Computer Hardware Components

Main Parts of a Computer

Hardware Components

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): executes instructions and performs calculations
• Memory (RAM): temporary storage for data and applications
• Storage Drive: permanent storage for data, programs, and operating system
• Input/Output (I/O) Devices: keyboard, mouse, monitor, and other devices for user interaction
• Power Supply: provides power to all components

Functional Units of a CPU

• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): performs arithmetic and logical operations
• Control Unit: retrieves and executes instructions
• Registers: small amount of on-chip memory for fast data access

Types of Storage

• Hard Disk Drive (HDD): traditional storage device using spinning disks and magnetic heads
• Solid-State Drive (SSD): faster storage device using flash memory
• Removable Storage: devices such as USB drives and CDs/DVDs for portable data storage

Main Parts of a Computer

• A computer consists of several hardware components that work together to perform tasks.
• These components include the Central Processing Unit (CPU), Memory (RAM), Storage Drive, Input/Output (I/O) Devices, and Power Supply.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

• The CPU executes instructions and performs calculations.
• It is responsible for controlling the other components of the computer.

Memory (RAM)

• Memory (RAM) provides temporary storage for data and applications.
• Data is lost when the computer is turned off.

Storage Drive

• The Storage Drive provides permanent storage for data, programs, and the operating system.
• Data is retained even when the computer is turned off.

Input/Output (I/O) Devices

• Input/Output (I/O) Devices allow users to interact with the computer.
• Examples of I/O Devices include the keyboard, mouse, and monitor.

Power Supply

• The Power Supply provides power to all components of the computer.
• It is essential for the proper functioning of the computer.

Functional Units of a CPU

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

• The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) performs arithmetic and logical operations.
• It is responsible for performing calculations and comparisons.

Control Unit

• The Control Unit retrieves and executes instructions.
• It acts as the "brain" of the CPU, controlling its operations.

Registers

• Registers are small amounts of on-chip memory for fast data access.
• They are used to store data temporarily while it is being processed.

Types of Storage

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

• A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is a traditional storage device using spinning disks and magnetic heads.
• It is a non-volatile storage device, meaning data is retained even when the computer is turned off.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

• A Solid-State Drive (SSD) is a faster storage device using flash memory.
• It is also a non-volatile storage device, with data retained even when the computer is turned off.

Removable Storage

• Removable Storage devices allow users to store and transport data between computers.
• Examples of Removable Storage devices include USB drives and CDs/DVDs.

Learn about the main parts of a computer, including the CPU, memory, storage, and input/output devices. Understand the functional units of a CPU and how they work together.