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Essay on How to Build a Barebones Pc

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A computer is an electronic device that stores, retrieves, and processes data, and can be programmed with instructions. A computer is composed of hardware and software, and can exist in a variety of sizes and configurations. Hardware is the physical equipment of a computer system, including the central processing unit (CPU), data-storage devices, terminals, printer, etc. Software is a program or set of instructions or rules that control the operation of a computer. The most obvious hardware component is the computer case. The case is where size comes into play. A bigger case allows more room for components. A bigger case is most often used for servers. For basic home computing needs, a small or mid-sized case is most common. Cases also …show more content…

It is responsible for reading the instructions and data from the main memory in order to perform calculations and coordinate the other components. It interprets instructions and processes data contained in computer programs. The actual CPU is about 1.5 inches square. Today, some of the more widely used CPU’s are made by Intel and known as Pentium 1 through Pentium 4. This information and instructions for the CPU are stored in Random Access Memory (RAM). This memory is the next hardware component for a bare bones PC referred to as the main memory. The CPU has direct access to any instructions for programs to be executed that are in the main memory and only in the main memory. The main memory is volatile which means it can only store data or instructions when the computer is powered on. The device that stores data when the PC is powered off is the hard drive. It is the computers primary method of storage. Another way it stores memory is through the floppy drive. This form of memory is removable. In order to store something in the main memory, it must first be input through the keyboard or mouse or other input device. A keyboard is designed to enter text, numbers, or punctuation. It is the main input device on most PC’s. The mouse is a pointing device used to select, point, and click on a computer screen. The keyboard and mouse are used to send information to the CPU. This information is translated through other devices called output devices such as the monitor. This

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