UNIT 1

UNIT 1

1. Software And Programs

   • Operating System
     • This is some software that manages the hardware and software rescources
     • Provides common services for computer programs
     • It controls your computer
   • Command line interface
     • Used to give instructions to operating system
     • Relies solely on human input
   • Graphical user interface
     • A graphical display that allows the user to interact with the computer through visual inticators
   • Software is a platform for running applications
   • WIMP is a set of software suchas windows,icons,mice and pull-down menus

2. Hardware

   • Input Devices
     • Allows you to input data to the computer
     • E.g. mouse, keyboard, webcam
   • Output devices
     • E.g. speakers, printer, monitor
     • Hardware that allows you to send data out of the computer
   • Other components
     • RAM is random access memory and stores data temporarily e.g. opening programmes, it reads and writes data(lots of RAM=faster reading/writing)
     • ROM is read only memory. You can only read the data stored on it
     • CPU
       • The central processing unit carries out instructions of a program
   • The graphics card is a plug in card that creates signals required by the monitor

3. Mainframe

   • A very large and powerful computer
   • Used in big companies for customer statistics
   • Handles bulk data

4. Desktop

   • Used for general use at a single location
   • Quite fast

5. Laptop

   • Portable PC used on the move