Basic Computer Hardware Tutorial

Know the basic computer hardware parts.

The computer is made up of separate parts that work together as one. The "computer hardware" are the parts of the computer that you can see and touch,including the monitor, mouse, keyboard and system unit, among many others. The "software" are the intangible parts of the computer, such as programs, games and applications installed in the computer. Understanding the basic hardware parts and how they function will help you learn how to use the computer more effectively.

Instructions

1. Know that the main computer box is called the "system unit." This serves as the "housing" for the vital parts of the computer, including the motherboard, processor, network card, sound card, memory modules, video card and hard drive. These hardware components are the more complicated hardware parts inside the system unit, and you will not see them unless you open the casing. The system unit is connected by cable and wire to the monitor, keyboard, mouse and other hardware components.

2. Look at the screen in front of you--the "monitor." This is where you will see the computer display the output of whatever task you do with the computer. Monitors come in several shapes, resolution and sizes. Most monitors have LCD screens, which consume less power.

3. Use the mouse to point, select and click on options. This hardware device is a small device that fits your hand and helps you navigate through the computer interface. Slide the mouse across the surface and you will see the arrow on the computer monitor moving in the same direction as you slide it.

4. Type with the "keyboard," a device that looks like a typewriter. This is what you use to type words and numbers when creating a document or surfing the Web. Each key found on the keyboard has its own function.

5. Familiarize yourself with other external hardware components, such the printer, headset, webcam, speakers and scanner. These hardware devices are not essential, yet they make the computer more useful. The printer is used to print documents, the webcam to take videos, the scanner to copy documents and convert them into digital forms, and the headset and speakers to listen to music and other sounds.

References

• Network Tutorials: Introduction to PC Components

Resources

• Compu Kiss: Keyboard Basics
• Ahcancal: Basic Computer Hardware Tutorial