Topic 1 - Types and components of computer systems Flashcards
Define Hardware
The electronic, physical component that make up a typical computer system.
What does ‘NIC’ stand for and what is it?
Network Interface card: A circuit board that is installed on the computer to connect to the network.
Function of NIC
Provides a computer with a dedicated, full-time connection to a network.
What does CPU stand for?
Central Processing Unit
Function of CPU
Processes input, stores data, and outputs results.
What are the 2 main examples of Internal Memory?
- RAM (Random Access Memory)
- ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Define Softwares
Programs that control the operation of a computer or the processing of electronic data.
What are the main types of software?
- Application Software
- System Software
Function of Application Software
Provide services that the user requires to solve a task. Can be both general-purpose or custom-made software (also known as specialist software).
Examples of Application Softwares
- Databases
- Spreadsheets
- Word processors
Purpose of System Software
Provides the services that the computer requires to operate.
Types of System Softwares
- Compilers
- Linkers
- Device Drivers
- OS (Operating Systems)
- Utilities
Function of Compilers
Translates high-level language into machine code.
Function of Linkers
Creates links between language processors to form workable solutions.
Function of Device Drivers
Enables the device to work with an externally connected device.
Functions of OS
- Stands for Operating System
- enables computer systems to function
- allows user to communicate with computer system
Function of Utilities Software
Provides the necessary facilities (ie antivirus, scan disk, disk defragmentation, etc.)
Define Disk Defragmentation
Rearranges fragmented data in the disk so the disks can work more efficiently.
Define CPU
Component of the computer that understands and executes hardware and software operations.
What does the CPU consist of?
- CU - Central Unit
- ALU - Arithmetic and Logic Unit
- Registers
Function of CU
Manages the input and output devices.
CU stands for Control Unit
Function of ALU
Performs computations and makes logical judgements.
ALU stands for Arithmetic and Logic Unit
Define Registers
Tiny memory regions.
Features of RAM
- Temporary memory storage (volatile)
- Can be increased in size to improve operational speed.
- Can be both read and written.
RAM stands for Random Access Memory
Functions of RAM
- Performs read and write functions.
- Used to store data currently in use.
RAM stands for Random Access Memory
Features of ROM
- Permanent memory storage (Non-volatile).
- Can only be read (not written to).
- Cannot be upgraded nor altered.
ROM stands for Read-Only Memory
Function of ROM
Used to store computer’s configuration data (ie BIOS)
ROM stands for Read-Only Memory
What does BIOS stand for?
Basic Input/Output System
Define Input Devices
Pieces of hardware that allow the user to enter data into the computer. (directly communicate with the computer).
More complex than output devices
Define Output Devices
Hardware that displays the computer’s output in a human-readable format. It shows the result or solution of the input after it has been processed.
Simpler than input devices.
Which are more complex: Input or Output Devices?
Input Devices
Why are Backing/Secondary storages required?
To store significant amounts of data permanently.
Examples of Backing/Secondary Storage
- Hard disk drives
- Solid-state drives
What are the differences between Internal Memory and Backing Storage?
- Backing storage is permanent even without power.
- Internal Memory are much smaller.
- Internal Memory is significantly faster in accessing data than backing storage.
- Backing storage is much cheaper.
- Backing storage can be both fixed and portable (unlike internal memory that is just fixed).
- Backing storage must be moved to RAM so it can be read by CPU instead of being read directly like internal memory.
Functions of Operating System
- Controls operation of input, output, and backing storage.
- Supervises loading, running, and storage of apps.
- Deals with errors in application programs.
- Maintains security of the whole computer system.
- Maintains a computer log.
Define User Interface
The means by which the user and a computer system interact.
What are the 4 common types of UIs?
- CLI (Command Line Interface)
- GUI (Graphical User Interface)
- Dialogue-based User Interface
- Gesture-based User Interface
What does WIMP stand for?
Windows, Icons, Menu, and Pointing device.
Which UI uses WIMP?
GUI (Graphical User Interface)
Benefits of CLI
Stands for Command Line Interface
- The user has a direct communication line with the computer.
- User is not restricted to pre-defined options.
Problems with CLI
Stands for Command Line Interface
- User must learn many commands for basic operations.
- All commands must be typed in (time consuming)
- Highly error prone (ie 1 spelling mistake falters all commands)
Which Interface requires the user to type in commands?
Command Line Interface (CLI)
Benefits of GUI
Stands for Graphical User Interface
- User-friendly (Since user does not need to learn commands and icons are used to represent apps)
- A pointing device is used to launch apps, which is simpler than typing.
Problems with GUI
Stands for Graphical User Interface
- Uses more space than CLI
- User is limited to the icons provided on the screen
- Requires a more complex operating system
Which UI uses the human voice to recieve commands to operate?
Dialogue-based User Interface
Benefits of Dialogue-based User Interface
- Can be useful during driving so the driver doesn’t have to take his hands off the steering wheel.
- Can be used for the disabled
- Used as a security feature (voice recognition)
Problems with Dialogue-based User Interface
- Unreliable
- Complex to setup
- User needs to know which commands can be used
Which UI relis of human interaction (ie moving hands, head, or feet) to work?
Gesture-based User Interface
Benefits of Gesture-based UI?
- Replaces the need for mechanical input devices.
- Doesn’t require physical contact.
- No training is needed.
Problems with Gesture-based UI?
- May pick up unintentional movement
- Only accepts a limited number of movements
- Only works near the camera or sensor (maximum of 1.5 meters).
What are the 2 main types of computers?
- Desktop Computers
- Mobile Computers
Mobile means moving/portable.
What does the word “Desktop” refer to?
General-purpose computer
What are Desktop computers?
General-purpose computers that are made up of seperate components. (Mainly: Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, and Processer Unit)
Not portable
Name the 4 types of Mobile Computers
- Laptop Computers
- Tablet Computers
- Phablet Computers
- Smartphone Computers
