Computer Components

• Central Processing Unit (CPU) is also an IC. The term CPU is often used to describe the case and internal components, however it more correctly refers to the main processor that executes program instructions and performs mathematical calculations.
• Printed Circuit Board (PCB): PCBs are the principal material that contains the computer's basic circuitry and components. The largest PCB is the motherboard, which connects the components of the computer (e.g. CPU, input and output devices, RAM and storage devices) to one another. Expansion slots on the motherboard allow for the insertion of daughter boards that provide further input and output connections (e.g. sound, modem, networking, video). Circuitry is imprinted or affixed to the surface of the board; this involves the use of metals (primarily copper, with gold-plated connectors) to provide the circuit, embedded in a fibreglass board using either glue or solder. Fire retardants are usually incorporated into the manufacture of PCBs.
• Storage: Information can be stored on fixed devices (e.g. magnetic "hard" drive) or removable devices that use any one of a range of consumable media (e.g. 3.5" magnetic disks, CD-ROM, digital tape, flash memory cards and Zip disks).
• Power Supply: The power supply takes mains power and transforms it to the voltages required by the CPU, motherboard and input/output devices. Metal and some plastic components are used in their construction.