Getting to Know the Parts of Your ComputerParts

of the

Computer

False

CPU or Central Processing Unit

• Often referred to as the brains of a computer

• Processes user requests• Controls all of the other

hardware within your computer

Hard Drive

• The Operating System, such as Windows XP, as well as any applications (Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.) are stored here.

• Permanently stores your files for later use

• Also known as Drive C

RAM (Random Access Memory)

• Temporarily stores your information until you hit Save

• Everything stored in this temporary memory is lost when the computer shuts down

CD ROM, CD-RWDVD, DVD-RW

• Drive used to read information from a CD or DVD

• Those Drives designated as CD-R, CD-RW, DVD-R, or DVD-RW enable you to save to disk

• Also known as Drive D

Floppy Drive

• These drives do not hold much information

• They are, however, very portable

• Also known as Drive A

Mouse

• One example of an input device, as you use it to input information into the computer

• Enables users to send commands to the CPU through a series of clicks on the screen

Network Card and Patch Cable

• Connects your computer to other computers and the Internet

• One end plugs into your computer’s Network Card

• The other end plugs into a “drop” along the wall

Monitor

• One example of an “output device,” this item provides visual images to the computer user

Keyboard

• A second example of an input device, the keyboard enables users to type instructions, characters, etc.

Power Cord

• Supplies power to the computer

• Make sure it is plugged in!