All other components of a computer are connected. (6). Components on the motherboard are connected in different ways, some components connect via a cord, others connect directly into one of the slots on the motherboard itself, and some are built into the board (1) . On a laptop motherboard you will find more components integrated into the motherboard, but generally on a desktop motherboard you will find less integration. ProcessorThe processor or central processing unit (CPU) is essentially the brain of the computer, it handles most computer operations. It manages the interpretation and execution of the basic instructions necessary for the operation of a computer. RAMRandom Access Memory (RAM) is where currently used items are stored (7). RAM is volatile, items are only stored there temporarily and only when the device is powered on. If the power was turned off, anything stored in RAM would be lost unless backed up to the hard drive.