Computer Hardware Physical structure that houses a computer's processor, memory, storage, communication ports and peripheral devices. Each of these components (called devices) have a different purpose, which may be either accepting inputs, storing data or sending outputs. For example, a mouse and a microphone are input devices used to record user activities and transform them into data that is transmitted to the system unit. A hard disk is a storage unit where data is stored and accessed by other devices. A monitor or a speaker are output devices that transform processed data into (respectively) video and audio signals. Usually, the core components that represent the bare minimum that allow a computer to function are: Processor (CPU) The component that processes and executes inputs received from hardware and software. Motherboard A mainboard that provides basic ...
