How does a voltage comparator work? very simple explanation I need

[KAS90]

Hello every1..
I would like just sum help in unerstanding how a voltage comparator works..
I tried to read journals.. books.. but till now, I feel so lost..
can someone just give me a simple explanation of the SIMPLEST voltage comparator? sumthing to help me get on with it...
I'd appreciate that a lot..
i will help me with my project, as I'm running out of time..
thanx a lot in advance..

 

[dlgoff]

A standard op-amp operating without negative feedback can be used as a comparator. When the non-inverting input (V+) is at a higher voltage than the inverting input (V-), the high gain of the op-amp causes it to output the most positive voltage it can. When the non-inverting input (V+) drops below the inverting input (V-), the op-amp outputs the most negative voltage it can.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comparator"

Can't think of any simpler way to say it.