Computer Components for Idiots
13000
Computers
Apr 18, 2007
Computer Components for Idiots
There are many fancy add-ons for computers, but the basic components of the computer are simple and universal. If 1 of these main components is missing, its not a computer. The 4 essentials of every computer system are: a motherboard, a Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory, and a hard drive. These components are installed in a case to which are attached a monitor, a keyboard and a mouse. Thats your basic computer. Mother WHAT? The motherboard ("mobo" for short) is the foundation. Everything attaches to the mobo -- the CPU, memory, hard drive, monitor, mouse, keyboard, add-on cards, even additional peripherals like printers, scanners, and speakers. The motherboard is like the nervous system and skeleton of the human body -- it provides support for the internal components and also passes information between the computer parts. CPU If the motherboard is the nervous system, then the CPU is the brain. Most of the mathematical manipulations that make computers operate are done by the CPU. Other components may also have their own processors, but their results still have to be passed through the CPU. The speed of the computer is usually measured by the speed of the CPU. Even though other factors also affect overall speed, the CPU rating is generally seen as the single most important measure of performance. Modern CPUs are usually rated between 2.0 GHz and 3.0 GHz, although each passing month will see increasing performance. This measurement refer to the number of calculations the processor can make in 1 second. The higher the number, the faster (better) the computer. CPUs generate a lot of heat doing this work, so they need a heat sink and fan to keep them from overheating. Heat is a major enemy of the computer and directly affects its life span. Computer Memory RAM (Random Access Memory) is the part of the computer that stores information the computer needs while it is operating. It is Random Access because the computer can get the data in any order, not necessarily the order in which it is stored. Generally speaking, the more RAM the better. 512 to 1024 megabytes is common for memory. The most common type of RAM these days is DDR-SDRAM, which stands for double-data-rate synchronous dynamic random access memory. We already know what the RAM part means. DDR means that the data is accessed twice as fast as ordinary RAM. The latest type of RAM is DDR2. It offers even faster access rates and is quickly becoming the standard for computer memory. Hard Drive All the data contained in RAM is lost when the computer is turned off, so there has to be a place to store it permanently. This is what the hard disk is for. It holds the computers operating system. An operating system like Windows uses around 4 gigabytes of hard drive space. The extra space is used to install computer programs and to store your personal data. 80 gigabyte hard drives are common, but 400 GB units are available. Furthermore, you can install more than 1 in a computer case for added security and convenience. Peripherals All you need to complete the basic computer system is a monitor, keyboard and mouse. Accessories like a printer or scanner are useful for office work, and gamers will probably want to add speakers and joystick controls. So there you have it. The basic computer needs just 7 major components. For the best performance, these components must integrate well. The motherboard is the most important component for determining the type and specification of the other parts. Choosing an appropriate mobo for your computer needs is the first step and may require a quick call to your local geek. Soon YOU will be considered the local geek!
My Own Data runs an informative Data site that looks into all aspects of Data from Recovery to Acquiring. To find out more visit Data
Write a Review
Add to My Favorite
Refer it to Friend
Report Article
Other links at Computers
Oh, we all know that we can download a load of free stuff from the Internet easily. But the best downloads are the ones that DON'T come with extra features like viruses, worms, adwares, spywares, whathaveyounots.
Category:
Emails are an essential medium of communication in the fast track world of today. Be it for our personal or for business purposes, emails are indispensable. Loss of emails can bring about anything from a minor loss to devastation, depending on the need of
Category:
The Internet is amazing tool for both children and adults, but with this addition to our lives comes extra responsibility that we must take on. The Internet connects you with people and places all over the world, and without it, most of us would be lost.
Category:
When your working environment is ergonomically friendly, your health will benefit from the steps you take in order to make the place where you work not only more comfortable, but will enable you to produce more than you thought was possible
Category:
If you would like a new computer but can't afford one, there is another option. You can build your own computer. If you would like to go this route you will need to make sure it is something you are truly interested in because it does take time.
Category:
Site Sponsor
Directory Statistics
Articles: 68228
Categories: 501
Yahoo Entertainment
