Computer Game Platforms & Technologies

Week 9Introduction to Hardware

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

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

Hardware

• Storage– Cartridge

• Relatively small in size• Fast Loading Times• ROM• Durable• Limited storage capacity• Last console used: N64

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

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)

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

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

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

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

Hardware

• Sound– Channels

• Mono• Stereo• 5.1 – Surround Sound / 3D Audio

So...