Class Note 2: Hardware and Software
Hardware:
Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
Output Devices: Monitor, printer, speakers.
Storage Devices: Hard disk, SSD, USB drive, CD/DVD.
Processing Devices: Central Processing Unit (CPU), motherboard,
RAM.
Software:
System Software: Operating Systems (Windows, macOS, Linux).
Application Software: Word processors, web browsers, games,
etc.
Utility Software: Antivirus programs, file management tools.
Differences between Hardware and Software:
Hardware is tangible (you can touch it), software is intangible (you
can’t touch it).
Hardware wears out with time, software doesn’t wear out but can
become outdated.
Conclusion: Understanding the difference between hardware and
software helps users interact better with computers and troubleshoot
basic issues.
Class Note 3: Input and Output Devices
Input Devices:
Devices that send data to a computer.
Examples:
o Keyboard – Used to type text.
o Mouse – Used to point, click, and drag.
o Scanner – Converts physical images to digital.
o Microphone – Records sound.
Output Devices:
Devices that receive data from a computer and present it.
Examples:
o Monitor – Displays visuals from the computer.
o Printer – Prints documents and images.
o Speakers – Play sound.
Combination Devices:
Some devices act as both input and output, such as:
o Touchscreens
o Fax machines
Conclusion: Input and output devices are essential for interacting with a
computer. Knowing them helps users better understand how information
flows.