What Makes Your Computer Work?

The two main types of computers are portable and desktop. Portable computers come in various shapes and sizes and include laptops and hand-held devices. Desktops are stationary, typically with a more powerful configuration. Several components are essential to both. Hands down, the most powerful component of a computer is the central processing unit (CPU). Other basic and necessary components include memory, the motherboard, the hard drive, and the power supply.

Central Processing Unit
The CPU handles all of the computation work and is distinguished by its speed. The higher the speed, the faster the PC. If you're watching high-definition movies or manipulating graphics, then you'll need a computer with fast processing.

Random access memory (RAM)
Your computer can't function without memory. RAM is the hardware inside the computer that stores information. Get a minimum of 3 GB -- memory is even more important than the speed of the processor. The more RAM a computer has, the more smoothly the PC will run when using several programs at once. While adding more memory later isn't time consuming, getting what you need when you purchase the computer is worthwhile and may be more cost effective.

Motherboard
The motherboard provides the connections within the computer and hosts the RAM, microprocessor, and drive controllers. The microprocessor is the brain of the computer and controls the operations, while the drive controllers enable the computer's hard drive to work. The motherboard should have at least two USB ports to plug in a digital audio player or additional memory drive.

Hard Drive
All data created on the computer, whether it’s homework, business files, or personal data, are stored on the hard drive. It has a much larger capacity than the RAM.

Power Supply
The last of the mandatory computer components is the power supply. While it may be the simplest, it's absolutely essential for allowing the computer to work.

There are many things that can go wrong internally with a desktop or laptop, but rarely is it something that can't be fixed. Call us today for a free hardware quote.