Computer Hardware

Running head: Personal Computers: How They are Configured

Rebecca Withey

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

How are Personal Computers Built?

Computer technology in the world can be defined in large proportions. Home appliances contain microprocessors including our televisions. Automobiles today have been built with computers too.

Personal Computers are owned in practically most all homes and used in most all places of business.

The personal computer functions enable the user to create and print word processing documents, search the internet and send and receive email.

Computer components are defined below.

п‚џ The central processing unit (CPU) is the main microprocessor of a PC. All computer operations are managed by the CPU.

п‚џ Memory is storage for computer data. Memory is categorized as fast storage as it is designed to connect directly with the CPU. There are different memory types including:

п‚џ Fandom-access memory (RAM) - RAM stores current information that is being used.

п‚џ Read-only memory (ROM) - ROM is permanent memory storage for data that is not revised or changed.

п‚џ Basic Input/Output (BIOS) - BIOS is a ROM type that is utilized to perform basic communications when powering up or restarting the computer.

п‚џ Caching is frequently storing used information in a very fast RAM and is connected to the CPU.

п‚џ Virtual memory is hard disk space that temporarily stores information and swaps in/out RAM.

п‚џ Motherboard-The main circuit board that contains all internal personal computer components. Internal components include the sound card, memory and CPU.

п‚џ Power supply is an electrical transformer that controls computer electricity.

п‚џ Hard disk is storage inside the personal computer that stores the permanent programs and documents.

п‚џ Operating system is software that enables communication back and forth for the user to the computer system.

п‚џ Integrated