Computer Parts When you build your own computer, choose from these parts…

Computer Parts When you build

your own computer, choose from these parts…

The Computer Case

Inside the Computer Case

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Various form factors of motherboards

CPU The Central

Processing Unit

Video Card

Connects the computer to the monitor.

Usually has its own CPU and RAM dedicated to graphics.

Many motherboards have integrated graphics making a video card unnecessary if you only have basic graphics needs.

Hard Disk Magnetic storage

device in the computer.

SSD (Solid State Drives) are replacing hard disk drives. They are faster, less fragile and more expensive.

DVD / CD / BlueRay Burns data to an

external disk.

RAM Random Access

MemoryRAM is a computer’s temporary memory.

It stores data or programs while they are being used and requires power.

Sound Card Connects the

speakers and microphone to the computer.

Often the main circuit board has integrated sound ports which means a separate sound card is not necessary.

Modem The place where

the computer is connected to the phone line.

Modems were popular in the 1990s.

Network Card A circuit board

that connects the computer to the rest of the network usually using special cables.

Wireless Network Card A circuit board

that connects the computer to a wireless network using radio waves.