Computer Systems

Computer Systems

1. Hardware

   • Output
     • Monitor
     • Speaker
     • Printer
   • Input
     • Keyboard
     • Mouse
     • Microphone
   • Internal Hardware
     • RAM
       • Memory and storage
         • Primary
           • RAM
             • Stores programs currently in use by copying them from the secondary storage
             • Volatile, which means that all data will be lost from the storage when powered off.
             • A copy of the boot sequence from the ROM is copied to the RAM so that the computer can run it.
             • Virtual memory
               • It is used when the Ram is completely full
               • Stores data which is being used but is only open in the background
               • Data must be transferred back to the RAM to be used
           • ROM
             • Stores the boot sequence which is copied to the RAM when the PC is turned on
             • It is a part of the motherboard
         • Secondary
     • Graphics Card
       • Runs all graphical based data taking stress off of the CPU
     • Motherboard
       • Connects all the hardware together and allows them to communicate.
     • CPU
       • Fetches, decodes and executes instructions
     • Power Supply
       • Provides power to all the hardware in the computer
     • Cooling System
       • Cools the internal hardware so that the computer runs efficiently
     • Network Adaptor
       • Allows the computer to connect and access a network
   • Drives
     • DVD Drive
     • Hard Drive
     • Solid State Drive
     • Card Reader
     • Pen Drive

2. Software