Datasheet

A personal computer (PC) is a computing device made up of
many distinct electronic components that all function together
in order to accomplish some useful task (such as adding up the
numbers in a spreadsheet or helping you write a letter). Note that this definition describes
a computer as having many distinct parts that work together. Most computers today are
modular. That is, they have components that can be removed and replaced with a compo-
nent of similar function in order to improve performance. Each component has a specific
function. In this chapter, you will learn about the components that make up a typical PC,
what their functions are, and how they work together inside the PC.
Unless specifically mentioned otherwise, throughout this book the terms
PC and c omputer can be used interchangeably.
In this chapter, you will learn how to identify system components common to most
personal computers, including the following:
Motherboards
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Processors
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Memory
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Cooling systems
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Identifying Components of
Motherboards
The spine of the computer is the motherboard, otherwise known as the system board (and
less commonly referred to as the planar board). This is the olive green or brown circuit board
that lines the bottom of the computer. It is the most important component in the computer
because it connects all the other components of a PC together. Figure 1.1 shows a typical PC
system board, as seen from above. All other components are attached to this circuit board.
On the system board, you will find the central processing unit (CPU), underlying circuitry,
expansion slots, video components, random access memory (RAM) slots, and a variety of
other chips.
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