Computer Components

A computer is made up of many components (parts). There are five main types of components: (1) microprocessors, (2) memory chips, (3) input devices, (4) storage devices, and (5) output devices. Microprocessors do the actual computing. Memory chips hold data and processing instructions for use by the microprocessors. The computer receives data through input devices, such as a keyboard. Storage devices, which include disks and tapes, hold data and instructions for transfer to and from memory. Output devices, such as monitor or a printer, show results of the computer work. A single computer may have many input, output, and storage devices.

In desktop PCs’, the primary processor, known as the central processing unit (CPU), is a powerful microprocessor chip. Components that control peripheral devices, such as keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer, and disk drives, are located on other chips. Modern computers are designed so that a technician can change their capabilities by adding or removing components. In a typical PC, for example, many components are mounted on thin boards called circuit boards. A circuit board called the motherboard holds the CPU, peripheral chips, and a collection of memory chips. Other components, such as sound and graphics coprocessors, are installed on circuit boards called cards. Cards can be plugged into sockets called expansion slots inside the computer. Often, common components are integrated directly into the motherboard. Peripherals are connected by wire or cable to sockets called ports.

Exercise 1. Translate into Ukrainian paying attention to the underlined words.

1. Any computer consists of a number of various components. 2. Hard disks and CDs are storagedevices. 3. Memorychips hold data and processing instructions for use by the microprocessors. 4. Many computer components are mounted on the circuitboards. 5. Additional processors or coprocessors are usually installed on cards. 6. Sound card can be pluggedintoexpansionslot inside the computer. 7. Peripherals are connected by wire or cable to sockets called ports. 8. Keyboard and microphone are inputdevices.

Exercise 2. Say it in English.

Графічний сопроцессор; звукова карта; периферійний пристрій; материнська карта; встановлювати нові компоненти; встромляти додаткову карту; запам’ятовувальний пристрій комп’ютера; гніздо розширення; пристрої вводу та виводу; зберігати дані; додавати чи видаляти компоненти.

Exercise 3. Insert the necessary prepositions.

1. A computer is made up … many components. 2. The computer receives data … input devices. 3. A technician can change their capabilities … adding or removing components. 4. Many components are mounted … thin boards called circuit boards. 5. Sound and graphic coprocessors are installed … circuit boards called cards. 6. Cards can be plugged … expansion slots inside the computer. 7. Components are integrated directly … the motherboard. 8. Peripherals are connected … wire or cable to sockets called ports.

Exercise 4. Match each word with its definition.