Unit 1 1.1 Computer Hardware

What you need to learn: • input devices • output devices • communications devices • benefits (e.g. integrated devices make portable devices simpler to use) • limitations (e.g. voice recognition performs poorly in noisy environments) • uses (e.g. membrane keyboard could be used in harsh physical environments)

What is computer hardware? Hardware v Software Hardware Software This is the set of instructions for the computer to run a particular task or boot up, for example a word processor will be used to create documents and a virus checker can be used to check and clear viruses on the system. This is the physical parts of the computer which you can touch, for example monitors, keyboard, printers, wiring etc.

Hardware Hardware can be grouped into four main areas: Input Devices: these are used to control the computer and are used to put data into the system. Output Devices: these get something out of the computer for instance data or sound. Storage Devices: these are used to save data onto and can be inside the computer or portable so the data can be taken with the user. Communication devices: A communication device is a hardware device capable of transmitting an analog or digital signal over the telephone, other communication wire, or wirelessly.

Input Devices

Output Devices

Storage Devices

Communication devices

Task: What hardware device do these go into? Worksheet on the shared area. Complete this task.

Benefits vs Limitations What are the benefits and limitations of: Input devices Output devices Communication devices Limitations for communication devices: If your communication device is using a wire it may not be connected properly. Make sure the proper drivers are installed and that no errors or conflicts are occurring with the driver and that the device is being detected. If your communication device requires settings, make sure they're correct. Limitations: e.g. voice recognition performs poorly innoisy environments)

Exam Question Ruby is from Manchester and has just purchased an iPhone 6. She has never used one before but seen her friends using one. She wants to use Seri regularly. Identify the device category she is using within this hardware and outline the benefits and limitations of her using this.

Users Devices which could be used to fit different peoples needs? membrane keyboard could be used in harsh physical environments Keyboard cushioned support Adjustable screen Comfortable mouse to support wrist control Adjustable chair