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Computers have become extremely important for carrying out daily tasks nowadays. A computer is an electronic device which can complete complex tasks such as sending emails or conducting face-to-face interactions within a few seconds. People are now more dependent on computers. Though computers can assist in performing our tasks in less time, the credit goes to the components of the computer.
Computers are used in medicine, education, and entertainment, to name a few. We provide information to the computer in letters, numbers, or symbols through input devices, and the computer produces the required results in a readable form through the output devices. Whatever the input may be, it always converts it into the binary codes of 1 or 0.
Components of a Computer
The components of a computer, in addition to the input and output devices, are:
Motherboard
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Motherboard
A motherboard is defined as a circuit board that keeps all computer communication components connected together. To function properly, all the connections from the input devices as well as the output devices are connected to a motherboard. It is a single platform and is regarded as the backbone of a computer system. The processor, which is used to process the data and information provided by the user, is also located in a hardware circuit board which is a motherboard. A motherboard is secured tightly in a case where a number of small screws are attached via pre-drilled holes.
In the early 1980s, the first-ever motherboard was introduced by IBM and was initially called the planar. Since all the important connections of the computer are connected in this single platform, it later changed to the name motherboard.
Components of a motherboard
RAM: Random access memory is the primary memory that stores large amounts of data in the computer system. Its slot is connected to a motherboard
CPU fan and HeatSink: The heat produced while working on a computer is generally absorbed by the CPU fan and helps in cooling down the CPU (Central Processing Unit)
North and South Bridge: This controls the functions of input and output devices
Capacitors and resistors: They are both used to store data
Processor: This is used to process data and instructions by the user
Integrated circuits: ICs are inserted into a motherboard to process and store data
Advantages of a motherboard
A motherboard makes the work easier since all the components are connected together in one place. It is indispensable for a computer system
Any connections from outside sources can be connected and can help in transferring a large amount of data quickly
It contains a single socket and multiple sockets for CPU and memory, respectively
A motherboard has slots for floppy disks, pen drives, digital cameras, hard drives, and more
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
A Central Processing Unit (CPU) is considered the brain of the computer since it executes the processing of information. The CPU is placed in a square-shaped socket in a motherboard. CPUs are provided with fans that prevent overheating while working on the computer.
Components of a Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The main work is carried out by CPU components. These components are:
Memory Unit: This is also known as the storage unit where all the information received from the input devices is stored in the memory of the CPU and is passed to the other components of the CPU. It also stores the final result after being processed before the output is produced to the user
Control Unit: This is the functioning component of the computer system’s CPU where the data is collected, processed, and receives the output to provide it to the user. It is a centre where the processing and the execution signalling take place. It decodes the instructions provided by the user and signals them for execution to the other components of the central processing unit (CPU)
Arithmetic and Logic Unit: ALU is the next compartment of the CPU where all the arithmetic calculations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division take place. It not only performs mathematical operations but also compares data using logic functions such as AND, OR and NOT and helps in decision-making
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is the pivotal component of the computer, which generates high-end visuals that are seen in video games, for example. The GPU communicates directly with the monitor of the computer system. The GPU helps the user by providing 3D images for easy execution of tasks. It produces such images by performing rapid mathematical calculations. GPUs nowadays perform calculations which were earlier performed by the CPU but strained the CPU, leading to decreased performance. The GPU is mainly found in PCs for gaming purposes.
Working of Graphics Processing Units
A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is either integrated with the CPU or to a motherboard. GPUs are designed specifically to perform complex mathematical calculations necessary to render graphics. The GPU contains more transistors than the CPU. One can find that multiple processors perform the same task. Hence, the GPU uses a parallel processing method. The GPU has a RAM and memory unit that stores the data. The RAM is connected to a Digital-to-Analog Converter (DAC) that turns the image into an analogue signal to display on the monitor.
A GPU is of two types: Integrated GPUs (embedded alongside the GPU) and Discrete GPUs (where they are found on a separate circuit).
Conclusion
Apart from the input devices and the output devices, the three components (motherboard, CPU, and GPU) are required for the proper functioning of a computer system. A motherboard, which is considered the backbone of the electronic device, is the place where the other components are connected. A Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the main centre for executing the signal to process information provided by the user and store data and information temporarily for future use. A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) is mainly installed in gaming PCs to provide high-resolution graphics.
