How Do Computers Work?

The computer is a system consisting of several complex parts that work collectively in order to function. To determine how do computers work, you must first understand the basic parts of a computer that are responsible for making it run.

If you take a look at your PC, you will likely find the basic CPU or PC tower, a keyboard, a monitor, and a mouse. Other peripherals may include a webcam, a modem, speakers, and a printer, but such equipment does not play a role in the functioning of the computer or answer how do computers work. Instead, you can understand this by looking at the parts of the system itself.

The CPU

The CPU or the Central Processing Unit is a chip that functions to manage the overall workings of the system. It is often tagged as the “brain” of the computer system. The CPU looks after all major functions that are executed by the system.

Also inside the CPU are the processing chip, graphic card, sound card, RAM, CD/DVD Rom drive, and modem. These are all installed inside the computer, as is the motherboard.

The Motherboard

The motherboard is another important computer component. It houses the memory of the CPU and the computer. It is a type of circuit that has several small chips attached. A motherboard also has several ports and slots where other devices, such as the keyboard, mouse, hard drive, and disk drive can be connected.

RAM or Random Access Memory is a type of chip that is affixed in a slot located in the motherboard. It functions to store information that you are currently working on. It is a temporary storage container, so to speak. So if you suddenly turn off your PC, the data you have been working on may be lost.

Other Parts

In addition to these main parts, there are several other components of a computer that are equally important.

Of course a power supply is needed. Just as its name suggests, it supplies power to the CPU or PC tower.
The hard disk serves as permanent storage for holding information such as programs and documents you wish to save on your computer.
The PCI or Peripheral Component Interconnect bus houses the slots for any additional parts you wish to add inside the computer.

Since all these intricate parts work simultaneously and may heat up the system, a fan inside the CPU is present to cool all parts down.

Operating Systems

Aside from all the hardware necessary for the system set-up, you also have to have a certain application that will enable computer users to give commands to the system so the system can understand and that commands can be executed properly. The software application is also referred to as the operating system or OS.

There are many operating systems available. The most common operating systems include Windows, Mac, and Linux. As of 2010, the majority of computer users uses Windows.

BIOS or Basic Input/ Output System (BIOS) is a type of software that is incorporated on the computer by default -whether it be a desktop computer or a laptop. It is responsible for checking if all circuits, ports, disks, and the processor are in good condition.

How It All Works

So, how do all these parts work together? When you press the power button on your CPU, the power supply is turned on and sends power to the motherboard. Then, the BIOS application performs its inspection on all hardware parts that are functioning.

Once the check is completed, the system will begin to load hardware such as the video card, sound card, keyboard, and mouse. After loading them, it will then turnover tasks to the OS which will then control the memory, processor, storage, and other applications.

As you launch a program, the OS will locate the program in the system’s memory and will load it. Because of the smooth operations of the OS, you can successfully command the system (software and hardware) to execute the required task.