=================== Computer Components =================== * CPU (Central Processing Unit) Takes data and instructions and operates on the data according to the instructions. Outputs the resulting data. * Main Memory (RAM - Random Access Memory) Stores the _working_ data and instructions. * Mass Storage (HDD - Hard Disk Drive) Non-volatile (is not erased when power is cut) storage of data and instructions. Access speed is much, much slower than main memory. Cost per byte is very low. * Motherboard The platform on which the rest of the components are either mounted to, or plugged into. - Buses (or bus lines) that connect components to the CPU - Chipset that controls I/O (e.g. Intel Z170) - Expansion slots that allow for add-on cards (e.g. PCI Express) - I/O ports (e.g. USB, PS/2, eSATA, sound, Ethernet, etc). * Graphics Card (GPU - Graphics Processing Unit) Specialised add-on card that renders 2D and 3D graphics. Output ports include VGA, DisplayPort, DVI, HDMI. * PSU (Power Supply Unit) and housing (computer case) * Input devices Mouse, keyboard, trackpad, microphone, webcam, optical drive, etc. * Output devices Screen (display, monitor, VDU), speakers, headphones, printer, etc.