Computer Components Explained
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RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM are the memory modules on the motherboard used to temporarily hold data and programs. One of many common uses for them is in storing information for open browser tabs allowing you to work across multiple tabs without needing to commit anything to permanent storage.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
Permanent Storage
The HDD is a type of permanent storage device that uses spinning metal platters read by a pivoting metal arm. It is a slower and now less used storage type that has largely been replaced by SSDs (Solid State Drives) for use in personal computers. They both act as permanent file storage but SSDs are smaller, faster, and tend to last longer.
The CPU (Central Processing Unit is the key component of a computer system that interprets and executes program instructions. It is often called the "brain" of the computer. This video from MikMat Tech helps explain their function in detail.
Motherboard
The motherboard is what holds and connects the majority of components in the computer. It supplies power to the CPU, RAM, Fans, and more using power drawn from the connected cables between the board and PSU (bottom left). It is also where the data connections are made for sharing information.
PSU (Power Supply Unit)
As the name implies the PSU provides power to the board and other primary components of the computer. It is measured in watts as seen with the 430w PSU pictured.
Graphics Cards
Graphics cards are used to control the output to a display screen. This is sometimes done using intergrated graphics on a CPU, but for any more demanding tasks the external graphics card is often necessary. This is used for photo editing, video rendering, gaming, etc. and is one of the components with the widest range of options with Intel, AMD, and Nvidia being the primary manufacturer of these cards. The table below lists some of the more common models in order of performance with those on top being the highest performing.
Computer Components - Schuster
Kaleb Schuster
Created on February 13, 2025
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Transcript
Computer Components Explained
Ready to Build?
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM are the memory modules on the motherboard used to temporarily hold data and programs. One of many common uses for them is in storing information for open browser tabs allowing you to work across multiple tabs without needing to commit anything to permanent storage.
HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
Permanent Storage
The HDD is a type of permanent storage device that uses spinning metal platters read by a pivoting metal arm. It is a slower and now less used storage type that has largely been replaced by SSDs (Solid State Drives) for use in personal computers. They both act as permanent file storage but SSDs are smaller, faster, and tend to last longer.
The CPU (Central Processing Unit is the key component of a computer system that interprets and executes program instructions. It is often called the "brain" of the computer. This video from MikMat Tech helps explain their function in detail.
Motherboard
The motherboard is what holds and connects the majority of components in the computer. It supplies power to the CPU, RAM, Fans, and more using power drawn from the connected cables between the board and PSU (bottom left). It is also where the data connections are made for sharing information.
PSU (Power Supply Unit)
As the name implies the PSU provides power to the board and other primary components of the computer. It is measured in watts as seen with the 430w PSU pictured.
Graphics Cards
Graphics cards are used to control the output to a display screen. This is sometimes done using intergrated graphics on a CPU, but for any more demanding tasks the external graphics card is often necessary. This is used for photo editing, video rendering, gaming, etc. and is one of the components with the widest range of options with Intel, AMD, and Nvidia being the primary manufacturer of these cards. The table below lists some of the more common models in order of performance with those on top being the highest performing.