Overview
In this tutorial, let’s learn about basic PC components. It is essential to have
basic understanding of the components that make up a computer.
Basic PC components
The basic components are as follows:
- CPU
- Motherboard
- RAM
- Storage Devices
- I/O Devices
- GPU
- PSU
CPU
CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. The CPU is often called the
brain of the computer. This unit is responsible for executing instructions
and carrying out computations.
Motherboard
The motherboard is the circuit board that holds all the other components of the
computer. This circuit board enables communication between other hardware components like CPU, RAM, and Storage devices.
RAM
RAM stands for Random Access memory. RAM provides temporary or short-term storage for the CPU. This memory can be read or changed in any order. CPU has direct access to this memory, and the computer’s overall speed depends on the RAM size. For example, modern computers have 8GB, 16GB RAM.
Storage Devices
Storage devices are devices that store files and information on the computer. These devices store the operating system files, programs, user files, and other data. Examples of storage devices are as follows:
- HDD( Hard drives or hard disks)
- SSD( Solid state drives)
I/O Devices
I/O devices are the computer’s input and output devices. Input devices take input from the computer user. Output devices display information to the user.
More information: Block diagram of a computer
GPU
The GRU stands for Graphics Processing Unit. This component renders graphics like videos, video games, photos, etc. Graphics intense computers that ru video gaming, video editing software requires GPU.
PSU
PSU stands for Power Supply Unit. This unit supplies power to all other computer components. For example, the cooling fan that removes heat on the board requires power to operate to run smoothly.