COMPUTER BASICSHOW TO BUILD YOUR OWN PC

CHOOSING PARTS

• Motherboard

• Processor

• Memory (RAM)

• Disk drive

• Graphics card

• Power supply

• Case

• Blu-ray/DVD drive

• Cooling

• Operating system

MOTHERBOARD

• Most important component

• Links all other parts together and supplies them with power

• Motherboard and processor must be compatible

PROCESSOR

• The “thinking” part of the computer: makes all decisions and calculations

• Controls all other components

• Processor socket must match motherboard socket

MEMORY (RAM)

• Computer’s short term memory

• Stores programs and files while they’re being used

• Both processor and motherboard must be compatible with your RAM

• 4GB or more is enough for most users

DISK DRIVE

• Stores files and programs long term

• Can be hard disk (HDD) or solid state drive (SSD)

• HDDs are slow, but store more and are cheaper

• SSDs are much faster, but are smaller and more expensive

GRAPHICS CARD

• Generates everything seen on screen

• Graphics processing unit (GPU) is optimized for drawing graphics

• Optional, as most processors include a rudimentary GPU

• High-end GPUs are very expensive

POWER SUPPLY

• Provides power for the entire system

• Capability is measured in watts

• 300W or more is sufficient for most users

COOLING

• Keeps the processor cool

• Additional fans throughout the case keep air flowing

BLU-RAY/DVD DRIVE

• Plays Blu-rays, DVDs and CDs

• Optional, as optical media is used increasingly less

CASE

• Holds all components

• Directs airflow to help keep everything cool

OPERATING SYSTEM

• The software that runs everything

• When building a PC, you can choose between Windows and Linux

• Popular versions of Linux include Ubuntu, Mint, Fedora, and Debian