HARDWARE

• Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system
• These components can be internal or external

Internal Components

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): the computer’s “brain” that performs calculations, processes instructions, and controls other components
• Processor: a chip inside the CPU that carries out instructions from a program
• Motherboard: the main circuit board that connects all internal components

Internal Memory

• Random Access Memory (RAM): temporary storage for running programs and data; it is volatile, meaning data is lost when the computer is turned off
• Read-Only Memory (ROM): permanent storage for essential data, like the computer’s BIOS; it is non-volatile, meaning data is retained even when the computer is turned off

Hardware Components

• Graphics card: processes images and videos for display on a monitor
• Sound card: processes audio for output through speakers or headphones
• Network Interface Card (NIC): enables connection to a network, such as the internet
• Camera: captures images or video for input into the computer
• Internal/external storage devices: stores data permanently, such as hard drives or USB flash drives
• Input devices: allow users to enter data, like keyboards and mice
• Output devices: display or produce results, like monitors and printers