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Hardware Lesson

The document outlines the basic components of computer hardware essential for technicians, including the CPU, motherboard, RAM, and more. It provides troubleshooting tips for each component, emphasizing the importance of understanding how these parts work together in a computer system. Additionally, it offers guidance on purchasing hardware and improving computer performance.

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11 views5 pages

Hardware Lesson

The document outlines the basic components of computer hardware essential for technicians, including the CPU, motherboard, RAM, and more. It provides troubleshooting tips for each component, emphasizing the importance of understanding how these parts work together in a computer system. Additionally, it offers guidance on purchasing hardware and improving computer performance.

Uploaded by

abasiama okon
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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1.

11 Basic Components of Computer Hardware: Tips for Technicians

11 Basic Components of Computer Hardware:


Tips for Technicians
Written by

Indeed Editorial Team

Updated March 3, 2025

Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer. It refers to the


computer system, especially those that form part of the central processing unit.
Computer technicians should know the basic components of computer
hardware and how to work with each part, including the motherboard, power
supply, keyboard, mouse and monitor. In this article, we discuss what computer
hardware is and the basic components of it along with how computer
technicians can safely troubleshoot key parts of a personal computer.

What is computer hardware?


Computer hardware includes the physical components of a computer. Personal
computers (PCs) are electronic devices that use microchips to process
information and may include desktop computers, laptops or tablets. Since a
computer comprises many hardware components, they work together and
depend on each other to function properly.Related: IT Technician Skills:
Examples and Tips

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What are basic components of computer hardware?


There are several basic components of computer hardware including:

1. Central processing unit (CPU)


The CPU controls the computer processes and communicates with the other
components of a personal computer. A computer's CPU may be one of the most
complicated parts of the computer because of its intricacies. If a computer is
experiencing CPU issues, a computer technician may start by checking the fan
and cleaning out any dust or debris inside the machine. Another step a
computer technician may complete is verifying that power supply cables work.
A CPU will not function properly unless it receives a signal from the power
supply.

2. Motherboard
The motherboard provides the structure for all other components and connects
them, while also providing a way to distribute power, deliver information and
connect to devices such as a printer or mouse. It controls how data transfers
and what type of monitor or screen device to use, for example. It houses the
CPU, memory and secondary storage devices such as hard drives.The first thing
that a computer technician may do to troubleshoot any motherboard issues is
to take the PC apart and inspect all the connections for corrosion. They may
also check the power supply and make sure the computer is receiving
electricity.

3. Random Access Memory (RAM)


RAM is where data lives temporarily while it's being actively used by programs,
such as when a user launches a computer application. A technician may know
how to identify the type of RAM in a computer, how to replace it if it's defective
and how to diagnose problems with copying data from one location in memory
to another.A technician should have knowledge about the different RAMs that
are available and they may also know what types of errors might affect a
computer's RAM operation. A technician may backup all computer files before
fixing RAM to avoid losing critical programs and documents.Related: 31 Jobs in
Technology and Science

4. Video graphics array port


A video graphics array (VGA) port is a video input that is primarily used on PC
monitors. Troubleshooting a VGA port could include verifying there isn't a loose
connection, faulty cable or a broken monitor. Another task a computer
technician may do is use compressed air to spray inside the VGA port to ensure
it's free of dust.
5. Power supply
A power supply provides electricity to all components of a computer system.
Typically, it's a power cord connected from the back of a PC tower into an
electricity socket. A technician may troubleshoot the power supply by turning
off the computer, unplugging and detaching the power supply cord or trying a
new cord or outlet.

6. Cooling fan
Cooling fans are a computer's system to decrease overheating. Many
computers have more than one cooling fan to help users who run their
computer heavily, such as video streaming or gaming. A computer technician
may need to fix a computer's cooling fan if a user notices their computer
overheating. They may check for any damage to the blades and make sure that
they are free from debris. Replacing computer fans can be a common
troubleshooting solution for a technician.

7. Hard drive
Hard drives are data storage devices used to store files, programs or other
information on a computer system. They use magnetically coated discs called
hard disks that store digital representations of information. If a hard drive fails,
a computer technician may suspect a corrupt hard drive. They may use data
recovery software to repair the computer or may replace the hard drive.

8. Monitor
A computer monitor is an electronic device that displays what's what programs
are running on your computer so a user can see. Some computer technicians
may wear anti-static gloves when handling computer monitors to avoid static
electricity. They may also troubleshoot monitor issues by disconnecting it from
the computer and trying a new power cord.Related: 51 In-Demand Tech Skills
for Technology Careers

9. Printer
This is a machine that produces copies of text or images on paper using ink.
Popular printers include laser or inkjet and computer technicians may be skilled
in troubleshooting issues across multiple brands and varieties. Computer
technicians may service printers including verifying power is running to the
machine. They may also check to see if the paper tray is full and ready for
printing. Technicians might replace or refill any ink cartridges and toner.If the
physical printer components are operating efficiently but the machine still isn't
working, a technician will then troubleshoot software malfunctions that may
occur in the communication between the computer and the printer. This
requires more expertise to fix since it involves how the systems interact with
each other rather than physical component failures on the printer itself.

10. Scanner
A scanner is a device that digitally copies an image or and makes it available as
a file for access on a computer. If a scanner malfunctions, a computer
technician may remove the cover and carefully check if it has any damage. If
there are no visible issues, then they may check the power connection cable.
Similar to a printer, there is computer software that connects the scanner to the
computer, so a technician will also verify that the software is communicating to
the scanner.

11. Computer mouse


A computer mouse can have a wire or is wireless and is an input device used to
control a cursor on the computer monitor. A wired computer mouse has a cord
that connects to a USB port on a computer while a wireless mouse has no
physical connection with a computer system. Instead, a wireless mouse
communicates using an adapter that is usually plugged into an available USB
port and runs off its own batteries using Bluetooth technology.Computer
technicians may troubleshoot computer mouse issues by ensuring it's
connected properly if it has a wire. If the mouse is wireless, a technician can
look to see if they need batteries and that the wireless connection is working.
Computer technicians can clean both wired and wireless with cloths to ensure
there is no dust or debris on the sensor on the bottom of a mouse. If there is,
the mouse may not operate correctly.

Frequently asked questions


What should you consider when buying computer hardware?

If you're responsible for selecting and purchasing hardware for a business or


project, the first step is to define your requirements. Next, research the brands
you're considering to ensure they're reliable and trustworthy. Consider the
price, security features and compatibility with your operating system and
network when evaluating your options.

How do you make a computer run faster?

If you've already cleaned debris from the inside of your computer and deleted
unnecessary files or programs, consider supplying your computer with more
RAM. Additional memory typically helps your CPU function more efficiently,
which may result in better performance.

How do you know what hardware my computer uses?

If you want to learn more about the components of your computer, like your
CPU, RAM and motherboard, you can typically find your specifications by
visiting the System, System Settings or Preferences pages. These pages typically
detail information about your system, memory and processor.

What are some jobs that work with computer hardware?

If you enjoy handling, maintaining and troubleshooting hardware, here are


some jobs you might consider:

 Computer hardware engineer

 Computer technician

 Network architect

 Electronics field sales representative

 Audiovisual (AV) technician

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