Inside the computer
| Part | What it is |
|---|---|
| CPU (Central Processing Unit) | The brain of the computer; it carries out instructions |
| RAM (Random Access Memory) | Temporary working memory; its contents are lost when the power goes off |
| ROM (Read Only Memory) | Permanent memory that holds the start-up instructions |
| Motherboard | The main circuit board that joins all the parts |
| GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) | Handles pictures, video and games |
| SMPS (power supply) | Changes mains electricity into the power the parts need |
| Heat sink and fan | Keep the CPU from getting too hot |
| Network card | Connects the computer to a network |
| Cabinet (case) | The box that holds the inside parts |
Input devices (send data in)
| Device | What it does |
|---|---|
| Keyboard | Types letters, numbers and commands |
| Mouse | Moves the pointer and clicks |
| Scanner | Turns a paper page or photo into a digital file |
| Microphone | Records sound |
| Webcam | Captures video |
| Touchpad | Laptop surface that works like a mouse |
| Joystick | Controls movement in games |
Output devices (show results)
| Device | What it does |
|---|---|
| Monitor | Shows text, pictures and video |
| Printer | Prints on paper |
| Speakers | Play sound |
| Projector | Shows the screen on a wall or board |
| Headphones | Play sound privately |
Storage devices (keep data)
| Device | What it is |
|---|---|
| Hard disk drive (HDD) | Spinning magnetic disks; holds a lot of data at a low price |
| SSD (Solid State Drive) | No moving parts; faster and quieter than an HDD |
| Pen drive (USB flash drive) | Small portable storage that plugs into a USB port |
| Memory card | Small card used in cameras and phones |
| CD and DVD | Optical discs read with a laser |
Basic terms
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hardware | The parts of a computer you can touch |
| Software | Programs that tell the hardware what to do |
| Operating system | The main software that runs the computer, for example Windows, Linux or Android |
| Application | A program for a task, such as a word processor or a game |
| Browser | A program for viewing websites |
| Router | A device that shares an internet connection |
| USB port | A socket for plugging in many kinds of devices |
| File and folder | A file holds your work; a folder holds files |