

It plugs directly into a long slot that has contacts on either side of the slot. The RAM speed is a big contributor to the overall speed of a computer system. The RAM keeps data ready for the CPU to process. RAM is volatile memory, meaning it loses all the stored data when power is lost. RAM is a data storage device that can provide fast read and write access. The top manufacturers of processors are Intel, AMD, and NVidia. There are so many different types of computer processors. This is why a heatsink and fan assembly are required to draw the heat away from the central processing unit and distribute it to thin sheets or fins of metal for the fan to cool down. It will run even hotter when it is set to a higher clock speed to make it run faster. It is susceptible to bad connectivity.Ī processor generates a decent amount of heat, especially when it is working under high loads. This makes it a non-user-swappable component. BGA (Ball Grid Array): The CPU is soldered directly onto the motherboard.A levered hinged plate with a center cut-out clamps down on the processor. LGA (Land Grid Array): More commonly found on motherboards today.PGA (Pin Grid Array): It is also a ZIF socket but has a different pin pitch and contains a different pin count.A lever-operated mechanism to clamp the pins of the processor. ZIF (Zero Insertion Force): Although this is a more desirable socket, they are mostly found on older computer motherboards.There are other ways CPUs can be attached to the motherboard. It has many copper pads underneath it for the socket contacts to push up against them to make electrical contact. The central processing unit is usually seated in a socket that utilizes a lever or a latch with a hinged plate with a cut-out in the center to secure the CPU onto the motherboard. It takes all the processes from the RAM and processes them to perform the tasks required by the computer system. It processes all the information on a computational level. The CPU or central processing unit is basically like the brain of computer systems. Motherboards come in the following sizes: MotherboardĮVGA: 13.5 inch x 10.3 inch | 343mm x 262mm Obviously, as the physical size is reduced, it begins to limit connectivity options and functionality. This allows all the components to operate efficiently and to fulfill their maximum potential as they were designed to do. It also has the least amount of bottlenecks possible. Its function involves integrating all the physical components to communicate and operate together.Ī good motherboard offers a wide amount of connectivity options.

The CPU, RAM, drives, power supply, and more are connected to it. All other cards and everything else plugs directly into the motherboard, hence its name. The motherboard is the main board that is screwed directly inside the computer case. Larger form factors: Supports ATX and XL-ATX motherboards.Standard form factor: Supports standard ATX motherboards.Small form factor: Supports micro ATX motherboards.Very small form factor: Supports Mini ITX motherboards.List of computer case sizes (known as form factor): You can get them made from cheap metals or good quality materials that provide you with a sturdy design. You can get a plain grey desktop case or one with colored lighting everywhere to make it look spectacular.Ĭomputer cases rely on computer fans inside them to create proper airflow to keep all the internals cool and working reliably.Ī computer case, like most things, varies in quality. Some are designed so well that it is easy to make everything look tidy and presentable.Ĭases come in all different sizes and shapes to accommodate various types of computer components and satisfy the consumer’s needs.ĭesign elements can vary from plain to highly elaborate. It is usually designed in such a manner to make fitting a motherboard, wiring, and drives as easy as possible. This is the component that holds all of the parts to make up the computer system. Here is a complete list of all the common computer hardware components and common peripherals used with them.
#RAM RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY IMAGES FULL#
Full list of basic computer parts and what they do Knowing what the component is, is good, but we will explain each part’s function, giving you a firmer understanding of them. Not only is it a good entry point, but it’s also something good to know for curiosity’s sake. It’s a great place to start if you want to learn about modern computers. Common peripheral components for computers.Graphics Card or Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) List of computer case sizes (known as form factor):.

