Personal Computers… …And Their Internal Parts

Table of Contents 1.Motherboard 2.Central Processing Unit (CPU) 3.Power Supply 4.Controller Boards 5.Chipset 6.Random Access Memory (RAM) 7.Read Only Memory (ROM) 8.Hard Drive 9.Optical Drive 10.Battery 11.Cables/Connections 12.Modem 13.Additional Pictures 14.References

Motherboard All primary circuitry runs through the motherboard. All internal and external components of the computer are connected. Fits in case—which is designed for the size of the motherboard. Size is determined by the type of replaceable components it handles, as well as what ports are available for attachable external devices (monitors, printers, modem, mice, etc.)

Central Processing Unit (CPU) The CPU is “the brain” of the computer. Contains the microprocessor, “the heart” of the computer. All hardware and software applications run through the CPU. Performs all calculations that allow computer to run programs. Most common types—32 bit and 64 bit (binary system) Intel and AMD are the largest manufacturers of processors in the world for PC’s.

Power Supply In charge of supplying all power to all parts, except the CMOS battery. Without a power supply, the computer will not work. On desktop PC, the power supply goes directly into the wall outlet. Converts AC power (the house energy supply)to DC power (the lower power which is suitable for computers).

Controller Boards Motherboard is the main controller board of a computer. Special type of expansion board that controls any peripheral device, such as a disk drive or graphics monitor. Referred to as “cards” or “adapters”.

Chipset The mediator between the CPU and all other components, including the main memory. Integrated circuits designed to work with specific families of microprocessors. “The Set” refers to the Northbridge and the Southbridge. Northbridge links CPU with the high speed devices like main memory and graphics controls. Southbridge connects low speed peripherals like Ethernet, USB and audio devices.

Random Access Memory (RAM) Stores the resident part of the current running operating system. Only works while the computer is on. RAM is erased whenever the computer is powered down. Holds data in place while the CPU decides what to do with it. Both a fast CPU and ample amount of RAM is needed for a fast computer.

Read Only Memory (ROM) Stores the preloaded data and the software that never changes. Keeps the internal computer clock accurate. Stores the initial program that runs when the computer is originally powered up (“booted”). Similar to a starter on a car. If ROM is not working properly, the computer will not boot up. Uses the optical disk drive to “read” the data.

Hard Drive Device for storing and retrieving digital information. One or more rigid “hard” rapidly rotating disks coated with magnetic material arranged to write data to surface and read it from them. Different types: non-volatile, random access, digital, magnetic, data storage Size and cost have significantly decreased over time as capacity and speed have dramatically increased. Original hard drive (IBM 1956) was the size of 2 refrigerators.

Optical Drive (ODD) Uses laser light or electromagnetic waves as the process for writing data to or from a disk. Writing (recording or “burning”) information has become the norm. Some ODD’s are “read only”, can only retrieve information from them. Common types: CD, DVD, Blu-ray Used to archive material for future reference (USB—flash drive)

Battery Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) Typical computer battery is the lithium coin cell. Connects to the motherboard. Powers the real time internal clock of the computer. High temperatures and longer power-off time will shorten the battery’s life expectancy.

Cables/Connections Power cables run the energy supply to the individual components. Communication cables allow the components to “talk” to each other. Ribbons were the normal type originally, but it was found to interfere with the air flow which disrupted the computer cooling system (fans). Ribbons were color coded like a rainbow to reduce the risk of reversed connections. Different connection types used to access different ports. Round cable type has become more prominent internally and externally. Wireless connection is now used as a cable-less communicator for some mice, printers, and modems.

Modem Modem (Modulator - DEModulator) modulates an analog signal to encode digital information and demodulates the signal to decode transmitted information. Allows for connection to internet—an outside information source. Without a modem, the computer would just be a large file cabinet with archived information only. Most familiar (voice band) is transmitted over telephone lines. Classified by amount of data sent over a unit of time (bits per second) (bps).

Additional Photos Internal Ribbons in Case Binary Computing Memory Chip Ribbon Connections Memory Pyramid Port Connections

References