Processor (CPU) — Acts as the "brain" of your computer. In most builds, the CPU is usually the most expensive component. Motherboard — Serves as an interface between all of your computer's components and the processor. RAM — Random Access Memory. More RAM will provide more "workspace" to increase your computer's performance. Think about the RAM as a table: more RAM gives you more room for doing things on that table. Less RAM is like having a smaller table! Storage Drive — Stores data. You can buy a traditional hard disk drive (HDD), or you can opt for a more expensive solid state drive (SSD) if you want an exceptionally fast drive. Power supply — Powers all of your computer's individual components. The power supply is also the interface between your computer and the wall socket into which you plug your computer. Case — Necessary for storing and cooling your components. Graphics card — Used to render images on your computer. While most processors have a built-in graphics processing unit (GPU), you can buy a dedicated graphics card if you plan on gaming or using your computer for intensive editing. Cooling system — This includes case fans and coolers for specific parts and keeps the inside of your case at a safe temperature. Only necessary for gaming and editing PCs—regular PCs should be fine with a stock cooler. How to Disassemble a Computer Step 1: Detach the Power Cable Step 2: Remove the Cover Step 3: Remove the Adapter Cards Step 4: Remove the Drives Step 5: Remove the Memory Module Step 6: Remove the Power Supply Step 7: Remove the Motherboard 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. Unplug/detach the Power Supply/Cable Disconnect external devices (Keyboard, mouse and monitor) Remove the system case cover Disconnect all the internal cables (interface and power cables) Remove the device cards from expansion slots Remove the disk drives (CDROM, FDD and HDD) Remove the RAM Remove the heat sink and processor fan Remove the processor Remove the motherboard Remove the case fan Remove the power supply ACTIVITY 1 IDENTIFYING THE PARTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM UNIT Video Card 1. Power Supply-____________________________________________________________________ 2. DVD Burner-_____________________________________________________________________ 3. Video Card-_ _____________________________________________________________________ 4. Hard Drive- ______________________________________________________________________ 5. RAM/Memory- ___________________________________________________________________ 6. CPU- ___________________________________________________________________________ 7. Heat sink and Fan- ________________________________________________________________ 8. Motherboard-____________________________________________________________________ ACTIVITY 2 DISASSEMBLE AND ASSEMBLE COMPUTER SYSTEM UNIT INSTRUCTION: