Basic Knowledge of Computer System
YCC Chinese School
Types of Computer
Desktop Computer
Tablet
Laptop Computer
Smart Phone
Computer
Hardware
Hardware is a general terms of physical components to make a computer
system
Software
Software is a set of instructions to control the computer system and
process of data.
Software
Application Software
Application software encompasses programs designed to perform specific tasks
directly for end-users, distinct from the underlying system software. These
programs are tailored to fulfill a wide range of needs, from productivity tools like
word processors and spreadsheets to entertainment applications like games and
streaming services. Essentially, application software empowers users to interact
with computers and devices to accomplish particular goals, whether it's creating
documents, browsing the internet, or managing finances.
System Software
System software System software is the foundational layer of programs that
enable a computer's hardware to function and provide a platform for application
software to run. It manages and controls the computer's resources. Key examples
include operating systems like Windows, mac OS, and Linux, as well as device
drivers, firmware, and utility programs, all of which work behind the scenes to
ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the computer system.
System Software
Operating systems
Device drivers
Utilities
Compiler
Linkers
Application Software
word processing
spreadsheet
database (management system)
apps and applets
video editing
graphics editing
audio editing
computer-aided design (CAD).
Hardware
keyboard
mouse
camera
monitor
printer
plotter
Motherboard
CPU
RAM ( Random Access Memory )
ROM ( Read Only Memory )
Graphic Card
Internal Storage Device ( Hard Disk or SSD)
CD/DVD Drive
Power Supply
External Hardware
Internal Hardware
Internal Hardware
Motherboard
CPU
RAM (Random Access Memory )
ROM ( Read Only Memory )
Graphic Card
Internal Storage Device ( Hard Disk or SSD)
CD/DVD Drive
Power Supply
CPU ( Microprocessor)
A central processing unit (CPU) or processor is an electronic circuit board in a computer
that can execute instructions from a computer program. The two main components are:
• Arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) where
Executes mathematical operations (addition, subtraction, etc.) and logical
comparisons (AND, OR, NOT) via the ALU, enabling decision-making and data
processing.
•Control unit (CU) which takes
Manages data flow between the CPU, memory, and peripherals (e.g., storage,
input/output devices) by sending control signals.
Functions of CPU
Fetch: Retrieves instructions from memory (RAM).
Decode: Interprets the instruction using the control unit to determine the
required action.
Execute: Performs the operation using the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) for
calculations or data manipulation.
Write back: Stores results in registers or memory.
RAM ( Random Access Memory)
Random access memory (RAM) is memory where data is
temporarily stored when running applications. This memory can
be written to and read from. Since its contents are lost when
power to the computer is turned off, it is often referred to as a
volatile or temporary memory. RAM stores the data, application
software and part of the operating system currently in use.
Internal Storage Device ( HDD /SSD )
Hard drives (HDDs) are magnetic in nature and are one of the main methods for
storing data, files (text, photos and music) and most of the system and applications
software. More modern computers (and all tablets) use the newer storage systems
which make use of solid-state (SSD) technology and are replacing HDDs in many
cases. Their function is the same. They store operating system, application
software, driver, data and files. They are non-volatile storage.
Graphic Card
Graphics card allows the computer to send graphical information to a video display
device such as a monitor, television, or projector. It usually connects to the
motherboard (see above). Graphics cards are usually made up of:
• a processing unit
• memory unit (usually RAM)
• a cooling mechanism (often in the form of a heat sink since these cards generate a
lot of heat)
• connections to a display unit
(monitor, TV or projector).
Motherboard
Motherboard is a printed circuit board found in all computers. It allows the
processor and other computer hardware to function and communicate with each
other. One of the major functions of a typical motherboard is to act as a kind of
'hub' which other computer devices connect to. These form the circuits between the
various components. In addition to circuits, a motherboard contains several sockets
and slots to connect the other components.
ROM ( Read Only Memory )
Read-only memory (ROM) is a memory stored firmwares which control the
basic operations of various components ,bootloaders for loading operating
system, embedded system software for devices with microcontrollers and
BIOS ( Basic Input Output System) which initiates the startup process. These
chips are non-volatile memories.
CD/DVD Drive
CDs and DVDS are described as optical storage devices. Optical storage
devices can be built in to a computer or connected externally via a USB cable.
They rely on the optical properties of laser light, which is used to read data and
to write data on the surface of the disk.
CDs and DVDs can be designated as: ‘R’ (write once only), ‘RW’ (can be written
to or read from many times) or ‘ROM’ (read-only).
External Hardware
External Hardware is divided into two groups. Input & Output devices.
The followings are some of output devices.
External Hardware
External Hardware is divided into two groups. Input & Output devices.
The followings are some of input devices.
Data Storage Units
UNIT
SHORTENED
CAPACITY
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