We have put together an easy, simple to read, Information Manual about computer hardware (computer parts) in order to enable average computer users to better understand what they are buying when they purchase a computer.

We do not use computer abbreviations and we did not use them in this manual, but these abbreviations (or Techno-babble) are often used by some technicians in the computer industry and they are confusing to the average computer user. As a result we have included a thorough list of computer abbreviations in case you need to refer to them. To access the abbreviations click on the icon at the bottom right corner of the screen.

Information Manual

Ordering a customized computer is affordable for any category of computer users. In fact, if you are a newbie (new to computer hardware) you can have a custom built computer to your specific needs by simply reading the following pages.

The computer hardware that we are going to explore consists of something a little more elaborate and you can get an excellent quality custom built computer that meets your needs.

The computer hardware that you need to custom buid a computer are:.

Motherboard
The motherboard binds all computer parts into a single whole system. All internal and external peripheral devices, processor, memory, additional cards are mounted on or connected to the motherboard. This is why it's called - MOTHERboard.

Processor
The processor unit or CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the brain of the computer. All computer hardware devices and components are managed by the CPU.

Computer memory (RAM)
Computer memory or Random-Access Memory (RAM) is a computer chip which is designed for temporary storing the computer data and software programs. All computer programs, including operating systems, are loaded into the computer memory to be executed by the CPU.

Power supply
The power supply is a device which can be purchased separately when you want to build your own computer and have more powerful electrical support for internal devices.

Computer case
The computer case is a box into which all computer hardware components are installed inside it except the monitor, keyboard, mouse and other external peripheral devices such as a printer and a scanner.

Hard drive
Hard drives (or hard disks) are computer devices which store all your computer data, including operating systems, software programs, games, electronic documents, music files, video files etc.

Video Card
An expansion card installed inside a computer that contains necessary circuitry to create a video signal that can be processed by a computer display. There are many different types of video cards with varying capabilities regarding monitor size supported and total number of displayable colors. The standard video carfd has 32meg memory and if you are a gamer then you will need 64 or 128 meg memory.

Sound Card
An expansion card installed inside a computer that makes it possible for the computer to play digitally recorded or created sounds, and CD audio. Creative Labs’ Soundblaster sound card is the standard in PC audio, therefore, most manufacturers will label their sound cards as "Soundblaster compatible".

CD, CDRW & DVD
Known by its abbreviation, CD, a compact disc is a polycarbonate with one or more metal layers capable of storing digital information.

Network Card
An expansion card installed inside a compute (also Network Interface Card or NIC) that enables the computer to communicate with other computers or high speed internet via a direct network connection or DSL oe Cable modem.

Floppy Drive
A device inside your computer with a slot in the front to accept Floppy Disks. This drive is usually designated as the A: drive on your computer. Also called a "three and a half inch drive" for the size of the magnetic disk contained in the floppy disk itself.