What Are Different PC Parts and How Do They Work Leave a comment

What Are Different PC Parts and How Do They Work

Central Processing Unit (CPU)/Processor

The first thing that comes to mind when developing a new computer or improving an old one is the computer’s Central Processing Unit (CPU). CPU is one of the main factors in different PC components as it processes and executes commands. The CPU is your computer’s brain.

The CPU executes basic arithmetic, logic, controlling, and input/output operations as specified. To protect it from the motherboard, it is generally accommodated in a socket that has a lever with a detachable plate.

Every CPU type has a unique Socket, such as 2066, AM4, LGA1200, and so on, and the Motherboard will require the same socket to be compatible with the CPU. When deciding which CPU to install, keep the gigahertz (GHz) in mind – the higher the Gigahertz, the faster the CPU.

Components of CPU

The central processing unit consists of different components that are:

• Arithmetic and logic unit (ALU)
• Control unit (CU)
• Registers
• Cache
• Buses
• Clocks

All these components of the central processing unit enable the PC to process all instructions smoothly and efficiently. As technology advances, these components are becoming more powerful and more effective.

Factors to consider when buying CPU

When you are going to buy a CPU, the following are the characteristics that you must consider:

1. Core of CPU

If we go ten, fifteen years back, all PCs came with a processor that has only one core. But nowadays multi-core processors have grown in popularity as more software has been built to take advantage of multi-core technology. Each core can fetch and execute its instructions.

1. The cache of the processor

The next important factor which affects the purchasing process of a CPU is its cache. The cache is the same as the memory of the computer. The only distinction is that system memory employs dynamic RAM while cache employs static RAM. If the cache is larger, it is likely to store more files.

1. Brand

The brand of the CPU is also an important consideration while buying it. Typically, two CPU manufacturers exist; Intel and AMD. AMD processors outperform Intel in the majority of use cases.

1. Compatibility with sockets

As we know, the CPU is inserted in the socket of the motherboard. Not all CPUs are compatible with all CPU sockets. So, when buying a CPU one must consider its compatibility with sockets.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the primary circuit board that houses your computer’s components. It functions as a central hub, managing and connecting all of your other Components. The CPU is linked to the motherboard and has Peripheral Component Express slots for connecting devices. Without the motherboard, none of the computer’s components, such as the CPU, GPU, or hard drive, could communicate with one another.

The motherboard not only determines the physical form factor and magnitude of your PC design but also defines what other hardware the computer can use. If you want a high-performance and reliable PC, you must invest in a powerful motherboard.

Components of motherboard

Followings are the components of the motherboard

• Keyboard and mouse
• CPU chip
• USB
• Parallel port
• RAM slot
• PCI slot
• IDE controller
• Floppy controller
• AGP slot
• Power supply plugin

Factors to consider when buying the motherboard

One of my favourite motherboards is the 55.GDEN7.001 ACER USB BOARD. But before buying a PC motherboard you should consider these factors:

1. Form factor

To begin, you must choose a form factor. Because motherboards come in a variety of sizes, you can choose which is most suitable for customising your PC to fit your needs. If you are limited by space, you must limit your options to the magnitude of the case that you have available.

1. Socket for Processor

After deciding on a form factor, the next step is to select a processor socket. It is vital to understand that you must pick a motherboard with the correct socket and chipset. Having a socket that is compatible with the processor helps in easy installation and maintenance in future.

1. RAM slot

Type and amount of RAM slots is crucial when we look for the motherboard. The amount of RAM required for your personal computer is determined by how you intend to use it. The number of RAM slots on the motherboard, of course, limits the number of RAMs you can configure. Make certain that the motherboard you choose supports sufficient  RAM slots, you intend to use.

1. A small SSD and a large hard drive

Choosing the right storage devices, like many other elements in this user manual, involves several considerations. A common strategy is to buy a relatively small SSD for the operating system, which offers significantly improved results, and then larger hard drives to store large amounts of data, such as photos and videos.

• Features

You won’t need to buy additional expansion cards if you buy a motherboard with built-in features. Built-in audio is a more common feature that is usually included on most motherboards. However, this is usually only suitable for mid-range speakers. It’s worth noting that the best motherboards often include Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features, but you’ll have to pay more to use them. They will, however, reduce the need for expansion cards.

Graphic Cards

On computers, the GPU is the primary component for processing all image data. Graphic cards are classified into two types: discrete and integrated. The graphic card chip in an integrated graphics processing unit is attached to the CPU, whereas the graphic card chip in a discrete graphics processing unit is plugged into a PCI slot.

For simple tasks, PCs can get by using integrated graphics, but creating your media necessitates the discrete graphical power that only a dedicated GPU can provide. A high-quality graphics card is required if you want to have an enjoyable gaming experience.

Components of graphic card

The following are the most important parts of a graphic card.

• Video memory
• Graphics processing unit
• Software for the driver
• RAMDAC

Factors to consider when buying a graphic card

The followings are the factors to consider when buying a graphic card

1. Performance

When it comes to GPUs, price and performance are inextricably linked. A good GPU will allow you to play modern games at high frame rates. A great GPU, on the other hand, will allow you to play those games at a higher resolution while also performing high-end creative work, such as 4K video editing.

1. Bandwidth

For some, the importance of GPU memory is debatable, but bandwidth is critical for all. Bandwidth refers to the amount of memory that the GPU can access at any given time.

What you should focus on more is bandwidth. Data that is ready to be processed by the GPU is typically saved on the card’s dedicated memory module. Data is fed to the cores at a faster rate when a GPU has more bandwidth. As a result, games and video graphics run smoothly and clearly.

1. TDP

Thermal Design Power is a measure of heat dissipation, but it also tells you how many watts you’ll need to run your card at stock settings. If your TDP is high, your computer will require more fans to distribute the heat properly. TDP value is important because fans require more space and power.

1. Connections

A GPU isn’t very useful on its own. To function, it must be connected to a motherboard. You must ensure that a provided graphics card can assist the number of monitors you intend to connect. Three DisplayPort outputs and one HDMI output are common configurations on the latest gaming GPUs.

1. Memory Modules/RAM

Memory is the backbone of any computer. RAM allows your system to access data faster by loading it into the parts rather than explicitly from a hard drive. On modern systems, RAM comes in a variety of capacities ranging from around 4GB to 64GB per Module.

All active work on a PC is stored in computer memory. When you turn off your computer, all of the data in RAM is wiped away. The more RAM you have, the more activities you can complete. You’ll need a lot of it to keep your machine running smoothly.RAM is of two types i.e., static RAM (SRAM) and dynamic RAM (DRAM).

Components of RAM

RAM consists of the following components:

• Memory bank
• SPD chip
• Clock
• Board
• Burst counter

Factors to consider when buying the RAM

When you are buying a RAM, you must pay heed attention to these factors:

1. Frequency of RAM

RAM speed is comparable to CPU frequency. The quicker RAM is, the more quickly it can perform tasks. If you buy a RAM with a low frequency and install it on a motherboard with a frequency that is greater than the RAM’s operating frequency, both components will be damaged.

1. Compatibility with the motherboard and CPU

Not all RAM is backwards compatible with all systems. Because your computer’s motherboard only has a limited set of dual in-line memory module slots, RAM capacity is also determined by it. As a result, you must purchase RAM while keeping your motherboard’s specifications in mind.

1. Latency

Even the latency configuration of your RAM must be taken into account. This is the time it takes from the time the memory controller requests to the time the data is saved on the chips at the controller’s pins. The time limit should be kept as short as possible.

• Docking Station

If the mobility of a laptop is more appealing to you, a dock station can level the playing field. With a pc docking station, you can have a personalised desktop workstation while still having the convenience of a laptop when working remotely.

You can connect multiple accessories to the docking station, which is powered separately from your laptop. A docking station can transform a smartphone or tablet into a functional desktop computer.

Components of a Docking Station

These are components that are located on the back of a docking station:

• Audio jacks
• headphone jack
• Keyboard Port
• DVI Port
• Exhaust Vent 
• Serial Port 
• Mouse Port

Factors to consider when buying the docking station

These are the factors to consider when selecting a docking station.

1. Port selection

The majority of the time, ports are the focal point. It suffices to say that the dock you select should have all of the ports you require in both type and quantity.

1. Compatibility

Among the most significant factors in whether or not a docking station is consistent with your devices. Even so, a docking station that does not collaborate with your laptop is useless.

1. Video calibre

Docking stations enable clients to access a new monitor to their docking stations and enjoy the new display. However, before purchasing a docking station, you must always check the endorsed qualities of the video output ports.

1. Specifications

Some docks include a port for charging a computer or tablet. As a result, you must check with each commodity to see what the dock is appropriate for and select the dock that facilitates whatever you intend to use it for.

• Networking Module

A computer network module is a structure or a block of parts that is a component and is usually integrated with the rest of the components to enable the transfer of any type of data. This is usually accomplished by plugging them into a router or switch, For example, ethernet router or 5-port network interface module Thus, it is described as a type of component of a computer program that performs specific tasks based on the system’s input and output data. In most cases, networking modules can be installed in larger routers.

Network modules can be both provider and client modules. The network module’s location is critical for it to become a specific module. It will become the provider module if it is on the provider side. It will be the client module if it is on the client-side.

The provider module is in charge of implementing the Network programming interface on the network module’s provider side. It connects to the network module and registers to become the provider module. It is the client module’s responsibility to implement the network programming interface. It registers with the network module to become a network module.

• Storage Devices

Storage capacity is not limited by your computer’s physical capacity. You can offload data onto a physical storage device if your devices are slow or out of space. Storage devices can temporarily and permanently hold and store data. Several storage devices are intended to back up data or to facilitate sharing it with others. They can be inside or outside of a computer, server, or computing device.

Things to consider when buying a storage device

Before you go to the market or an online store to buy one, here are some things you should think about first.

1. Storage Space

Hard disk drives come in a variety of storage capacities. The volume of data that a computer storage device can handle is referred to as its capacity. The general rule of thumb is to select a hard disk drive with twice the capacity the user currently requires; this should allow for future needs.

1. Transfer rate

Storage space is not the only thing to consider when choosing a good option. It is also critical to consider the speed of transfer. Because there will come a time when there is a need to transfer a large number of files to the storage device. In connection with that, you don’t want to wait any longer for the file to be successfully transferred.

1. Caching size

A cache, also known as a buffer, is a type of embedded memory. It is used when transferring data from one section of a hard disk to another. Because more information can be stored at one time in a larger cache, it allows for faster data transfer.

1. Durability and portability

If you intend to take the device with you wherever you go, portability is an important factor to consider. A portable storage device is lightweight and small in size. Many devices have durable and sturdy casings that will protect them from damage if they are dropped or banged.

• Access time

Another important factor that influences the purchasing process is access times. The time it takes a storage device to write or read data is referred to as access time. It consists of latency and transfer time. RAM access time is typically measured in nanoseconds or milliseconds.

• Networking Card

A Network Interface Card (NIC) is a hardware component that is built into a computer and is accessible via a slot; it connects the computer to a network and allows it to communicate with other computer devices via buses. Connectors or buses act as a bridge between two points of communication. It converts parallel interaction to serial interaction or serial port to parallel port between multiple devices. 

Some motherboards include built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, but it’s not known how good it is, so getting a separate network card is a better option.

Conclusion

A computer is a complicated system with numerous parts that can process information and allow users to use applications. If you want to start learning about computers, understanding the components of a PC is a fine place to begin.