- StumbleUpon. PC Parts" To see how a PC works, let's start with the pieces that come together to make up the machine. The following are the components common to PCs in the order they're typically assembled: Case -- If you're using a laptop, the computer case includes keyboard and screen. For desktop PCs, the case is typically some type of box with lights, vents, and places for attaching cables. The size of the case can vary from small tabletop units to tall towers. A larger case doesn't always imply a more powerful computer; it's what's inside that counts. PC builders design or select a case based on the type of motherboard that should fit inside.
Motherboard -- The primary circuit board inside your PC is its motherboard. Power supply -- Other than its CMOS, which is powered by a replaceable CMOS battery on the motherboard, every component in your PC relies on its power supply. Central processing unit (CPU) -- The CPU, often just called the processor, is the component that contains the microprocessor.
Desktop PC Component Checklist. Your Hardware Explained. How to Build a Computer" Have you ever thought about building your own computer? Actually buying a motherboard and a case along with all the supporting components and assembling the whole thing yourself? Here are three reasons why you might want to consider taking the plunge: You'll be able to create a custom machine that exactly matches your needs.It will be much easier to upgrade your machine in the future because you'll understand it completely.You may be able to save some money. And, if you've never done it before, you'll definitely learn a lot about computers. In this article, we'll take you through the entire process of building a computer. The first step in building a computer is deciding what type of machine you want to build.
Let's imagine that you want to build a powerful video-editing computer. Quad-core CPUs (either Intel or AMD)At least 8GB of high-speed RAMFour (or more) SATA hard drivesFireWire connections (possibly in both the front and back of the case)USB 3.0 ports.