Computer parts are the hardware that makes the physical parts of a computer. In other words computer parts or hardware are the parts of a computer that you can see and touch such as keyboard, monitor, and mouse.The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part plays an important role whenever you use a computer.
Word list of computer parts (hardware) vocabulary in English
- computer
- Personal Computer (PC)
- laptop
- tablet
- key
- keyboard
- monitor
- screen
- hard drive (HDD)
- flash drive
- USB drive
- pen drive
- memory
- speakers
- chip
- cable
- motherboard
- printer
- joystick
- microphone
- smart card
- headphones
- webcam
- computer case
- graphics card
- modem
- CD-ROM drive
- virtual reality headset
- card reader
- device
- hardware
- 3D glasses
5 parts of a computer
Whether it's a gaming system or a home PC, the five main components that make up a typical, present-day computer include:
- A motherboard
- A Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU), also known as a video card
- Random Access Memory (RAM), also known as volatile memory
- Storage: Solid State Drive (SSD) or Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
parts of a computer
Computer case
The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply. The front of the case usually has an On/Off button and one or more optical drives.
Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate case.
Monitor
The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to display images and text on the screen. Most monitors have control buttons that allow you to change your monitor's display settings, and some monitors also have built-in speakers.
Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting diode) displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat-panel displays. Older monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT monitors are much larger and heavier, and they take up more desk space.
Keyboard
The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are many different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to accomplish the same basic tasks.
Mouse
The mouse is another important tool for communicating with computers. Commonly known as a pointing device, it lets you point to objects on the screen, click on them, and move them.
There are two main mouse types: optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses an electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical mouse uses a rolling ball to detect movement and requires regular cleaning to work properly.
Mouse alternatives
There are other devices that can do the same thing as a mouse. Many people find them easier to use, and they also require less desk space than a traditional mouse. The most common mouse alternatives are below.
- Trackball: A trackball has a ball that can rotate freely. Instead of moving the device like a mouse, you can roll the ball with your thumb to move the pointer.
- Touchpad: A touchpad—also called a trackpad—is a touch-sensitive pad that lets you control the pointer by making a drawing motion with your finger. Touchpads are common on laptop computers.
Parts of a Computer and Their Functions
To help you learn about computers, below are the parts of the computer and their functions.
Motherboard
It is the main system attached to a computer case. It is considered the blueprint of the computer as a component that makes the computer perform its central ability is found here. Without it, the computer won’t work. One of the best motherboards this year is the Auros Pro. It’s fast and equipped with all the latest technology.
CPU
It is a part located in the Motherboard. Its job is to process all the information computers need. It serves as the brain of the device. One of the emerging CPUs is the i9 extreme. It has a frequency of 4.60 GHz and a processor of 3.00 GHz. Also, it has a maximum memory of 256 Gb.
Ram
Now, for the computer to enable its ability to write and read along with data storage, this part is responsible—for storing all information before the CPU processes it. Now, if your RAM is slow, it will affect your computer’s overall performance. To recommend Corsair Led; it is one of the fastest RAMs.
Graphics and Sound Card
As the name implies, the former is responsible for sending information and data reflected on the screen as processed by the CPU, which was sent by the motherboard. On the other hand, the latter shares similar functions, except it focuses on sound. If you are curious about which brand is best, then the Asus Graphics card can be your go-to, and Blaster Z for a booming sound tech. The two are known for their great performance yet friendly price.
Power Supply Unit
When power is cut off suddenly, chances are it will create damage to your computer. This is where the power supply comes in. It converts AC to Dc so computer parts can receive the necessary current. It will also aid the computer to adjust slowly when electricity is suddenly cut off. Corsair PSU can be the option for affordable yet complete set protection.
Monitor
Of course, without it, all will be nothing. A monitor is responsible for displaying all information processed by the CPU. It helps to visualize the information released by the board. Each monitor may vary in size. You can try on Samsung and scroll all the different monitors they have that are made with the latest technology and designs.
Keyboard
A device connected to the motherboard enables the user to communicate through typing. Once the key on it is stroked, Ram records it, the CPU process the information, and the motherboard sends it to the monitor for display. Logitech MX is one of the leading brands in this industry. They have different designs on their board, including their size. Also, it is equipped with a Bluetooth connection.
Mouse
Another input device controls the computer cursor for pointing and clicking on a computer monitor. It enables interaction between the user and the software displayed on the screen. Razer is one of the most well-known mouse manufacturers out there. It is unique, equipped with the latest sensor, designed ergonomically both for hands, and does personalization in designs.
Webcam, Microphone, and speaker
A computer is not complete without this three. Webcams are used to take videos and pictures, microphones for sound recording, and speakers for sound generation. Investing in quality materials for these parts will surely help whether you are working or studying. For a clear 1080 p image, try Logitech Pro, Logitech yeti for clear, audible, and strong voice broadcast, and Pebble V2 for a minimal yet modern sound system.
These 10 are the essential computer parts you should know and invest in. All play an important function, and without these parts, your computer won’t work in its optimal condition. Knowing this can help you determine what might be wrong with yours and how to choose the best parts to replace with.
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about computer items
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- Answer: CPU stands for Central Processing Unit. It is the primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside.
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What is a "hard drive"?
- Answer: A hard drive, also known as a hard disk drive (HDD), is a storage device that uses spinning disks to read and write data. It is used to store the operating system, software, and files.
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What is "RAM"?
- Answer: RAM stands for Random Access Memory. It is a type of computer memory that can be accessed randomly and is used to store data that is actively being worked on by the CPU.
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What does "BIOS" stand for?
- Answer: BIOS stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is firmware that initializes and tests the hardware components of a computer during startup and provides runtime services for operating systems and programs.
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What is an "operating system"?
- Answer: An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
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What does "GUI" stand for?
- Answer: GUI stands for Graphical User Interface. It is a type of user interface that allows users to interact with electronic devices through graphical icons and visual indicators.
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What is "software"?
- Answer: Software refers to the programs and operating systems that run on a computer and perform specific tasks. It includes applications, utilities, and system software.
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What does "USB" stand for?
- Answer: USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. It is a standard for connecting peripheral devices to a computer, such as keyboards, mice, printers, and storage devices.
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What is a "network"?
- Answer: A network is a collection of interconnected computers and devices that can communicate and share resources with each other. Examples include local area networks (LANs) and the internet.
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What is "cloud computing"?
- Answer: Cloud computing refers to the delivery of computing services, including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics, over the internet (the "cloud"). It allows users to access and manage these services on a pay-as-you-go basis.