Anatomy of a Computer

The anatomy of a computer system is complex, but it is essential for understanding how computers work. By knowing the basic components of a computer system, you can better understand how to use and troubleshoot your computer. 

Motherboard

The motherboard is the skeleton of the computer. It is the main structure that connects and holds all of the other components together.

Power Supply Unit

The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is like the heart. The Power Supply Unit pumps electricity throughout the computer, providing power to all of the computer's components. 

Central Processing Unit

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is like the brain. The CPU receives instructions from the memory and sends signals to the other components of the computer. 

RAM

The RAM is like the pre-frontal cortex of the brain. It is the part of the brain that is active when you are thinking about something or trying to solve a problem. 

Solid State Drive

The solid state drive (SSD) is like the long-term memory of the brain. It is the part of the brain that we access when we try to remember something. The older version of this piece of hardware is called a Hard Disk Drive (HDD).

Heat Sink

The heat sink is like skin. The skin helps to dissipate heat from the body. In this case it helps by absorbing heat from the Central Processing Unit (CPU) and uses a fan to push it out of the case. 

Graphics Card

The graphics card is like the eyes. The eyes take in the light from the outside world and send it to the brain. The brain then interprets the light and creates an image.

Case

The computer case is also like the skin. The skin protects the body from the environment and helps to regulate body temperature. 

A Completed Build

This is what a completed desktop computer can look like on the inside once all the parts are assembled.

Now that you're familiar with what makes up a modern computer you should have an idea of how your computer should behave if something goes wrong. 

If you need expert help to improve or fix your computer, a professional is only a phone call away.