Series Circuit |
Description: Components connected in a single path.
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Parallel Circuit |
Description: Components connected in multiple paths.
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Resistors
Function: Limit current flow in a circuit. |
Capacitors
Function: Store electrical energy in an electric field. |
Diodes
Function: Allow current to flow in one direction only. |
Common Tools and Equipment
Hand Tools
Screwdrivers |
Phillips, flathead, Torx. Use the correct size and type for the screw. |
Pliers |
Needle-nose, wire cutters. For gripping, bending, and cutting wires. |
Wire Strippers |
For removing insulation from wires without damaging the conductor. |
Soldering Iron |
Used for soldering electronic components. Use with solder and flux. |
Test Equipment
Multimeter |
Measures voltage, current, and resistance. Essential for troubleshooting circuits. |
Oscilloscope |
Displays voltage signals over time. Useful for analyzing waveforms and identifying signal issues. |
Logic Analyzer |
Captures and displays digital signals. Used for debugging digital circuits and communication protocols. |
Other Equipment
Power Supply |
Provides stable DC voltage for testing and powering circuits. |
Breadboard |
Solderless prototyping platform for building and testing circuits. |
Troubleshooting Techniques
General Troubleshooting Steps
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Common Hardware Issues
No Power: Check power supply, power cord, and power switch. Verify voltage levels with a multimeter. |
Common Software Issues
Driver Problems: Update or reinstall drivers. Check for compatibility issues. |
Soldering Troubleshooting
Cold Joints: Dull, grayish solder joints that lack proper adhesion. Reheat the joint with flux. |