Summary
This chapter discussed the theory and workings of the various components of a computer. There are several important concepts to retain from this chapter:
  • The Bootstrap Loader and the POST or power-on self-test
  • Steps included in the boot process
  • Difference between a warm boot and a cold boot
  • Technology of the hardware components for PCs and portables
  • Common system resource assignments including IRQs, DMAs, and I/O addresses

The next chapter will discuss how to use the hardware components to assemble a working computer.