Buttons and Ports on a Computer

Front

What is an Optical Disc Drive?

Back

Often called a CD ROM or DVD ROM drive, it lets your computer read CDs and DVDs.

Front

What is the function of the Power Button on a computer?

Back

The power button is used to power the computer on and off. It can also be used to place the computer in different power-saving modes such as hibernate, sleep, and standby.

Front

What are Audio In/Audio Out ports used for?

Back

They allow you to connect speakers, microphones, and headsets to the computer.

Front

What can USB (Universal Serial Bus) Ports be used for?

Back

USB ports can be used to connect almost any type of device, including mice, keyboards, printers, and digital cameras.

Front

Where are the connection ports located on a computer?

Back

On the back of the computer case, made to fit specific devices. The arrangement varies from computer to computer.

Front

What is the Power Socket used for?

Back

It is where you'll connect the power cord to the computer.

Front

What is the Ethernet Port used for?

Back

It is used for networking and connecting to the Internet.

Front

What is the Monitor Port used for?

Back

It is where you'll connect your monitor cable. It can be a DisplayPort, VGA, DVI, or HDMI port.

Front

What is a Serial Port?

Back

A less common port on today's computers, previously used to connect peripherals like digital cameras.

Front

What are PS/2 ports used for?

Back

They are sometimes used for connecting the mouse & keyboard, typically color-coded green for mouse and purple for keyboard.