Introduction to Computer
What is a computer?
It is an electronic device for storing and processing data,
typically in binary form, according to instructions given
to it in a variable program.
4 Basic Functions of a Computer
Takes data as input
Processes the data and converts it into useful
information.
Generates the output.
Stores data/instructions in its memory and use them
when needed.
Computer Components
Computer Hardware
Computer hardware refers to the
physical parts or components of
a computer.
Physical parts that can be
touched.
1. Central Processing Unit • The brain of the computer.
(CPU)
• The modern processor consists of
millions of semiconductor transistors.
Examples of CPUs are Intel Pentium,
Intel Celeron, Dual-Core processors
, etc.
2. Motherboard
• The motherboard is the primary printed
multilayered circuit board.
• It holds all the associated components of a
computer system such as processor, memory,
SMPS, input-output ports, etc.
3. Main
(RAM) Memory
The purpose of the main memory also called RAM in a
computer system is to store information. It cannot
retain its memory when the system is powered off.
RAM stores all the files and programs that are currently
running.
Examples: DDR, DDR2, DDR3 SDRAM,
4. BIOS (ROM)
BIOS stands for Basic Input Output
System.
Stores firmware to start up the computer
system.
Performs a POST (Power On Self-Test)
initially to test all the hardware and then
performs booting processing with the help
5. Secondary Storage Device
Used to store data in large quantities for long-
term use.
Examples are hard disk, optical disk, floppy
disk
6. Input Devices
The primary function of an input device is to receive the raw data from the user for
processing.
Examples: keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanner, etc.
8. Output Devices
Display meaningful results after processing are done. The different output
devices used in the computer are monitor printer, multimedia projector, speakers,
etc.
9. SMPS
SMPS stands for Switched Mode Power
Supply. It provides a regulated power
supply to the sensitive parts of the computer.
The main DC-regulated voltages generated
by SMPS are 5-volt DC, 12-volt DC, 3-volt
DC, power good signal,
Computer Software
• A set of instructions or codes which tell the computer to work or
perform a certain task.
• The software includes computer programs, data, and instructions that
electronically reside inside the computer memory in the digital format
i.e. in the form of binary digits: 0s (ones) and 1s (zeros
System Software
• A type of software whose basic function is to operate and control the
computer.
• The system software provides an interface between the user and the
computer hardware. It also provides a platform to run all kinds of
application software
• Examples are operating systems, device drivers, utility software,
compiler, assembler, etc.
Operating System
The operating system manages the overall functionalities of the
computer.
Memory management Provides interaction between user and
File management computer
Process management Controls input-output operation
Device management Provides a platform for application
software
Application Software
• It is installed on the existing system software (operating system).
Application software is mostly written in high-level languages like C++, Java, .Net,
etc.
• EXAMPLES: PDF reader, to read PDF documents, MS Word for preparing the
document, MS Excel for spreadsheet, MS PowerPoint for presentation, MS
outlook for mail
