Computer System Basics

Computer System Basics

So, you are preparing to buy a new computer. The good news is, with each month that passes, you get more computing power for less money. The bad news is, with each month that passes, you get more computing power for less money. Everyone knows that computers are constantly getting faster, more powerful, and less expensive. So, forget about trying to buy the latest and greatest machine. There is no such thing. Instead, you should buy a computer that adequately fits your needs, not the needs of your computer company's bottom line.

Parts of the Computer

The guide below is designed to give you a basic understanding of each of the standard computer components. After the introduction to the concepts, you'll find some resources for finding out about current computer models.

CPU

The CPU (stands for Central Processing Unit) is the brains behind your computer. The CPU is responsible for performing calculations and tasks that make programs work. The faster the CPU, the quicker programs can process computations.

RAM

Generally, RAM in a computer is considered main memory (or primary storage): the working area used for displaying and manipulating data. This type of RAM is usually in the form of integrated circuits (IC). These are commonly called memory sticks or RAM sticks because they are manufactured as small circuit boards with plastic packaging and are about the size of a few sticks of gum. Most personal computers have slots for adding and replacing memory chips.

Hard Disk Drive

The hard disk drive (HDD) of the computer is where permanent information is stored. Documents, databases, spreadsheets, and programs are all stored on the hard disk. The larger the hard disk, the more you can fit on the drive. The size of the HDD does not affect the speed at which a program can run, but the HDD speed can affect how fast you can access your files.

Optical Drives (CD, CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, DVD-R, DVD-RW)

Optical drives are more commonly known as CD and DVD drives. They are considered "optical" because the drive uses a laser to see the data etched onto the plastic disk. All computers now come with some form of CD drive. CD-R and CD-RW drives are becoming a new standard in portable data storage. The "R" in CD-R stands for "recordable." This type allows you to "burn" information to the CD only once. The "RW" in CD-RW stands for "rewritable." These can be rewritten several times over, allowing you to delete and add files.

Floppy Drive

While floppy drives can come in handy for transferring small files from one computer to another, it isn't generally a big concern if your computer has on or