What is a
Computer?
Computer is an electronic device that is used to solve problems according
to a set of instructions given to it.
The word computer is derived from Latin word "Compute" which means "
to calculate".
Functionalities of
Computer
Perform calculations and data processing tasks efficiently1.
Enable information storage and retrieval for easy access2.
Facilitate communication and through networking capabilities3.
Components of a Computer
Central Processing Unit
(CPU)
The brain of the computer, responsible for
processing and executing instructions
Memory
Stores data and instructions for the CPU to
access and use
Input Devices
Allows users to enter data and commands
into the computer
Output Devices
Displays the processed information for the
user to see and interact with
Hardware
Computer hardware refers to the physical components that make up a
computer system. This includes the processor, memory, storage devices,
input/output devices, and other peripherals.
Hardware is the tangible, physical part of a computer that you can touch
and interact with directly.
Software
Software includes the programs that run on a computer, enabling its
functionality.
Two main types are application software and system software.
Application Software and
System Software
Application
Software
Programs designed
for specific tasks
Word processors1.
Spreadsheets2.
Multimedia tools3.
Accounting
software
4.
System
Software
Manage computer
hardware and
resources
Operating
systems
Device drivers
Utility programs
Compilers
Interaction
Application software
relies on system
software
System software
enables application
software to run
Importance
Both are crucial for
computer
functionality
Allows users to
achieve tasks
efficiently
Computer Memory
Primary Memory
Volatile memory that stores
data and instructions during
operation.
Secondary
Memory
Non-volatile storage for long-
term data and program
storage.
Memory Types
RAM, ROM, cache, and other
specialized memory
components.
Primary memory
Primary memory, also called main memory, is
the immediate memory used by the computer's
processor.
It stores data and instructions that the CPU
needs to access quickly.
Primary memory is volatile, meaning it loses its
contents when the power is turned off.
Computer Memory:
It is any physical device capable of storing Data, Information, or Program.
Random Access Memory Compact Disk Hard Disk
Division into P.M & S.M is based on:
DATA VOLATILITY
DATA TEMPORARISM
DATA PERMANENTISM
DATA MODIFICATTION
SECONDARY MEMORY:
A type of Memory that is non-volatile in nature
and a permanent form of Storage which can
be modified.
1) Sequential Random Memory:
Data is accessed inn a sequential manner
2) True Random Memory:
Data is accessed direclty
3) Pseudo Random Memory:
Data is accessed faster than SRM but slower than
TRM