How Computers Work

Hardware parts & what they do:

Central Processing Unit (CPU) or Processor - Located inside the computer case in computer's motherboard, the CPU is the brain of the computer. It is the part that sends out commands and messages throughout the computer. For instance, as I type this, I am sending commands/instructions to the CPU (processor.)

Motherboard or Mainboard - The main circuit board. This holds the CPU along with many other important parts, such as the memory, the connectors, expansion cards, and the video and audio parts. It can be described as a thin plate, that almost looks like it is a scenery from a plane's point of view of little cities & buildings.

Power Supply Unit - This is what makes the computer work, because in order to make it function, it needs power. From the wall outlet to the computer itself, power is sent throughout the machine and its components.

Random Access Memory (RAM) - The RAM is where the data is stored until it is needed. It has a short-term memory; so when your computer is shut off, it all goes away. In order not to lose that data, you have to save the project or material you want to keep there. The more RAM you have, the more things your computer is able to do.

Hard Drive - Long-term storage-unit. This is where certain software is installed, and other documents. This means your data can be saved even after you turn the computer off/close a file after saving it. The faster that your hard drive is, the better & quicker your computer can function.

Video Card - Without this, you wouldn't be able to see anything on the screen. It is responsible for portraying this screen you are looking at right now. Most computers have a GPU just built-in to the motherboard, rather than having it separate. For example, if you like to play video games on your computer, the better your video card, the better the video game can preform & work. The graphics will look a lot better too.

Sound Card - Responsible for what you hear through the speakers or sound system on your computer. Usually the motherboard will have this already, but if you're looking for a better sound card you can get one separate to put in it.

Network Card - Without this, your computer would not have internet. Whether it's through cable, or with wireless; the network card is needed in order to have internet. Motherboards normally have this built-in, but also this can be added into the expansion slot.