HARDWARE COMPONENTS OF THE SYSTEM UNIT

CPU – Central Processing Unit

The brain of the computer. It executes instructions (from software) and tells other
component of what to do

HEAT SINK AND CPU FAN

MOTHERBOARD
Printed circuit board that holds the CPU and other essential internal hardware and
functions as the central hub that all other hardware components run through
MEMORY (RAM AND ROM)
RAM – is a temporary memory storage that makes information immediately accessible to
programs. It is volatile memory, so stored data is cleared when the computers power is off.
ROM – stores the BIOS that runs when the computer is powered on or otherwise begins
execution
EXPANSION BUSES
That connect to the CPU to various internal components to expand cards for graphics and
sounds.
EXPANSION CARD
Is a printed circuit board that can be inserted into a expansion slot of a computer
motherboard that can be used to obtain or expand on features not offered by the motherboard.
HARD DISK DRIVE/HARD DRIVE
Physical storage device that stores both permanent and temporary data in different
formats
OPTICAL DRIVE
Used to read and write CDs and DVDs.
They enable the computer to read and interact with nonmagnetic external media (CD’s)
and transformed into a digital file.
PSU
An electrical appliance that provides the necessary power to operate a computer.
It provides electricity to all components of the computer system.
It converts alternating current (AC) to a low power voltage (DC) power for the internal
components of the computer.

NETWORK CARD
Allows your computer to communicate over a network and access the internet. It can
either be connected with an Ethernet cable or . .

CMOS – like a small battery for a watch which powers a memory for the date and time of the
BIOS.
BIOS – includes boot firmware and power management firmware