Main Parts of a PC

The components of a computer are:

• The Keyboard, this is used to type (input) information.
• The Monitor or Visual Display Unit (VDU) is used to view information entered into the computer. A monitor’s picture quality or resolution varies depending on the number of pixels (dots of light on the screen). The higher the resolution the better the picture. Size of screen also affects the apparent quality of the picture, but price increases steeply with larger screen sizes.
• The Mouse controls a moveable cursor on the screen, allowing data input by selecting options.
• The Computer is normally housed in a metal or plastic casing, sometimes called the system unit, and contains the following items:
• The Electronics such as the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and all the other microchips.
• The Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is used to store programs and data.
• CD-ROM Drive reads information from a standard Compact Disk (CD) which can contain application software, data or music. Other forms of external storage devices other than a CD or floppy disk such as an External hard disk drive, Zip drive or tape storage cartridge may be attached to a PC.
• Most computers have speakers attached, usually externally, to play music or listen to communications.
• A modem can be attached externally or internally. This allows the user to connect to the telephone system and use e-mail or the Internet.
• Any piece of external equipment that is attached to a PC, rather than built into it, is termed a peripheral device. This covers external storage devices, printers, scanners, in fact any device that enhances the capabilities of a PC system.