Basic Parts of a Computer (Hardware)

Basic Parts of a Computer (Hardware)

Computer hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer system that you can see and touch. These components work together to process data and perform tasks.

1. Monitor (Display Screen)

·       Function: Shows the output from the computer (text, images, videos).

·       Type: LED, LCD, or touchscreen.

·       Example: What you’re reading this on right now.

2. Keyboard

·       Function: Input device used to type data (letters, numbers, symbols).

·       Types: QWERTY, multimedia, wireless keyboards.

·       Special Keys: Ctrl, Alt, Delete, Function (F1–F12), etc.

3. Mouse

·       Function: Input device used to move the pointer, click, and interact with the screen.

·       Types: Optical, laser, wired, wireless, or touchpad (laptops).

4. CPU (Central Processing Unit) – The Brain

·       Function: Processes instructions and performs calculations.

·       Includes:

o   ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

o   CU (Control Unit)

o   Registers

·       Located inside the system unit.

5. RAM (Random Access Memory)

·       Function: Temporary memory that stores data currently being used.

·       Volatile: Data is lost when the computer is turned off.

·       More RAM = Faster performance.

6. Hard Drive / SSD (Storage)

·       Function: Stores files, software, OS permanently.

·       Types:

o   HDD (Hard Disk Drive) – Cheaper, slower.

o   SSD (Solid State Drive) – Faster, more expensive.

7. Motherboard

·       Function: The main circuit board that connects all components.

·       Includes: CPU socket, RAM slots, ports, and expansion slots.

8. Speakers

·       Function: Output device that plays sound from the computer.

9. Microphone & Webcam

·       Microphone: Captures audio (input).

·       Webcam: Captures video (input) for video calls or recording.

10. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

·       Function: Converts electricity from wall outlet to usable power for the computer's components.

11. Optional Devices

·       Printer – Converts digital text/images into physical copies.

·       Scanner – Converts paper documents/photos into digital format.

·       External Drives – USB, SSD, HDD for backup or extra storage.

Summary Table

Component	Type	Function
Monitor	Output	Displays visuals
Keyboard	Input	Enters data
Mouse	Input	Controls pointer, clicks
CPU	Process	Executes instructions
RAM	Memory	Stores active data temporarily
Hard Drive/SSD	Storage	Stores data permanently
Motherboard	Circuit	Connects all components
Speakers	Output	Produces sound
Webcam/Mic	Input	Captures video/audio