Computers are filled with various electronic pieces to make them operate. Although every computer has the same basic parts, the actual components inside your computer will vary significantly. The internal components will depend on the age, cost, features, manufacture, and build of the computer. For example; an older/slower computer will have the same components as a newer/faster computer but the components themselves on the newer/faster computer will have been modified to be compatible with the latest technology.

Below I have listed the main components to every computer system. In some cases, the individual components can be swapped out, replaced or upgraded. However, this does not apply to all situations as not everything is compatible. For example, an older “Motherboard” will not be compatible with newer “RAM” and “Processors”. The intent of the web article is to familiarize everyone with the internal components of a computer. To learn more about the components or to build a custom computer watch the video segment.

Motherboard Shown in picture 1 below

The Motherboard is the main circuit board to every computer. It works as the heart of the system as it’s responsible for handing all of the in/out data for your computer. The motherboard serves as the main connection point for every thing that connects to your computer; inside & out. It is mounted to the side wall of the computer case.

Processor (CPU) Shown in picture 2 below

The processor is where the mathematical calculations (or processes) are handled for your computer. This is the part of the computer that does all the thinking. Processors vary in speed and style. Intel and AMD are common processor brand names. Newer technology allows a computer to have multiple processors. For example, a dual processor means you have a motherboard that can run two processors; a Dual-Core processor means you have two processors built into one chip; a Quad-Core processor means you have four processors built into one chip. More processors mean your computer can process more tasks faster and simpler. Processors also come in a Variety of speeds; typically rated in gigahertz (GHz).

RAM (Random Access Memory) Shown in picture 3 below

The RAM or Memory is where your computer loads active processes. The operation of RAM is somewhat complicated but rather significant with modern computers. Basically, it’s a solid state place to store temporary data for your computer so that it can retrieve and modify it faster then a hard or optical drive. The information stored on the RAM of a computer can be lost at anytime as it’s not a permanent storage location. For example, if you are typing a letter your computer is storing the information onto the RAM as you type it which is how it’s being displayed on your screen… When you go to save your document you save it to your Hard Drive (or other storage device) for permanent storage of your document. RAM is found on a rectangle stick(s) mounted to your motherboard. It varies in size, storage capacity, style and type.

Hard Drive Shown in picture 4 below

The Hard Drive is the device on your computer that stores all your operating system, application and files. It is by far the most crucial part of your computer as if it fails then you’ll loose your saved files (unless backed-up in a secondary location). Hard Drives vary in storage size and are rated in Gigabytes (GB). The hard, CD and DVD drives will connect to the Motherboard by either IDE or SETA cables.

Video Card Shown in picture 5 below

The Video card is the device that takes the information from your computer and converts it so you can see it on your monitor. Some motherboards have the video card built on. Typically, for more advanced graphics you’ll have a card that will fit into a slot on the motherboard; PCI, PCIe, or AGP. Video cards come in a variety of styles depending on how graphics intense you need your system and whether your connection additional monitors.

PCI Slots Shown in picture 6 below

The PCI slots are part of the motherboard and this is where you’ll connected additional options/upgrades to your computer internally. Sound Cards, Network Cards, Modems, Graphics Cards, additional Ports, etc.

Power Supply Shown in picture 7 below

The power supply provides power to all the components inside your computer and to some of your external components. It takes the AC current from a wall outlet and breaks it down to a variety of DC voltages for the various components. The power supply will have several different connection types to be compatible with the various internal parts of the computer. Power supplies are rated in the amount of wattage they supply to the computer.

-- For more information on the inside components or on assembling a computer watch our video segment!