ARTICLES: Hardware
The term "hardware" typically refers to physical artifacts, when used in reference to building, home decorations, or remodeling. Hardware can also mean physical components in computer systems, such as computer hardware.Historically speaking, hardware meant the metal fittings and parts which were used for added strength, functionality, longevity, and fabrication ease in wooden products. In modern days, hardware includes equipment or embellishments such as machine parts, cutlery, utensils, tools, plumbing supplies, chains, wire, handles, corners, latches, hinges, locks, and keys, especially when any of these are made of metal. In some countries,
hardware of this variety are sold in hardware stores. The term is used less in the United Kingdom.There are many different types of hardware, and the term can mean many different things. Regardless of the type of hardware or the generalized category, the term means that the object identified as "hardware" serves to hold together and/or help the intended object to work. Mechanical hardware encompasses machine elements or mechanical tools used to make metal objects. Computer hardware is computer-related components such as memory, drive, RAM, or other essential running elements. Common household hardware includes hinges, wire, locks, keys, rings, bolts, nuts. Automotive hardware includes cam shafts, bushings, rods, drive trains, and bearings.When a building is demolished, a room is remodeled, or an object is repaired, the hardware is often retained and recycled. For example, steel beams or copper wiring inside of a large office building could be recycled, sold, reused, or refurbished. When a homeowner decides to remodel their kitchens, they may retain the door handles, shelve pulleys, or hinges for use in the new kitchen, or they may decide to totally change out all of the hardware in favor of designer or decorative embellishments. Since hardware is often made out of metal, it stands to reason that they would last for many, many years, and therefore could be reused or sold to someone who could use them.
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