HARDWARE

Abbreviated as HW, hardware is best described as any physical component of a computer system containing a circuit board, ICs, or other electronics. A perfect example of hardware is the screen on which you are viewing this page. Whether it be a monitor, tablet, or smartphone, it is hardware.

What is computer hardware?

Computer hardware is a collective term used to describe any of the physical components of an analog or digital computer. The term hardware distinguishes the tangible aspects of a computing device from software, which consists of written, machine-readable instructions or programs that tell physical components what to do and when to execute the instructions.

Hardware and software are complementary. A computing device can function efficiently and produce useful output only when both hardware and software work together appropriately.

Computer hardware can be categorized as being either internal or external components. Generally, internal hardware components are those necessary for the proper functioning of the computer, while external hardware components are attached to the computer to add or enhance functionality.

External hardware examples

Below is a list of external hardware or hardware found outside a computer.

• Flat-panel, monitor, and LCD
• Gamepad
• Joystick
• Keyboard
• Microphone
• Mouse
• Printer
• Projector
• Scanner
• Speakers
• USB thumb drive

Internal hardware examples

 Below is a list of internal hardware or hardware found inside a computer.

• CPU (central processing unit).
• Drive (e.g., Blu-ray, CD-ROM, DVD, floppy drive, hard drive, and SSD).
• Fan (heat sink)
• Modem
• Motherboard
• Network card
• Power supply
• RAM
• Sound card
• Video card

What is the most common hardware included with a computer?

Below is a list of the most common hardware often found in a computer or connected to a computer today (desktop computer or laptop).

• Processor (CPU)
• One or more fans and heat sink
• Motherboard that most likely has an integrated video card, sound card, and network card.
• For most desktop computers (especially gaming computers), a separate video card is used.
• RAM
• Hard drive
• Power supply
• Cables that connect internal components and external peripherals.
• Keyboard
• Mouse or touchpad with a laptop.
• Flat-panel, monitor, or TV for desktop computers and LCD as part of a laptop.