Computer Subject: Part of the Computer and Its Functions

Computer Case (also known as a "computer chassis", "cabinet", "box", "tower", "enclosure", "housing", "base unit" or simply "case") is the enclosure that contains most of the components of a computer (usually excluding the display, keyboard and mouse).

CPU The central processing unit processes all of the data that is accessed by the machine. In PCs the CPU, or microprocessor, is a small silicon chip located beneath the fan.

RAM Random access memory, also known as main memory, provides a buffer between the hard drive and central processing unit. 

Hard Drive A hard drive provides permanent storage for the operating system, programs and files on a machine. 

Motherboard The motherboard is an underlying circuit board that holds all the computer components together. 

Power Supply Units The power supply unit converts AC power from your wall outlet to DC power, usable by the computer internals, and controls power saving.

ROM or read-only memory is permanent, long-term, nonvolatile memory.  Nonvolatile means is doesn't disappear when the computer is shut off.  It also cannot be erased or changed in anyway

Keyboard is a typewriter-style device, which uses an arrangement of buttons or keys, to act as mechanical levers or electronic switches. Following the decline of punch cards and paper tape, interaction via teleprinter-style keyboards became the main input device for computers.

Mouse is a pointing device that functions by detecting two-dimensional motion relative to its supporting surface. Physically, a mouse consists of an object held under one of the user's hands, with one or more buttons.

Computer Monitor, a screen that displays output from a computer.

Disk Drives A computer contains at least one disk drive. There are several types of drives, including CD or DVD drives, floppy disk drives and hard disk drives. A hard disk drive is usually the main storage drive on the computer, and stores data and programs that are loaded into RAM for use. Some modern hard disk drives use large quantities of solid state memory and contain no moving parts, however most are made of multiple disk platters that spin at a high rate of speed to allow for faster data transfer.

Interface Cards Most computers allow for a variety of interface cards, which allow external devices to input or read data from the computer. Examples of interface cards include video cards, audio cards, network cards and modems. Modems are cards that allow data communication over standard telephone lines. In many cases, a single interface card allows many devices to be used on a single computer. A good example is a USB card, which allows many devices to send and receive data from a computer. In the past, USB was implemented only on an interface card, but many modern computers implement USB on the main board, thus negating the need for a card.

  

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