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Fundamentals of Computer Detailed

A computer is an electronic device that processes input, stores data, and produces output using hardware and software. Hardware includes physical components like monitors and keyboards, while software consists of instructions that direct the hardware's operations. Users interact with computers, and the system functions through a cycle of input, processing, storage, and output.

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73 views3 pages

Fundamentals of Computer Detailed

A computer is an electronic device that processes input, stores data, and produces output using hardware and software. Hardware includes physical components like monitors and keyboards, while software consists of instructions that direct the hardware's operations. Users interact with computers, and the system functions through a cycle of input, processing, storage, and output.

Uploaded by

cattmint6
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Fundamentals of Computer

1. What is a Computer?

Definition:

A computer is an electronic machine that takes input, processes it using a set of instructions (called

programs), stores it, and produces output.

Example:

When you type a document in MS Word and print it, the computer takes your keyboard input, processes the

text, stores the file, and sends output to the printer.

2. Hardware

Definition:

Hardware includes all the physical, touchable parts of a computer.

Examples:

- Monitor: Displays output

- Keyboard: Used to type text

- Mouse: Used to click and select

Types:

A. Input Devices: Devices used to enter data (e.g., Mouse, Keyboard)

B. Output Devices: Devices that display results (e.g., Monitor, Printer)

C. Processing Unit: CPU is the 'brain' of the computer. It has:

- ALU: Performs math and logic

- CU: Directs the system

D. Storage Devices: Used to save data (e.g., HDD, SSD, USB)

E. Communication Devices: Help send/receive data (e.g., Wi-Fi adapter, Modem)

3. Software

Definition:

Software is a set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do.


Fundamentals of Computer

Examples:

- MS Word: Used to create documents

- Google Chrome: Used to browse the internet

Types:

A. System Software: Manages hardware (e.g., Windows OS)

B. Application Software: Helps users do tasks (e.g., Excel, Paint)

C. Programming Software: Used to write code (e.g., Python, C++)

4. Storage (Memory)

Definition:

Storage is used to save data and instructions.

Types:

A. Primary Storage:

- RAM: Temporary, volatile memory

- ROM: Permanent memory with startup programs

B. Secondary Storage:

- Hard Drive, SSD: For permanent data storage

C. Cloud Storage:

- Services like Google Drive or Dropbox used to store files online

Example:

When you save a photo on your phone, it is stored on internal storage or SD card.

5. Difference Between Hardware and Software

Hardware:
Fundamentals of Computer

- Physical parts of the computer

- Example: Monitor, Mouse, CPU

Software:

- Programs or instructions

- Example: Windows OS, MS Word

6. Users (Peopleware)

Definition:

Users or peopleware refer to the people who use the computer.

Types:

- End Users: Regular users (e.g., students, office workers)

- IT Professionals: Experts who develop software and maintain systems

7. How a Computer Works - Example Process

1. Input: You type 'Hello' using a keyboard

2. Processing: CPU processes the word

3. Storage: The word is saved to the hard disk

4. Output: It appears on your monitor

5. Control: OS manages all steps

8. Summary

- Computer = Input + Process + Storage + Output + Control

- Hardware = Physical parts

- Software = Programs

- Storage = Memory to save data

- Users = People operating the system

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