Components of CPU

CPU (Central Processing Unit) :

The CPU controls and executes all our computer operations. For example, it ensures that the correct character is displayed on the monitor when you press a key on the keyboard. Cables are connected into the back of the CPU with Keyboard, Monitor, Mouse, Printer etc.,  Usually the hard disk and floppy disk drive are inside the CPU.

Components of CPU :

The brain behind all processes of the computer is contained within the System Unit. Inside the system unit there are so many components available.

Important components are described below :

1. Motherboard : All the electronic components in a PC are mounted on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB), called the motherboard. Thin lines of metal on the surface of the fibreglass connect pins from one component to another, forming the computer's electronic circuits.

2. Processor :The Microprocessor, or Central Processing Unit (CPU), is the computer's most important component. It carries out all the operations inside the computer, Pentium II, Pentium III, Pentium IV, are some of the Latest CPUs.

3. RAM chips : When a computer is switched on and is running a program, RAM (Random Access Memory) is used for the purpose of holding the program and its data. But when the computer is switched  off, anything held in RAM is lost.

4. Empty RAM chip Slots : These slots let us expand our computer's memory by adding extra RAM chips or modules.

5. Floppy Disk Drive : Each floppy disk drive consists of a slot to accept a floppy disk, a motor that spins the disk and a recording/reading device that moves across the disk in order to write or read data.

6. Hard Disk Drive : It is our computer's main permanent storage unit, holding large amounts of data and programs. Unlike data held in RAM the information on the hard disk is not affected even when the computer is switched off. It remains permanent unless we instruct the computer to remove it or the hard disk is damaged.

7. Power Supply Box (SMPS-Switched Mode Power Supply) : All the components in a PC need electronic power supply. The SMPS converts the normal household electric AC supply to 5V and 12V DC supply. Usually 12V DC supply is connected to Motherboard, whereas 5V DC supply to other peripherals such as Floppy, Hard disk etc.

8. Expansion Slots : These long narrow connectors allow us to plug in expansion chords (also called adaptor chords), which offer extra options not available in a normal computer.

Eg : TV tuner can be attached to view TV in a computer.

9. ROM Chips : Read Only Memory (ROM) chips have data written on them during manufacturing, that tells the CPU what to do when you switch on your PC. The data always intact even if you switch off your PC. We cannot delete or alter the contents of ROM.

10. Speaker : The speaker emits the computer's sound output.