Getting to Know the Parts of Your Computer Parts of the Computer
Getting to Know the Parts of Your ComputerParts
of the
Computer
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CPU or Central Processing Unit
• Often referred to as the brains of a computer
• Processes user requests• Controls all of the other
hardware within your computer
Hard Drive
• The Operating System, such as Windows XP, as well as any applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.) are stored here.
• Permanently stores your files for later use
• Also known as Drive C
RAM (Random Access Memory)
• Temporarily stores your information until you hit Save
• Everything stored in this temporary memory is lost when the computer shuts down
CD ROM, CD-RWDVD, DVD-RW
• Drive used to read information from a CD or DVD
• Those Drives designated as CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, or DVD-RW enable you to save to disk
• Also known as Drive D
Floppy Drive
• These drives do not hold much information
• They are, however, very portable
• Also known as Drive A
Mouse
• One example of an input device, as you use it to input information into the computer
• Enables users to send commands to the CPU through a series of clicks on the screen
Network Card and Patch Cable
• Connects your computer to other computers and the Internet
• One end plugs into your computer’s Network Card
• The other end plugs into a “drop” along the wall
Monitor
• One example of an “output device,” this item provides visual images to the computer user
Keyboard
• A second example of an input device, the keyboard enables users to type instructions, characters, etc.
Power Cord
• Supplies power to the computer
• Make sure it is plugged in!