So, what are the basic computer parts? There's a motherboard, CPU, RAM, expansion board, hard drive and peripherals.

Everything inside the computer is connected to a circuit board called the motherboard. The motherboard has sockets for low-level programming (BIOS), and the computer's brain - called a CPU; the computer's memory (RAM, ROM and CMOS); and for add-on cards to control the video (picture), audio (sound), printer and anything else that might be connected to the computer. You may also find a modem inside on an add-on card. All these parts are called hardware and they are important for the efficient operation of computer.

CPU: stands for 'Central Processing Unit' and is the 'brain' of the computer. RAM: RAM is what we know as "Memory". The RAM is not a permanent memory and is erased when the computer turns off. Permanent memory is stored on the hard drive. The hard drive uses disks that are made of aluminum or glass (and therefore 'hard'). Each disk can store much more information than either a floppy or CD-ROM. The disks in a normal hard drive can not be removed or replaced.

CD-ROM stands for Compact Disk - Read Only Memory. The original name was WORM (Write Once Read Many) drive. When we talk about a floppy disk drive we mean the drive that uses the 3.5 inch 1.44Mb floppy disk.  The add-in or expansion board is a video card, sound card or modem. On every motherboard there are places to add circuit boards to extend the capabilities of the computer. The most widely used circuit boards are the internal modem, sound card, and the video display adapter.

Computer peripherals are any of a number of devices that work with a computer. Compact disks, the "floppy" disks, computer keyboard, computer mouse, printers/laser printers, RAM - Random Access Memory and scanners are used to consider as peripheral equipment.
By the way, a computer desk is also quite necessary. Quality ergonomic computer desks are designed to store all computer parts beneath the desk's surface. Bulky parts such hard drives and printers remain permanently out of sight and wires and cords don't even come into consideration.

All these parts are interconnected with each other and it's very important to know its configurations and compatibility, especially when purchasing. Here are some shopping tips that can be useful when buying a bare-bones computer (does not include a monitor and comes with the bear minimum of parts -- quite up-gradable, practical and cheap):

Missing parts: before purchasing, do some research to find out what you really need from your bare-bones system. It will prevent you from the buying in addition the missing parts that can be a tremendous task. Mismatched parts: there is a chance that you get something that doesn't fit with your bare-bones system. Make sure that all the parts match up to the others and your needs. Outdated components: beware; super-cheap parts are sometimes used in cheap computers. Although this can be a great cost-saver and some old parts are fantastic. Defective parts: there is a chance of defects in cheaper products. Refurbished computer parts: refurbished computer parts are a great way to save some money. Often the computers are slightly updated to meet the requirements, but in reality it's quite an old model, just with upgrades.

And finally, claims of great warranty. As a rule, long warranties are made to make you feel safe. Most of the parts in the computer could be out of their warranty dates, and the warranty given to you could be from the company that put the computer together.

And one more, before purchasing a computer it's better to have advice from a specialist.