Part 1 Computer Components What is a Computer

Part #1 Computer Components

What is a Computer? n A computer is an information processing machine. More specifically, a computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory, that can accept data, process the data according to specified rules, produce results, and store the results for future.

What do computers do? n accepts input n processes data n stores data n produces output These four components make up the information processing cycle.

Information Processing Cycle n n A computer changes information from one form into another by performing four basic functions - input, input processing, processing output, output and storage Computers require these four components to complete tasks. The series of input, processing, output, and storage activites is called the informaiton processing cycle. Communication is also an essential element of the cycle.

Information Processing Cycle Input • Words, symbols, numbers, sound, pictures, program instructions • Program calculates, sorts modifies data Process • Uses microprocessor or CPU Output Store • Results of processing • Reports, graphs, documents, pictures • Printer or monitor • Memory is temporary holding area (RAM) • Storage is permanent (disk)

Information Processing Cycle

Types of Computers Desktop– Personal Computer Notebook– Laptop Personal Digital Assistant– PDA, Handheld, Pocket PC

What is a personal computer? – A personal computer, also called a desktop computer, is designed so all of the components fit entirely on or under a desk or table

Two Types of Personal Computers A personal computer is a computer that can perform all of its input, processing, output, and storage activities by itself. Two popular architectures of personal computers are the PC and the Apple – Computers that usually use a Macintosh operating system (Mac OS) PC-compatible – A personal computer based on the original IBM personal computer design. These computers usually use a Windows operating system.

What is a notebook computer? – Portable, small enough to fit on your lap – Also called a laptop computer – Generally more expensive than a desktop computer

What is an embedded computer? – A special-purpose computer that functions as a component in a larger product

These all have computers in them as well! Digital refrigerator PDA digital planner Digital house thermostat Cell phone

What is a Computer System? A computer system is all the parts of a computer connected together. Computer + Peripherals input devices + output devices + storage devices

Computer System Hardware Software A collection of related computer components that are designed to work together. n A computer system includes hardware and software. n

Computer Hardware n Hardware is the computer’s physical components. These are the parts you can see and touch. n A peripheral is a separate hardware component that can be added to a computer system to expand the input, output, and storage capabilities. Example - printer

Hardware n The hardware components include: Input devices– Enable users to enter data into the computer for processing. Processing circuitry– Components located in the system’s case that transform data into information. Output devices– Peripherals that show the results of processing. Storage devices– Used to store all the programs and data that the computer uses. Communication devices– Used to move data between computers.

What is a Computer System? A computer system is all the parts of a computer connected together. Computer + Peripherals input devices + output devices + storage devices

What did you learn? THE END