Very few people understand how computers work even though they are included in nearly every device. Even though numerous people can go their whole lives without knowing how they work, it can be a great idea to learn to understand the logic regarding how it works. The basic design that computers are made from is in fact rather simple compared to the pieces themselves, since there is just a simple flow of information.
The central processing unit, or CPU, is the main brain of the entire system that permits it to work. The CPU processes information and holds levels of memory just like the brain in a human being. Computers today are advancing by adding more cores, which are basically entirely separate processors in one single chip. There are also several layers of cache memory integrated into the processor that act like a higher level of system RAM. Since many operations require the same function over and over again, the levels of cache hold commonly processed information rather than having those things run through the processor again. The level 1 cache areas will usually be extremely limited in space but be extremely fast, while it gets not so quick but more plentiful space-wise as the levels increase.
After the level 3 cache there is the system RAM, which is actually a separate component entirely. When a program loads, it is essentially being transferred from the hard drive to the system’s RAM for faster reading. Most programs would not be able to efficiently operate if they were simply left on the hard drive and the program used that instead of system RAM for high speed access. When the computer system is turned off all the information in the RAM is erased, and because of that a hard drive is needed to permanently store information.
A hard drive’s only job is to store permanent information on the computer system for storing. There are many other parts that are not exactly essential but serve an extremely useful purpose. A network card is essential to provide high speed usage of a network and access to shared Internet. Data centers have a much more complex version of these, such as a Cisco GLC-T or SFP transceiver modules, while home products usually just have a simple Ethernet port for all features. Normally a sound card and video card need to be installed to produce a picture to see and sound. There is also the motherboard which consists of many connections and processors to do specific tasks and hook everything together.
