Business Hardware and Software Overview

Hardware

Physical equipment for input, processing, output, storage.

Processing Unit

Manipulates data and controls tasks of components.

Primary Storage

Temporarily stores data during processing activities.

Secondary Storage

Permanently stores data and programs for future use.

Input Technologies

Devices that accept data and instructions into computers.

Output Technologies

Devices that present data generated by computers.

Communication Technologies

Devices for transmitting data between computers.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Chip that processes data and executes instructions.

Multi-core Processor

Combines multiple processors for improved speed.

Computer Memory

Storage for data and instructions used by CPU.

Primary Storage Types

Includes registers, cache memory, RAM, ROM.

RAM

Volatile memory for temporary data storage.

ROM

Non-volatile memory for critical instructions.

Secondary Storage Characteristics

Non-volatile, larger capacity, slower than primary.

Magnetic Tape

Durable medium for long-term data backup.

Magnetic Disks

Main storage device, includes hard drives.

Optical Disks

Data storage medium read/written by laser.

CD

Compact disk with access rates up to 7800 KBps.

DVD

Digital versatile disc with 4.7 GB to 17 GB capacity.

Human Data Entry Devices

Require manual input of data by users.

Source Data Automation Devices

Gather data with minimal human contact.

Examples of Input Devices

Keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, voice recognition.

Examples of Output Devices

Printers, monitors, speakers presenting information.

Strategic Hardware Issues

Questions about upgrading and productivity impact.

Operating System Programs

Manage computer operations and resources.

Cache Memory

High-speed memory for frequently processed data.

Flash Drive

External storage device with flash memory.

USB Flash Drive

Removable and rewritable flash memory storage.

Data Transfer Rate (USB 2.0)

480 MBps maximum speed for USB 2.0.

Data Transfer Rate (USB 3.0)

Up to 5 GBps maximum speed for USB 3.0.

Flash Memory Cards

Non-volatile storage chip, similar to flash drives.

Flash Memory Size Range

1 GB to 16 GB for flash memory cards.

Flash Memory Transfer Rate

Approximately 14.65 MBps for flash memory cards.

Supercomputers

Fastest computers, 100 times faster than servers.

Mainframe Computers

Large, powerful computers for multiple users.

Midrange Computers

Smaller than mainframes, serve hundreds of users.

Microcomputers

Personal computers, including PCs and notebooks.

Tablet PCs

Touchscreen devices for writing and drawing.

Smart Phones

Internet-enabled phones with PIM functions.

Handheld Computers

Designed for one-handed use, industry-specific.

Business Software

Automates processes for employees and professionals.

System Software

Manages hardware and enables application software.

Application Software

Completes personal tasks like word processing.

Operating Systems (OS)

Control computer hardware and manage applications.

Utility Software

Maintains computer performance and file management.

Proprietary Software

Custom-developed software for specific applications.

Off-the-Shelf Software

Pre-existing software available for purchase.

Productivity Software

Tools for enhancing work efficiency.

Collaborative Software

Facilitates teamwork and communication.

Specialized Software

Designed for specific industry needs.

Flash Drive Storage Size

Ranges from 8 MB to 512 GB.

Flash Memory Card Size

Typically 1 inch x 0.75 inch.

Flash Memory Card Thickness

About 2mm thick.

Small Flash Memory Cards

Used in cell phones, 6mm x 3mm.