Computer Parts

Router

A device that carries an Internet signal from the carrier to a user's Internet capable devices through a phone line, a cable, or wirelessly

Desktop Computer

A personal computer that is generally left in one location, and is not easily portable

Laptop Computer

A personal computer that is portable and can be taken easily with he user to a different location

CD/DVD

A portable disk that allows the user to store data which can then be used on other computers, or as a backup in case the original computer file does not work

Mouse

An input device that allows the user to point to and select information in the computer

Scanner

An input device that allows the user to scan information into the computer

Microphone

An input device that allows the user to speak information into the computer

Flash Drive

An input device that allows the user to store data in a portable container with flash memory that can be used on other computers or as a backup in case the original computer file does not work

Ethernet Card

An input device that takes the Internet signal from a carrier, and converts it to data that the computer can use to connect to the Internet

Keyboard

An input devices that allows the user to type information into the computer

Speakers

An output device that allows the user to hear the data that the computer is processing

Headphones

An output device that allows the user to hear the data that the computer is processing without disturbing others

Monitor

An output device that allows the user to see the data that the computer is processing

Printer

An output device that produces a hard copy (paper copy) of the information presented on the screen

CD/DVD Drive

An output device that reads what is on a CD-ROM or DVD-ROM disk, and allows the user to access that information

CPU

Central Processing Unit; executes commands from a computer's hardware and software, which determines operating speed; the brain of a computer; microprocessor

Memory/RAM

Computer chips that store data and programs while the computer is working

Sound Card

Computer hardware that processes audio data and converts it to something the user can hear

Video Card

Computer hardware that processes visual data and converts it to something the user can see

Programs

Computer software that allow the user to perform a specific job or task

Processor

Executes commands from a computer's hardware

Hardware

Physical parts of the computer, including processor and memory chips, input/output devices, disks, modems, etc.

Operating System

System software that acts as a go between, allowing hardware and software to communicate

Hard Drive

The central storage device where the files of the computer are stored for later use