Unit – I: Introduction to Computer

System
1.1 Basics of Computer System
A computer system is an electronic device that processes data and performs operations
based on instructions provided by software. It consists of hardware (physical components)
and software (programs and instructions).

Hardware: Physical components of a computer such as CPU, memory, input/output devices,

and storage.

Software: Set of instructions that tell the hardware what to do. Examples include operating
systems, applications, and utilities.

Advantages of Computer Systems:

- High-speed processing.
- Accuracy and reliability.
- Storage and retrieval of data.
- Automation of tasks.

Block Diagram of Computer System


Components:
- Input Unit: Devices like keyboard, mouse, scanner.
- Output Unit: Devices like monitor, printer.
- CPU: Brain of the computer; performs processing and controls operations.
- Control Unit (CU): Directs data flow.
- Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and logic operations.
- Memory Unit: Stores data and instructions. Includes primary (RAM, ROM) and secondary
storage (HDD/SSD).

1.2 Internal Components

CPU (Processor)
- Executes instructions from programs.
- Contains ALU, CU, and registers for temporary storage.
- Examples: Intel i7, AMD Ryzen.
Motherboard
- Main circuit board connecting all components.
- Slots for CPU, RAM, and expansion cards.
- Contains chipset and BIOS.

Memory Units
- RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile memory for temporary data storage.
- ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile memory containing permanent instructions.
- Cache Memory: High-speed memory for frequently accessed data.

Expansion Cards
- Video Card: Handles graphics rendering.
- Sound Card: Manages audio input/output.

Internal Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

- Stores data permanently.
- High-capacity storage for files, software, and OS.

1.3 External Devices

Types of External Devices

Device Type | Examples | Function

------------|---------|---------
Input | Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner | Send data to computer
Output | Monitor, Printer, Speakers | Display or output data
Storage | USB, External HDD/SSD | Store data externally
Peripherals | Webcam, Joystick | Additional functionality

Detailed Explanations and Real-world Examples

CPU Functions
- Executes instructions sequentially.
- Controls input/output operations.
- Performs arithmetic and logical operations.

Memory Comparisons

Memory Type | Volatility | Speed | Capacity | Example

------------|-----------|-------|---------|---------
RAM | Volatile | Fast | Medium | DDR4 8GB
ROM | Non-volatile | Medium | Low | BIOS ROM
HDD | Non-volatile | Slow | High | 1TB HDD
SSD | Non-volatile | Very Fast | High | 512GB SSD

Applications
- Computers in offices for document processing.
- Graphics computers for design and animation.
- Servers for websites and data storage.
- Embedded systems in appliances and vehicles.

Summary and Key Points

- Computer system = Hardware + Software.
- CPU is the brain; Memory stores data.
- Input devices send data; Output devices display data.
- Internal components include CPU, RAM, ROM, HDD, expansion cards.
- External devices extend computer functionality.
- Real-world examples include desktops, laptops, servers, and embedded systems.

End of Unit – I: Introduction to Computer System