Whats in a computer

The chipset is the "glue" that connects the microprocessor to the rest of the motherboard and therefore to the rest of the computer. On a PC, it consists of two basic parts -- the north bridge and the south bridge.

Computer hardware, such as memory, PCI and AGP connect to the motherboard through slots. 

Motherboards tie everything in your computer together.

A typical motherboard contains areas for computer memory, CPU, AGP, PCI and more.

DIMM, or dual in-line memory module, has a 64-bit path to memory chips, whereas the SIMM has only a 32-bit.

Computer memory has a big effect on system performance. Pictured above is SIMM memory, or single in-line memory module, which is a type of RAM memory module. 

 RAM upgrade can greatly extend your computer's lifespan.

The basic input-output system BIOS is the first thing you see when you turn on your computer. 

SODIMM, or small outline dual in-line memory module, is made with integrated circuits and is about half the size of DIMM modules.

A microprocessor -- also known as a CPU or central processing unit -- is a complete computation engine that is fabricated on a single chip. 

64-bit processors have entered the mainstream, such as this eight-generation Athlon processor.

The Integrated Drive Electronics interface is the most popular way to connect a hard drive to a PC.

A hard disk is a sealed aluminum box, which has been opened in this photo. The controller electronics are attached to one side, controlling the read/write mechanism and the motor that spins the platters. 

An AGP, or accelerated graphics port, allows the operating system to designate RAM for use by the graphics card (like the one above) on the fly. 

Like a motherboard, a graphics card is a printed circuit board that houses a processor and RAM.

This PC power supply has been removed from its PC case. The small, red switch at right, above the power-cord connector, is for changing line voltages in various countries.