Computer Knowledge – Chapter 1: Basics of Computer
What is a computer?
A computer is a device that processes information through specific rules and gives results. It consumes data, processes it and provides useful information.
Main components of computer:
A computer is a scientific instrument whose basic elements can be divided into two categories:
- Hardware Hardware is the visual or physical parts of a computer.
It consists of eight main parts: Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer. Input Devices: Devices used to input data (eg: keyboard, mouse). Output Devices: Devices that display the result (eg: monitor, printer). Memory: Primary memory (RAM, ROM). Secondary memory (Hard disk, SSD). Motherboard: The main board that connects all the parts of the computer. Power Supply Unit Storage Devices: Devices that store data (CD, USB Drive). - Software Software is the specific programs and convenient rules required to operate a computer. System software: eg: operating system (Windows, Linux). Application Software: Eg: MS Office, Photoshop. Utility software: virus scanner, data backup.
4 stages of computer processing:
- Input: Step of providing user data.
- Processing: The stage of processing the data (by CPU).
- Output: The stage of showing the result.
- Storage: The stage of storing data after processing.
Features of Computer:
- Speed
- Accuracy
- Multitasking
- Reliability
- Storage Capacity
This chapter is helpful to get basic knowledge about computer.