5. Hardware vs.
Software:
Hardware: The physical components of a computer system, such as the CPU, memory,
storage devices, input/output devices, etc. They can be touched and are tangible.
Software: The set of instructions (programs) that tell the hardware what to do. Software is
intangible.
Functions of Hardware: to execute instructions, store data, and allow interaction with the
user
Functions of Software: to direct hardware operation.
Software types include operating systems, application software, and system software.
6. Elements of a CPU:
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction,
multiplication, division) and logical operations (AND, OR, NOT).
Control Unit: Fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and controls the execution
of those instructions by coordinating the actions of other components.
Registers: Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU used to hold data and
instructions temporarily.
Cache Memory: Small, fast memory used to store frequently accessed data and instructions
for faster retrieval.
Functionality:
Fetch: The CPU retrieves the instruction from the memory
Decode: The instruction will be translated by the CPU
Execute: Perform the operation of the instruction
7. Classification of Input Devices:
Keyboard and Mouse: The most common input device for inputting text and navigating the
computer
Microphone: Used to input audio data.
Scanner: Converts hard copies of documents into digital images.
Webcam: Captures video and still images.
Touchscreen: Allows interaction through direct touch input.
Game Controllers: Joystick, gamepads, and other controllers for gaming.
Barcode readers
Biometric devices
8. CPU as the "Intestine" of the Computer:
Digestion and Processing:
The human intestine processes food, breaking it down into nutrients the body can use.
Similarly, the CPU (Central Processing Unit) processes data, breaking down instructions into
manageable tasks and performing calculations that drive the computer's functionality.
Central to the System:
Just as the intestine is crucial for a healthy, functioning body, the CPU is central to a
computer's operation. It takes input data, processes it, and sends the necessary output to
other components, similar to how the intestine distributes nutrients to the body.
Continuous Work
Both the intestine and the CPU are constantly active. The intestine works on digesting food,
while the CPU processes operations and instructions from various applications and the
operating system.
However, traditionally, the CPU is often referred to as the "brain" of the computer because it
controls and directs operations. If we’re considering the intestines as part of the system, the
analogy might be better suited for components like data buses or pipelines, which transport
and prepare data for processing.
9. Microprocessor:
A microprocessor is a single integrated circuit (chip) that contains all the components of a
CPU. It's the "brain" of the computer, executing instructions and controlling the operation of
other hardware components.
10. Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) Function:
Performs arithmetic operations: The ALU handles calculations such as addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division.
Performs logical operations: The ALU makes logical decisions (AND, OR, NOT, XOR) based on
comparisons, allowing the computer to make decisions.
The ALU is a critical component in enabling the computer to process data and perform
calculations.
11. Differentiate ROM from RAM:
Aspect ROM (Read-Only Memory) RAM (Random-Access Memory)
Permanent storage of data/instructions Temporary storage of data being
Function
needed for boot-up or system operation. used and processed by the CPU.
Non-volatile: Retains data even when the Volatile: Loses all data when the
Volatility
power is off. power is off.
Data Data is pre-programmed and cannot be Data can be read from and
Modification easily modified. written to, dynamically.
Fast, enabling quick access to
Speed Slower compared to RAM.
data for ongoing tasks.
Stores firmware and essential programs
Usage Temporarily holds programs
like BIOS.
12. Characteristics that Make Information Valuable and Useful:
Accuracy: Information needs to be correct and free of errors.
Relevance: The information should be pertinent to the task or decision.
Timeliness: The information should be available when needed.
Completeness: The information should be complete and not missing critical parts.
Understandability: It should be presented clearly and easily understood.
Reliability: Source of the information should be trustworthy.
Objectivity The information should be impartial and not biased.
13.Storage Descriptions:
Hard Disks (HDD):
Uses magnetic platters to store data.
Data is written and read by moving read/write heads.
Relatively slow access speeds compared to SSDs.
Large storage capacity.
Moving parts make them more susceptible to physical damage.
Floppy Disks:
Older magnetic storage technology.
Relatively low storage capacity.
Very slow access speeds.
No longer commonly used.
Magnetic Tapes:
Sequential access storage (data is read and written in order).
Very high storage capacity.
Slow access speeds.
Primarily used for archival backups.
Microfilm:
Analog storage medium that stores information on rolls or sheets of film.
Data is recorded photographically as a miniaturized image.
Requires special readers to view.
Primarily used for long-term archiving of documents.
CDs (Compact Discs):
Optical storage medium.
Data is stored as microscopic pits and lands on a reflective surface, that can be read using
laser light
Storage of music, data, or multimedia files.
Can only be written on a single use, or multiple rewrites, with varying formats such as CD-R,
CD-RW, or DVD.
DVDs (Digital Versatile Discs):
Optical storage medium.
Higher storage capacity than CDs.
Used for storing movies, software, and other large files.
Types include DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, DVD+RW, etc.
SSD (Solid State Drives):
Uses flash memory to store data.
Very fast access speeds.
More durable than HDDs.
More expensive per GB than HDDs.
14.Type of Data Stored in Secondary Storage:
Secondary storage (hard disks, floppy disks, and magnetic tapes) is used to store various
types of data, including the OS, application programs, user files, and system files.
The data stored can be any type of file:
Documents, spreadsheets, images, videos, audio files, and executable files.
The type of data stored depends on the user's needs and how the computer is used.
