The document outlines the key components needed to build a basic computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), random-access memory (RAM), hard disk drive, compact disk (CD) drive, graphics card, case and power supply, operating system, input devices, and monitor. The motherboard connects and controls all other components, and each requires specific types of CPU, RAM, graphics card, and power supply. Storage devices like hard drives and optical drives interface using standard connections and hold software and data for the computer.

1. Building a Basic
Computer
By: Robert Sand

2. Motherboard
1. Essential piece of
the computer.
2. Connects and
controls all of the
components.
3. A specific CPU
connects to every
motherboard.

3. Central Processing
Unit (CPU)
1. The “brain” of the
computer.
2. Two most
common brands.
(AMD & Intel)
3. Each CPU fits
into a specific
socket on the
motherboard.

4. Random-Access
Memory (RAM)
1. Helps data be found
quickly.
2. More RAM = more
applications
running.
3. Each motherboard
uses a specific type
of RAM.
4. Clears when the
system resets.

5. Hard Disk Drive
1. Stores all the data.
2. Connects in two
different ways.
(SATA & PATA)
3. SATA is the new
style and is much
faster.
4. PATA is older but is
very commonly
used.

6. Compact Disk (CD)
Drive
1. Used to read CD
software and
entertainment.
2. Connects with
the same
connections as a
hard drive.
3. Some read/write
DVD, CD, &/or
Blu-ray.

7. Graphics Card
1. Some motherboards
include this.
2. Used for viewing the
computer process.
3. A higher end
removable graphics
card is generally used
for gaming or photo
editing.
4. Connects through PCI,
PCIe, or AGP.

8. Case and Power
Supply
1. Most cases come
with power
supplies.
2. The case holds and
protects all of the
devices.
3. Each device gets
power from the
power supply with a
different plug.
4. Each device needs a
certain amount of
watts. (20w – 100w
each)

9. Operating System
1. Three main choices.
(Mac, Linux, &
Windows)
2. Operating system is
the software that
controls the
computers
functions.
3. Linux and
Windows can be on
any hardware.
4. Mac can only be on
specific hardware.

10. Input Devices
1. Devices that
control the
computers
functions.
2. This includes
keyboard, mouse,
controller,
speakers, and
touch screens.
3. Generally uses
USB.

11. Monitor
1. Displays the
information from
the computer.
2. Also know as an
output device.
3. Comes in various
sizes.
4. LCD is the
newest and has
the best picture.