This document provides an overview of the basic hardware components of a personal computer, including the central processing unit (CPU) which processes input data, the hard drive which stores processed data and information, and input devices like the keyboard and mouse for entering data as well as output devices like the monitor for displaying information, printer for printing hard copies, and speakers and webcam.

1. Input, Output,
Storage and
Processing
A beginner’s first look at a
PC’s hardware components

2. Hardware
 Physical parts of
the computer
Processor
Input devices
Output devices
Storage devices

3. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
 Changes the
input data into
information
that can be
output or
stored

4. Hard Drive
 Stores data
and
processed
information
for later
retrieval

5. Monitor
 A screen that
displays the
data and
information

6. Printer
 Produces a
hard copy of
the processed
information
on paper

7. Speakers
 Emit and amplify
sound from the
computer

8. Keyboard
 Used to enter
data and
instructions
by typing
characters

9. Mouse
 Used to
control the
on-screen
pointer by
rolling across
a flat surface

10. Webcam
 Allows the
user to record
video and still
images