Hardware
The physical components of a computer system
Internal Hardware Devices
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Processor (CPU)
Motherboard
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Video and Sound Card
Internal Hard Disk Drive
Motherboard
Central component of any computer system through which every other
component communicates. Components are plugged into it directly or
indirectly.
Processor (CPU)
The brain of the computer. It controls everything that the computer does
and processes the data, moving it in and out of the memory.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
It stores the information currently in use, which is constantly changing.
A fast, volatile memory since when the computer is turned off the data is
lost. The more RAM you have the faster your computer works.
Read Only Memory (ROM)
Used to store instructions for the computer to work. The information cant
be changed and when the computer is turned off, it wont be lost. The data
can be accessed very fast.
External Hardware
Inputs, Outputs, Peripherals
Input Devices
Used to get data into the computer system. They are manual or automatic.
Output Devices
Used to transfer data out of the computer system. They are temporary or
permanent.
Peripheral Devices
Non-essential hardware that connects to the computer externally.
Software
Programs used for controlling the operation of a computer or processing of
electronic data. (Applications S. and System S)
Applications Software
Software used in particular situations, which can be used either in general
purpose or in one particular situation.
i.e., Word processing, spreadsheet, data manipulation...
Systems Software
Files and programs that make up a computer. i.e. Compilers, linkers,
device drivers...
Secondary/Backing Storage
Storage devices and media that are not constantly accessible by a
computer system.
Operating System
Software program that manages computer resources. They allow
components to communicate with each other and enable the computer to
run software applications. They are CLI and GUI.
Command Line Interface (CLI)
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The user types in instructions and commands.
It is fast but complicated to use.
It uses very little RAM.
Used in batch processing.
Advantages of CLI
 User communicates directly with the computer.
 There's a wide range of commands.
 Needs very little computer power.
Disadvantages of CLI
 User must remember complex commands.
 Lots of typing involved.
 High chance of errors.
Graphical User Interface (GUI)
 The user points at and clicks objects on a screen with a mouse.
 It is easy to use but needs a large amount of RAM and disk space.
 It uses Windows, Icons, Menus, and Pointers (WIMP)
Advantages of GUI
 Quick and easy to enter commands.
 Less chance of errors.
Disadvantages of GUI
 Smaller range of commands can be used.
 Uses more computer power.
Emerging Technologies
Those currently under development or that will be in 5 to 10 years, which
will alter the business and social environment.
1. Artificial Intelligence
2. Biometrics
3. Vision Enhancement
4. Quantum Cryptography
5. Computer-assisted Translation
6. 3D and Holographic Imaging
7. Virtual Reality
8. Robotics.
Vision Enhancement
Uses video technology projected through the lens of goggles to bring
distant objects closer and into focus. It amplifies infrared light so that the
image can be seen clearly even in darkness.
Impacts of Vision Enhancement
Militaries worldwide use it to complete missions and carry out surveillance
at night.
Language Search Engine
Compilation of translation memory databases in which a user types in a
word and the software searches through the database to find a translated
match.
Impacts of Computer Assisted Translation
 Documents are more accurate
 More multilingual society
 Quicker and more efficient translations
Virtual Reality (VR)
Where computers are used to create an artificial environment where the
user can interact with as if it were real. The user experiences things in a
similar way to the real world.
Impacts of VR
 Improved medical surgeons who can train without risk of actually
damaging a real patient.
 Larger and stronger buildings as architects can walk through a virtual
reality of the building, detecting any flaws.
 Effective treatment against phobias and anxieties.
 Training in dangerous situations where it is impossible to practice the
real thing.
 More realistic and interactive education for students.
Augmented Reality (AR)
Where it plays computer generated imagery on top of the user’s field of
view. It takes advantage of the user’s digital camera.
Cryptography
The process of ‘scrambling’ and ‘descrambling’ a message (encrypting and
decrypting)