IST Hardware

Motherboard

Connects all components together; type and number of ports; connected to everything internally.

BIOS

Wakes up the computer; already attached to motherboard.

CPU

Brain of the computer; clock speed in GHz; installed in CPU mount on motherboard.

RAM

Short

HDD – slower long

term storage, spinning disk; SSD – faster storage, no moving parts; capacities in GB/TB.

GPU

Renders graphics and outputs video; clock speed in GHz, VRAM in GB; connected via PCIe slot.

PSU

Distributes power to all components; measured in Watts; connected to wall outlet.

Case

Holds all components; size in inches/cm; motherboard screwed in place.

Cooling System

Prevents overheating; efficiency measured in Watts; glued to CPU using thermal paste.

Input Devices

Mouse, keyboard, microphone, webcam.

Output Devices

Monitor, speakers, printer.