Graphics Processing Unit

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Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is a computer chip that performance various mathematical calculations at high speeds. It is used to render images. The CPU was used to complete these calculations before the GPU was invented. As more graphic intensive applications were made, the GPU was invented to free up the CPU which couldn’t handle all the calculations.

(image from http://www.geforce.com)

Memory

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RAM stands for Random-access memory. Also referred to as main memory or primary memory. It’s a form of data storage.  The first practical form of random access memory was made in 1947. It’s a computer storage location that allows information to be stored and accessed quickly from random locations. Information is accessed randomly unlike from a CD or a Hard drive, this makes it faster. Unlike a hard drive, RAM is a type of volatile memory and requires power in order to keep the data accessible for the user. As the computer starts up, parts of the system are loaded into memory which then allows the CPU to process all the instructions much faster. RAM comes in different sizes for example 2GB, 4GB or 8GB.

(image from http://hardzone.es)

Hard Drive

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Hard drives are data storage devices used for storing and retrieving digital information using rapidly rotating disks coated with magnetic material. They were first introduced in 1956. The size of the hard drive is the most important feature. Storing data requires a form of non-volatile memory which saves the data even if the power is turned off. This is opposite to RAM memory because if the power is turned off everything gets wiped. Solid state drives have no moving parts and use NAND chips to store data in a random fashion.

(image from http://www.misco.co.uk)

Central Processing Unit

cpu

A central processing unit, CPU for short, is the piece of hardware within a computer system that carries out the instructions of a computer program. This is done by  performing the basic arithmetical and  logical operations of the system. The form and the design of the CPU has changed as computers gets better but the fundamental operation remains the same.

They have been around since at least the 1960’s. All computers can have more than one CPU – this is called multiprocessing.

(image from http://www.xbitlabs.com)

Motherboard

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A motherboard (sometimes alternatively known as the mainboard, system board) is the main printed circuit board found in computers and other expandable systems.

The motherboard serves to connect all of the parts of a computer together.

It holds many of the crucial electronic components of the system:

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Memory

Hard Drive

Optical Drive

Video Card

Sound Card

It also holds other ports and expansion cards, which  all connect to the motherboard directly or via cables.

Motherboards, cases and power supplies all come in different sizes.

You need to make sure that all three are compatible to work properly together.

The mother board is mounted inside the case and it is secured with screws through pre-drilled holes.

(image from http://www.guru3d.com)