1. Motherboard
A complete computer components list always starts with the motherboard, the primary circuit board that holds all the hardware in place. Every PC has one, from dedicated workstations to personal notebooks. A robust motherboard offers many slots for installing multiple computer components (e.g. RAM, graphics card, etc.).
Motherboards offer different form factors (general specs encompassing circuitry arrangement, overall size, number of ports, etc.), and only specific motherboard models can fit into certain computer cases/chassis, especially for customisable desktops.
For laptops, specialised motherboards are used instead, with much of their built-in hardware already soldered onto their respective circuits permanently. This is done due to the laptop’s smaller frame and lighter build, with only certain parts like the RAM and storage that can be upgraded.
When a motherboard is damaged, PCs cease to function fully. Noting the complexity of the circuitry and wiring in place, a faulty motherboard can instantly stop your computer from working and potentially harm other parts. While motherboards are easily replaced for desktops, the same can’t be said for laptops, forcing you to buy a brand new one.
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The central processing unit (CPU) – commonly referred to as the processor – is the ‘brain’ of your computer. The CPU solves all the sophisticated algorithms and programming your computer does while running programs or applications.
Nowadays, almost all processors possess multiple CPUs to achieve, ensuring faster response times when using software or browsing the web. These special processors are called multi-core processors, with each CPU designated as 1 processing core.