Printed circuit boards are essentially the brains of any computer or computerised system. These components store the computers operating system, all the information needed to run the different programs on the hard drive, as well as provide a way to add peripheral devices and additional memory. The board itself is made of insulating materials, such as cotton paper and epoxy, or Teflon, which is then coated with copper. The copper is removed where circuits are desired and electrical conductors are attached. Different types of circuit boards serve different purposes; a quick look at each follows.

Without motherboards, computers would not be able to perform most of the functions we expect them today, even starting up would be impossible. These components come in many different sizes and shapes, each dependent on the equipment being run (computers, phones, etc.). They consist of connections of all types, and include places where additional boards can be added in order to increase memory or install additional hardware or programs.

Daughter boards are similar to motherboards in appearance, but are usually smaller and have sockets or plugs in order to connect to the motherboard. The purpose of these components is to add features to the already functioning system; the most common use of these boards is to upgrade a computers speed and/or memory or to add extra hardware, such as printers, to the computer.

Printed circuit boards are something almost everyone uses everyday; knowing a little about them and what they do will help you get the most out of your computer system.