Introduction To Computer Systems

1. What is the tower? - What does it look like? - What is its function?
The enclosure that holds all of the internal components of a computer. Basically looks like a big rectangular structure for a desktop computer, whereas a laptop or notebook is a very slim rectangular shape with a built in moniter. Function? I suppose it's merely for support and protection of the internal components.
2. What is RAM? - What does it look like? - What is its function? - What does RAM stand for?
RAM (Random Access Memory), "provides space for your computer to read and write data to be accessed by the CPU (Central Proccessing Unit)."
3. What is a Hard Drive? - What does it look like? - What is its function?
A location where all of your files and programs are stored. Corrupt this, and you lose a lot of data.
4. What is a DVD and DVD drive? - What do they look like? - What is their function?
A Digital Versatile Disc is a form of optical storage media based on a compact disc. A DVD Drive, to what I can assume, is basically what accesses and runs the DVD disc itself.
5. What is an ethernet cable? - What does it look like? - What is its function?
An ethernet cable is basically what links your computer to your internet modem. It looks, and is, a long cord encased in what's usually a blue, plastic material.
6. What is a motherboard? - What does it look like? - What is its function?
The underlying circuit board of a computer.
7. What is an IDE and SATA cable? - What do they look like? - What is their function?
Integrated Drive Electronics.
8. What is USB? - What does it look like? - What is its function? - What does USB stand for?
A Universal Serial Bus.
9. What is a video card? - What does it look like? - What is its function?
"A piece of hardware installed into a personal computer to allow it to send video signals to an external output device such as a monitor or projector."
10. What is a PCI card? - What does it look like? - What is its function? What does PCI stand for?
A Peripheral Component Interconnect is an interconnection system between a processor and attached devices in which expansion slots are spaced closely for high-speed operation.