Practical - 8 (Computer Hardware)

What is computer hardware?
Computer hardware includes the physical components of a computer. Personal computers

(PCs) are electronic devices that use microchips to process information and may include
desktop computers, laptops or tablets. Since a computer comprises many hardware
components, they work together and depend on each other to function properly.
What are basic components of computer hardware?

There are several basic components of computer hardware including:
1. Central processing unit (CPU)
The CPU controls the computer processes and communicates with the other components of a
personal computer. A computer's CPU may be one of the most complicated parts of the
computer because of its intricacies. If a computer is experiencing CPU issues, a computer
technician may start by checking the fan and cleaning out any dust or debris inside the
machine. Another step a computer technician may complete is verifying that power supply
cables work. A CPU will not function properly unless it receives a signal from the power
supply.
2. Motherboard
The motherboard provides the structure for all other components and connects them, while
also providing a way to distribute power, deliver information and connect to devices such as a
printer or mouse. It controls how data transfers and what type of monitor or screen device to
use, for example. It houses the CPU, memory and secondary storage devices such as hard
drives.
The first thing that a computer technician may do to troubleshoot any motherboard issues is
to take the PC apart and inspect all the connections for corrosion. They may also check the
power supply and make sure the computer is receiving electricity.
3. Random Access Memory (RAM)
RAM is where data lives temporarily while it's being actively used by programs, such as
when a user launches a computer application. A technician may know how to identify the
type of RAM in a computer, how to replace it if it's defective and how to diagnose problems
with copying data from one location in memory to another.
A technician should have knowledge about the different RAMs that are available and they
may also know what types of errors might affect a computer's RAM operation. A technician
may backup all computer files before fixing RAM to avoid losing critical programs and
documents.
4. Video graphics array port
A video graphics array (VGA) port is a video input that is primarily used on PC monitors.
Troubleshooting a VGA port could include verifying there isn't a loose connection, faulty
cable or a broken monitor. Another task a computer technician may do is use compressed air
to spray inside the VGA port to ensure it's free of dust.
5. Power supply
A power supply provides electricity to all components of a computer system. Typically, it's a
power cord connected from the back of a PC tower into an electricity socket. A technician
may troubleshoot the power supply by turning off the computer, unplugging and detaching
the power supply cord or trying a new cord or outlet.
6. Cooling fan
Cooling fans are a computer's system to decrease overheating. Many computers have more
than one cooling fan to help users who run their computer heavily, such as video streaming or
gaming. A computer technician may need to fix a computer's cooling fan if a user notices
their computer overheating. They may check for any damage to the blades and make sure that
they are free from debris. Replacing computer fans can be a common troubleshooting
solution for a technician.
7. Hard drive
Hard drives are data storage devices used to store files, programs or other information on a
computer system. They use magnetically coated discs called hard disks that store digital
representations of information. If a hard drive fails, a computer technician may suspect a
corrupt hard drive. They may use data recovery software to repair the computer or may
replace the hard drive.
8. Monitor
A computer monitor is an electronic device that displays what's what programs are running
on your computer so a user can see. Some computer technicians may wear anti-static gloves
when handling computer monitors to avoid static electricity. They may also troubleshoot
monitor issues by disconnecting it from the computer and trying a new power cord.
9. Printer
This is a machine that produces copies of text or images on paper using ink. Popular printers
include laser or inkjet and computer technicians may be skilled in troubleshooting issues
across multiple brands and varieties. Computer technicians may service printers including
verifying power is running to the machine. They may also check to see if the paper tray is full
and ready for printing. Technicians might replace or refill any ink cartridges and toner.
If the physical printer components are operating efficiently but the machine still isn't
working, a technician will then troubleshoot software malfunctions that may occur in the
communication between the computer and the printer. This requires more expertise to fix
since it involves how the systems interact with each other rather than physical component
failures on the printer itself.
10. Scanner
A scanner is a device that digitally copies an image or and makes it available as a file for
access on a computer. If a scanner malfunctions, a computer technician may remove the
cover and carefully check if it has any damage. If there are no visible issues, then they may
check the power connection cable. Similar to a printer, there is computer software that
connects the scanner to the computer, so a technician will also verify that the software is
communicating to the scanner.
11. Computer mouse
A computer mouse can have a wire or is wireless and is an input device used to control a
cursor on the computer monitor. A wired computer mouse has a cord that connects to a USB
port on a computer while a wireless mouse has no physical connection with a computer
system. Instead, a wireless mouse communicates using an adapter that is usually plugged into
an available USB port and runs off its own batteries using Bluetooth technology.

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What is computer hardware?

Computer hardware includes the physical components of a computer. Personal computers

What are basic components of computer hardware?

1. Central processing unit (CPU)

3. Random Access Memory (RAM)

4. Video graphics array port

11. Computer mouse

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