Types and Components of Computer Systems Flashcards
Hardware Definition
Physical parts of computer system, the components you can touch.
Types of hardware
Internal
External
Internal Hardware Examples
Processor Motherboard RAM ROM Video Card Sound Card Internal Hard Disc Drive
Motherboard
Central component of any computer system through which every other component communicates and sends signals to others. Components are plugged into it directly or indirectly and are able to form the system.
Processor (CPU)
The brain of the computer. It controls everything that the computer does, the calculations it makes and processes the data, also moving it in and out of the memory.
RAM
It stores only information currently in use that is constantly changing. It is a fast memory and it is considered a volatile memory since when the computer is turned off the data is deleted.
The more RAM you have the faster your computer will be.
ROM
It’s used to store instructions for the computer to work. The information cannot be changed and when the computer is turned off, it wont be lost. The data can be accessed very quickly.
Video Card/ Graphics card
Allows images to be displayed on the monitor of the computer. Along with the instalation of it, a software needs to be installed so it tells the computer how to use it.
Sound Card
It allows the computer to produce and input sounds to and from the computer by either turning analog data into digital data or viceversa.
Internal Hard Disc Drive
Stores data that is not instantly needed by the computer permanently, until you decide to delete it that is. It also stores programmes and is used commonly to back up data in case the original is lost.
External Hardware Examples
Input Devices
Output Devices
Peripherals
Input Devices Definition
They are used to get data into the computer system. There are manual and automatic
Output Devices
Devices that transfer usable information out of the computer. They are temporary or permanent.
Peripherals
Non essential hardware components that connect to the computer externally, the computer system can operate without them hence the name non essential.
Software
Used to control the operation of the computer and the processing of electronic data. You cannot touch it.
There are two types: Application and System
Applications Software
Software that is used in particular situations and can be general purpose (used in many different situations) or specialist (used in one particular situation).
Word Processing, spreadsheets, database production, graphics manipulation…
System Software
Files and programmes that make up your computers operating system.
Compilers, linkers, device drivers, operating systems…
Operating Systems Definition
Set of programs that control how the hardware and the applications of a computer work. It is a way of communication between the user and the computer.
Command Line Interface
In which the user types in instructions using commands. It is fast but complicated to use, it also uses very little amount of RAM. Used in batch processing.
Graphical User Interface
In which the user uses a mouse to point and click objects on a screen. It is easy to use but needs a arge amount of RAM and disk space. Uses Windows, Icons, Menus and Pointers.