Other Parts of the Computer
The following parts are found in the CPU compartment. They are responsible for processing and storage of words, numbers and pictures (data).
The hard drive
The hard drive or discs are primary ways to store information in a computer. Normally, hard drives are permanently stored on the motherboard and are not supposed to be moved, this is where the operating systems / software of a computer are normally installed.
The hard disk is made up of several rotating platters that have magnetic surfaces. Information is written, erased, or manipulated through these magnetic platters. Other ways we store data includes optical devices. These are CD-ROM, CD-RW, DVD-ROM and DVD-RW. Don’t be bothered about the latter ones yet we would come across them in time.
Hard disk / drive
The Motherboard
Another notable part found in the CPU unit is called a motherboard or the system board. Simply put, it is the heart of the computer. Just like the name suggests, the motherboard is the foundation where other parts are built upon.
Other core components found in the CPU unit that works together during processing of data are plugged or inserted onto the motherboard to be connected and communicate with each other. The power supply provides current to the motherboard and other components that sits on it. Other components on the motherboard are the RAM, CPU, storage devices, connectors, component cards and other secondary devices.
The Motherboard
RAM
The Random Access Memory (RAM) is a memory chip that fits into sockets on the motherboard, they are commonly referred to as RAM sticks.
Their main function is to collect data from the hard discs or drives and supplies the CPU or processor those data it needs to run an application or software at a defined speed it can use.
When an application or software is launched; the necessary files needed to run the application is loaded into the RAM chips which in turn is transferred to the CPU through the circuits on the motherboard, for it to use the necessary data it needs to run the programme.
RAM comes in various sizes and names depending on their storage capacity that is measured in bits, megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB).
RAM Stick
Other components are:
The Fan that supplies air for cooling the CPU and other components.
The heat sink that is made with an alloy block that sits on the CPU to absorb the heat from it.
Cooling Fan with heat sink
PC Cards is notable with laptop or handheld computers. They are swappable devices as small as a credit card. They are often referred to as memory cards; they hold a number of valuable functions for the computer, like the modem, NIC, hard drives, sound cards etc.
| 
