Computer Hardware
Computers are changing many aspects of our lives in these modern times. In many cases creating dependence and isolation, but in others, when used with moderation, performing many useful tasks. It is only a tool and can be useful as that.The following guides explore the basics of Windows 95/98 operating system and some useful applications included with it.In this guide we will see the PC components and it's most common peripherals.
The computer hardware tutorials, labs and review questions may also be helpful for those preparing for CompTIA's A+ (Aplus) Certification exams. This site was designed to make choosing your hardware components easy. We've tested all kinds of hardware, scoured through review after review, and discussed components and their performance with real-world users to find the best components to recommend to you. We hope you will find these recommendations helpful. To begin, just select the component you're looking for from the menu.
The Motherboard
The motherboard is one of the most important components in your PC. The motherboard is the glue that brings all the separate PC components together. There are several factors you need to look at when choosing motherboards, like the form factor (usually ATX), supported CPU, bus speed, supported RAM, form factor, built-in sound/video/LAN. You can learn more about how to select good motherboards in my motherboard guide.
The CPU
The CPU is another important component, since it is the 'brain' of your PC. You'll want to look at either Intel or AMD CPUs. The latest CPU from Intel is the Pentium 4, while that from AMD is the Athlon 64. Both are excellent processors. For further reading, you may also want to check out my CPU guide here.
The Monitor
The monitor will be the most expensive component in your system. Newer monitors tend to have large 17-inch or 19-inch LCD screens which are easy on the eyes. There are also conventional CRT monitors which are bulkier but cost much less. If you want to know more about the difference between CRT and LCD monitors, this article on computer monitors will be of help to you.
The Keyboard and Mouse
These two input devices are obviously needed, otherwise you can't interact with the computer system. These components are fairly standard stuff and can be purchased at pretty cheap prices.
The Computer Case
The computer case is your computer's housing. You need this to store your components, the largest of which is your motherboard. These days, the PC cases out there come in ATX form, which means they can accomodate ATX motherboards. Learn how to choose a good computer case here.
Computer Memory
Computer memory is also called RAM (Random Access Memory) - think of it as the storage area in the computer's brain. Typically, RAM sizes nowadays come up to 512 MB to 1 GB on average. Computers which are run as full servers typically have memory in the range of 4 GB or more. What are the factors to consider when selecting computer memory? You'll find out in this article on computer memory.
Hard drives and Floppy Drives
A hard drive is essential for storing your system's data, including the operation system software. Hard drives are extremely sensitive devices and prone to failure, so get your hard drives from respected brands like Seagate, Maxtor and IBM. Floppy drives are important for reading 5.25 inch diskettes - these are fast becoming obsolete with the increasing commercial adoption of USB storage devices like Pen Drives. Still, for a basic computer, I'd still say the floppy drive is necessary. You'll also want to read more about selecting a good hard drive here.
CD-ROM Drives
A CD-ROM drive used to be an 'optional extra' in computers - it is no longer so. Most software packages come in CD format, so you must have a CD-ROM drive to read them. Typically, CD-ROM drives today need to be at least 24X speed to keep up with the newer software applications out there.
The Video Card
Unless you have built-in video on your motherboard, the video card is a must have component because it displays images on your monitor. The latest video cards support 3D graphics rendering and games - they are also the fastest changing technology in the PC world. Learn more about selecting video cards here.
Optional Components
Next, there are the optional hardware components that need not be in every computer setup. These include: the sound card, the LAN card, as well as CD writers and DVD writers. Without them, the computer system will still be able to function.
The Sound Card
Some may argue that the sound card is an essential component in the PC, since it translates digital signals into analog audio for your listening pleasure. Well, that's true, if you want to play games or run multimedia applications in your PC. Otherwise, it may not be necessary, especially in business environments. The one brand that stands out for sound cards is Creative Labs, I'd recommend you get one of those. And guess what, I've got a guide on choosing sound cards too! Read it here.
The LAN Card
Also known as the NIC (Network Interface Card). Once used only in corporate environments, the LAN card is now increasingly used at home for connecting various computer together to form a network. Many motherboards now also feature built-in LAN ports so you don't have to buy a separate card.
The CD Writer and DVD Writer
These two devices, especially the DVD writer, are selling like hotcakes in the market. Essentially CD writers allow you to burn images of your data into a 600 MB to 700 MB CD, which is really handy for performing data backups. DVD writers are even better, since they allow you to burn data onto a 4.7 GB DVD.
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