Lorenz F.A. - Passion Project

Computer Parts Explained

Motherboard

Motherboard

A motherboard is the main circuit in a computer. Different parts such as the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, and expansion cards, connect to the motherboard.

CPU

CPU

CPU stands for Central Proccessing Unit. The CPU is a computer chip encased inside of a ceramic blob-like enclosure. The CPU goes into the CPU socket. The CPU is covered by a heatsink, which takes away extra heat from the CPU. The CPU is the main “Brain” of the computer. It does all of the computers main “thinking”. The CPU’s speed is measured in gHz, or gigahertz, which means that the CPU’s speed is measured in how many billions of instructions are proccessed per second. Billions!!!

RAM

RAM

RAM is short for random access memory. RAM is basically just short term memory. It is used for preforming calculations that computers need in order to work. Less RAM in a computer means a slower computer, because it can do less calculations at a time.

Hard Drive

Hard Drive

The hard drive is used to store files. Hard drive data does not delete, even after powering off the computer, unlike RAM data. Data goes to and from the hard drive and the RAM.

PSU

PSU

Power supply unit, or PSU for short, converts electricity from the wall into electricity that can be used in the computer.

Putting It All Together!