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22 Basic Computer Parts and Their Functions (With Pictures)

Welcome to a beginner’s guide on the basic computer parts and their functions. The world of computers is ever-expanding like some kind of a science fiction infinite universe thing, and it can be quite a daunting task for beginners to learn about computers these days.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

BASIC PARTS

For this first section, let us start with the very basic parts of a computer system.

1) SYSTEM UNIT/COMPUTER CASING

This box is where all the main computer components are housed – Motherboard, processor, memory, hard disks, power supply, and more. Computer casings come in all shapes and sizes, with the common ones being tower casings (as above), and small form factors that fit in a backpack.

But with today’s technology, tower casings are kind of losing popularity. Most people will likely prefer to use the “integrated, lightweight, and portable computers” – All-in-one PCs, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices.

P.S. If you have read other guides on the Internet, some people refer to this box as the “CPU” (central processing unit). That is wrong and has always been a major confusion – The CPU is actually a chip inside the casing itself.

I don’t think this needs much explanation, as you are reading off one right now. 🙂 Monitors are where the text, images, and videos are displayed. Some monitors may even have built-in speakers, much like televisions.

INPUT DEVICES

Now that we are done with the basics, let us move on with the input devices – The devices that you use to provide data and instructions to the computer.

3) KEYBOARD

I don’t think this needs much explanation either, you type and enter data with this device. The most common keyboard layout in the world is QWERTY (as above), but depending on where you are in the world, the layout of keyboards may be a little different; There are also other layouts such as QWERTZ and AZERTY.

Just why don’t people invent a keyboard in straight alphabetical order (A to Z)? Because there are some scientific and design factors behind it. The keys on a keyboard are actually arranged to how common the alphabets are being used, thus the different layouts in the various regions.

A pointing device that we use to move the cursor on the screen, the mouse buttons are used to interact with various on-screen elements. A standard mouse these days will usually come with at least 3 buttons (left, center, right) and a scroll wheel. Although there are some mouse designs with a lot more buttons, and more meant for the purpose of gaming.

5) TRACKPAD

Trackpads are an alternative to using the mouse. These are what you will normally see on laptops, where it is inconvenient to carry a mouse around. Although trackpads are kind of a staple on laptops, there are also “standalone” trackpads that you can buy and attach to full-sized desktop computers.

6) GRAPHICS TABLET

Not to be confused with the tablet computer, the graphics tablet is specifically used by digital artists to paint and do some… art stuff. It kind of works like a trackpad as well, but the graphic tablet is superior in the sense that it is sensitive to pressure (for painting).

7) TRACKBALL

This slug-like device is called a trackball, and it is another alternative to using the mouse. Instead of moving the mouse around, we spin the big ball around to move the cursor.

8) WEB CAMERA

Web cameras are used to take photos and videos. Most modern laptops, tablets, and smartphones come with a built-in camera.

9) MICROPHONE

Allows us to record sounds. Again, most modern laptops, tablets, and smartphones already have one of these built-in. It is just a matter of quality, that some people prefer to buy higher-end microphones for recording studio-quality sounds.

10) GAMEPAD & JOYSTICK & STEERING WHEEL

Toys for the gamers. While the keyboard and mouse do provide good enough controls, some gamers still prefer to use specialized game controllers.

OUTPUT DEVICES

Next, let us move on to the output devices. The computer is capable of processing a lot of digital data quickly, but sadly, poor humans are not able to directly understand electrical signals. So, output devices are used to convert those electronic signals into human-understandable forms.

11) SPEAKERS

12) headphones & earphones, 13) printer & scanner.

A printer prints text, images, and whatever you want onto a piece of paper. A scanner, on the other hand, is an input device where you scan a piece of paper/document and convert it into a digital image – Which can then be sent to other people via email or fax.

14) 3D PRINTER

15) projector.

Is the “normal monitor” not big enough? Then use a projector and project it onto the wall. Good for movie nights and presentations.

THE INSIDES

Finally, let us take a look at the “crazy electrical stuff” inside a computer. A fair word of warning though – Switch off the power, unplug the power cord, and ground the casing safely before you decide to open up a computer. Save yourself from nasty electrical shocks.

16) POWER SUPPLY UNIT (PSU)

This is the component that converts power from the wall outlet to one that the computer needs.

17) MOTHERBOARD

Can’t miss this one, the heart and biggest circuit board of the computer. All the components and devices are connected to the motherboard, and thus, rightfully called the motherboard.

This little chip is known as the central processing unit (CPU), and it is the brain of the computer where all data crunching and processing is done. In the old days, a CPU used to have “only one single brain” or what we call a “single-core CPU”.

19) HARD DISK DRIVE (HDD)

The hard disk is where data is permanently stored – The operating systems, the applications, your pictures, music, documents, and more. There are a few types of hard disks in the market:

20) RANDOM ACCESS MEMORY (RAM)

21) graphics card.

A graphics card also does processing and calculations like a CPU, but it is specialized for graphical purposes. It processes all “graphic things” for gaming, video, and photo editing. So instead of being called a CPU, the graphics card has a graphical processing unit (GPU). You will not see this card in some computers, as it is already built into the motherboard.

22) FANS & HEATSINKS

Useful bits & links.

That’s it for all the computer parts, and here are a few more extras that may be useful to you.

TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Desktop, laptop, tablets, smartphones, just what are the different types of computers? Read my other guide to find out.

17 Different Types Of Computers (With Pictures)

IDENTIFYING COMPUTER PARTS

Links & references.

Thank you for reading, and we have come to the end of this short guide. I hope that this has helped you to better understand the cyber world, and if you have anything to share with this guide, please feel free to comment below. Good luck, and may the digital force be with you.

7 thoughts on “22 Basic Computer Parts and Their Functions (With Pictures)”

Thanks a lot. this was really good and helpful stuff to me

Thanks a lot. This info is very helpful to my son who is in year 9 doing computer studies. All the best and God will richly bless you in your life.

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• Computer Basics for Kids: Parts of a Computer

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The thought of learning different computer parts can be daunting—especially since it’s an incredibly complex and delicate piece of equipment. But that doesn’t mean it’s impossible! In fact, what if we told you that computers really only have four major parts?

Yes, those parts can technically be broken down further into smaller parts. That’s where things start getting complicated. But for the purposes of keeping things simple, a computer’s smaller parts can be bundled into four general categories:

• System Unit

Let’s deep dive into each one!

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Table of Contents

SYSTEM UNIT

Let’s start with the system unit. It’s the main part of the computer that houses everything the computer needs to function—motherboard, processor, hard disks, power supplies, memory, and more. You might be familiar with it because many people often refer to it as the CPU.

A very common misconception.

The CPU – or Central Processing Unit – is not the system unit. In fact, the CPU is actually just a small chip inside the system unit.

System units are often housed inside casings called computer casings (pretty self-explanatory!). Outside these casings, one can find buttons and connection ports made to fit specific devices, such as USB cables and cords.

The inside of a System Unit is a little more complicated:

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The Central Processing Unit (or CPU, as we mentioned earlier) is the brain of the computer. It’s where the computer processes and executes all the instructions it receives. It’s not to be confused with memory, where the computer temporarily stores information.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

This is second to the CPU in dictating your computer’s performance. The bigger the RAM is, the faster the response, the better the performance.

As we mentioned above, the random access memory (“memory” or “RAM” for short) is where the computer temporarily stores any information received. Typically, any data stored on the RAM is then permanently transferred to the hard disk once the computer is restarted or shut down.

Nowadays, 2GB to 4GB is the standard. 2GB is even considered to be quite low. Most computers that have more than 4GB RAM are quite fast and, therefore, marketed as the ideal choice for heavy workloads.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

Hard Disk Drives are more commonly referred to as “hard drives” or “hard disks.” This is where information from the RAM is permanently stored. Any information not written to the hard disk drive will be lost once the computer is turned off. The only way to get rid of information written on the hard drive is to manually delete it.

The capacity of the hard disk drive will dictate how much digital content (i.e., media, programs, documents, etc.) the computer can keep. 

Numbers range from 100GB (quite small) to 1TB. Computer users who need to store a lot of files shouldn’t consider anything lower than 250GB. After all, an average high-quality DVD movie can take up more than 4GB of hard disk drive space!

• Motherboard

The motherboard is the main component that lets computers connect to the internet. It will usually have a LAN port for networking, an internal modem for internet connectivity, and built-in USB ports for input devices (like keyboards and printers) and external storage devices (flash drives).

• Computer Science for Kids | The Ultimate Guide for Parents

A computer’s screen is called a “monitor.” You’re reading off of one right now! Like a television, computer monitors display text, images, and videos for the user to visually consume.

• 5 Foolproof Tips for Managing Your Kids’ Screen Time

Older computers used CRTs (cathode ray tubes) to fuel the display. The modern, slimmer, more lightweight counterparts are known as LCD (lightweight liquid crystal) and LED (light-emitting diode) displays. They also come with certain features – especially modern models – that can enhance the user experience. For instance:

• Power Saving – this is a mode that modern monitors will automatically switch to when they haven’t detected or received a video-input signal in a while. If you’ve ever seen your monitor screen go black due to long periods of inactivity, this is why. 

This helps protect and preserve the monitor’s service life. Modern laptops also switch to this mode when the laptop senses that the battery – and not the charger – is being used. This is often indicated by the screen dimming; a tried-and-tested way to lengthen battery life.

• Integrated Accessories – a lot of monitors will have external accessories attached or integrated, eliminating the need to purchase these items separately. Common accessories include webcams, microphones, and speakers.

PRIMARY INPUT DEVICES: KEYBOARD & MOUSE

Input devices are defined as external hardware devices that allow the user to control and interact with the computer by sending it data. A computer has two primary input devices that it cannot go without: the keyboard and the mouse.

A computer keyboard is a panel composed of buttons that can be pressed to generate letters, numbers, and symbols on-screen. 

Think like a typewriter, just electronic. 

People can write letters, codes, scripts, and social media posts using a keyboard. They can also move video game characters around. There’s surprisingly a lot of people can do with just 104 keys.

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On the subject of keys, did you know that your keyboard layout will actually depend on your location? The most common and widely-used layout is the QWERTY keyboard (where the first six keys on the top row are Q, W, E, R, T, and Y). 

However, that’s not the only order available. Other keyboard layouts include the QWERTZ keyboard, the DVORAK keyboard, and the AZERTY keyboard. This is because the keys on a keyboard are actually arranged depending on how often the alphabetical letters are used. 

Ergo, the most frequently-used letters will depend on the most dominant language of that region.

The mouse is the second primary input device. It’s described as a pointing and selecting device that people use to manipulate the on-screen cursor. The mouse allows them to virtually select any element displayed on the computer screen by simply dragging the cursor to hover over it and clicking the item using one of the mouse buttons.

A standard computer mouse nowadays has at least three buttons: the left, the right, and the center button, plus the scroll wheel. 

Each button will yield different results, depending on the software. For instance, left-clicking on a file simply selects it. Left-clicking on a file twice will open it. Left-clicking on a file and holding the left button down will allow you the drag the file around. Right-clicking on a file will open an options menu related to the file.

Is it possible to use a computer without a mouse? No.

Yes, there are things called keyboard shortcuts that make navigating a computer much easier. However, the graphical nature of many computer programs and apps has made it impossible to fully explore and utilize a computer without the help of a mouse.

Mouse Alternative: Trackpad

A trackpad or touchpad is a small, touch-sensitive rectangle that allows the user to control the cursor using their fingers. This is the most common mouse alternative for laptop computers.

Mouse Alternative: Trackball

A trackball is, as the name suggests, a ball set on a platform that can be rotated freely. Instead of holding the device with their whole hand – like a mouse – users can simply roll the ball with their thumbs to move the cursor.

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Parts of Computer List [Show/ Hide] • Monitor • Keyboard • Mouse • Speakers • Microphone • Webcam • Computer Case • Motherboard • Central Processig Unit • Graphics Processing Unit • Fan • Sound Card • Memory • Storage • CD/DVD Drive • All-in-One Reader • Power Cord • Power Supply Unit • Uninterruptible Power Supply • Printer • Scanner var toggler = document.getElementsByClassName("caret"); var i; for (i = 0; i

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Parts of a Computer

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What is a computer?

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A computer is a machine that can store and process information . Most computers rely on a binary system , which uses two variables, 0 and 1, to complete tasks such as storing data, calculating algorithms, and displaying information. Computers come in many different shapes and sizes, from handheld smartphones to supercomputers weighing more than 300 tons.

Many people throughout history are credited with developing early prototypes that led to the modern computer. During World War II, physicist John Mauchly , engineer J. Presper Eckert, Jr. , and their colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania designed the first programmable general-purpose electronic digital computer, the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC).

What is the most powerful computer in the world?

As of November 2021 the most powerful computer in the world is the Japanese supercomputer Fugaku, developed by RIKEN and Fujitsu . It has been used to model COVID-19 simulations.

How do programming languages work?

Popular modern programming languages , such as JavaScript and Python, work through multiple forms of programming paradigms. Functional programming, which uses mathematical functions to give outputs based on data input, is one of the more common ways code is used to provide instructions for a computer.

The most powerful computers can perform extremely complex tasks, such as simulating nuclear weapon experiments and predicting the development of climate change . The development of quantum computers , machines that can handle a large number of calculations through quantum parallelism (derived from superposition ), would be able to do even more-complex tasks.

A computer’s ability to gain consciousness is a widely debated topic. Some argue that consciousness depends on self-awareness and the ability to think , which means that computers are conscious because they recognize their environment and can process data. Others believe that human consciousness can never be replicated by physical processes. Read one researcher’s perspective.

Computer artificial intelligence's impact on society is widely debated. Many argue that AI improves the quality of everyday life by doing routine and even complicated tasks better than humans can, making life simpler, safer, and more efficient. Others argue AI poses dangerous privacy risks, exacerbates racism by standardizing people, and costs workers their jobs leading to greater unemployment. For more on the debate over artificial intelligence, visit ProCon.org .

computer , device for processing, storing, and displaying information.

Computer once meant a person who did computations, but now the term almost universally refers to automated electronic machinery . The first section of this article focuses on modern digital electronic computers and their design, constituent parts, and applications. The second section covers the history of computing. For details on computer architecture , software , and theory, see computer science .

Computing basics

The first computers were used primarily for numerical calculations. However, as any information can be numerically encoded, people soon realized that computers are capable of general-purpose information processing . Their capacity to handle large amounts of data has extended the range and accuracy of weather forecasting . Their speed has allowed them to make decisions about routing telephone connections through a network and to control mechanical systems such as automobiles, nuclear reactors, and robotic surgical tools. They are also cheap enough to be embedded in everyday appliances and to make clothes dryers and rice cookers “smart.” Computers have allowed us to pose and answer questions that were difficult to pursue in the past. These questions might be about DNA sequences in genes, patterns of activity in a consumer market, or all the uses of a word in texts that have been stored in a database . Increasingly, computers can also learn and adapt as they operate by using processes such as machine learning .

Computers also have limitations, some of which are theoretical. For example, there are undecidable propositions whose truth cannot be determined within a given set of rules, such as the logical structure of a computer. Because no universal algorithmic method can exist to identify such propositions, a computer asked to obtain the truth of such a proposition will (unless forcibly interrupted) continue indefinitely—a condition known as the “ halting problem .” ( See Turing machine .) Other limitations reflect current technology. For example, although computers have progressed greatly in terms of processing data and using artificial intelligence algorithms , they are limited by their incapacity to think in a more holistic fashion. Computers may imitate humans—quite effectively, even—but imitation may not replace the human element in social interaction. Ethical concerns also limit computers, because computers rely on data, rather than a moral compass or human conscience , to make decisions.

Analog computers use continuous physical magnitudes to represent quantitative information. At first they represented quantities with mechanical components ( see differential analyzer and integrator ), but after World War II voltages were used; by the 1960s digital computers had largely replaced them. Nonetheless, analog computers, and some hybrid digital-analog systems, continued in use through the 1960s in tasks such as aircraft and spaceflight simulation.

One advantage of analog computation is that it may be relatively simple to design and build an analog computer to solve a single problem. Another advantage is that analog computers can frequently represent and solve a problem in “real time”; that is, the computation proceeds at the same rate as the system being modeled by it. Their main disadvantages are that analog representations are limited in precision—typically a few decimal places but fewer in complex mechanisms—and general-purpose devices are expensive and not easily programmed.

Digital computers

In contrast to analog computers, digital computers represent information in discrete form, generally as sequences of 0s and 1s ( binary digits, or bits). The modern era of digital computers began in the late 1930s and early 1940s in the United States , Britain, and Germany . The first devices used switches operated by electromagnets (relays). Their programs were stored on punched paper tape or cards, and they had limited internal data storage. For historical developments, see the section Invention of the modern computer .

During the 1950s and ’60s, Unisys (maker of the UNIVAC computer), International Business Machines Corporation (IBM), and other companies made large, expensive computers of increasing power. They were used by major corporations and government research laboratories, typically as the sole computer in the organization. In 1959 the IBM 1401 computer rented for $8,000 per month (early IBM machines were almost always leased rather than sold), and in 1964 the largest IBM S/360 computer cost several million dollars.

These computers came to be called mainframes, though the term did not become common until smaller computers were built. Mainframe computers were characterized by having (for their time) large storage capabilities, fast components, and powerful computational abilities. They were highly reliable, and, because they frequently served vital needs in an organization, they were sometimes designed with redundant components that let them survive partial failures. Because they were complex systems, they were operated by a staff of systems programmers, who alone had access to the computer. Other users submitted “batch jobs” to be run one at a time on the mainframe.

Such systems remain important today, though they are no longer the sole, or even primary, central computing resource of an organization, which will typically have hundreds or thousands of personal computers (PCs). Mainframes now provide high-capacity data storage for Internet servers, or, through time-sharing techniques, they allow hundreds or thousands of users to run programs simultaneously. Because of their current roles, these computers are now called servers rather than mainframes.

• Government Exam Articles

Basic Components of Computer

A computer device is made up of various elements which help in its effective functioning and processing. There are five basic components of the computer which help in making this processing of data easier and convenient. 

In this article, we shall discuss the basic computer components along with their functions. Also, for candidates preparing Computer Knowledge for upcoming competitive exams, sample questions based on this concept have been given further below in this article.

By definition, components of a computer system are the primary elements which make the functioning of an electronic device smooth and faster. There are five basic components which include:

• Output Unit
• Memory Unit
• Control Unit
• Arithmetical and Logical Unit

To have a better understanding of the Fundamentals of Computer , visit the linked article. 

The exterior of any computerised device may look different and may also have varied features, but the basic components remain the same for their functioning. 

Since the computers (in various forms) have become a part of everyday life, understanding these components of a computer system is important for everyone. As for Government exam aspirants, questions based on these may be asked in the form of multiple-choice questions in the final exam. Thus, preparing yourselves accordingly is also important. 

5 Components of a Computer System

Given below are the 5 components of a computer along with their purpose and functions. 

A computer will only respond when a command is given to the device. These commands can be given using the input unit or the input devices. 

For example: Using a keyboard we can type things on a Notepad and the computer processes the entered data and then displays the output of the same of the screen.

The data entered can be in the form of numbers, alphabet, images, etc. We enter the information using an input device, the processing units convert it into computer understandable languages and then the final output is received by a human-understandable language.

When we command a computer to perform a task, it reverts for the action performed and gives us a result. This result is called output. There are various output devices connected to the computer. The most basic of which is a monitor. Whatever we write using a keyboard or click using a mouse, is all displayed on the monitor.

Thus, the output unit gives us the final result once the entire processing is done within the mechanism of a device.

For example: when we visit an ATM, we enter our details like language, pin, amount to be withdrawn, etc. and then the final money which the cash dispenser releases is our outcome. In this case, the cash dispenser acts as an output unit. 

To get a list of computer input and output devices and the function of the various I/O devices, visit the linked article. 

For better understanding and more interactive analysis of the components of the computer, candidates can check the video given below and get detailed information reading the five major components responsible for the functioning of a computer device.

When we enter the data into the computer using an input device, the entered information immediately gets saved in the memory unit of the Central Processing Unit (CPU). Because of the presence of some existing programming, the Memory Unit transmits the data further to the other parts of the CPU.

Similarly, when the output of our command is processed by the computer, it is saved in the memory unit before giving the output to the user.

This is the core unit which manages the entire functioning of the computer device. It is one of the most essential components of the computer system. 

The Control Unit collects the data entered using the input unit, leads it on for processing and once that is done, receives the output and presents it to the user. It can be said to the centre of all processing actions taking place inside a computer device. 

Basically, the instructions taken, interpretation of entered data, issuing signals to execute the data and then finally retrieving the data is all done in the Control Unit. 

Arithmetic & Logical Unit

As the name suggests, all the mathematical calculations or arithmetic operations are performed in the Arithmetic and Logical Unit of the CPU. 

It can also perform actions like a comparison of data and decision-making actions. The ALU comprises circuits using which addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and other numerical based calculations can be performed.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The Central Processing Unit is the core of any computer devices. It comprises three major components of the computer which have been discussed above:

• Arithmetic and Logical Unit

All these three units are elements of CPU and together help in the efficient working and processing of data. It is also known as the “Brain of Computer” and no action can be conducted by a device without the execution and permission of the Central Processing Unit.

The device is a close-knit circuit comparison microprocessor which helps in fetching the data and proving suitable results to the user. Thus, CPU is the main processing unit of the computer.

Also, while discussing the various components of computers, it must be known that a device which is so complex and intricately made using circuits and wires comprises various other elements, which affects its overall programming and performance.

Given below are a few difference between articles with regard to Computer Awareness and will help in better understanding of the varied computer terms, programs and applications:

• Difference Between Search Engine and Web Browser
• Difference Between RAM and ROM
• Difference Between Virus and Malware
• Difference Between Hardware and Software
• Difference Between WWW and Internet
• Difference Between IPV4 and IPV 6
• Difference Between Firewall and Antivirus
• Difference Between MS Excel and MS Word
• Difference Between Notepad and WordPad

Components of Computer Questions and Answers

As discussed earlier, major Government exams in the country include Computer Knowledge as a key subject in the exam syllabus. Thus, being well prepared and well aware of the basic computer elements is mandatory in such cases.

So, to assist candidates with their competitive exam preparation, given below are a few Multiple Choice Questions on Components of Computer for aspirants to apprehend the type of questions which may be asked. 

Q 1. MU, ALU and CU are all part of the ________.

• Storage Memory
• Central Processing Unit
• Input Devices
• None of the Above

Answer: (2) Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Q 2. ________ is the main memory of the computer

• Random Access Memory
• Read Only Memory
• Internal Hard Drive
• Computer has no main memory, it keeps erasing the storage memory automatically

Answer: (3) Internal Hard Drive

Q 3. What is the full form of GUI?

• Graphic User Interface
• Games User Interface
• Graphic Unified Interface
• Graphic Unit Interface
• None of the above

Answer: (1) Graphic User Interface

Q 4. A computer comprises how many types of memory?

Answer: (4) Two

Solution: A computer comprises two types of memory. One is Random Access Memory (RAM) and the other is Read Only Memory (ROM)

Q 5. Which of the following are the physical parts of a computer?

• Operating System
• Software Applications

Answer: (4) Hardware

It is important to know that since the syllabus is exhaustive, it is important to have a suitable study plan and correct approach to excel in these Govt exams. Thus, for the best Preparation Strategy for Competitive exams , visit the linked article.

For any further updates, study material or exam information, turn to BYJU’S for assistance.

The continued part of the ‘Components of Computer’ video is given below. Refer to it for the detailed explanation on this topic from the Experts.

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Computer Hardware

Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer, such as a case, central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), monitor, and mouse which processes the input according to the set of instructions provided to it by the user and gives the desired output.

The computer has mainly has two major components:

In this article, we only discuss computer hardware.

What is Computer Hardware?

Computer hardware is a physical device of computers that we can see and touch. For e.g. Monitor , Central Processing Unit , Mouse, Joystick , etc. Using these devices, we can control computer operations like input and output .

Computer Hardware Parts

These hardware components are further divided into the following categories, which are:

• Input Devices
• Output Devices
• Storage Devices
• Internal Components

1. Input Devices

Input devices are those devices with the help of which the user interacts with the computer. Or, In other words, with the help of input devices, the user enters the data or information into the computer. This information or data is accepted by the input devices and converted into a computer-acceptable format, which is further sent to the computer system for processing.

Now we discuss some input devices:

• Keyboard: It is the most common and main input device for computers. The data is inputted by typing on the keyboard. It consists of 104 keys in total. It contains numeric keys, alphabet keys, and different function keys as well. Earlier, it was connected to the computer via cable, now as technology has advanced, you can connect a keyboard using Bluetooth.
• Mouse: A mouse is a kind of pointing device which is rolled over to control the cursor on the screen and it has functional keys like left, middle, and right buttons. Using these functional keys, on by the click of which an object is selected or to open a file by just a click of a mouse. It also consists of a sensor inside which notifies its speed to the computer and according to which the cursor is moved on the screen.
• Scanner: As the name suggests, it scans images, documents, etc., and converts them into digital form and that can be further edited and used. It works just like a Xerox machine. 
• Track Ball: It is a device much like an upside-down mouse. It does not use much space for movement like a mouse. As the trackball remains stationary and the user moves the ball in various directions, it affects the screen movements directly.
• Light Pen: It is a light-sensitive device and it is touched to the CRT screen where it can detect, a raster on the screen as it passes by and, with the help of this user can draw anything like lines, figures, or any objects. 
• Microphone: It is a kind of voice input system that can be attached to a computer system to record sounds. It converts human speech or voice into electrical signals . This electrical signal is processed by the computer and the word is recognized.  
• Optical Character Reader: It is used to detect alphanumeric characters that are written or printed on paper using a low-frequency light source. This light is absorbed by the dark areas and reflected by the light areas, now this reflected light is received by the photocells. It is like a scanner.
• Bar Code Reader: It is used to read bar codes and convert them into electric pulse which will further processed by the computer. Here, the barcode is data that is coded into white and black lines(or light and dark lines).

2. Output Devices

These are the devices that are used to display the output of any task given to the computer in human-readable form. 

Now we discuss some output devices:

• Monitor: The monitor is the main output device. It is also called VDU(visual display unit) and it looks like a TV screen. The Monitor displays the information from the computer. It is used to display text, video, images, etc.
• Printer: A printer is an output device that transfers data from the computer in a printed format by using text or images on paper. There are both colored and black & white printers. Further, there are also different types of printers, like Laser Printer, Dot-matrix printers, and Inkjet printers.
• Plotter: It is similar to a printer but potters are large in size. A plotter is used to generate large drawings, architectural blueprints, etc. on paper and these are high-quality images and drawings and large in size.
• Speakers: It is a very common output device and it gives sound as an output. Speaker is generally used to play music or anything having sound.

3. Storage Devices

There are some devices that are used for storage purposes and are known as secondary storage devices. Some of them were discussed below:

1. CD (Compact disc): A CD is circular in shape and made up of thin platted glass and plastic polycarbonate material. It has a storage capacity of 600 MB to 700 MB of data. It has a standard size of 12 cm with a hole in the center of about 1.5 cm and 1.2 mm in thickness. There are basically 3 types of CDs, which are:

• CD-ROM (CD – Read Only Memory): Contents of this type of CD cannot be erased by the user. Only the publisher is allowed to access the data imprinted on this CD. CD-ROM is basically used for commercial purposes like for a music album or any application package by a software company.
• CD-R (CD-Recordable): In this, content or data can be stored once. After that, they can be read many times but the data or content cannot be rewritten or erased. (Kind of one-time use)
• CD-RW(CD-Rewritable): As the name suggests, this type of CD is used to rewrite the content or erase previous content and again write new content many times.

2. DVD (Digital Video/Versatile Disc): A DVD is the same as a CD but with some more features. A DVD comes in single and dual-layer formats. It has much greater storage capacity in comparison to CD. The storage capacity of a DVD with one-sided single layer is – 4.7 GB, one-sided double layer – 8.5 GB, double-sided single layer – 9.4 GB, and double-sided double layer – 17 GB. There are also some types in DVDs, which are :

• DVD-ROM: In this type, the contents of the DVD cannot be written on or erased by the user. DVD ROM is used for applications and database for distributing them in large amounts.
• DVD-R / DVD+R: DVD-R (DVD minus R) and DVD+R (DVD plus R) are two different kinds of discs and they are once recordable format. Also, they have no difference virtually.
• DVD-RW / DVD+RW: This is a kind of rewritable disc and it allows up to 1,000 rewrites.
• DVD-RAM: DVD RAM is accessed like a hard disk. It provides high data security and storage capacity. This is a kind of rewritable disc and it allows up to 1,00,000 rewrites.

3. Hard Disk: An hard disk is a non-volatile storage device that uses its read/write heads to store digital data on a magnetic surface of a rigid plate. It is generally 3.5 inches in size for desktops and 2.5 inches in size for laptops. A hard disk can be classified further into 3 types, which are:

• Internal Hard Disk: It has a common storage capacity stated as GB or TB. A system case or cabinet is the place where it is located. It can perform faster operations and its storage is fixed. It is mainly used to store large data files and programs .
• Internal Cartridges: The Internal hard disk can’t be removed from the system cabinet easily. To resolve this problem Internal Cartridges are introduced. So, Internal cartridges are easy to remove CDs. It has a storage capacity of 2 GB to 160 GB. It is used as an alternative to an internal hard disk.
• Hard Disk Packs: It is used by organizations such as banks, and government sector organizations to store large amounts of data. It has a storage capacity of a range of PB( Peta Bytes).

Hardware Components

Some important hardware devices known as the internal components are discussed below: 

1. CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The CPU is also known as the heart of the computer. It consists of three units, generally known as the control unit, Arithmetic Logical Unit (ALU) , and the memory unit . Below is the block diagram of the CPU is given:

As shown in the diagram input is given to the CPU through input devices. This input goes to memory and the control unit gets instructions from memory. The control unit now decides what to do with the input or instructions and transfers it to ALU. Now, ALU performs various operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, logical operations, etc. After that, the final result gets stored in memory and finally passed to output devices to give the output. So, this is how the CPU works.

2. Motherboard

It is the main circuit board inside a computer and it contains most of the electronic components together. All the components of the computer are directly or indirectly connected to the motherboard . It includes RAM slots, controllers, system chipsets, etc. 

3. RAM (Random Access Memory)

It is also known as temporary or volatile memory. It holds the program and data, which are currently in process or processing. All the data is erased as soon as the computer is turned off or in case of a power failure. Data stored in this memory can be changed. There are two types of RAM:-

• SRAM (Static RAM): SRAM basically consists of a flip-flop using a transistor or Mosfet (MOS). It is fast and has less access time. In this refreshing circuits are not required. But it is costly and requires more space. For e.g. cache memory.
• DRAM (Dynamic RAM): DRAM consists of capacitors and the data is stored in the form of capacitors. Capacitors charge when data is 1 and don’t charge if data is 0. It requires refreshing circuits, as leakage of current in the capacitor can occur, so they need to be refreshed to the data. It is slower and has a higher access time. It is cheaper in comparison with SRAM . For e.g. Main memory.

4. Video Graphics Array Port

A video input commonly used on computer monitors is called a video graphics array (VGA) port. Verifying that there isn’t a loose connection, a damaged cable, or a broken display is one step in troubleshooting a VGA port. Compressed air can also be sprayed inside the VGA port by a computer expert to make sure it’s dust-free.

5. Power Supply

All of a computer system’s parts are powered by a power source. Typically, a power cord is used to connect a computer tower to an electrical outlet. By turning off the computer, unplugging and separating the power supply cord, or trying a different cord or socket, a technician can diagnose the power supply.

6. Cooling Fan

A computer’s system to prevent overheating uses cooling fans. To aid customers who use their computers intensively, such as when streaming video or playing games, many computers contain more than one cooling fan. If a user detects their computer overheating, a computer expert might need to repair the cooling fan. The blades may be examined for any damage and cleared of any foreign objects. A technician’s standard method of troubleshooting may involve replacing computer fans.

7. Hard Drive

On a computer system, files, programs, and other types of information are stored on hard drives, which are data storage devices. They utilise hard drives, which are magnetically coated discs used to store digital versions of information. A computer technician can suspect a corrupt hard disk when a hard drive dies.

Relationship Between Computer Hardware and Software

• Both the Hardware and software are mutually dependent on each other. Each should function properly so that the computer produces an output.
• Software utilization can not be done without supporting of the hardware.
• Relevant software should be loaded into the hardware to get the latest software.
• Hardware is a one-time expense while software is not.
• Software development is very expensive while hardware cant be developed if in use once.
• Many software applications and their sub-applications can be loaded on hardware to run different jobs.
• The software acts as an interface between the user and the hardware.

FAQs on Computer hardware

Q.1 why is computer hardware important.

The term hardware for a computer system refers to the actual, physical tools and components that support crucial operations including input, processing (internal storage, computation, and control), output, secondary storage (for data and programs), and communication.

Q.2 How does SCCM handle hardware inventory?

SCCM’s hardware inventory gathers data on hardware components utilized throughout your IT infrastructure. You must enable a few parameters before you can begin collecting hardware inventory data. Once the hardware inventory settings have been enabled, it is simple to store inventory data in the SCCM database.

Q.3 What is the basic use of hardware?

Hardware describes the physical parts of the computer or its delivery systems for the software’s written instructions to be stored and executed.

Q.4 How do you make a computer run faster?

Consider giving your computer extra RAM if you’ve previously removed debris from the interior and uninstalled any superfluous files or apps. Your CPU will normally operate more efficiently with extra memory, which could improve performance.

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• History of Computers

When we study the many aspects of computing and computers, it is important to know about the history of computers. Charles Babbage designed an Analytical Engine which was a general computer   It helps us understand the growth and progress of technology through the times. It is also an important topic for competitive and banking exams.

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What is a computer.

A computer is an electronic machine that collects information, stores it, processes it according to user instructions, and then returns the result.

A computer is a programmable electronic device that performs arithmetic and logical operations automatically using a set of instructions provided by the user.

Early Computing Devices

People used sticks, stones, and bones as counting tools before computers were invented. More computing devices were produced as technology advanced and the human intellect improved over time. Let us look at a few of the early-age computing devices used by mankind.

Abacus was invented by the Chinese around 4000 years ago. It’s a wooden rack with metal rods with beads attached to them. The abacus operator moves the beads according to certain guidelines to complete arithmetic computations.

• Napier’s Bone

John Napier devised Napier’s Bones, a manually operated calculating apparatus. For calculating, this instrument used 9 separate ivory strips (bones) marked with numerals to multiply and divide. It was also the first machine to calculate using the decimal point system.

Pascaline was invented in 1642 by Biaise Pascal, a French mathematician and philosopher. It is thought to be the first mechanical and automated calculator. It was a wooden box with gears and wheels inside.

• Stepped Reckoner or Leibniz wheel

In 1673, a German mathematician-philosopher named Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz improved on Pascal’s invention to create this apparatus. It was a digital mechanical calculator known as the stepped reckoner because it used fluted drums instead of gears.

• Difference Engine

In the early 1820s, Charles Babbage created the Difference Engine. It was a mechanical computer that could do basic computations. It was a steam-powered calculating machine used to solve numerical tables such as logarithmic tables.

• Analytical Engine 

Charles Babbage created another calculating machine, the Analytical Engine, in 1830. It was a mechanical computer that took input from punch cards. It was capable of solving any mathematical problem and storing data in an indefinite memory.

• Tabulating machine 

An American Statistician – Herman Hollerith invented this machine in the year 1890. Tabulating Machine was a punch card-based mechanical tabulator. It could compute statistics and record or sort data or information. Hollerith began manufacturing these machines in his company, which ultimately became International Business Machines (IBM) in 1924.

• Differential Analyzer 

Vannevar Bush introduced the first electrical computer, the Differential Analyzer, in 1930. This machine is made up of vacuum tubes that switch electrical impulses in order to do calculations. It was capable of performing 25 calculations in a matter of minutes.

Howard Aiken planned to build a machine in 1937 that could conduct massive calculations or calculations using enormous numbers. The Mark I computer was constructed in 1944 as a collaboration between IBM and Harvard.

History of Computers Generation

The word ‘computer’ has a very interesting origin. It was first used in the 16th century for a person who used to compute, i.e. do calculations. The word was used in the same sense as a noun until the 20th century. Women were hired as human computers to carry out all forms of calculations and computations.

By the last part of the 19th century, the word was also used to describe machines that did calculations. The modern-day use of the word is generally to describe programmable digital devices that run on electricity.

Early History of Computer

Since the evolution of humans, devices have been used for calculations for thousands of years. One of the earliest and most well-known devices was an abacus. Then in 1822, the father of computers, Charles Babbage began developing what would be the first mechanical computer. And then in 1833 he actually designed an Analytical Engine which was a general-purpose computer. It contained an ALU, some basic flow chart principles and the concept of integrated memory.

Then more than a century later in the history of computers, we got our first electronic computer for general purpose. It was the ENIAC, which stands for Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer. The inventors of this computer were John W. Mauchly and J.Presper Eckert.

And with times the technology developed and the computers got smaller and the processing got faster. We got our first laptop in 1981 and it was introduced by Adam Osborne and EPSON.

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Generations of Computers

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In the history of computers, we often refer to the advancements of modern computers as the generation of computers . We are currently on the fifth generation of computers. So let us look at the important features of these five generations of computers.

• 1st Generation: This was from the period of 1940 to 1955. This was when machine language was developed for the use of computers. They used vacuum tubes for the circuitry. For the purpose of memory, they used magnetic drums. These machines were complicated, large, and expensive. They were mostly reliant on batch operating systems and punch cards. As output and input devices, magnetic tape and paper tape were implemented. For example, ENIAC, UNIVAC-1, EDVAC, and so on.
• 2nd Generation:  The years 1957-1963 were referred to as the “second generation of computers” at the time. In second-generation computers, COBOL and FORTRAN are employed as assembly languages and programming languages. Here they advanced from vacuum tubes to transistors. This made the computers smaller, faster and more energy-efficient. And they advanced from binary to assembly languages. For instance, IBM 1620, IBM 7094, CDC 1604, CDC 3600, and so forth.
• 3rd Generation: The hallmark of this period (1964-1971) was the development of the integrated circuit.  A single integrated circuit (IC) is made up of many transistors, which increases the power of a computer while simultaneously lowering its cost. These computers were quicker, smaller, more reliable, and less expensive than their predecessors. High-level programming languages such as FORTRON-II to IV, COBOL, and PASCAL PL/1 were utilized. For example, the IBM-360 series, the Honeywell-6000 series, and the IBM-370/168.
• 4th Generation: The invention of the microprocessors brought along the fourth generation of computers. The years 1971-1980 were dominated by fourth generation computers. C, C++ and Java were the programming languages utilized in this generation of computers. For instance, the STAR 1000, PDP 11, CRAY-1, CRAY-X-MP, and Apple II. This was when we started producing computers for home use.
• 5th Generation:  These computers have been utilized since 1980 and continue to be used now. This is the present and the future of the computer world. The defining aspect of this generation is artificial intelligence. The use of parallel processing and superconductors are making this a reality and provide a lot of scope for the future. Fifth-generation computers use ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration) technology. These are the most recent and sophisticated computers. C, C++, Java,.Net, and more programming languages are used. For instance, IBM, Pentium, Desktop, Laptop, Notebook, Ultrabook, and so on.

Brief History of Computers

The naive understanding of computation had to be overcome before the true power of computing could be realized. The inventors who worked tirelessly to bring the computer into the world had to realize that what they were creating was more than just a number cruncher or a calculator. They had to address all of the difficulties associated with inventing such a machine, implementing the design, and actually building the thing. The history of the computer is the history of these difficulties being solved.

19 th Century

1801 – Joseph Marie Jacquard, a weaver and businessman from France, devised a loom that employed punched wooden cards to automatically weave cloth designs.

1822 – Charles Babbage, a mathematician, invented the steam-powered calculating machine capable of calculating number tables. The “Difference Engine” idea failed owing to a lack of technology at the time.

1848 – The world’s first computer program was written by Ada Lovelace, an English mathematician. Lovelace also includes a step-by-step tutorial on how to compute Bernoulli numbers using Babbage’s machine.

1890 – Herman Hollerith, an inventor, creates the punch card technique used to calculate the 1880 U.S. census. He would go on to start the corporation that would become IBM.

Early 20 th Century

1930 – Differential Analyzer was the first large-scale automatic general-purpose mechanical analogue computer invented and built by Vannevar Bush.

1936 – Alan Turing had an idea for a universal machine, which he called the Turing machine, that could compute anything that could be computed.

1939 – Hewlett-Packard was discovered in a garage in Palo Alto, California by Bill Hewlett and David Packard.

1941 – Konrad Zuse, a German inventor and engineer, completed his Z3 machine, the world’s first digital computer. However, the machine was destroyed during a World War II bombing strike on Berlin.

1941 – J.V. Atanasoff and graduate student Clifford Berry devise a computer capable of solving 29 equations at the same time. The first time a computer can store data in its primary memory.

1945 – University of Pennsylvania academics John Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert create an Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC). It was Turing-complete and capable of solving “a vast class of numerical problems” by reprogramming, earning it the title of “Grandfather of computers.”

1946 – The UNIVAC I (Universal Automatic Computer) was the first general-purpose electronic digital computer designed in the United States for corporate applications.

1949 – The Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator (EDSAC), developed by a team at the University of Cambridge, is the “first practical stored-program computer.”

1950 – The Standards Eastern Automatic Computer (SEAC) was built in Washington, DC, and it was the first stored-program computer completed in the United States.

Late 20 th Century

1953 – Grace Hopper, a computer scientist, creates the first computer language, which becomes known as COBOL, which stands for CO mmon, B usiness- O riented L anguage. It allowed a computer user to offer the computer instructions in English-like words rather than numbers.

1954 – John Backus and a team of IBM programmers created the FORTRAN programming language, an acronym for FOR mula TRAN slation. In addition, IBM developed the 650.

1958 – The integrated circuit, sometimes known as the computer chip, was created by Jack Kirby and Robert Noyce.

1962 – Atlas, the computer, makes its appearance. It was the fastest computer in the world at the time, and it pioneered the concept of “virtual memory.”

1964 – Douglas Engelbart proposes a modern computer prototype that combines a mouse and a graphical user interface (GUI).

1969 – Bell Labs developers, led by Ken Thompson and Dennis Ritchie, revealed UNIX, an operating system developed in the C programming language that addressed program compatibility difficulties.

1970 – The Intel 1103, the first Dynamic Access Memory (DRAM) chip, is unveiled by Intel.

1971 – The floppy disc was invented by Alan Shugart and a team of IBM engineers. In the same year, Xerox developed the first laser printer, which not only produced billions of dollars but also heralded the beginning of a new age in computer printing.

1973 – Robert Metcalfe, a member of Xerox’s research department, created Ethernet, which is used to connect many computers and other gear.

1974 – Personal computers were introduced into the market. The first were the Altair Scelbi & Mark-8, IBM 5100, and Radio Shack’s TRS-80.

1975 – Popular Electronics magazine touted the Altair 8800 as the world’s first minicomputer kit in January. Paul Allen and Bill Gates offer to build software in the BASIC language for the Altair.

1976 – Apple Computers is founded by Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak, who expose the world to the Apple I, the first computer with a single-circuit board.

1977 – At the first West Coast Computer Faire, Jobs and Wozniak announce the Apple II. It has colour graphics and a cassette drive for storing music.

1978 – The first computerized spreadsheet program, VisiCalc, is introduced.

1979 – WordStar, a word processing tool from MicroPro International, is released.

1981 – IBM unveils the Acorn, their first personal computer, which has an Intel CPU, two floppy drives, and a colour display. The MS-DOS operating system from Microsoft is used by Acorn.

1983 – The CD-ROM, which could carry 550 megabytes of pre-recorded data, hit the market. This year also saw the release of the Gavilan SC, the first portable computer with a flip-form design and the first to be offered as a “laptop.”

1984 – Apple launched Macintosh during the Superbowl XVIII commercial. It was priced at $2,500

1985 – Microsoft introduces Windows, which enables multitasking via a graphical user interface. In addition, the programming language C++ has been released.

1990 – Tim Berners-Lee, an English programmer and scientist, creates HyperText Markup Language, widely known as HTML. He also coined the term “WorldWideWeb.” It includes the first browser, a server, HTML, and URLs.

1993 – The Pentium CPU improves the usage of graphics and music on personal computers.

1995 – Microsoft’s Windows 95 operating system was released. A $300 million promotional campaign was launched to get the news out. Sun Microsystems introduces Java 1.0, followed by Netscape Communications’ JavaScript.

1996 – At Stanford University, Sergey Brin and Larry Page created the Google search engine.

1998 – Apple introduces the iMac, an all-in-one Macintosh desktop computer. These PCs cost $1,300 and came with a 4GB hard drive, 32MB RAM, a CD-ROM, and a 15-inch monitor.

1999 – Wi-Fi, an abbreviation for “wireless fidelity,” is created, originally covering a range of up to 300 feet.

21 st Century

2000 – The USB flash drive is first introduced in 2000. They were speedier and had more storage space than other storage media options when used for data storage.

2001 – Apple releases Mac OS X, later renamed OS X and eventually simply macOS, as the successor to its conventional Mac Operating System.

2003 – Customers could purchase AMD’s Athlon 64, the first 64-bit CPU for consumer computers.

2004 – Facebook began as a social networking website.

2005 – Google acquires Android, a mobile phone OS based on Linux.

2006 – Apple’s MacBook Pro was available. The Pro was the company’s first dual-core, Intel-based mobile computer.

Amazon Web Services, including Amazon Elastic Cloud 2 (EC2) and Amazon Simple Storage Service, were also launched (S3)

2007 – The first iPhone was produced by Apple, bringing many computer operations into the palm of our hands. Amazon also released the Kindle, one of the first electronic reading systems, in 2007.

2009 – Microsoft released Windows 7.

2011 – Google introduces the Chromebook, which runs Google Chrome OS.

2014 – The University of Michigan Micro Mote (M3), the world’s smallest computer, was constructed.

2015 – Apple introduces the Apple Watch. Windows 10 was also released by Microsoft.

2016 – The world’s first reprogrammable quantum computer is built.

Types of Computers

• Analog Computers –  Analog computers are built with various components such as gears and levers, with no electrical components. One advantage of analogue computation is that designing and building an analogue computer to tackle a specific problem can be quite straightforward.
• Mainframe computers –  It is a computer that is generally utilized by large enterprises for mission-critical activities such as massive data processing. Mainframe computers were distinguished by massive storage capacities, quick components, and powerful computational capabilities. Because they were complicated systems, they were managed by a team of systems programmers who had sole access to the computer. These machines are now referred to as servers rather than mainframes.
• Supercomputers –  The most powerful computers to date are commonly referred to as supercomputers. Supercomputers are enormous systems that are purpose-built to solve complicated scientific and industrial problems. Quantum mechanics, weather forecasting, oil and gas exploration, molecular modelling, physical simulations, aerodynamics, nuclear fusion research, and cryptoanalysis are all done on supercomputers.
• Minicomputers –  A minicomputer is a type of computer that has many of the same features and capabilities as a larger computer but is smaller in size. Minicomputers, which were relatively small and affordable, were often employed in a single department of an organization and were often dedicated to a specific task or shared by a small group.
• Microcomputers –  A microcomputer is a small computer that is based on a microprocessor integrated circuit, often known as a chip. A microcomputer is a system that incorporates at a minimum a microprocessor, program memory, data memory, and input-output system (I/O). A microcomputer is now commonly referred to as a personal computer (PC).
• Embedded processors –  These are miniature computers that control electrical and mechanical processes with basic microprocessors. Embedded processors are often simple in design, have limited processing capability and I/O capabilities, and need little power. Ordinary microprocessors and microcontrollers are the two primary types of embedded processors. Embedded processors are employed in systems that do not require the computing capability of traditional devices such as desktop computers, laptop computers, or workstations.

FAQs on History of Computers

Q: The principle of modern computers was proposed by ____

• Adam Osborne
• Alan Turing
• Charles Babbage

Ans: The correct answer is C.

Q: Who introduced the first computer from home use in 1981?

• Sun Technology

Ans: Answer is A. IBM made the first home-use personal computer.

Q: Third generation computers used which programming language ?

• Machine language

Ans: The correct option is C.

Customize your course in 30 seconds

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Basics of Computers

• Computer Abbreviations
• Basic Computer Knowledge – Practice Problems
• Computer Organization
• Input and Output (I/O) Devices

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The first presidential debate is tonight. Here's how to watch on TV or streaming

If it feels early, that's because it is: The first debate of the 2024 presidential election against President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will take place on Thursday.

In mid-May, the Democratic and Republican front runners agreed to take part in a debate hosted by CNN, departing from the traditional debate procedure. The nominees are not participating in debates facilitated by the Commission on Presidential Debates .

CNN anchors Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the in-studio debate, with several networks planning to provide  commentary before and after  the big production. 

This year, there will be no live audience. So how can you watch the debate from your TV, laptop, tablet or phone?

When is the first presidential debate?

The upcoming presidential debate will begin at 8 p.m. Central time on Thursday, June 27. This is the earliest debate in U.S. history, which typically started in September or October, according to CNN .

How can I watch the presidential debate?

CNN will broadcast the debate on its cable channel. Other news channels will broadcast pre-debate commentary prior to the showing a simulcast of the CNN debate. Here are some of the broadcast networks that will air the debate live:

Can I watch the debate if I don't have cable?

Yes. A ‘CNN Presidential Debate’ Simulcast will be available on the Des Moines Register's website and on the  USA TODAY channel on YouTube .

If you have popular streaming apps, you can also find coverage there:

• Debate host CNN will provide its coverage on Max.
• ABC News will offer its coverage on Hulu.
• MSNBC coverage is available via Peacock.

When is the next presidential debate?

Biden and Trump also agreed to a debate hosted by ABC News on Sept. 10. The Commission on Presidential Debates planned to host its first debate on Sept. 16.

Reporting contributed by Sarah Gleason of USA TODAY.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Register. Reach her at  [email protected]  or follow her on Twitter at @ Kkealey17 .