Computer Hardware

Computer HardwareCrash Course

MotherboardHeart of a computerPhysical in and out system that allows communication from one device to anotherMany slots that determine which devices are compatible within the computerUSB peripheral ports and basic video output ports soldered onboard

Processor(aka: Central Processing Unit or CPU)Brain of a computer and the most powerful componentCentral chip that delivers commands and handles responses from every other deviceRequires a dab of thermal paste to avoid overheating and electrical shortageOften the most expensive part of a computer

Heatsink and Fans

Primary heatsink is mounted directly over the processorAbsorbs and disperses heat created by the processor under larger workloadsOther fans mounted strategically within computer tower to optimize ventilation

RAM (Random Access Memory)Short-term memory where information is stored by any program or task the computer is runningSlows the computer if too many programs try to use more memory than what the computer has availablePlugs directly into available slots on motherboard

Power Supply Unit (PSU)Supplies electrical power to the entire computerPlugs into the A/C adapter running to the wall outlet

Hard DriveLong-term memory of a computerMagnetic disk platter encased in metal where all information is storedOther options:Solid-state drives use integrated chips as memory for storage, shortening load timesHybrid drives combine use of solid-state with traditional hard diskoften saving the operating system to SSD and all other data to HDD

Optical/CD DriveThe ejecting tray that reads, burns and rips optical media such as CD, DVD and Blu-rayBecoming obsolete with the growing trend of cloud computing, digital always online media and popularity in solid-state laptops

Network Interface CardAllows access to the InternetEthernet (hardwire) and/or Wi-Fi capabilityGrowing number of desktop computers use integrated Wi-Fi adapter soldered onto motherboard

CustomizationsNecessitiesDesktop case to mount all internal hardwareGraphics processing unit (GPU); aka graphics card. Useful for content creation such as photo & video editing as well as gamingVisit http://newegg.com to purchase computer parts and http://logicalincrements.com for recommended builds and compatibility inquiries

Bragging RightsSound card for wider variety of audio outputs. Often useful for hi-fi speakers and karaoke machinesLED lights for dramatic effectWater cooling system rather than traditional airflow

You now know enough to be dangerous and simultaneously considered a computer genius by your whole family!

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