top of page

Hardware

Components of a Computer

Topic Menu
Content Contributors
Christian Bien Portrait_edited.jpg

Christian Bien

Learning Objectives

tutorial.png
Computer Basics: Inside a Computer | GCFLearnFree.org

A short video that provides an overview of the main parts of a computer by GCFLearnFree.og.

one.png
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Slide1.jpeg

The CPU is the brains of computer that processes and calculates information required by the operating system. The CPU is attached to the motherboard.

two.png
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Slide2.jpeg

RAM is the primary memory of a computer that stores short term information for applications that is currently in use and demanded by the operating system. RAM is attached to the motherboard.

two.png
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Slide2.jpeg

Secondary memory of a computer that stores long term information that is not in use by the operating system. Typically has a larger storage capacity than RAM but has a slower access speed. The HDD is connected to the motherboard but is soldered or attached to the motherboard.

two.png
Motherboard
Slide2.jpeg

The motherboard is the body of the computer that connects all external and internal computers together. The motherboard connects internal components such as RAM or the CPU and external components such as USBs. Most information of a computer passes through the motherboard. Think of motherboards as alike an airport, a centralised location connecting passengers (computer information) to various airplanes travelling to different destinations (components).

two.png
Graphics Card
Slide2.jpeg

The graphics card is the processing unit for graphics that converts information to colour outputs on a display. Graphic cards often include a video output such as HDMI, VGA or DVI to connect to an external display. Graphic cards are connected to the motherboard.

two.png
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Slide2.jpeg

The NIC provides a computer wired (ethernet) and/or wireless networking capabilities. The NIC is connected to a motherboard.

two.png
Slide2.jpeg
two.png
Slide2.jpeg
Components of a Computer
Development Trends in Mobile Devices
Device Considerations for Specific Users
bottom of page