Computer Parts

HARDWARE

Physical parts of the computer, including processor and memory chips, input/output

CPU

The Central Processing Unit

PROCESSOR

The CPU – The chip or chips that interpret and execute

COMPUTER CASE

Contains the major components of the computer. It helps protect

FRONT OF THE COMPUTER CASE

INSIDE THE COMPUTER CASE

MONITOR

A display screen to provide “output” to the user. It is

VIDEO CARD

Connects the computer to the monitor. It is a circuit

KEYBOARD

Used to enter information into the computer and for giving commands.

MOUSE

An input device operated by rolling its ball across a flat

TOUCHPAD

A pressure-sensitive and motion sensitive device used in place of a

CD ROM DRIVE

The drive that plays CDs and reads data that

CD

Compact Disk – A type of optical storage device.

FLOPPY DISK DRIVE

A device that holds a removable floppy disk when

HARD DISK

Magnetic storage device in the computer.

RAM

Random Access Memory
RAM is a computer’s temporary memory, which exists as

PRINTER

An output device that produces a hard copy on paper. It

BARCODE READER

An input device that converts a pattern of printed bars

SCANNER

A device that allows pictures to be placed into a computer.

MICROPHONE

Allows the user to record sounds as input to their computer.

SPEAKERS

Used to generate or reproduce voice, music, and other sounds.

SOUND CARD

Connects the speakers and microphone to the computer.

MODEM

The place where the computer is connected to the phone line.

NETWORK CARD

A circuit board that connects the computer to the rest

SOFTWARE

Programs that tell the computer what to do. It provides instructions

DOS

Disk Operating System
This software connects the hardware with the programs you

EXAMPLE OF MS-DOS

WINDOWS

A family of operating systems developed and produced by Microsoft Corp.