Main components of a computer

Main components of a computer

1. PSU

   • Power Supply Unit
     • Without it the computer wont turn on!

2. CPU

   • Central Processing Unit
     • Brain of the computer
       • Responsible for executing a sequence of stored instructions
       • Takes inputs and processes them to give an output.
       • Mobile phones and washing machines also have a CPU.

3. Soundcard

   • Converts digital data to sound waves
     • The output signal is sent to speakers
       • You can also record using a sound card

4. ROM

   • Read Only Memory
     • Cannot be changed by a program or user.
       • Retains memory even when powered off
         • Stores the instructions for the computer to turn on

5. RAM

   • Random Access Memory
     • A temporary memory which programs applications and data
       • Examples that are stored in the RAM:
         • Operating system
         • Application
         • The GUI

6. Harddrive

   • Storage is the hard drives reponsibility
     • Everything you keep on the computer is on the hard drive
       • What is kept on the hard drive?
         • Documents
         • Pictures
         • Music
         • Videos
         • Programs
         • Operating system

7. GPU

   • Graphics Processing Unit
     • Reads binary data from the CPU and turns into something you can see.
       • Sends the information to a monitor

8. DVD drive

9. Motherboard

   • Holds together many of the crucial components of the computer such as the CPU
     • Also holds connectors for inputs and outputs.
   • Gives power to the components, RAM and CPU

10. Heat sink

    • Absorbs the procesers heat to keep it from overheating
    • Attached to the CPU

11. CD drive

12. Fan

    • Also cools the processor
      • Brings cool air into the computer
        • Draws out hot air

Images and files in the map