2. Computer is a electric device & machine that receives and processes data
according to the Instructions given to it,and after the data has been pro-
cessed,the results of the processing are usually sent to an output device.
The input devices for feeding the computer with data and instructions
can be a keyboard,mouse, scanner, or may be generated internally from
‘applications’ stored as programmed instructions (software). The
processing of the data is done by the central processing unit (CPU), which
is the heart of the computer. The output devices can be a screen
(monitor),printer, plotter, speakers, ports, or another computer.
4. To better imagine how a computer works, knowing what’s
inside will make it easier. Here are the main components of a
computer;
CPU: A CPU is on a chip called a microprocessor (about 1
inch square in size). This is basically your Intel pentium chip.
Often referred to as the brains of a computer, the CPU handles
most of the operations that are required of the computer by
processing instructions and sending signals out,checking for
connectivity,and ensuring that operation and hardware are
functioning properly. It acts as a messenger to major components
such as RAM, the monitor, and disk drives.
5. RAM: Random Access Memory or RAM for short is a
computer component where data used by the operating system
and software applications store data so that the CPU can process
them quickly.
Everything stored on RAM is lost if the computer is shut off.
Depending on the applications you use, there is typically a
maximum limit of RAM you will need for the computer to function
properly.
6. Hard Disk Drive: Also known as Hard Disk Drive. The hard dr
where all your programs and documents are stored. Anytime you ins
software or save a file, it gets written to the hard drive. The hard driv
also reads any data you are trying to access, such as when you ope
text document or play an MP3. Think of it like a library and a libraria
mixed up in one. This is permanent storage (at least until you uninst
software or delete a file). The hard drive is normally signified by the
letter “C”. Today’s hard drives can store a HUGE amount of informa
A new computer might have a hard drive that will hold 500 GB’s!
7. Motherboard: There is no acronym for this component but
without it, there can’t be a computer. The Motherboard acts as the
home for all other components, allows them to communicate with
each other and gives them power in order to function. There are
components that don’t require a physical connection to the
Motherboard in order to work, such as Bluetooth or Wi-Fi but, if
there is no connection or signal what so ever, the computer won’t
know it’s there.
8. ROM and BIOS: Read only memory (ROM) chips, located
on the motherboard, contain instructions that can be directly
accessed by the microprocessor or CPU. Data transfer from ROM
is faster than any disk, but slower than RAM. The instructions and
data in the ROM chip that control the boot process and the
computer hardware are known as the basic input/output system
(BIOS), sometimes called firmware.
9. Sound and Video Cards: Two components which help the
user interact with the computer. Although one can use a computer
with a missing sound card, it’s not really possible to use it without
a video card. The sound card is used mainly to play sound
through a speaker. However, a video card is used to send images
on the screen. Without it, it would be like looking at an empty
monitor.
10. Network adapter: A network adapter is a piece of hardware
that acts as the interface for a computer to a network. This way,
computers can communicate across a network. Businesses can
cut operation costs with networking adapters. A computer network
adapter also makes it easy for IT personnel and computer owners
to troubleshoot problems.