A desktop computer is a personal computing instrument that fits on top of a typical office desk. Today our home appliances have microprocessors built into them, as do our televisions. Even our vehicles are a computer. But the computer that everyone identifies is typically the personal computer or PC. A PC is a general-purpose tool consisting of a microprocessor. It also incorporates various parts - memory, a hard disk, a modem, etc. - that work together. On the Inside

Here’s a glimpse of the main components of a typical desktop computer.

The central processing unit (CPU) - The microprocessor "brain" of the computer system is called the central processing unit. The CPU oversees every action that a computer does.

Memory - This fast storage is used to hold data and connects directly to the microprocessor. Different types of memory in a computer:

1. Random-access memory (RAM) - Used to temporarily store information that the computer is currently working with

2. Read-only memory (ROM) - A permanent type of memory storage used by the computer for essential data that does not change

3. Basic input/output system (BIOS) - A type of ROM that is used by the computer to establish essential communication when the computer is first turned on

4. Caching - The storing of frequently used data in high-speed RAM that connects directly to the CPU

5. Virtual memory - Storage area on a hard disk for temporarily storing data and removing it in and out of RAM as necessary.

The motherboard is the main circuit board holding all the other internal components. The CPU and memory are mounted on the motherboard.

Power supply - An electrical transformer monitors the electricity used by the computer.

Hard disk is large-capacity permanent storage for retaining data such as programs and documents.

LAPTOP

The laptop computer is portable and suits many differing environments. It is sleek in structure, and all the components are inbuilt. Even then, one can use additional elements like a keyboard and mouse. Using a laptop lying on a bed or couch is not a good practice.