The most common computer hardware components include the central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), hard disk drive (HDD), solid-state drive (SSD), optical disc drive (ODD), motherboard, graphic processing unit (GPU), power supply, and the case that houses all the components.
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): Also known as the brain of the computer, the CPU is responsible for interpreting and executing instructions from the computer’s software. It can also perform basic calculations, data processing and manipulation operations. CPUs come in different types with varying specs and capabilities.
2. Random Access Memory (RAM): RAM stores data and applications that are currently being used by the CPU for temporary use. It is a volatile memory which means the stored data is lost after the computer is turned off. RAM modules come in different sizes ranging from 4GB to 32GB.
3. Hard Disk Drive (HDD): HDDs are storage devices that store data permanently. They come in different form factors and have varying storage capacities ranging from 1TB to 16TB.
4. Solid State Drive (SSD): SSDs are another type of storage device that differs from HDDs. They utilize flash memory chips to store data and are much faster and reliable than HDDs. However, they are also more expensive.
5. Optical Disc Drive (ODD): ODDs are drives that can read and write to various optical discs such as CDs and DVDs. They are used to store large amounts of data or to install software on the computer.
6. Motherboard: A motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer. It is responsible for connecting all the different components on a computer including the CPU, RAM, HDD, SSD, ODD, and GPU.
7. Graphic Processing Unit (GPU): GPUs are responsible for rendering 2D and 3D images on the computer. They come in different configurations, with more powerful GPUs being more expensive.
8. Power Supply: The power supply is responsible for supplying power to all the components of the computer. It comes in different wattages, with higher wattage power supplies being more expensive.
9. Case: Cases are like furniture for the hardware components. They are available in different sizes and styles and the one that is chosen depends on the hardware components used.