Which Of The Following Is Not A Peripheral

Which of the Following is NOT a Peripheral? Understanding Computer Hardware

The question, "Which of the following is NOT a peripheral?" might seem deceptively simple. However, understanding the nuances of computer hardware and the distinction between internal and external components is crucial to grasping the answer and mastering computer literacy. This comprehensive guide delves into the definition of peripherals, explores various types of peripherals, and clarifies what components are not considered peripherals. We'll also touch upon some common misconceptions and advanced concepts to solidify your understanding.

Defining Computer Peripherals

A peripheral device, simply put, is any external device that connects to a computer system to expand its functionality. These devices are not essential for the basic operation of the computer – the CPU, RAM, and motherboard are the core components – but they add versatility and user interaction. They connect to the computer system through various interfaces such as USB, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or dedicated ports. The key takeaway here is externality: peripherals reside outside the main computer chassis.

Common Types of Peripherals

To fully understand what isn't a peripheral, let's explore some common examples:

Input Peripherals:

• Keyboard: Used to input text and commands.
• Mouse: Used for cursor control and selection.
• Scanner: Converts physical documents or images into digital formats.
• Microphone: Captures audio input.
• Webcam: Captures video input.
• Game Controllers (Joystick, Gamepad): Specialized input devices for gaming.
• Touchscreen: While integrated into some systems, it's considered a peripheral when added externally (e.g., a touchscreen monitor).

Output Peripherals:

• Monitor: Displays visual information from the computer.
• Printer: Produces hard copies of digital documents.
• Speakers: Output audio.
• Projector: Displays visual information on a larger screen.
• Headphones: Provide private audio output.

Storage Peripherals:

• External Hard Drive: Provides additional storage capacity.
• USB Flash Drive: Portable storage for data transfer.
• SD Card: Compact flash memory card.
• Optical Drive (CD/DVD/Blu-ray): Reads and writes data to optical discs.

Components That Are NOT Peripherals

Now, let's address the core of our question. Several components are integral to the computer's operation and reside inside the main chassis. These are not peripherals:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU):**

The CPU, or processor, is the "brain" of the computer. It executes instructions and performs calculations. It is located on the motherboard and is crucial for the system to even boot up.

2. Random Access Memory (RAM):**

RAM is the computer's short-term memory. It stores data and instructions that the CPU is actively using. It's volatile, meaning data is lost when the power is turned off. RAM is an internal component residing on the motherboard and essential for running programs.

3. Motherboard:**

The motherboard is the main circuit board of a computer. All other internal components connect to it. It’s the central nervous system, providing the pathways for data and power. It's physically inside the computer case.

4. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU):**

While sometimes considered a peripheral in the form of a dedicated graphics card, the GPU is often integrated directly onto the motherboard or as a dedicated card that sits inside the computer case. Integrated GPUs are especially not considered peripherals as they are integral to the motherboard. A separate, dedicated GPU card is borderline, as it plugs into the motherboard but it serves a specialized function and can be removed.

5. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid State Drive (SSD):**

These are the primary storage devices of a computer. They store the operating system, applications, and user data. While external hard drives are peripherals, internal HDDs and SSDs are located inside the computer case and are crucial for its operation.

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU):**

The PSU converts mains electricity into the lower voltage DC power required by the computer's internal components. This is entirely internal and essential for powering the system.

Advanced Considerations and Misconceptions

Some components blur the lines between peripheral and internal component. Let's address those gray areas:

• Internal Sound Card: While technically a card that plugs into the motherboard, a dedicated internal sound card is often considered part of the internal system, not a peripheral. However, its function is to process audio, similar to a peripheral sound system.

• Network Interface Card (NIC): Often an internal card handling network connections, an NIC is usually considered a part of the internal system, but it facilitates communication with external networks.

• Expansion Cards: Cards like capture cards for video editing, or specialized sound cards, are technically peripherals because they expand the computer's function and are added to the motherboard. Yet, their integration within the chassis makes them sometimes mistakenly classified as internal components.

The key distinction lies in essential functionality. If removing a component renders the computer unable to boot or function properly, it's not a peripheral. Peripherals enhance functionality but are not essential for basic operation.

Conclusion: Identifying Non-Peripherals

To reiterate, the components that are not peripherals are the fundamental building blocks of a computer system. The CPU, RAM, motherboard, internal HDD/SSD, PSU, and integrated GPU (if present) are all crucial for the system’s basic functionality. They reside inside the computer case and cannot be easily removed without significantly impacting performance or rendering the system unusable. Remember the key characteristics – internal location and essential functionality – to distinguish between peripherals and non-peripherals. Understanding this distinction is fundamental to a solid grasp of computer hardware and architecture. This knowledge is invaluable for troubleshooting, upgrades, and understanding the overall structure of your computer system.