Computers have become part and parcel of us since the wave of digital technology swept in the recent years. There is no denying that they have made life easier and better. However, if you are not computer literate, then you may find less useful. The first computers date back as far as late 18th century, the system of operation was a little bit different from the recent ones. Mainframes, as they were referred to, were mainly used for administrative purposes, not until early 70s that PCs arrived. Ed Roberts is known to be the parson behind PCs; he began selling computer kits for personal or small business use in 1970s. 

Maybe once your curiosity drove you as far as cracking open your PC just to see what makes that machine work. Well, knowing the computer components is one way of knowing just how best you can manage and maintain your PC. At least, you won’t have to visit a professional whenever it breaks down. The computer has several parts that can be broadly classified as soft and hardware parts. The hardware is the tangible part of a computer while software is in most cases an application or program in the PC. 

Just like human beings, a computer has a ‘brain’ that enables it to carry out the various functions. This computer brain is known as the CPU. The central processing unit, just as the name suggests, is the core of all the computer activities. The CPU is a microprocessor chip found in the mother board. For effective functioning, the mother board is connected to internal parts of the computer. Once you know what does what and where, it is quite easy to build your own computer.  

The computer uses memory that effects data storage, normally there are two types of memories; the random-access memory (RAM) and the read-only memory (ROM). Other types of memory include the flash memory, the BIOs system (basic input/output) and the virtual member. 

The hard disk is a device that stores all saved documents and software applications in a computer. This is where all your files and documents go whenever you save them, making it available when retrieved. The audio files are recorded and controlled by the sound card.

The operating system (OS) acts as an interface between you (the user) and the computer. An example is the window. It can be described as a graphic frame used to display programs on the computer. The CD ROMs, hard disks and floppy disks, on the other hand, use integrated drive electronics as an interface. Other peripheral devices you may be familiar with include the monitor, keyboard, mouse and the universal service buses (USB).   

And just like any other electronic, your computer needs a power supply to get the systems running. The PC has several power supply ports and cables. So the next time you go purchasing ensure you visit an IT shop with best deals and reliable computer brands. Knowing how a computer works makes it easier for one to shop computer parts that are not only durable but also those that will save money.