Basic components of computer hardware 

2. Motherboard 

The motherboard provides the structure for all other components and connects them, while also providing a way to distribute power, deliver information and connect to devices such as a printer or mouse. It controls how data transfers and what type of monitor or screen device to use, for example. It houses the CPU, memory and secondary storage devices such as hard drives. The first thing that a computer technician may do to troubleshoot any motherboard issues is to take the PC apart and inspect all the connections for corrosion. They may also check the power supply and make sure the computer is receiving electricity. 

3. Random Access Memory (RAM)

 RAM is where data lives temporarily while it's being actively used by programs, such as when a user launches a computer application. A technician may know how to identify the type of RAM in a computer, how to replace it if it's defective and how to diagnose problems with copying data from one location in memory to another. A technician should have knowledge about the different RAMs that are available and they may also know what types of errors might affect a computer's RAM operation. A technician may backup all computer files before fixing RAM to avoid losing critical programs and documents. 

4. Video graphics array port 

A video graphics array (VGA) port is a video input that is primarily used on PC monitors. Troubleshooting a VGA port could include verifying there isn't a loose connection, faulty cable or a broken monitor. Another task a computer technician may do is use compressed air to spray inside the VGA port to ensure it's free of dust. 

5. Power supply 

A power supply provides electricity to all components of a computer system. Typically, it's a power cord connected from the back of a PC tower into an electricity socket. A technician may troubleshoot the power supply by turning off the computer, unplugging and detaching the power supply cord or trying a new cord or outlet. 

6. Cooling fan

 Cooling fans are a computer's system to decrease overheating. Many computers have more than one cooling fan to help users who run their computer heavily, such as video streaming or gaming. A computer technician may need to fix a computer's cooling fan if a user notices their computer overheating. They may check for any damage to the blades and make sure that they are free from debris. Replacing computer fans can be a common troubleshooting solution for a technician. 

7. Hard drive

 Hard drives are data storage devices used to store files, programs or other information on a computer system. They use magnetically coated discs called hard disks that store digital representations of information. If a hard drive fails, a computer technician may suspect a corrupt hard drive. They may use data recovery software to repair the computer or may replace the hard drive. 

8. Monitor 

A computer monitor is an electronic device that displays what's what programs are running on your computer so a user can see. Some computer technicians may wear anti-static gloves when handling computer monitors to avoid static electricity. They may also troubleshoot monitor issues by disconnecting it from the computer and trying a new power cord .

9. Printer 

This is a machine that produces copies of text or images on paper using ink. Popular printers include laser or inkjet and computer technicians may be skilled in troubleshooting issues across multiple brands and varieties. Computer technicians may service printers including verifying power is running to the machine. They may also check to see if the paper tray is full and ready for printing. Technicians might replace or refill any ink cartridges and toner. If the physical printer components are operating efficiently but the machine still isn't working, a technician will then troubleshoot software malfunctions that may occur in the communication between the computer and the printer. This requires more expertise to fix since it involves how the systems interact with each other rather than physical component failures on the printer itself. 

10. Scanner 

A scanner is a device that digitally copies an image or and makes it available as a file for access on a computer. If a scanner malfunctions, a computer technician may remove the cover and carefully check if it has any damage. If there are no visible issues, then they may check the power connection cable. Similar to a printer, there is computer software that connects the scanner to the computer, so a technician will also verify that the software is communicating to the scanner. 

11. Computer mouse 

A computer mouse can have a wire or is wireless and is an input device used to control a cursor on the computer monitor. A wired computer mouse has a cord that connects to a USB port on a computer while a wireless mouse has no physical connection with a computer system. Instead, a wireless mouse communicates using an adapter that is usually plugged into an available USB port and runs off its own batteries using Bluetooth technology. Computer technicians may troubleshoot computer mouse issues by ensuring it's connected properly if it has a wire. If the mouse is wireless, a technician can look to see if they need batteries and that the wireless connection is working. Computer technicians can clean both wired and wireless with cloths to ensure there is no dust or debris on the sensor on the bottom of a mouse. If there is, the mouse may not operate correctly