Laptops are like any other computer.
Laptop computers are made of the same parts as larger desktop computers but fit into a smaller space. Some of the parts are harder to find, and each laptop is assembled differently. Everything is connected to a motherboard that houses the central processing unit. Outside of that, there are multiple compartments and panels to access the RAM, batteries and disk drives.
Outer Shell
On the outside of the laptop, you can immediately access several pieces. Before you can get to the main system board, you might have to remove the battery and panels that make up the computer casing. In a typical laptop, the keyboard must be removed to access RAM slots. Laptop batteries have sliding buttons to release them from the casing.
Drive Bays
On the sides of a laptop are bays and slots for several types of hardware. All but the smallest laptops, like netbooks, have optical disk drives that are removable. A separate bay contains the hard disk and is often screwed shut while the optical drives can sometimes be removed as the computer is on. Older laptops have slots for wireless cards or other special cards.
Internal Parts
If you remove the keyboard and other necessary panels, you can access the system board. The system board contains the central processor, the heating elements, the CMOS chips and connectors for every other part. Cables from the monitor will connect to this board along with any drives. A graphics card may be attached, but most are integrated into the main board. Additional connectors for the power, LCD screen, sound and network ports will be part of the board or connected by wires.
Tags: system board, disk drives, panels access