Motherboard

The motherboard is the "body" of the computer, through which all other components interface.  

• Basic Input Output System  (BIOS)
• Central Processing Unit
• Chipset 
• Computer Memory
• External Bus Controllers 
• Internal Buses  
• RAM

Power Supply

Power is supplied to the motherboard  and internal disc drives  at appropriate voltages.  They are designed to turn on and off using a signal, and provide support for modern functions such as the standby mode available in many computers.

• Cooling Fans 
• Power Supply Unit 
• Power Cords 

Video Display

The video display controller  produces the output for the video display unit .  This will either be built into the motherboard  or attached in its own separate slot, in the from of a graphics card .

• Visual Display Unit 
• Graphics Cards
• Video Capture Cards and TV Cards

Removable Media

Text, numbers, pictures, and audio are converted into strings of bits and bytes.  By using removable media storage devices , this information is easily organised and stored. 

• CD Burners
• CD Drives 
• DVD Burners
• DVD Drives 
• USB Drives 

Internal Storage

This hardware keeps data inside of the computer for later use, and remains persistent even when the computer has no power. 

• Hard Disk
• Solid State Drive 
• RAID Array Controller 

Sound Card

This enables the computer to output sound to audio devices , as well as accept any forms of input.  Many modern computers have a sound card  built into the motherboard , but it is common for a user to install another one as an upgrade. 

• Sound Cards
• Microphones

Networking

Many users like to be able to connect their computer to the Internet and/or to another network computer.  

• Cable DSL Routers
• Modem 
• Network Card 
• Wireless Router 

Input/Output Peripherals

In addition, hardware devices include external components of the computer system.  These input/output devices are either standard or very common. 

• Keyboard
• Mice
• Monitor
• Printer
• Speakers
• Webcam

Building a Computer

Computers and Monitors

Computer Specs

Software