Inside a Computer
The parts of a Motherboard
Definition and Role
Motherboard Component - Definition and Role
1. CPU 'Central Processing Unit' - Is the primary component that processes instructions.
2. CPU Fan (cooler) - Keeps Central Processing Unit cool.
3. RAM 'Random Access Memory' - when you open a program it gets loaded from the hard drive into the RAM because reading data from the RAM is much faster than reading data from the hard drive.
4. Northbridge - Is a chip inside a computer that connects the CPU to other primary components in the system.
5. Southbridge - Is the chip that controls all of the functions of a processor except memory, PCI and AGP.
6. VGA Port 'Video Graphics Array' - Is the connection point for a VGA cable and controls the quality of the image. VGA carries an analogue signal.
7. DVI Port 'Digital Visual Interface' - It converts analogue signals into digital signals.
8. USB ' Universal Serial Bus' - It is a standard developed by the industry which defines the cables, connectors and communications used to connect computers with power supply and other computers and electronic devices.
9. NIC 'Network Interface Card' - This card makes the connection between the compute and the network cable.
10. Audio jacks - A socket for plugging in an audio source.
11. AGP Slot 'Accelerated Graphics Port' - An interface specification designed for 3D graphics.
12. PCI Slot 'Peripheral Component Interconnect
13. PCI-E Slot - This doubles the data transfer rate of original PCI.
14. OMOS Battery - A rechargeable battery used in portable computers.
15. SATA Port 'Serial Advanced Technology Attachment' - It is used to connect components like Cd's and hard drives to the motherboard.
16. IDE Connector 'Integrated Development Environment' - It is an interface for mass storage devices.