The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part plays an important role whenever you use a computer.
Watch the video below to learn about the basic parts of a computer.
Looking for the old version of this video? You can still view it here.
Computer case
The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power supply. The front of the case usually has an On/Off button and one or more optical drives.
Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate case.
Monitor
The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to display images and text on the screen. Most monitors have control buttons that allow you to change your monitor's display settings, and some monitors also have built-in speakers.
Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting diode) displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat-panel displays. Older monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT monitors are much larger and heavier, and they take up more desk space.
Keyboard
The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are many different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to accomplish the same basic tasks.
Click the buttons in the interactive below to learn about the different parts of the keyboard.
Escape Key
The Escape (Esc) key allows you to stop a function or action. For example, if a webpage is taking a long time to load, you can press the Escape key to stop loading it.
Function Keys
The function keys are labeled F1 through F12. Some programs use these keys as shortcuts for common tasks. For example, in many programs, F1 opens the Help file.
Print Screen, Scroll Lock, Pause
The Print Screen key takes a picture of your screen (screenshot). Scroll Lock and Pause/Break are rarely used today, so some keyboards don't have them.
Tab Key
Used to create indents in word processing. Also used to switch to the next field when filling out forms online.
Alphanumeric Keys
The main part of the keyboard includes the alphanumeric keys (letters and numbers) and the spacebar.
Backspace Key
Erases the character to the left of the cursor.
Enter Key
Executes commands (like going to a website). It is also used to start a new line in word processing programs.
Ctrl, Alt, and Shift
Designed to work in combination with other keys. For example, typing Ctrl+S will save a file.
Insert, Delete, Home, End
Insert/Delete: Switches insert modes or erases characters.
Home/End: Moves cursor to start or end of the line.
Page Up/Down: Scrolls document up or down.
Arrow Keys
Used for moving the cursor, scrolling a document, and controlling games.
Numeric Keypad
Resembles a calculator keypad. Easier to type numbers using this keypad.
If you want to learn how to type or improve your touch-typing skills, check out our free Typing Tutorial.
Mouse
The mouse is another important tool for communicating with computers. Commonly known as a pointing device, it lets you point to objects on the screen, click on them, and move them.
There are two main mouse types: optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses an electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical mouse uses a rolling ball to detect movement and requires regular cleaning to work properly.
To learn the basics of using a mouse, check out our interactive Mouse Tutorial.
Mouse alternatives
There are other devices that can do the same thing as a mouse. Many people find them easier to use, and they also require less desk space than a traditional mouse. The most common mouse alternatives are below.
- Trackball: A trackball has a ball that can rotate freely. Instead of moving the device like a mouse, you can roll the ball with your thumb to move the pointer.
- Touchpad: A touchpad—also called a trackpad—is a touch-sensitive pad that lets you control the pointer by making a drawing motion with your finger. Touchpads are common on laptop computers.
Common Questions
What are the main components of a computer?
The main components are the computer case (containing the CPU and motherboard), the monitor, the keyboard, the mouse, and the power cord.
What is the difference between an optical and mechanical mouse?
An optical mouse uses an electronic eye (light) to detect movement, making it lower maintenance. A mechanical mouse uses a rolling rubber ball which can get dirty and requires cleaning.
What do the F1-F12 keys do?
These are Function keys. They are used as shortcuts for common tasks. For example, F1 usually opens the Help menu in most programs.
What is a trackpad?
A trackpad (or touchpad) is a touch-sensitive flat surface common on laptops that allows you to control the cursor with your finger instead of using an external mouse.
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