Introduction to Information Technology: Computing Hardware — by Wikibooks contributors

An introductory chapter on what computers are and how they turn data into information. It covers types of computers, common hardware such as monitors, printers, keyboards and mice, software and firmware, and how to start up and shut down Windows.

Defines what hardware and a computer are, noting that everything from phones to smart TVs counts. It then describes the separate parts of a desktop computer and gives examples of computers without screens.

A free Wikibook for people with little computer experience that moves from the basics toward more advanced topics. Chapters cover buying a computer, security, office programs, the internet, networking and keeping a PC running smoothly. Its examples mostly use Windows XP, so menus look dated.