What Are the Main Parts That Make up a Computer and Their Functions?
The main parts of a computer are the memory, storage and central processing units, all of which are contained in the system unit. The processor reads and interprets instructions, while the memory acts as the temporary storage for those instructions. The storage unit, which is usually referred to as a hard drive, is where all information on the computer is kept.
In essence, a computer is made up of software and hardware parts. Software refers to the programs that tell the hardware what to do. Software also comprises programs or applications accessed by the user. It is not possible to physically touch software, but computer users can see what software does on the screen.
Hardware, on the other hand, are the physical components of a computer. The system unit is by far the most important and most delicate hardware part of a computer. It houses the processor, the storage components, and the computer’s memory. It also houses the computer’s main circuitry board, which is commonly known as a motherboard.
All other hardware parts of a computer connect to the system unit using cables that plug into specific ports on the unit. Hardware components that do not form the core part of a computer, such as external storage devices, keyboards and printers, are sometimes referred to as peripherals.
