Whether you’re planning on upgrading your existing PC or building a new one, it’s important to know the hardware specs of your system. It can help ensure that the components you purchase are compatible and will work together.
There are several methods to check your computer’s hardware specifications. The most straightforward is to use the built-in Windows search feature.
Motherboard
The motherboard is the main circuit board within a computer that connects all of its components together. It works to translate the commands that a CPU sends over its data buses, then it transmits those signals to other hardware like drives and USB devices.
A motherboard can come in a variety of sizes depending on the machine it’s being used for, with most desktop and laptop computers using ATX motherboards. Usually, these will also feature various expansion slots for users to install other devices or expand their system.
Motherboards will often follow specific design standards to make sure they work well with other compatible components, such as RAM or a hard drive. Knowing what to look for can help you troubleshoot when something goes wrong with your pc.
CPU
The CPU, or central processing unit, is responsible for all the work your computer does. It processes all the software instructions that your system runs. Depending on what you use your PC for, it’s important to choose a fast CPU with a high clock speed and core count.
This hardware is used in many things besides personal computers like microwave ovens, cars, and music players. It is also known as pc hw or computer hw. It can be broken down into four primary functions: fetch, decode, execute and write back. The CPU gets the instructions from memory or input devices and then sends them to the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU). The ALU adds numbers together and passes the result to output devices.
Graphics Card
The graphics card (also known as a video card) handles the display of images on your computer screen. It takes data from the CPU and translates it into graphics that are displayed on your monitor.
Graphics cards are also responsible for creating complex 3D graphics in real time and are critical for modern gaming experiences. They are one of the most sophisticated and powerful parts of a PC.
There are two main types of GPUs: integrated and discrete. Discrete GPUs live on their own card and have dedicated memory called video RAM, which is faster than the system’s standard RAM. This allows the card to perform its tasks without using up your system’s regular RAM.
Optical Drive
A computer with an optical drive can read and record CDs, DVDs and Blu-ray discs. It is also known as a DVD drive or a CD drive and it can be internal or external.
Optical drives have different storage capacity based on the type of media it supports. Standard CDs can hold around 700 MB, while standard DVDs can store up to 4.7 GB.
Optical drives were a common component of desktop computers and laptops, as they allow users to install software, play games or watch movies. However, as the iCloud market emerged and improved USB flash drives that held more data, optical drives have become less popular.
Hard Drive
The hard drive is a major piece of computer hardware that stores all digital information, including documents, pictures, videos and programs. The hard drive can be internal or external.
Hard drives store data in small blocks of ones and zeros, called sectors, across multiple platters. A read/write head inputs these bits by magnetizing portions of the platter to signal a file location.
Data can become separated from one another over time, which slows how quickly the hard drive can access it. This is known as disk fragmentation, and most operating systems have a built-in program to defragment the hard drive to correct it.
Computer Case
The computer case, also known as a tower, system unit, box or housing, is the enclosure that holds most of the main components of a computer. The case is usually made of metal and has cutout openings for plugs, sockets and removable media bays.
The case is important because it keeps the hardware protected and secure. It also provides ventilation, which is crucial for keeping the hardware cool. Otherwise, the hardware would overheat and may fail.
There are many different types of cases available in the market, including full-tower, mid-tower and mini-tower cases. The type of motherboard you choose will determine the case form factor you need.