The computer is a tool that has become indispensable in our daily lives. Understanding how the components of a computer work together is something that attracts our attention. In this article you will know, thanks to precise and detailed information, what are the parts of the computer?, And the characteristics of its main functions.
Components of a computer
In different devices such as computers there are two fundamental things, which is the physical structure and their internal programming. The classification of the components of a computer They are established within the two types of technologies called soft technology and hard technology.
Even though these two types of technologies differ from each other. Hard technology cannot exist without soft technology, and soft technology is meaningless if hard technology did not exist. In addition to the components there are some Computer accessories.
Computer
The first device that is given the name as a computer was developed in 1938. This technology had a more considerable evolution thanks to the American company IBM, during the Second World War in 1944. At first, they were analog devices and its workings were electromechanical. These electromechanical parts were being replaced by electronic cards and integrated circuits were emerging.
The first application that the computer had was for military use, and it was not until 1977 that the Apple company introduced the first computer for personal use.
Today there are different types of computers: laptops, personal use and central units. In general, those for personal use are those that are kept in places such as the office and that cannot be easily moved. Meanwhile, laptops are known primarily as "laptop".
Their designs and structure are notoriously different. Laptops tend to have a more compact design and all its components are integrated into the case. Unlike personal computers, its components are separated and interconnected by cables. Although, there are already components on the market, such as keyboards and mice, that operate wirelessly.
Central units have more use at industrial levels. They are known as supercomputers, they are capable of processing large amounts of data at high speeds. Given this, its costs are considerably high.
Hardware
They are all the components of a personal computer both internal and external, which are part of its physical structure. Each part can be seen as the organs of the human body, although they are all composed of similar tissues, they do not fulfill the same function.
In the case of computers, the components that make up the hardware are: the cabinet, the monitor, the mouse, the keyboard, the speakers. Also, its internal parts such as the video card, motherboard, CPU, power supply, among others.
It should be noted that while the quality of these components is increased, their price also increases.
Software
It is part of the components of a computer, but the kind of soft technology. They are all the algorithms and logical processes that the components develop as they enter and receive information. Continuing the example of the human body, organs can exist, but it is internal programming that tells them how they should function. All the electrical impulses and chemical processes that occur from the brain to the organs and systems that come into action to achieve a goal, are part of what we call software.
As we mentioned earlier, soft technology, in this case software, would not make any sense if there were no hard technology, or hardware. And likewise, the hardware loses its essence if it does not have the software to control it.
The most used operating systems are:
- Windows
- Linux
- Android
- MacOS
- iOS
Software is the communication that exists between programs and hardware. For such communication to exist, they both use a programming language. Generally, today's programming languages are high-level. This means that this language is similar to the one we humans use, the natural language, allowing programmers to carry out their tasks more easily.
The software can also be written in assembly language, which is a low-level programming language.
Components of a computer
Next, we will begin to define each of the components of a computer and their functions. We consider it pertinent to talk first about the most fundamental part of a computer, which is the brain known as the CPU.
Central processing unit
Better known as CPU, for its acronym in English "Central Processing Unit". The Central Processing Unit is one of the components of a computer that is located inside the Cabinet.
Components such as RAM memory, video card, power supply, among others can be found in the system unit. These components are commonly connected to the enclosure via cables and / or ports. For example, the USB (Universal Serial Bus) port, which is generally found on the sides of a laptop or on the back of a conventional computer.
There are three main blocks of operation in the Central Processing Unit: the processing unit, the control unit, and the input / output bus.
Process unit:
It is in charge of carrying out the indications instructed by the control unit. This unit has in turn the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):
Logical arithmetic unit:
The Arithmetic Logic Units are in charge of doing the arithmetic processes, such as addition and subtraction or change of sign, that is, simple mathematical operations. And likewise, the logical operations such as NOT, AND, OR, XOR, bit comparisons, or shifts, or rotations.
The current CPU or microprocessors have several cores, and in turn each core has several execution units, and in turn these units have several Arithmetic Logic Units.
Although, also, Arithmetic Logic Units can be found in video image processing cards, commonly known as video cards. The advantage of each component having its Arithmetic Logic Units independently is that no resources are consumed from the Central Processing Unit.
CU
These control units look for the algorithms or instructions on the hard disk, interpret or decode them and execute them, by means of the Processing Unit.
BUS in / out:
These communication paths are responsible for establishing the connection between the components of the computer.
Storage
The performance of a computer is defined by its processing speed, software update, and internal memory. These three are related to the storage of a computer.
A computer is capable of storing information even when it is turned off. The two components that perform the storage function are the hard disk drive and the RAM memory card.
HDD
It is also known by the names like hard disk drive or hard disk drive, but more popularly as Hard Disk. It is in charge of keeping all the information of the applications, programs and files that exist on a computer.
The name of hard disk comes from the fact that it is composed of one or more rigid disks made or covered with some magnetic material. These discs are positioned one on top of the other and the information they store is recorded magnetically.
RAM
The Random Access Memory, or the random access memory, has the function of saving the information that is being handled at the moment. This implies that it works with temporary information, providing the advantage of obtaining more quickly the data that is being worked on at the moment.
Being able to open more than one application at the same time, and that both are operating at the same time without our computer crashing, is attributed to the RAM memory. That is why it is important to take into account when purchasing a computer or buying a RAM card its storage capacity.
All the information that exists in the RAM memory when we turn off our computer is erased immediately. As we mentioned before, its function is to store the data of the moment. This means that it saves the information necessary to run the files or programs, but not the file or program itself, but only the required data.
CD drive
Before CDs, computers had a floppy disk slot. Later, technology advanced and CD players were created and later USB ports. However, CD technology continues to evolve so CD drives continue to be part of the components of a laptop.
Unlike the diskette slot, it is very difficult for the CD drive to disappear, at least for the moment it will not be like that, since if we have a CD burner, we can back up the information on them, so that if the disk hard get damaged, we would not lose the important data.
Mouse
Or translated into Spanish, the mouse serves as the guide to the pointer that we observe on our monitor. This pointer performs the function of opening / closing, selecting / distilling, activating / deactivating, applications or commands and the internal functions of a program, window or system.
Its name comes from the resemblance it has with this particular little animal. Its shape is round and connects to the system unit using a cable. It consists of two buttons, one main (left), and one secondary (right). The recent mice that are coming to the market are wireless, that is, they do not require a cable to connect, and they also have a wheel to scroll up and down in a window or on the screen.
Keyboard
The computer is inspired by the typewriter, and as we well know it had buttons that had numbers, letters and punctuation marks engraved on them. The keyboard is part of the components of a computer, which, like the typewriter, has buttons that enter the same symbols. Although, the keyboard also has special buttons that allow the entry of programming commands, such as the Shift, Ctrl, Alt and Alt Gr buttons.
Keys can be classified as follows:
Function keys
They are located at the top. From F1 to F12, they are keys that perform different functions depending on where they are used. For example, in an internet window, the F5 key would refresh the information and the F6 key would select the navigation link. Now, in a document these two keys do not fulfill the same function.
The numeric keypad
Usually found on the right side of keyboards, it has buttons for entering numbers and simple math symbols like "+, -, *, /". On laptops these keys are activated using another special key called FN.
Navigation keys
They are the arrow keys that allow us to move up, down, left and right on the screen. These keys are located next to the numeric keypad.
Printer
It is an external component and its existence or not limits the functionality of a computer. This device is capable of transferring the desired data to paper, including images and writing.
Speakers
Also known as speakers or cornets. It is common to find them integrated into laptops, although they can also be connected to the computer via cable or wirelessly. Its only utility is the reproduction of sounds or audios.
Modem
This component can be considered more proper as a device belonging to the internet service. But, we include it in this list of components of a computer, since nowadays the fact that a computer does not have an internet connection is very limited its usefulness.
Computers generally have an Ethernet port that allows the modem to connect to the computer using a special cable called UTP. Otherwise, an antenna capable of establishing a Wi-Fi connection has been incorporated to access the internet wirelessly.
Monitor
The monitor is the component of a computer that reflects user interface. In the beginning, the signals sent to the operator were by means of lights. Then, punch cards emerged. Later, teletypes appeared, which consisted of the use of a typewriter that sent information via cable to a printer. Finally, during the 70s the first monitors were created.
How do you build a computer?
Once we have presented some of the components of a computer that are necessary for its operation, we are going to explain in the simplest way how a computer can be assembled.
From this moment on the following information is dedicated for those hobbyists who wish to assemble their own computer. And the invitation for them, who do not prefer to buy the computers already assembled, is to continue reading, since surely your pocket would appreciate it if we compare the cost of an already assembled computer, when buying the components individually and assembling it ourselves. .
How should I choose the components of a computer?
Although it does not require a very deep or technical knowledge about the operation of each of the components, it is important that you know the requirements of each one. The compatibility between the devices will depend on this.
We are going to start with the most important component of all and which will define the characteristics that the others should have.
Choosing the CPU
First of all, we must define the use we want to give our computer. If it is a computer it will be to use high-end applications or for a lower data consumption. From here we can intelligently select our Central Processing Unit.
The Central Processing Unit is the processor or brain of the computer. Of course, our goal should be for our computer to respond quickly. This speed will depend on the GHz of the Central Processing Unit, and of course, as it has more GHz, the cost will increase.
Likewise, there is a x32 or x64 Central Processing Unit feature. Also, you may have heard of x86 but we want to take the opportunity to clarify that it refers to x32 itself. These values arise from how the data is stored, that is, the information is stored in blocks or pieces of 32 bits or 64 bits.
The difference between these types of storage is that x64 Central Processing Units have a different processing scheme. This allows them to reach higher speeds than an x32 CPU. In the same way, the x32 Central Processing Units only allow RAM memory of up to 4 GB, while the x64 ones allow higher memory.
It is very important to see if the Central Processing Unit has a fan cooler or integrated fan. Otherwise, it will be necessary to buy one, as it is important that the Central Processing Unit has constant cooling. This is because its internal and integrated circuits tend to heat up, and not receive proper cooling.
Motherboard
As we mentioned earlier, the Central Processing Unit is the one that will determine the characteristics of the rest of the components among the components of the computers that also influence the selection of the other devices is the motherboard.
The motherboard, motherboard or main board is where all the components of the computer will be connected. In the same way, it establishes the amounts and types of RAM memories and disk units that we can implement. Likewise, it defines which video card is compatible.
ROM (Read Only Memory) is integrated into the motherboard. Unlike RAM, ROM contains information that cannot be erased or rewritten, but only read. Among that read-only information is BIOS firmware. This firmware is where the analysis of the keyboard, devices and video is performed. It is also where the operating system is loaded or saved.
On the motherboard you can find:
- Power supply connectors
- Single or multiprocessor Central Processing Unit socket
- RAM slots
- Integrated circuits or chipset.
RAM
How is the size of the RAM will depend on the applications for which we will use our computer. For example, if our main use will be for video editing or for video games with HD graphics, we will need a RAM memory of more than 4GB.
Yes we need a higher RAM of 4GB, immediately that affects the type of Central Processing Unit that we are going to need, since we would have to acquire one of x64. That is why, as we mentioned at the beginning, it is important to first establish what type of application our computer is going to have.
Likewise, we must take into account the minimum requirements that you ask us for the operating system we want. For example, the latest Windows 10 update has the following requirements:
- X86 CPU; x64 (recommended)
- RAM memory x32: 1 GB; x64: 2GB; x64: 4GB (recommended)
- Hard Disk Space: x32: 16GB; x64: 20GB (older versions); x32 and x64: 32GB (version 1903 or later)
HDD
How we mentioned above the component of the computer in charge of saving the information and data of the same. The data that should draw our attention from this component are the connection speed, the storage and the RPM speed.
Again, it is established that hard disk must be acquired depending on the application that is going to be given to our computer. If we are going to use it to edit videos, images for video games, the weight of the different applications and their future updates must be taken into account.
Then, depending on the applications that we are going to use, the storage space of our hard disk must be selected. Typically a 160GB hard drive would work for us for modest usage.
The connection speed depends on the standard in which it is programmed. Also, it will depend on our motherboard and the doors it has to make the connection to the hard disk.
Last but not least, as we mentioned, our hard drive is a device made up of discs that rotate at a speed. This speed allows a more or less rapid reading of the information and data of the programs. This translates to a greater or lesser reaction speed of our computer.
Soundboard
It is also an extension that connects to the motherboard, it is known by the name of sound card, which fulfills the function of sound processing. Depending on the plate we select we will have stereo sounds from higher to lower quality. It is important to bear in mind that if we do not have the sound card, our computer will not be able to emit audios.
However, this board is generally already integrated into the motherboard, so depending on the motherboard you purchase, it will not be necessary to buy a separate sound card. So, it is important that you notice if the motherboard you selected has this sound card built in. Otherwise, you will have to purchase a separate sound card and make sure that the motherboard has the port to connect the sound card.
Video card
Nowadays, it is common to observe that motherboards already have a built-in video card, and for common use it is enough. These cards bring at least 1 GB of memory, which works as a separate RAM. However, keep in mind that using an integrated video card will consume resources from our Central Processing Unit.
Video or graphics cards not only have their own RAM memory, but also have their own cooling system, and separate power supply. All components on this card are dedicated exclusively to video image processing.
Fuente de alimentación
The power supply is in charge of giving life to each and every one of the components of the computer. Imagine the human body, electrical power can be compared to pumped blood.
The power supply is in charge of rectifying the voltage from 110 VAC to 12 VDC. For the selection, it is important to make sure that the W consumed by each of the components can be fed by the power source.
Today, there are already sources of power that cover all these needs. The newer generation of computer power supplies are called atx power supplies, which stands for advanced technology extended.
It only remains to take care or realize the input voltage that is allowed by our power source. If it is 220VAC or if it is 110VAC, in order to know in which outlet we can connect our computer without damaging it.
Ventilador
Finally, generally the power supplies already have a fan cooler or cooling system. However, it is important to have a good cooling system to keep all cabinet components cool. Otherwise, there is a risk that components such as the CPU, which tends to heat up when working, may be damaged.
Even though all our fans will always have a 12 VDC power supply as a characteristic, their dimensions tend to change. It is important to take into account the dimensions of the gap that exists in the specially designed cabinet so that the fan can fit so that we can acquire the correct fan cooler.
Conclusions
It is unquestionable that computers became one of the most necessary devices in the life of human beings. And it is quite interesting to understand how each of the components of a computer communicate and work together, managing to become our main work tool.
The main difference in buying computers, whether factory assembled or self-assembled, is that the cost is lowered because we are not paying for the labor. In addition, assembling our computers ourselves allows us to customize it according to our needs.
It is important to bear in mind when buying the components of a computer separately that everything depends on the use we want to give it. Also, that all the elements must be compatible with each other and that all our selections must start from the Central Processing Unit or CPU. Here we leave you this complementary video on the subject of the article.