This document provides an introduction to computer game hardware, focusing on storage and display technologies. It discusses how storage has evolved from cartridges to CD/DVD media to flash memory, with each having advantages like storage capacity, loading speed, and cost. It also examines built-in and external displays, noting that built-in screens are powered internally while external displays require additional power and interfaces. The document closes by exploring sound hardware like sound cards and how game audio has advanced from single tones to full orchestral scores due to hardware and software improvements.

1. Computer Game Platforms &
Technologies
Week 9
Introduction to Hardware

2. So Far We Have...
• Covered the first half of the Hardware material
focusing specifically on the CPU, GPU, Memory
and Power requirements
• Discussed various platforms and their hardware
requirements in relation to these terms
• Done a comparison of two platforms regarding
their hardware requirements and components

3. Hardware
• Storage
– Storing and accessing content is key with games
– Variety of formats have been used while some have
adapted over time
– Dependant on environment

4. Hardware
• Storage
– Cartridge
• Relatively small in size
• Fast Loading Times
• ROM
• Durable
• Limited storage capacity
• Last console used: N64

5. Hardware
• Storage
– CD / DVD Media
• Larger storage capacity than cartridge formats
– Graphics & Sounds
– FMV’s
• Slower access speed than cartridges
• Cheaper to manufacture than cartridge
– New N64 Game - £50-£70
– PS1 Game - £30-£40
• Widely accepted storage medium
• Most common storage medium for games today

6. Hardware
• Storage
– Flash Memory
• Commonly used today for Game Storage (Save Files etc)
• Xbox 360 provides support for USB Flash Storage
– Requires Flash Drive format to conform with standards (1GB)
• Non Volatile
• Relatively quick (depends on read/write speeds on the
individual drive)
• Durable (number of cycles)

7. Hardware
• Display
– Built in
• Heavily used within the Handheld market
• LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen
– Portable
– Reliable
• Powered by internal components rather than an external
source (batteries – although AC adapter can be used)
• Relatively low consumption to enable gameplay to last over
a period of hours
• Monochrome / colour

8. Hardware
• Display
– External
• Powered by an additional mains connection
• Requires an interface to be made between the platform &
the display in question
– HDMI
– Component (see image)
– Scart
– DVI

9. Hardware
• Sound
– Sound Card
• Enables the computer to convert digital signals into an
analogue output which can be heard by us (DAC)
• Can either be inbuilt (on the motherboard) or as an
additional piece of hardware which can be added to a PCI
slot (image)
• Variety of functionality provided
• Number of connections

10. Hardware
• Sound
– Game play
• Enhanced our experience within the environment
– Immersion
– Realism
• No longer single blips or synthesized sounds (Pong)
• Capable of playing orchestral themes (i.e. Halo)
• Capable due to the advancement of Hardware & Software
components

11. Hardware
• Sound
– Channels
• Mono
• Stereo
• 5.1 – Surround Sound / 3D Audio

12. So...