Computer Hardware -an overview
The physical part of a computer is called computer hardware. It includes everything from the digital circuitry to everything u can touch in the computer, as distinguished from the computer software that is present within the hardware, which operates it. The hardware for computers are not frequently modified, as compared to software and data, which are termed as “soft” because they can be readily created, modified or erased from the computer.
Most of the computer hardware are never seen by normal users. These are embedded systems in automobiles, microwave ovens, electrocardiograph machines, compact disc players, and other such devices. Personal computers hardware are the most familiar computer for most people, form only a small minority of computers.
The most basic types of computer hardware are:
Motherboard
The motherboard is the “heart” of the computer, through which all other components interface are connected such as:
Central processing unit (CPU) - Performs most of the calculations which enable a computer to function.
Computer fan - Used to lower the temperature of the computer; a fan is almost always attached to the CPU, and the computer case will generally have several fans to maintain a constant airflow.
Random Access Memory (RAM) - Fast-access memory that is cleared when the computer is powered-down. RAM attaches directly to the motherboard, and is used to store programs that are currently running.
Storage controllers- Controllers for hard disk, CD-ROM and other drives like internal Zip and Jaz conventionally for a PC are IDE/ATA; the controllers sit directly on the motherboard (on-board) or on expansion cards, such as a Disk array controller.
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