ARM.NET / Learn about hardware
From the processor to the monitor: discover what each component does and how they work together to run your programs, games and everyday tasks.
01 / Processing
Executes program instructions and coordinates many computer tasks. It is involved in opening applications, processing data and running game logic.
Key concepts: cores allow multiple tasks to run; clock speed and architecture also affect performance. More GHz does not always mean greater speed when comparing different processors.
Learn about this component →02 / Connections
The main board connects the processor, memory, storage and expansion cards. It allows components to communicate with one another.
Key concepts: the socket, chipset, RAM slots and connectors determine which parts are compatible. Its form factor must also fit the case.
Learn about this component →03 / Temporary memory
Temporarily holds the data programs are using. It helps keep multiple applications open and provides fast access to information in use.
Key concepts: capacity, speed and memory generation. Its contents are lost when power is switched off; it does not replace file storage.
Learn about this component →04 / Your files
Stores the operating system, programs and your files even when the computer is switched off. An SSD uses flash memory; an HDD uses spinning magnetic disks.
Key concepts: capacity and interface. SSDs usually access data faster than HDDs. M.2 describes a physical form factor: an M.2 drive may use SATA or PCIe/NVMe, depending on the model.
Learn about this component →05 / Images
Processes graphics and generates the image on the screen. It also accelerates supported tasks such as rendering, video editing and specialized calculations.
Key concepts: may be integrated into the processor or part of a dedicated card. Dedicated GPUs usually have their own video memory, called VRAM.
Learn about this component →06 / Power
Converts electricity from the wall outlet into the voltages components need. It distributes power to the motherboard, graphics card and other parts.
Key concepts: wattage, connectors and electrical protections. An efficiency certification alone does not describe a power supply's overall quality.
Learn about this component →07 / Temperature
Dissipates heat from the processor and other components. It may combine heatsinks, fans and liquid cooling systems.
Key concepts: airflow, cooler compatibility and thermal contact. Thermal paste helps transfer heat between the processor and heatsink.
Learn about this component →08 / Structure
Protects and supports internal components. Its layout helps organize cables and allows air to circulate around the parts.
Key concepts: motherboard size, GPU clearance, cooler height and fan placement. Not every case supports the same components.
Learn about this component →09 / Communication
Ethernet and Wi-Fi connect the computer to a network; Bluetooth pairs compatible accessories. USB ports connect devices, and audio circuits handle sound and microphones.
Key concepts: these functions may be built into the motherboard or added using cards and adapters. A connector's shape does not guarantee all its functions.
Learn about this component →10 / Interaction
The monitor displays images; the keyboard and mouse provide input. Headphones, speakers, microphones and cameras offer more ways to communicate with the computer.
Key concepts: on a monitor, resolution indicates image detail, while refresh rate indicates how many times the image updates per second. These are different characteristics.
Learn about this component →All the parts work together
The system reads files from the SSD or HDD and loads the required data into RAM. The CPU executes instructions and the GPU processes graphics to display the result on the monitor. The motherboard connects the parts, the power supply powers them and cooling dissipates heat.
The operating system organizes this work. It is software, while the physical components are hardware.
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