CP 1610 Introduction to Computer Components Basic PC

CP 1610: Introduction to Computer Components Basic PC Components

What is a Computer? A machine n A tool n A device that ‘computes’ (or calculates) n A device that takes our input, makes calculations based on the data, and returns the desired output n

Hardware and Software n Hardware ¨ Physical ¨ Visible n components of a computer part of a system Software ¨ Set of instructions that directs hardware to accomplish a task ¨ The intelligence

Hardware Components n Outside computer case: ¨ input/output ¨ Called n devices ‘peripheral’ devices Inside the case: ¨ processing ¨ CPU and storage – most important component ¨ Motherboard ¨ Etc…

Parts Inside a Computer

What Hardware Needs in Order to Operate 1. Method for CPU to communicate with it 2. Software to instruct and control it 3. Electricity to power it

Four Functions of a Computer Input n Process n Storage n Output n

How Components Interact

Hardware Used for Input and Output n Popular input devices: ¨ Keyboard ¨ Mouse n Popular output devices: ¨ Monitor ¨ Printer

How Components Interact

Ports: How ‘Peripherals’ Connect

The Boot Process n The process by which a computer safely starts up. ¨ Power-up and ‘Voltage Good’ test. ¨ CPU triggers POST (Power On Self-Test). ¨ BIOS looks for ‘bootable drive. ’ ¨ ‘Boot Sector’ provides directions to OS and drivers.