Components

What is computer hardware?

Simply put, computer hardware is the physical components that a computer system needs to function. It encompasses everything with a circuit board that works in a PC or laptop; including the motherboard, graphics card, CPU (Central Processing Unit), fans, webcam, power supply, etc. Core Laptop Brother Hardware Sale Computer Park Multifunction High-tech Intel Core Desktop PC Macbook Big Brands Cartridges Computer Equipment Computer Hardware Sale Nas Hardware Purchase Antivirus Laptops Touch Inch

Although the hardware design differs between desktops and laptops due to their size differences, the same basic components are found in both. Without hardware, there would be no way to run the essential software that makes computers so useful. Software is defined as the virtual programs that run on your computer; i.e. the operating system, Internet browser, word processing documents, etc. Reseller Lcd Labeler Tech Multifunction printer Computer products All brands Toner Pci Hard drive ssd Hardware rental Gamer pc Burner Microsoft Office Monitors Wide range Discount Ranges Pci Card Color Laser For Professionals Wholesaler Computer maintenance Quality report Touch tablet Desktop computer

Although a computer can only work when the hardware and software work together, the speed of a system will depend largely on the hardware used.

When building a new computer or simply replacing old parts, you may need to know the specific hardware for your computer. The purpose of this guide is to help you understand the inner workings of your computer.

What is a motherboard?

The motherboard is at the center of what makes a PC work. It houses the processor and is a hub through which all other hardware passes. The motherboard acts like a brain; allocating power where it is needed, communicating and coordinating with all the other components, making it one of the most important pieces of hardware in a computer. Hardware Rental Fixed Computer Troubleshooting Ink Cartridges Adapter After Sales Service Computer Services Configurations Cartridge Your Budget Galaxy Technical Teams Supplies Computer Components Ebp

When choosing a motherboard, it is important to check the hardware ports provided by the motherboard. It is essential to check the number of USB ports and their quality (USB 2.0, 3.0, 3.1), as well as the display ports used (HDMI, DVI, RGB) and their number. The motherboard ports will also help you define what other hardware will be compatible with your computer, such as the type of RAM and graphics card you can use.

Although the motherboard is just one piece of circuitry, it houses another of the most important pieces of hardware: the processor.

What is a CPU (Central Processing/Processor Unit)?

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is responsible for processing all the information from the programs your computer runs. The "clock speed", or the speed at which the processor processes information, is measured in gigahertz (GHz). This means that a processor with a high GHz rating will probably run faster than a processor of the same brand and age. USB Touchscreen Sale Computer Spare Parts Office Computer Store Computer Accessories Backups Full-hd Computer Wholesaler Consoles Connectivity Laptop asus Bluetooth Tag E-commerce Cpl Licenses Mini-pc Reconditioned Gtx Quad

What is RAM?

Random Access Memory, or RAM, is the hardware found in the memory slots of the motherboard. The role of RAM is to temporarily store on-the-fly information created by programs and to do so in a way that makes that data immediately accessible. Tasks that require random memory could be; rendering images for graphic design, editing videos or photographs, multitasking with multiple applications open (for example, running a game on one screen and chatting via Discord on the other). Computer repair LCD screen Charger Geforce Mouse pads New hardware Computer store Ink cartridge Quad-core processor Computer software Ethernet Computer solutions Tab Computer support Outsourcing Workstation

Critical RAM for a single computer on a white background

The amount of RAM you need depends on the programs you will be running. Medium intensity games typically use 8GB of memory when run with other programs, but video/graphic design can use up to 16GB of RAM.Find out how much memory your computer needs. Sata iii According to your needs Reconditioned USB Keys Computer Monitor Sav Supply Hardware Supplier Bordeaux-gironde Aquitaine bordeaux Choose my Lenovo thinkpad Multifunction laser

What is a hard drive?

A hard drive is a storage device that stores permanent and temporary data. This data comes in many different forms, but is essentially anything that is stored or installed on a computer: for example, computer programs, family photos, an operating system, word processing documents, etc. Learn more about hard drives and how they work. Wireless Phone Copier Workstations Computer Tools Hardware Type Signage Gigaset Siemens gigaset Recycling Custom Pc Cabling Evolving Fixed Computers Telephony Maintenance Contract Assembly Workstation Purchase Recycled Bitdefender

There are two different types of storage devices:

The traditional hard disk drive (HDD) and the new Solid State Drives (SSD). HDDs work by writing binary data to spinning magnetic disks called platters that spin at high speeds, while a solid state drive stores data using static flash memory chips. Learn more about computer storage and how SSDs work.

What is a graphics processing unit (GPU)?

Especially important for 3D rendering, the GPU does exactly what its name suggests and processes huge batches of graphics data. You will find that your computer's graphics card has at least one GPU. Unlike the basic on-board graphics capabilities provided by PC motherboards, dedicated graphics cards interface with the motherboard via an expansion slot to run almost exclusively on graphics rendering. This also means that you can upgrade your graphics card if you want a little more performance from your PC. Home and Home Office Computer Hardware Sales Multifunctional Computers Upgradeable Rental Computer Support Software Touchscreen My Store Billing Samsung Galaxy Destocking Galaxy Tab Our Solutions

Not only that, but modern GPUs perform a large computational workload beyond simple rendering, making them an extension of the central processing unit.

What is a power supply unit (PSU)?

A power supply unit, commonly abbreviated to PSU, does more than just power your computer. It is the point where power enters your system from an external power source and is then allocated by the motherboard to individual hardware components. However, not all power supplies are made the same, and without the right wattage power supply, your system will not work. Business and Home Virtualization Computer Security Hardware Selection Management Software Your Order Computer Products Management Software Point of Sale Ips Latest Generation

A modern computer will typically need a power supply rated between 500W and 850W to efficiently power all the hardware, although the size of the power supply depends entirely on the power consumption of the system. Computers that are used for very intensive tasks such as graphic design or gaming will require more powerful components and will therefore need a larger power supply to meet this additional need.Compatibles Buy computer hardware CPUs Discount prices Developer Pc or mac Computer service Discounts Network storage Recycle Touch tablets Project manager

Without the right amount of power, components will not be able to function efficiently and the computer may crash or simply not boot at all. It is recommended that you have a power supply that covers more than your system's usage. Not only do you protect yourself from system failure, but you also protect yourself from needing a new power supply when you upgrade to more powerful PC components. For Individuals Computer Management Computer RepairDVD Writer Computer Repairer Intel hd Repaired Computer Hardware Repair VPN Used Hardware Computer Software Leasing Computer Network

Understanding your computer and its hardware components can be very helpful when it comes time to upgrade or replace parts, or when building a computer. If there is a problem with the internal workings of your computer, you will have a better understanding of the importance of each component, the need for them to be in good working order, and how to resolve problems. Buy Eset Hardware Used Computers Used Computer Hardware Tested Professional Computer Hardware

List of computer hardware

Here are some common computer hardware components that you will often find inside a modern computer. These parts are almost always found inside the computer case, so you won't see them unless you open the computer:

Motherboard

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Power source

Video card

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

Optical drive (e.g. BD/DVD/CD drive)

Card reader (SD/SDHC, CF, etc.)

This is common hardware that you may find connected to the outside of a computer, although many tablets, laptops and netbooks have some of these items built into their cases:

Monitor

Keyboard

Mouse

Battery backup (UPS)

Flash drive

Printer

Speakers

External hard drive

Pen tablet

Here are some individual computer peripherals that are less common, either because these items are now usually integrated into other devices or because they have been replaced by newer technology:

Sound card

Network Interface Card (NIC)

Expansion card ( Firewire , USB , etc.)

Hard disk controller card

Analog modem

Scanner

Projector

Floppy disk drive

Joystick

Webcam

Microphone

Tape drive

Zip drive

The following equipment is called network equipment and various parts are often part of a home or office network:

Digital modem (e.g. cable modem, DSL modem, etc.)

Router

Network switch

Access point

Repeater

Bridge

Printer server

Firewall

Network hardware is not as clearly defined as some other types of computer hardware. For example, many home routers often act as a router, switch and firewall combined.

In addition to all the items listed above, there are other computer hardware called auxiliary hardware, of which a computer may have none, or several, of certain types:

Fan (CPU, GPU, case, etc.)

Heat sink

Data cable

Power cable

CMOS battery

Daughter

Some of the devices listed above are called peripherals. A peripheral is a piece of hardware (internal or external) that is not actually involved in the main function of the computer. Examples include a monitor, video card, disk drive and mouse.

Troubleshooting faulty computer hardware

Computer hardware components heat and cool individually as they are used and then not used, which means that eventually, each will fail. Some may even fail at the same time.

Fortunately, at least with desktops and some laptops and tablets, you can replace hardware that isn't working without having to replace or rebuild the computer from scratch.

Here are some resources you should check out before you go out and buy a new hard drive, replacement RAM sticks, or anything else you think might go wrong:

MEMORY (RAM)

Free memory test programs

How do I replace the memory (RAM) in my computer?

HARD DISK

Free hard drive test programs

Commercial hard drive testing tools

How to replace a hard drive?

What to do when your hard drive makes noise

COMPUTER FAN

How to troubleshoot a noisy computer fan

Processor fan error: what is it and how to fix it

In Microsoft Windows, hardware resources are managed by the Device Manager. It is possible that a "faulty" computer hardware simply needs a device driver installation or update, or the device is enabled in the Device Manager.

Hardware devices will not work at all if the device is disabled, or may not work properly if the wrong driver is installed.

How do I view the status of a device in the Device Manager in Windows?

How do I activate a device in the Windows Device Manager?

How do I update drivers in Windows?

Where can I get free driver downloads?

Free driver update tools

If you decide that certain hardware needs to be replaced or upgraded, look for the manufacturer's support website for warranty information (if that applies to you) or look for identical or upgraded parts that you can purchase directly from them.

Hardware versus software

A computer system is not complete without also having software, which is different from the hardware. Software is electronically stored data, such as an operating system or a video editing tool, that runs on the hardware.

Hardware gets its name from the fact that it is strict about changes, while software is more flexible (i.e., you can easily upgrade or change the software).

Firmware is also closely related to hardware and software. Firmware is used to link the two so that a software program knows how to interface with a piece of hardware.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the four main types of computer hardware? The four main categories of computer hardware include input devices, output devices, processing devices and storage devices.

How do you clean your computer equipment? Keeping your computer equipment clean will help it last longer and run more efficiently. Always unplug computers before cleaning and use only recommended materials such as lint-free cloths, compressed air and carefully applied isopropyl alcohol.