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Main > Computer > Hardware

How PCs Work
by Jeff Tyson

Shop for PCs

Table of Contents

 
 

When you mention the word "technology," most people think about computers. Virtually every facet of our lives has some computerized component. The appliances in our homes have microprocessors built into them, as do our televisions. Even our cars have a computer. But the computer that everyone thinks of first is typically the personal computer, or PC.


Click on the various parts of the PC to learn more about how they work.

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A PC is a general purpose tool built around a microprocessor. It has lots of different parts -- memory, a hard disk, a modem, etc. -- that work together. "General purpose" means that you can do many different things with a PC. You can use it to type documents, send e-mail, browse the Web and play games.

In this article, we will talk about PCs in the general sense and all the different parts that go into them. You will learn about the various components and how they work together in a basic operating session. You'll also find out what the future may hold for these machines.

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Table of Contents:
  Introduction to How PCs Work
  On the Inside
  Connections: Input/Output
  Connections: Ports
  Connections: Internet/Network
  From Power-up to Shut-down: BIOS
  From Power-up to Shut-down: Operating System
  The Future: EUVL Chipmaking
  The Future: DNA and Quantum
  The Future: Off the Desk
  Lots More Information
  Compare Prices for PCs


 

 


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