The hardware and software of a computer (computer) is the basis through which a computer can perform the tasks assigned to it. In part, this is the electronic computer itself. Sometimes, novice users ask what exactly is the computer hardware? In fact, there is nothing complicated - the main problem in terms. A loud name is no better than a short one if the meaning behind the words is the same. This happened in this case. So, instead of the term “computer hardware”, the more capacious word “components” could be used. After all, it is unlikely that anyone would think of calling a program a computer component. But since the first term has been established in the community, let’s get acquainted with what it means.
Let's start with an illustrative analogy example. Imagine a car. In sum, this is a complex structure consisting of a body, engine, auxiliary devices, fuel. Modern cars are becoming more intelligent, having learned to control the fuel level; "Follow" the work of the main nodes. But even now, a living human driver controls this entire metal system. The direction of movement, the engine, the wheels are all obedient to his will. Will the car go on its own, will it be able to make decisions? Unlikely. In this example, a machine is the hardware of a computer. Accordingly, software is all those programs that in a certain way control the operation of all the "iron" nodes. Returning to the analogy with a car, the application can be compared with a human driver. Of course, there are a number of reservations, for example, a person can go on foot, and a computer program without hardware will be a meaningless set of characters.
So, the hardware of the computer represents all the devices that make up the computer, as well as others, the design of which provides for their use with a PC.
Now in stores there are both stationary computers and laptops (laptops). Despite the external differences, the principles of operation of the components in them are the same. Therefore, we list that includes the hardware of a personal computer.
One of the main parts of a computer is the processor. The functions of this rather large microcircuit are the processing of digital data and partial support for the interaction of the remaining connected components. The main manufacturers of desktop processors are Intel and AMD.
The main board (motherboard, motherboard, mainboard, system), as the name implies, is the basis to which all internal and peripheral components are connected. In addition, it contains special microcircuits that control the operation of some nodes. Previously, there were two on the motherboard, but now one of them is fully integrated into the processor.
A hard drive is used to store user information and programs necessary for operation. Previously, the magnetic principle of recording was used in this type of device, but recently an alternative has appeared in the form of flash technology, which predicts great prospects in the future.
This also includes a CD-ROM drive, sound card, video adapter, memory. Also, as already mentioned, in addition to internal components, external devices also belong to the hardware. So, a mouse, keyboard, computer speakers, monitor, printer, scanner, etc. That is, all those devices that are designed to work as part of a computer system. It can be said differently: they can be seen, touched with hands, repaired with a screwdriver, which is completely unthinkable for programs.