Computer Parts – Chloe Wood
Lookup the following computer parts to find an image, then type an explanation
of how the part fits into the computer.
Use your textbooks and the internet, but you must also acknowledge all the sources of information.
No
1
Description
Central Processing Unit – CPU
The CPU is responsible for executing a
sequence of stored instructions called a
program. This program will take
inputs from an input device, process the
input in some way and output the results
to an output device
2
Working/Main Memory – RAM
Main memory is usually used to temporarily
store data. Main memory is used to store
data whilst it is being processed by the CPU.
Data can be put into memory, and read back
from it, very quickly.
3
Backing Store
Backing storage is the name given to all the
other data storage devices in a computer.
Backing storage is usually non-volatile, so it
is generally used to store data for a long
time.
4
Input
An input device is a piece of hardware that
is used to enter data into a computer. There
are two types of input devices, manual input
devices and automatic input devices.
6
Output
An output device is a piece of hardware that
is used to display or output data which has
been processed or that has been stored on
the computer.
7
ROM
ROM stands for read-only memory. This is a
computer memory that data has been prerecorded. Once data has been put onto a
ROM chip, the data cannot be removed and
can only be read.
8
RAM
RAM stands for random access memory.
RAM is a type of computer memory that can
be accessed randomly. RAM is the most
common type of memory found in computers
and other devices, such as printers.
Image
9
PROM
PROM stands for programmable read-only
memory. Once a program has been put onto
PROM it stays there forever. PROMs keep
hold of their contents when the computer is
switched off.
10
EPROM
EPROM stands for erasable programmable
read-only memory. EPROM can be erased if
exposed to ultraviolet light but then it can be
reprogrammed if needed.
11
Floppy Disk
A floppy disk is a disk storage, it is basically
just a thin disk. It is read and written by a
FDD (floppy disk drive).
12
USB Memory Stick
A USB memory stick is a memory stick that
plugs unto computers. It can be used to
store information so that the information can
be used on different computers.
13
CD-ROM
CD-ROM stands for compact disk read-only
memory. This type of memory device is
capable of storing large amounts of data. To
read a CD you need a CD-ROM player.
14
DVD-ROM
A DVD-ROM is a new type of readonly compact disc that can hold a minimum
of 4.7GB.
15
Magnetic Tape
Magnetic tape was used to record sound,
pictures and computer data.
16
Magneto Optical Drive
A magneto optical drive is a computer
storage device which utilizes both an optical
laser and magnetic field to record data on a
special removable optical disk.
17
WORM Drive
WORM (write once, read many) is a data
storage technology that allows information to
be written to a disc a single time and
prevents the drive from erasing the data.
18
NB
Power Supply
A power supply unit (PSU) converts mains
AC to low-voltage regulated DC power for
the internal components of a computer.
You must show where you got your information from and the URL of the image.