Main Parts of a Desktop Computer

The main circuit board inside your computer. It is the “common ground” that allows all of the other components to communicate with one another.

• RAM

• CPU

• Motherboard

• Video Processor

It is considered the “brain” of the computer and is the part that processes all of the instructions.

• RAM

• CPU

• Motherboard

• Video Processor

It is memory hardware that is found in many different electronic devices, including a computer. The amount of ________ in the computer determines how much memory applications that are open can use.

• RAM

• CPU

• Motherboard

• Storage

It is a processor that handles graphics operations, including 2D and 3D calculations, and it excels at 3D graphics.

• RAM

• Video Card / Processor

• Motherboard

• Storage

The hard disk is the hardware that stores data which is not erased when you power-off the computer.

• RAM

• Video Card / Processor

• Motherboard

• Storage

The component that supplies power to the whole Desktop computer system. It plugs in and receives power from an electrical outlet.

• RAM

• Video Card / Processor

• Motherboard

• Power Supply

The _______________ is also called the screen or display. It shows the user the output and allows the user to see the information being processed on the computer.

• Monitor

• CPU

• Video Card / Processor

• Storage

The main “input” device (together with the mouse) of any computer. It is one of the main devices used for communicating with the rest of the world (e.g typing emails, searching the Internet etc.) and its design mimics old typewriters.

• RAM

• Keyboard

• Mouse

• Monitor

This is another important input device. They usually have two buttons and can have more. You can scroll up and down on a scroll wheel if it has one. This moves an arrow that allows you to open applications.

• Keyboard

• CPU

• Computer Case

• Mouse

This uses a laser that writes and reads data on optical discs, such as a DVD or CD.

• Optical Drive

• CPU

• Computer Case

• WiFi Card