Chapter 1 Know your computer
1. Introduction to Computer
What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data (input), processes it, and gives the
result (output).
It can also store data for future use.
Definition:
A computer is an electronic device that accepts data (input), processes it according to given
instructions, and gives the result (output). It also stores data for future use
.
Working of a Computer –:
Step Function Example
Input Data is entered into the computer Typing using a keyboard
Process Data is processed by the CPU Calculating total marks
Output Result is shown to the user Displaying marks on screen
Storage Save data for future use Saving marks in a file
Basic Features of a Computer:
1. Speed – Can perform millions of tasks in seconds
2. Accuracy – Gives accurate results
3. Storage – Stores large amounts of data
4. Automation – Works automatically once programmed
5. Multitasking – Can do many things at the same time
6. Diligence – Never gets tired or bored
Examples of Computer Use:
Schools – for learning and exams
Banks – for transactions and records
Offices – for documents and presentations
Homes – for games, entertainment, browsing
Hospitals – for patient records and tests
2. Input and Output Devices
Input Devices (used to enter data into the computer):
Keyboard
Mouse
Scanner
Microphone
Webcam
Output Devices (used to show the result from the computer):
Monitor
Printer
Speakers
Projector
Main Components of a Computer
1. Input Unit
Function: Takes input from the user.
Examples:
o Keyboard
o Mouse
o Scanner
o Microphone
o Webcam
2. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Known as the brain of the computer. It processes all the data and controls all operations.
a) Control Unit (CU)
Directs and controls operations of all other parts of the computer.
b) Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
Performs all arithmetic (addition, subtraction) and logic (AND, OR, NOT) operations.
c) Registers
Small, high-speed storage areas inside the CPU to store temporary data and
instructions.
3. Memory/Storage Unit
Stores data, instructions, and results temporarily or permanently.
a) Primary Memory (Main Memory)
Stores data temporarily.
Examples: RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Types of Memory in a Computer
Memory in a computer is divided mainly into two types:
1. Primary Memory (Main Memory)
Used directly by the CPU to store data temporarily during processing.
a) RAM (Random Access Memory)
Temporary memory
Stores data currently in use
Volatile (data lost when power is off)
b) ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Stores permanent instructions (like booting system)
Cannot be changed easily
Non-volatile (data stays even when power is off)
Difference Between RAM and ROM
Feature RAM (Random Access Memory) ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Full Form Random Access Memory Read-Only Memory
Temporarily stores data and Stores permanent instructions (like
Function
programs in use booting system)
Volatile – Data is lost when power Non-volatile – Data remains even when
Volatility
is off power is off
Read/Write Read and Write memory Read-only (some types can be updated)
Usage Used while running applications Used to store firmware/BIOS
Speed Fast Slower compared to RAM
Data Stored Temporary data Permanent instructions
Can be Yes, data can be changed
No (or limited, depending on type)
changed? frequently
Used to run MS Word, games,
Example Stores , boot instructions
browsers
2. Secondary Memory (Storage Devices)
Used for permanent storage of data and programs.
Examples:
Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
Solid State Drive (SSD)
CD/DVD
Pen Drive
Memory Card
Non-volatile (data is not lost when power is off)
b) Secondary Memory
Stores data permanently.
Examples: Hard Disk, SSD, Pen Drive, CD/DVD
1. Hard Disk
A Hard Disk Drive (HDD) is the main permanent storage device in most computers.
a) Fixed Hard Disk
Built inside the computer (desktop/laptop).
Stores the operating system, software, files.
Large capacity (500GB to 2TB+).
b) Portable/External Hard Disk
Connected via USB.
Used for backup and data transfer.
Easy to carry.
2. CD and DVD (Optical Storage)
a) CD (Compact Disc)
Stores about 700 MB of data.
Used for songs, small software.
b) DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)
Stores about 4.7 GB (single-layer).
Used for movies, large files, software.
Both are read using a CD/DVD drive.
3. Pen Drive (USB Flash Drive)
Small, portable storage device.
Connected via USB port.
Storage ranges from 4GB to 1TB.
Used for file transfer and backup.
4. Memory Card (SD Card)
Used in mobile phones, cameras, tablets.
Very small and portable.
Capacity ranges from 2GB to 512GB or more.
5. Measuring Storage Capacity
Data is measured in bits and bytes:
Unit Symbol Size
1 bit b Smallest data unit (0 or 1)
1 byte B 8 bits
1 KB Kilobyte 1024 bytes
1 MB Megabyte 1024 KB
1 GB Gigabyte 1024 MB
1 TB Terabyte 1024 GB
Example Comparison
Devic Storage Capacity
CD 700 MB
DVD 4.7 GB
Pen Drive 4 GB – 1 TB
Memory Card 2 GB – 512 GB
Hard Disk (HDD) 500 GB – 2 TB+
SSD (modern PC) 128 GB – 4 TB
4. Output Unit
Function: Displays or gives results to the user after processing.
Examples:
o Monitor
o Printer
o Speaker
o Projector
