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The inside of a computer can look pretty messy
1. Let's Peek Inside ... The typical computer has the following core components: processor, memory, input/output (I/O), disk, display, and power supply.
The processor executes the instructions to make the computer to certain tasks.
Memory is used to hold bits of information for later retrieval. I/O is used to
read in information from say disk drives and out through say the monitor. The power supply
supplies juice to all components in the PC. 2. How The Components Work Together How do these various components work together? Well, very simple. Everything is centered around the processor. The processor repeatedly receives instructions from memory (e.g. a software program), and decides what to do. It may read from the hard disk, write information back to the disk or display an image on the monitor. The processor communicates with each computer component (e.g. hard disk or video card) through the system bus (think of that as an information 'subway' in the computer).
The processor does this basic cycle billions of times every second it's turned
on. Little besides turning the computer off stops the repetitive sequence. 3. The Clock Signal There is an important timer signal inside the
computer called the clock signal. This clock signal synchronizes all the
components in the computer to make sure everything is running in step. Conclusion Well, you now understand what's going on inside that computer of yours. In future, I'll cover specific details of how the processor and other computer components work. So do come back and visit often - until then, happy computing!
Related Articles You may also wish to read the following related articles:
A guide to the computer's BIOS © 2012 Build-Your-Own-Computers.com
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