What Parts Are in a Computer?

Summary: Knowing the main pc parts and what they do in a computer can help you analyze computer problems and make simple DIY repairs and upgrades.

PC Parts and What They Do

There are several basic components to computers: a central processing unit (CPU), a motherboard, a graphic processing unit (graphics card or video card) or GPU, a storage drive (solid state or hard drive) and RAM chips. These components can vary in appearance and power, depending on the brand. However, they are all common in new computers on the market.

What is a Motherboard?

A motherboard is a main circuit board through which all computer components communicate. Just as a mother “manages” her children, a motherboard is the circuitry hub that coordinates all computer functions.

The CPU and Motherboard Form a Team

Working in tandem and directly plugged into the motherboard is the central processing unit or CPU. The CPU, also called the computer’s “brain,” retrieves, translates and executes instructions for computer functions. Like motherboards, CPUs communicate directly with components to coordinate computing operations. Think of CPUs as the brains and motherboards as the brawn.

GPUs Bring Computing to Life

Users cannot visualize all the processing done in the CPU and communicated through the motherboard without a graphics processing unit (GPU), also known as a graphics card or video card. GPUs can communicate with monitors directly and display the text, video or images in a real-world format viewed by users. Graphic designers, gamers and 3-D designers require powerful GPUs and high-end monitors to create high-definition displays. Many motherboards have GPUs already built into their circuitry.

Storage Devices and Drives

Much of today’s data storage is based in the cloud. However, local storage of data is still crucial to working with computers. The two main types of retained data storage are hard drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs). SSDs are quickly becoming more popular than HDDs. Though cheaper than SSDs, HDDs have moving mechanical parts that can wear out over time. SSDs have no moving parts, are faster than HDDs and do not require a physical arm to scan a spinning storage disk to find and retrieve data.

RAM

Random access memory, commonly known as RAM or volatile memory, is not permanent storage. It is temporary data storage in which memory chips hold data that is made available to computers while they are in use. Once a computer is restarted, all data previously stored in RAM is erased.

The Power Supply

A computer’s power supply converts electricity from a wall outlet to the correct power required to drive the computer and its components. To repair or replace a power supply, users should unplug the computer and discharge any static electricity they might have by touching a grounded metal object not connected to the computer. Strong enough static electricity can damage the internal circuitry.

Network Cards and Bluetooth Adapters

Network cards and Bluetooth adapters are components built into most modern motherboards.

• Network Cards – Network cards are vital to connecting with a computer network or accessing the Internet via WiFi or ethernet cables.
• Bluetooth – A Bluetooth card is commonly used for connecting peripheral devices such as printers, mouses and keyboards. Bluetooth adapters can be added to your system if not already integrated into the motherboard.

Computer Ports

A computer port is an interface that enables the connection of peripheral devices. The most common ports included with computers are:

• USB-A, B, C and USB 3.0 – USBs are used for a variety of purposes including power, data transmissions, video and audio.
  • USB-A is the most common USB port on electronic devices. It is used for data transfer and charging devices.
  • USB-B has functionality similar to a USB-A port. However, it is better for connecting to larger peripheral devices such as printers.
  • USB-C is the new standard for transmitting data and providing power. The port is smaller than other USBs and can be plugged in with either side up. No orientation is required.
  • USB-3.0 is a faster, updated version of the USB-A port.
• HDMI – HDMI (high-definition multimedia interface) ports allow the connection of HDMI cables that transmit high-quality video and audio signals.
• Ethernet – As an alternative and predecessor to WiFi, ethernet ports facilitate direct connection to the Internet and other hardwired connections.
• Display Port – The primary function of a display port is to connect video sources to display monitors.

It is important for users to understand what pc parts are in a computer and the main components that drive personal computers. Having insights into “what does what” is valuable and can help you narrow down or rule out issues when problems arise. An understanding of the eight main computer components can also help you knowledgeably discuss issues with your repair technician or computer manufacturer.

However, most users should not engage in DIY computer repairs without expanded IT knowledge. An untrained operator can damage a computer while trying to repair a problem. An inadvertent electrical short can sometimes burn out the motherboard or harm other vital components. When unsure of what steps to take for an installation, upgrade or repair, it is well worth the modest expense to enlist the help of a trained professional. Expert repair technicians can complete repairs quickly and can help you avoid wasting money by telling you when repairs are simply not worth doing and it is time to replace outdated or unsupported equipment and devices.