Core Components
1. CPU (Central Processing Unit)
What it does: Executes instructions; the “brain” of the computer.
What can go wrong: Overheating, bent pins, poor performance.
Troubleshooting: Check cooling system, reseat CPU, update BIOS, monitor temperatures.
2. Motherboard
What it does: Main circuit board connecting all components.
What can go wrong: Dead board, faulty slots, damaged capacitors.
Troubleshooting: Inspect for physical damage, test with minimal components, reset CMOS.
3. RAM (Random Access Memory)
What it does: Temporary memory for active tasks.
What can go wrong: System crashes, blue screens, failure to boot.
Troubleshooting: Reseat RAM, test with one stick at a time, run memory diagnostics.
4. Storage (HDD/SSD)
What it does: Long-term storage for files and programs.
What can go wrong: Slow performance (HDD), drive not detected, data corruption.
Troubleshooting: Check cables, run disk health tools, replace failing drives.
5. GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)
What it does: Handles graphics and parallel processing.
What can go wrong: Artifacts on screen, overheating, driver issues.
Troubleshooting: Update drivers, clean dust, check power connectors, test in another system.
6. PSU (Power Supply Unit)
What it does: Converts electricity into usable power.
What can go wrong: No power, random shutdowns, burning smell.
Troubleshooting: Test with PSU tester, check cables, replace if faulty.
Peripheral & Input/Output Hardware
7. Keyboard & Touchpad/Mouse
What it does: Input devices for typing and navigation.
What can go wrong: Keys not responding, cursor issues.
Troubleshooting: Clean, reconnect, update drivers, test with external device.
8. Display (Monitor/Screen)
What it does: Output visual information.
What can go wrong: Dead pixels, flickering, no display.
Troubleshooting: Check cables, test with another monitor, adjust brightness settings.
9. Speakers & Microphone
What it does: Audio output and input.
What can go wrong: No sound, distorted audio.
Troubleshooting: Update drivers, check sound settings, test external devices.
10. Webcam
What it does: Captures video.
What can go wrong: Not detected, poor image quality.
Troubleshooting: Update drivers, check privacy settings, test with another app
Networking Hardware
11. Network Interface Card (NIC) / Wi-Fi Card
What it does: Connects to wired or wireless networks.
What can go wrong: No internet, dropped connections.
Troubleshooting: Update drivers, reset router, test with another network.
12. Router/Switch (external but essential)
What it does: Directs traffic between devices and networks.
What can go wrong: No connectivity, slow speeds.
Troubleshooting: Restart router, check cables, update firmware.
Cooling & Power Management
13. Cooling Fans & Heatsinks
What it does: Prevent overheating.
What can go wrong: Noise, overheating, fan failure.
Troubleshooting: Clean dust, replace faulty fans, reapply thermal paste.
14. Battery (Laptop only)
What it does: Provides portable power.
What can go wrong: Short battery life, won’t charge.
Troubleshooting: Calibrate battery, check charger, replace battery.
Optional Components
15. Optical Drive (CD/DVD/Blu-ray)
What it does: Reads/writes discs.
What can go wrong: Drive not detected, discs not reading.
Troubleshooting: Clean lens, check connections, replace drive.
16. Sound Card (dedicated)
What it does: Enhances audio quality.
What can go wrong: No sound, driver conflicts.
Troubleshooting: Update drivers, reseat card, test with onboard audio.
This list covers the essential and common hardware in modern PCs and laptops, along with typical failures and practical troubleshooting steps