Foundation – Basic Of Computer & It’s Fundamentals 1
Unit – 3 Computer Hardware
A computer is a device that converts data into meaningful information. It processes the input and gives the desired output according to
the set of instructions given by the user. It mainly has two main components:
• Hardware • Software
The computer hardware is constantly evolving. New technologies are constantly being developed, which means that new hardware is released regularly. This
can make it difficult to keep up with the latest computer hardware trends. However, it is important to regularly update your hardware so that you can choose the
best components for your computer system.
Different pieces of computer hardware work together to enable the computer to perform its tasks. The CPU (central processing unit) is the brain of the
computer. It is responsible for executing the instructions given by the software. RAM (Random Access Memory) is where the computer stores the instructions
and data it is currently using. The hard drive is where all the files on your computer are stored, including the operating system, programs, and data. A monitor is
the screen you use to see what your computer is doing. A keyboard is an input device that you use to enter text and commands.
In addition to the basic parts listed above, a computer system has many other components. These include graphics cards, sound cards, network cards and
printers. The graphics card is responsible for displaying images on the screen. The sound card is responsible for creating sound. A network card allows your
computer to connect to a network, such as the Internet. A printer allows a computer to print documents.
3.1. What is Computer Hardware?
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Foundation – Basic Of Computer & It’s Fundamentals 2
Computer hardware is the physical component of a computer system. It has everything you can touch and see, such as the case, CPU, RAM, hard
drive, screen, and keyboard.
3.2. Input Devices
An input device is a piece of hardware that allows you to interact with a computer. Input devices are used to enter data, control the computer and
provide feedback. Some common input devices include:
Keyboard: The keyboard is the most common input device. It is used to enter text, enter commands, and select items.
Mouse: The mouse is used to move the cursor and select items on the screen.
Touchscreen: A touch screen is used to interact with the computer by touching the screen.
Joystick: Joysticks are used to control games and other applications.
Gamepad: Gamepads are similar to joysticks, but have more buttons and controls.
Microphone: A microphone is used to record sound and provide voice input.
Scanner: Scanners are used to scan documents and images into a computer.
Webcam: The webcam is used to record video and provide a live video feed.
Input device are an essential part of any computer system. They allow you to interact with the computer and control its operation. A computer
would be difficult to use without an input device.
Below are some other input devices that are not as common as those listed above:
• Light Pen • Digitizer • Barcode reader • OCR
The input devices are constantly developing. New equipment has been developed and existing equipment improves. This means there are
always new ways to interact with computers.
3.3. Output Devices
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Foundation – Basic Of Computer & It’s Fundamentals 3
3.4. Storage Devices
3.5. Internal Components
Basically, a computer has 3 important components:
• Input Unit • Central Processing Unit (CPU) • Output Unit
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