TNPSC Group 2A Mains Syllabus
📌 Digital Computer Fundamentals:
Hardware Components – Input /
Output Devices
1️⃣ Introduction to Digital Computer Fundamentals
A digital computer is an electronic device that processes data using binary (0s and 1s). It
performs arithmetic, logic, and control operations based on programmed instructions.
📌 Example: *Personal computers, laptops, smartphones, and supercomputers all function using
digital computing principles.
2️⃣ Hardware Components of a Digital Computer
📌 Reference: NCERT Class 11 Computer Science, Chapter 2 | Samacheer Kalvi Class 12 Computer
Science, Unit 1
A computer system consists of hardware (physical components) and software (programs
and instructions).
2.1 Main Hardware Components
Component Function Example
Central Processing Unit Executes instructions and processes data. Intel i7, AMD Ryzen
(CPU)
Memory (RAM & ROM) Stores data temporarily or permanently. 8GB DDR4 RAM, 512GB
SSD
Storage Devices Stores files and operating systems. Hard Drive, SSD, USB
Drive
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Component Function Example
Motherboard Connects all components for ASUS, Gigabyte
communication.
Power Supply Unit (PSU) Converts electricity to usable power for SMPS
components.
📌 Example: *The CPU is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer as it handles processing
tasks.
3️⃣ Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU is the most critical component responsible for executing instructions.
3.1 CPU Components
Component Function
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
Control Unit (CU) Directs operations and manages data flow.
Registers Small, high-speed storage locations for quick data access.
📌 Example: *When you press a key on a keyboard, the CPU processes the input and displays it on
the screen.
4️⃣ Memory (Primary & Secondary Storage)
📌 Reference: NCERT Class 11 Computer Science, Chapter 2
4.1 Types of Memory
Memory Type Function Example
Random Access Memory (RAM) Temporary storage for active programs. DDR4 8GB RAM
Read-Only Memory (ROM) Stores firmware, non-volatile. BIOS
Cache Memory Small, high-speed memory in CPU. L1, L2, L3 Cache
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Memory Type Function Example
Virtual Memory Simulated RAM using storage. Paging in Windows
📌 Example: *If you open multiple apps on your phone, RAM helps in switching between them
smoothly.
5️⃣ Input Devices
📌 Reference: Samacheer Kalvi Class 12 Computer Science, Unit 1
Input devices allow users to enter data into a computer.
5.1 Common Input Devices
Device Function Example
Keyboard Input text and commands. QWERTY, Mechanical
Mouse Controls the cursor and selects items. Optical, Laser
Scanner Converts physical documents into digital form. Flatbed Scanner
Microphone Captures sound input. Condenser Mic
Joystick Used for gaming and simulations. Xbox Controller
📌 Example: *ATMs use touchscreens as an input device for banking transactions.
6️⃣ Output Devices
📌 Reference: Samacheer Kalvi Class 12 Computer Science, Unit 1
Output devices display or present processed data from the computer.
6.1 Common Output Devices
Device Function Example
Monitor (Display Screen) Displays graphical and textual information. LED, OLED
Printer Converts digital documents into physical copies. Inkjet, Laser
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Device Function Example
Speakers Produces audio output. JBL, Bose
Projector Enlarges digital images onto surfaces. LCD Projector
📌 Example: *Your mobile phone screen is an output device that displays text, images, and videos.
7️⃣ Storage Devices (Secondary Memory)
📌 Reference: NCERT Class 11 Computer Science, Chapter 2
Storage devices help in permanently storing data.
7.1 Types of Storage Devices
Type Example Speed & Capacity
Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Seagate, Western Digital High capacity, slow
Solid State Drive (SSD) Samsung NVMe SSD Fast speed, expensive
USB Flash Drive Pen Drives, OTG Portable, low capacity
Cloud Storage Google Drive, OneDrive Internet-based storage
📌 Example: *SSDs are preferred over HDDs for faster performance in gaming and video editing.
8️⃣ Importance of Hardware Components in Digital
Computing
Enables fast and efficient processing of data.
Facilitates user interaction through input/output devices.
Provides reliable data storage for long-term use.
Ensures seamless communication between components for smooth computing
operations.
📌 Example: *A well-configured hardware system (e.g., gaming PC) ensures smooth performance
without lagging.
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✅ Summary
A digital computer consists of hardware components like CPU, memory, and storage.
Input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner) send data, while output devices (monitor,
printer, speakers) display results.
Storage devices store data permanently or temporarily.
Efficient hardware ensures smooth computing operations in personal and
professional applications.
🔍 MCQs for TNPSC Preparation
Q1. Which of the following is an example of an input device?
(a) Printer
(b) Keyboard ✅
(c) Monitor
(d) Speaker
Q2. What is the function of the Control Unit in a CPU?
(a) Stores data permanently
(b) Manages and directs operations within the computer ✅
(c) Performs arithmetic calculations
(d) Displays output
Q3. Which type of memory is non-volatile?
(a) RAM
(b) Cache Memory
(c) ROM ✅
(d) Virtual Memory
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✅ Final Revision Strategy
✔ Revise key hardware components (CPU, Memory, I/O Devices).
✔ Understand the difference between RAM, ROM, and Storage.
✔ Practice MCQs to test knowledge.
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Other Topic! 🚀
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