Computer Components Part #1

What is a Computer? n computer n A computer is an information processing machine. More specifically, a computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data, process the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future.

What do computers do? n accepts input n processes data n stores data n produces output These four components make up the information processing cycle.

Information Processing Cycle n inputprocessingoutput storage n A computer changes information from one form into another by performing four basic functions - input, processing, output, and storage. Computers require these four components to complete tasks. n n The series of input, processing, output, and storage activites is called the informaiton processing cycle. Communication is also an essential element of the cycle.

Information Processing Cycle Words, symbols, numbers, sound, pictures, program instructionsInputInput Program calculates, sorts modifies data Uses microprocessor or CPUProcessProcess Memory is temporary holding area (RAM) Storage is permanent (disk)StoreStore Results of processing Reports, graphs, documents, pictures Printer or monitorOutputOutput

Information Processing Cycle

Desktop– Personal Computer Notebook– Laptop Personal Digital Assistant– PDA, Handheld, Pocket PC Types of Computers

What is a personal computer? –A personal computer, also called a desktop computer, is designed so all of the components fit entirely on or under a desk or table

A personal computer is a computer that can perform all of its input, processing, output, and storage activities by itself. Two popular architectures of personal computers are the PC and the Apple. PC-compatible – A personal computer based on the original IBM personal computer design. These computers usually use a Windows operating system. Apple – Computers that usually use a Macintosh operating system (Mac OS) Two Types of Personal Computers

What is a notebook computer? –Portable, small enough to fit on your lap –Also called a laptop computer –Generally more expensive than a desktop computer

What is an embedded computer? –A special-purpose computer that functions as a component in a larger product

These all have computers in them as well! Digital refrigerator Digital house thermostat PDA digital planner Cell phone

What is a Computer System? Computer +input devices + output devices + storage devices Peripherals A computer system is all the parts of a computer connected together.

Computer System n A collection of related computer components that are designed to work together. n A computer system includes hardware and software. Hardware Software

Computer Hardware n Hardware is the computer’s physical components. These are the parts you can see and touch. n A peripheral is a separate hardware component that can be added to a computer system to expand the input, output, and storage capabilities. Example - printer

Hardware n The hardware components include: Input devices– Enable users to enter data into the computer for processing. Processing circuitry– Components located in the system’s case that transform data into information. Output devices– Peripherals that show the results of processing. Storage devices– Used to store all the programs and data that the computer uses. Communication devices– Used to move data between computers.

What is a Computer System? Computer +input devices + output devices + storage devices Peripherals A computer system is all the parts of a computer connected together. Peripherals

THE END What did you learn?