Components of a computer system

Component Image Description

CPU (Central CPU

Processor The CPU is the unit which performs most
Unit), fan and of the processing inside the computer. It
heat sink
also controls instructions.The CPU is the
heart and brain of the computer. It inputs
data and executes instructions. The CPU
has two components

Control Unit: This extracts instructions

from the memory and then decode them
and then executes them.

Arithmetic Logic Unit: This handles

arithmetic and logical operations.

Intel i7 is faster than intel i5. Intel i7 is

more expensive than intel i5. Intel i7 has
better performance than the intel i5.

RAM RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is the main memory in a computer.
It is faster to read and write and other
storage devices such as hard disk drive
solid state drive and optical drive.

Types of ram:

SRAM: static random access memory.

Uses multiple transistors. It is used for
cache.
DRAM: dynamic random access memory.
Memory cells with a paired transistor
PSU PSU
This is the power supply. This converts
power from the outlet from the power
source to the parts inside the computer
case.

Motherboard Motherboard
The motherboard connects all of the
parts of the computer together. The cpu
ram and hard drive etc are all connected
to the motherboard. It holds all the pieces
together.

Hard disk drive Hard Disk Drive

The hard disk drive is the main data
storage hardware device in a computer.
Most of the files are stored in the hard
disk drive.

Graphics card Graphics Card

A graphics card is a type of display
adapter or video card installed in a
computer to display graphical data in high
definition. A graphics card provides high
quality visual display.

Sound card Sound Card

A sound card is a peripheral device that
attaches to the ISA or PCI slot on a
motherboard to enable the computer to
input, process and deliver sound.
Optical drive Optical Drive
An optical drive is a piece of computer
hardware. Optical drives retrieve and
store data on optical disks like CDs and
DVDs.

Wireless/ NIC NIC (Network Interface Card)

A NIC is a card that is installed so that it
can be connected to a network. A NIC
provides a full time connection to a
network.