A modern PC is both simple and complicated. It is simple in the sense that over the years, many of the components used to construct a system have become integrated with other components into fewer and fewer actual parts. It is complicated in the sense that each part in a modern system performs many more functions than did the same types of parts in older systems.

This section briefly examines all the components and peripherals in a modern PC system. Each item is discussed further in later chapters.

Here are the components and peripherals necessary to assemble a basic modern PC system:

Motherboard
Processor
Memory (RAM)
Case/chassis
Power supply
Floppy drive
Hard disk
CD-ROM, CD-RW, or DVD-ROM drive
Keyboard
Mouse
Video card
Monitor (display)
Sound card
Speakers
Modem