Processor (CPU)

The processor is the central processing unit (CPU) which controls the functions of most electronic items. The CPU receives and processes the data / information given then sends it back to the component that is in charge of executing that action. The CPU is made up of six key components:

The control unit: The control unit is the brain of the processor. It receives the data and decides where to send the processed information.

The instruction cache: The instruction cache is where the control unit’s information is stored.

The pre-fetch unit: Input data goes through the pre-fetch which stores a copy of the data before sending it to be processed by the control unit.

The decode unit: The decode unit translate the data into binary code, which is then sent to the arithmetic logic unit.

The arithmetic unit: The arithmetic unit (ALU) receives the code from the decode unit and decides the action needed to carry out the command.

Hard Drive (HDD)

The hard drive is mainly a data storage device which allows the user to store programs and personal data such as photos and music on their computer. The hard drive stores the main software such as the operating system. When the computer boots up it will look for a hard drive which has a bootable program on it such as the operating system (Windows, Linux or Mac) then is will boot into the operating system. Hard drives can also be used for other tasks like backing up data or transferring or storing data portably on a portable external hard drive.

Heatsink

The heat sink is a metal / plastic structure which allows the transfer of heat away from the heat source. Heat sinks are always found on top of a CPU or microchip as these can get quite hot and need to stay cool to function efficiently.

Fans

Fans are used to blow and suck air in and out of the computer case, which gives the computer a circulation of air to keep it cool. The CPU fan on top of the CPU heat sink blows the hot air out of the computer.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the device which connects all the devices together and communicates with them. The motherboard is the most important device for the computer to be able to function. The motherboard has various slots (PCI, PCI-E, AGP, RAM Slots, SATA, IDE etc) which allow components to be added the computer and connects the components to the board so that the computer can communicate with the devices attached.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

The RAM is the CPU’s memory cache. All information that is received, sent or preloaded is stored in the RAM. Computers load all system and program files being used into the RAM. RAM processes every bit of data our computer uses at almost unbelievable speeds. RAM stands for Random Access Memory. Most RAM that is installed on computers can only function when the computer is powered. When the computer turns off the data stored on the RAM is erased.

Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor (CMOS)

The CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) is a battery cell attached to the motherboard. This battery keeps track of the date and time when the computer is turned off. The CMOS also keeps track of your BIOS passwords and configuration. If the computer is turned off and the CMOS is removed then the time and date will be reset to default and BIOS passwords will be erased.