Do you want to build a PC but you’re not sure what parts you need? Don’t worry, we’ve got a guide that breaks down all the parts and features in plain english. Whether you’re trying to decide between an Intel or AMD processor, looking for the best graphics card on the market, or wondering how much RAM your new system should have- our guide has got all of your questions answered!
COMPUTER PARTS LIST (PC COMPONENTS)
Motherboard
CPU (Processor)
CPU Cooler
RAM (Memory)
Storage Device (SSD, NVME SSD, HDD)
PSU (Power Supply Unit)
Monitor (Display Device)
Operating System (OS)
Keyboard, Mouse (Input Devices)
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Cooling
Case
Motherboard
A motherboard is a fundamental part of computing hardware. A motherboard has everything the computer needs to function, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory, input/output ports, and other electronic components which are mounted on sockets connected to the motherboard.
A computer’s motherboard is the component responsible for connecting all other parts and works as a central hub. A motherboard has everything the computer needs to function, including the central processing unit (CPU), memory, input/output ports, and other electronic components which are mounted on sockets connected to the motherboard. Learn more about motherboards here.
The motherboard provides the electrical connections by which the other components of a computer communicate. Motherboards come in several sizes, the most popular for building your own pc are ATX, Micro-ATX and Mini-ITX. Read more about Motherboard sizes.
CPU (Processor)
A computer’s central processing unit (CPU), sometimes called the central processor or main processor, is a component of a computer system that interprets and executes instructions in the code. CPUs are found in almost all devices containing computer logic; including mobile phones, hand-held game consoles, desktop computers, and supercomputers.
When selecting a CPU, it’s important to make sure it is compatible with the motherboard. Most PC builders usually choose the CPU first, then pick a compatible motherboard. A computer can’t be functional without a CPU. It’s important to pick out carefully once you have already decided what kind of motherboard you want, for instance, Micro ATX Motherboard or Mini ITX Motherboard (we will discuss this later in detail.)
CPU Cooler
In order to properly cool a central processing unit (CPU), you must first realize what the desired outcome of cooling is.
The main objective is to remove heat from its source and release it into the atmosphere as quickly as possible with minimal thermal buildup, usually incorporating a heat sink and fan. A heat sink works by drawing heat away from a hot object.
RAM (Memory)
Random-access memory (RAM, or “memory”) is a type of computer storage that can be accessed randomly. Unlike other types of storage such as hard disks, RAM does not need to access different parts of the stored data in sequence. The contents of RAM are lost when the power is turned off which means that this kind of memory must be constantly refreshed by an external source such as batteries or mains electricity.
Storage Device (SSD, HDD, NVME SSD)
Computer storage devices are media that can store data for future use. These devices come in many different forms, such as hard drives, SSDs, and USB memory sticks.
HDDs and SSDs are the two primary types of computer storage devices.
The process of writing data to a computer storage device is referred to as writing, while retrieving information from the device is known as reading.
HDD
A hard disk drive is a data storage device that uses rotating disks, or platters, to store data.
Hard drives are mechanical devices. They contain magnetic material on the surface of these platters, which are organized into tracks and sectors.
Data is written to these locations by applying a magnetic field to modify the properties of the material in that location.
SSD
Solid-state drives, or SSDs, are a type of computer storage device
Power Supply Unit (PSU)
A computer’s power supply unit (PSU) is one of the most important parts in your computers. The PSU provides the necessary power to all components, taking some load away from memory modules, CPU and GPUs.
Choosing the right power supply unit (PSU) for your computer can be difficult, especially if this is your first time building a PC. A good way to get started is to figure out how much power you need, which you can read more about here.
There are three types of power supply unit (PSU) connectors on a modern motherboard. They are as follows: 20+4 pin ATX, 4+4 pin EPS12V, and peripheral power cables.
Monitor (Display device)
Computer monitors are display monitors mostly used to visually display computer data and it is one of the most common input devices for systems directly. Monitors can be attached to desktop computers, laptops and even handhelds, such as tablets and smartphones.
There are many different types of monitors including CRT, flat panel, touch screens, TFT, LED, OLED, DLP and Plasma Screens. CRT monitors use a cathode ray tube to send images as dots known as pixels. LCD or Liquid Crystal Monitors have been around since the 1970s with back-lit or LED screens becoming more affordable in the mid-90s.
Operating System (OS)
Computer operating systems are primarily responsible for three things: allocating computer resources, scheduling tasks to run on the CPU, and presenting a user interface. They may also provide file services, input/output (I/O) operations, networking capabilities, and more. Many modern operating systems also attempt to provide additional security mechanisms.
A computer operating system, or just operating system is a collection of software that manages computer hardware resources and provides common services for application software. The operating system is the most important type of system software in a modern computer. Application programs usually require an operating system to function correctly.
Keyboard, Mouse (Input devices)
Keyboard
A computer keyboard is used to input data into the computer. The most common type of keyboard is a mechanical QWERTY keyboard, which uses physical switches attached to each key of the keyboard. Mechanical keyboards allow more typing styles than other types of keyboards such as rubber-domed keyboards or membrane keyboards. There are many different brands and styles of mechanical keyboards with customizable layouts for each specific user. Because mechanical keyboards have complex mechanisms inside them they tend to be large in size compared to other types of keyboard layouts due to having larger switches underneath their keys allowing users access to different levels of pressure sensitivity; users can decide how much pressure they want their strokes on letters registered on the screen based on how hard they push on the key.
Mouse
A computer mouse is used for controlling the cursor on the screen. Most mice are made to fit in one hand and have two or more buttons. These buttons let users select different tasks without using their keyboard. A mouse usually comes equipped with a scroll wheel on the top and an optical sensor located underneath the scroll wheel that tells whether your movements are left-right (horizontal) or up-down (vertical).
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
The graphic processing unit (GPU) is a specialized electronic circuit designed to rapidly manipulate and alter memory to accelerate the rendering of images, animations and video. They are highly efficient at manipulating computer graphics.
GPUs are typically found in personal computers, workstations, and industrial settings that require high visual output such as 3D modeling or animation.
The two major GPU manufacturers who produce the most popular cards are NVIDIA and ATI/AMD.
A graphics card enables graphics on computers, mobile phones, tablets etc. It can be used for entertainment like gaming but also to power deep learning, 3D modeling, and video editing.
Discreet GPU
Discrete graphics cards are used for gaming, video / photo editing.
Integrated GPU (iGPU)
A integrated graphics processing unit (IGPU) is built into the motherboard and shares system RAM with the CPU. It allows you to connect devices such as monitors and communicate with them through device drivers installed on your operating system.
Cooling
A cooling system is an important part of a computer. It helps keep the parts running smoothly, and it can prevent overheating. The fans are the most important part of cooling a computer. Using an exhaust fan will help get rid of hot air that has built up inside your computer.
Case
The pc case is a computer’s housing which contains all the major parts of a traditional desktop. A typical case has compartments for accommodating all major hardware components such as a motherboard, CPU, power supply unit, hard disk drives, optical drive and so on. The case also protects the delicate internal electronics from dust and other elements.
Conclusion
Put these all together and you have a personal computer. There are many sub components to building a PC though, so be sure to read the entire article if you would like to know how they work. Also, please comment with any questions or concerns!
FAQ
What parts do I need to build a PC?
Motherboard
CPU (Processor)
CPU Cooler
RAM (Memory)
Storage Device (SSD, NVME SSD, HDD)
PSU (Power Supply Unit)
Monitor (Display Device)
Operating System (OS)
Keyboard, Mouse (Input Devices)
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
Cooling
Case