Computer Components

Motherboard

• the brain of the computer, processes all data

• connects all components

• stores all data permanently

• cools the CPU

CPU

• supplies power to the components

• the heart of the computer, connects all the components

• connects the hard drive to the motherboard

• the brain of the computer, executes all the programs

hard drive

• plays dvds

• storage for all software and files on the computer

• allows the computer to "think"

• cools the CPU

power supply

• cools the CPU

• supplies and regulates electrical current to all of the components

• stores all the data on a computer

• is the brain of the computer; executes all programs

CPU Fan

• sits on top of the heat sink, and draws heat away from the CPU so it doesn't overheat

• cools the entire computer

• acts like the CPUs assistant

• sits directly on top of the CPU, and cools the CPU while it is working

heat sink

• stores all software and files

• helps lower the temperature of the CPU by distributing heat on its fins

• supplies power to the CPU

• helps lower the temperature of the CPU with its fan blades

SATA cable

• connects the hard drive to the motherboard

• connects the power supply to the motherboard

• connects the CPU fan to the heat sink

• connects the hard drive to the CPU

DVD/CD Drive

• a disc for watching movies or listening to music

• streams video

• the disc contained on a hard drive

• writes data onto removable discs, or reads data off of the disc.

RAM

• permanently stores data like software and user files on a computer

• is the brain of the computer, executing all programs

• temporarily stores data allowing which increases the computer's processing power

• temporarily stores data if you hard drive runs out of space

What are the physical components of a computer system called?

• Hardware

• Software