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COMPUTER BASICSHOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN PC
CHOOSING PARTS
• Motherboard
• Processor
• Memory (RAM)
• Disk drive
• Graphics card
• Power supply
• Case
• Blu-ray/DVD drive
• Cooling
• Operating system
MOTHERBOARD
• Most important component
• Links all other parts together and supplies them with power
• Motherboard and processor must be compatible
PROCESSOR
• The “thinking” part of the computer: makes all decisions and calculations
• Controls all other components
• Processor socket must match motherboard socket
MEMORY (RAM)
• Computer’s short term memory
• Stores programs and files while they’re being used
• Both processor and motherboard must be compatible with your RAM
• 4GB or more is enough for most users
DISK DRIVE
• Stores files and programs long term
• Can be hard disk (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD)
• HDDs are slow, but store more and are cheaper
• SSDs are much faster, but are smaller and more expensive
GRAPHICS CARD
• Generates everything seen on screen
• Graphics processing unit (GPU) is optimized for drawing graphics
• Optional, as most processors include a rudimentary GPU
• High-end GPUs are very expensive
POWER SUPPLY
• Provides power for the entire system
• Capability is measured in watts
• 300W or more is sufficient for most users
COOLING
• Keeps the processor cool
• Additional fans throughout the case keep air flowing
BLU-RAY/DVD DRIVE
• Plays Blu-rays, DVDs and CDs
• Optional, as optical media is used increasingly less
CASE
• Holds all components
• Directs airflow to help keep everything cool
OPERATING SYSTEM
• The software that runs everything
• When building a PC, you can choose between Windows and Linux
• Popular versions of Linux include Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, and Debian