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Inside a computer
Inside a computer
Have you ever looked inside a computer case, or seen pictures of the inside of one? The small parts may look complicated, but the inside of a computer case isn't really all that mysterious. This lesson will help you master some of the basic terminology and understand a bit more about what goes on inside a computer.
Watch this video to find out more about what's inside a computer
Computer components
Computer components
Motherboard
Motherboard
The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, and connections to your computer's ports (such as USB ports). The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.
CPU/processor
CPU/processor
The central processing unit (CPU), also called a processor, is located inside the computer case on the motherboard. It is sometimes called the brain of the computer, and its job is to carry out commands. Whenever you press a key, click the mouse, or start an application, you're sending instructions to the CPU. A processor's speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz), or billions of instructions per second.
The CPU also needs a cooler. These can be a fan, radiator, or water cooler. They all work to keep the CPU cool.
Computer components contd.
Computer components contd.
Graphics card (or integrated graphics)
Graphics card (or integrated graphics)
A graphics card or graphics processing unit (GPU), is responsible for rendering and displaying images, videos, and animations on your computer monitor. It accelerates the graphics processing capabilities of your computer, enabling you to enjoy smooth and high-quality visuals in games, videos, and other graphic-intensive applications.
Many computers do not have separate graphics card. Instead the CPU and RAM serve as both the central processor and graphics processor. This is called integrated graphics.
RAM (random access memory)
RAM (random access memory)
RAM is your system's short-term memory. Whenever your computer performs calculations, it temporarily stores the data in the RAM until it is needed. This short-term memory disappears when the computer is turned off. RAM is measured in gigabytes (GB). The more RAM you have, the more things your computer can do at the same time.
Hard drive or Solid State Drive
Hard drive or Solid State Drive
The hard drive (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD) is where your software, documents, and other files are stored. These drives are for long-term storage, which means the data is still saved even if you turn the computer off or unplug it. When you run a program or open a file, the computer copies some of the data from the hard drive onto the RAM. Solid State Drives are much faster but also cost more.
Power supply unit
Power supply unit
The power supply unit in a computer converts the power from the wall outlet to the different voltages and currents needed by the different computer components. It sends power through cables to the motherboard and other components.
Case and cooling
Case and cooling
The computer case serves as a way to physically mount and contain all the components inside a computer. They also contain switches and ports to control the computer.
Case fans are mounted on the case to bring cool air into and blow hot air out of the case.
Many people love LED lights in their cases and fans too!
Task
Task
You need to create a few slides that explain what each of the components do.
You can decide whether each component has its own slide or if you want to combine a few.
Find a nice modern picture of these parts too to include. Hint a PNG file with a transparent background can give you classy looking images.
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