Junior High Media Studies Computer Basics

CPU The brains of the computer is the microprocessor. The microprocessor is often referred to as the CPU (Central Processing Unit). The processor is one of the most important parts of the computer. The microprocessor controls how data is sorted and directs the flow of data.

Memory Computer Memory comes in many different shapes and sizes There are a few basic types: RAM, ROM, virtual, cache, and long-term storage (like hard drives) Computer memory is measured in bytes. A single byte is made up of a series of 1's and 0's normally traveling in pairs of eight.

Bits & Bytes 8 bits = 1 byte 1000 bytes 1 kilobyte 1000 kilobytes 1 megabyte 1000 megabytes 1 gigabyte 1000 gigabytes 1 terabyte

Memory - ROM Read-Only Memory is permanent and nonvolatile memory. Nonvolatile means it does not disappear when the computer is shut off. It also cannot be erased or changed in anyway. This is similar to humans remembering how to ride a bike after many years

Memory - RAM Random-Access Memory works only when the computer is turned on. This memory is vital to the computer because it controls the moment by moment processes. The first thing that goes into RAM is the OS (operating system). Next for the RAM might be a game, or the Internet browser, or some type of software that you want to use.

Storage – Hard Drive A stack of round metal disks called platters encased in a metal air tight shell. The hard drive's function is to store all the files, and software the computer will ever use. Any file or software program used by RAM will most likely come from this drive.

Optical Storage – CDs and DVDs and Blu-rays CD's function much like hard drive in that they store large amounts of memory. What separates them is their mobility and optical storage technology. Their storage capacity is very limited compared to hard drives. CDs = ~650MB DVDs = 4.34GB~7.95GB Blurays = 25GB~50GB

Input There are a lot of different ways to give interact with computers

Output Computers can also send a lot of information to various outputs This is what we receive from the computer

Define the Following Define the following terms in your own words. Input Device Output Device Software Hardware Storage Device Memory Multi-tasking

Imagine a World Without Computers With at least 3 full sentences, answer these two questions: What would be different?  How would this make life more challenging?