Understanding Computer Hardware

A computer system consists of various hardware components, which form a complete functional computer. The most basic computer system consists of CPU (or central processing unit), central processing units (CPUs) and random access memory (RAM). The CPU is the brain of the computer system, given its sole responsibility for executing instructions given in the form of program. Central processing units, often referred to as CPUs, are available in many different variations such as single core, dual core etc.

In the field of computer systems, there are three main types of processor arrangements. They are: Random Access Memory or RAM, Register Management System or ROM and Scratch Pad. The word processor, also known as word processors or text editors, utilize a memory that is RAM based for storing text or any other type of information. Another major type of processor arrangement in use in computers today is the multitasking processor which enables the execution of multiple tasks in parallel.

Earlier computer systems utilized a mainframe along with a number of terminals connected to it for input and output. With the advent of faster computers, the need for a mainframe was phased out. Instead, computers became smarter with the passage of time. Modern computer systems utilize different types of instruction sets, executed on different operating systems. These allow the user to interact with the computer systems via a keyboard and a mouse.

Apart from providing an effective mode of communication, computer systems have become a tool for expert system of administration. It has been commonly observed that today most large organizations have expert system of administration at their disposal. This helps in efficient management of business operations. Business owners today do not have to spend a lot of time, energy and money on maintaining computer systems. These business owners can make optimum use of the expert system by installing the right operating system.

The operating system that one uses to run his PC or personal computer differs from other PCs. One such operating system is Windows and another is Linux. The Windows operating system is more popular amongst PC users and so most people prefer to use Windows for running their personal computers. The other OS such as Linux is more popular among Mac users and so the Mac users tend to use Linux for their computer systems.

Operating systems or hardware provide the software that help in the proper functioning of the computer. There are many hardware components that are found in the PC and they include motherboard, processors, hard disk, memory, video card, USB drives, keyboard, mouse, optical mouse, scanner and many more. Based on the type of operating system that one uses, the hardware components also vary. These different types of hardware components make PCs unique. One can purchase a branded computer system and still be able to customize it according to his requirements.

The other important hardware component is the motherboard. It is the component that provides the interface to the rest of the computers. In the older systems the motherboard provided both the interface and the storage and it was very complicated to upgrade or replace. But in modern computers the motherboard is usually a separate component. The most common form of motherboard in PCs is the ATX form. Many other forms are available but the ATX form is the most popular as it provides a high level of performance.