Personal Computer (PC), let's start with the basics. Here I'll take you through all the components and give you a brief description of what they are and what they do.

We'll start with computer case types. Basically, there are two types of cases,
 

• Towers: Tall and skinny, tower cases offer more hardware space and better airflow compared to desktop cases.
• Desktops: Wide and flat, these cases allow you to safely place your computer safely on your desk. Desktop cases don't offer as much component space as the tower case does.
  
   

Desktops style cases are being phased out by current computer manufacturers. Mainly, because the tower style cases have more room to house all more components and have improved airflow over the desktop case.

The case fans found inside keep airflow constant and keep all of your computer components cool. If your components get too hot they are prone to damage.

Usually towards the top of the case you'll find your power supply. Just like it sounds, it supplies power to all of the components in your computer.

Starting with the motherboard, also known as the motherboard, this is the main part of the computer many other smaller components connect directly to.
(See fig 1)
Fig 1                Fig 2

Next is the processor, heat sink, and fan. The heat sink and fan keep the processor at cool temperatures so your computer won't overheat. The processor is what handles all the information, it's like the "brain" of the computer. When you start a program, the processor sends the information to all the other components.

After the processor is the memory, which is measured by megabytes. Memory is used when you open programs. The more memory you have in your computer the more programs you can use at the same time. Larger programs, like a graphic intensive game, take up more memory to run.

If you want to keep your information permanent, you'll store it on your hard drive. The hard drive is the vital component where all your programs and information are saved. Much like memory, hard drives are also measured in megabytes and gigabytes.
(See Fig 2 - uncovered hard drive)

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