Computer Systems

Computer Systems

1. A computer system is a collection of hardware and software that works together to achieve some data processing task

2. Systems receive inputs from the outside, they process these inputs and out put the results of processing

3. A system in separated from the outside world by a system boundary, these are often called interfaces

4. Most aspects of our lives are affected by computer systems. They have led to:

   • Improved quality in manufacturing- robotic machinery is more accurate than humans
   • Cheaper manufacturing- automation reduces wage cost and allows 24/7 working
   • Faster access to information- many jobs can be done more quickly
   • Better decision making- with lots of facts organised and available, decisions can be better informed
   • New ways of doing business- more buying online, more choice, cheaper goods; facilities such as the internet and ATMs wouldn't be possible without computer systems
   • New ways of communicating- email, SMS, cell phones

5. Example: holiday booking Input: dates, destination Processing: check availability, produce documents Outputs: itineraries, tickets, reservation

6. General-purpose systems