What is Computer Hardware?

Almost everyone owns a computer today. Although many people hear the terms software and hardware, they do not really know what the term encompasses. Computer hardware is the many components that make up the inside of your computer. If it is physically attached to your PC, it is hardware. Each type of hardware serves a unique purpose.

Computer hardware devices are the elements that make up the physical computer itself. Hardware is not a program but a physical element of the interworking of your computer that serves a specific function within the interworking of your PC. Hardware devices work together; they help your computer to perform at optimal levels. There are many different types of hardware found within your computer, each of them serving a unique purpose to the overall performance of your PC. Most computers have the same basic hardware; the quality of the components is what determines the speed of your computer.

Types of Hardware

Motherboard - The motherboard is the brain of your computer. It is the main board that everything else plugs into.

CPU - CPU stands for central processing unit. This is the unit responsible for processing the tasks sent to your computer through your software programs.

DVD/CD Rom drive - The DVD/CD rom drive allows your computer to read files in read-only mode through various file formats. If your drive is a rewritable drive you will also be able to send files from your computer to a blank disc to copy them.

Video card - Your video card is a hardware device that reads a signal from its included software that tells the images to display on your monitor.

Sound card - The sound card is similar to the video card in the way it functions. The sound card gets orders from the software that translates the codes it receive to audio that you hear from your computer's speakers.

Input devices - Input devices are external hardware that plugs into your computer such as a keyboard or a mouse. Input devices allow you to enter information into the computer.