INTRO TO COMP

Computer System

 Combination of hardware + software that accepts input, processes data, stores data, and outputs results.

Hardware

Physical parts of a computer (e.g., monitor, keyboard, CPU).

Software

Programs/instructions for the computer to perform tasks.

Von Neumann Architecture

Blueprint for most modern computers.

Control Unit (CU)

Directs flow of instructions and data.

Arithmetic & Logic Unit (ALU)

Performs mathematical and logical operations.

Memory Unit

Stores data and instructions

Registers

Small, fast storage inside CPU for immediate data use.

Input/Output

Allows user interaction and data exchange with the system.

Stored-program concept

Instructions and data stored in same memory.

Casing

Encloses and protects all components, aids airflow

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Converts AC power to DC and distributes it to components

Motherboard

Main communication hub between CPU, memory, and devices.

CPU (Processor)

Executes instructions, performs all processing.

ALU

Carries out addition, subtraction, logical comparisons

CU

Decodes instructions, coordinates component activity.

Hard Drive (HDD)

Stores OS, programs, and files permanently.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

Faster permanent storage using flash memory.

RAM

Temporary memory for active processes and data.

GPU

Renders graphics, accelerates visual processing.

Machine Learning

Learns patterns from data for predictions (fraud detection, image recognition).

Deep Learning

Uses neural networks for complex pattern recognition (speech recognition).

Internet of Things (IoT)

 Connects everyday devices to the internet (smart homes, smart cities)

Characteristics

Volume, Variety, Velocity, Variability.

IaaS

Rents virtual servers/storage.

PaaS

Provides platforms and tools for developers.

SaaS

Delivers applications online (Google Apps).

Public Cloud

Shared infrastructure (Microsoft Azure).

Private Cloud

Dedicated infrastructure for one organization

Hybrid Cloud

Combines public and private

Virtual Reality (VR)

Immersive simulated environments (gaming, medical training)

Augmented Reality (AR)

Adds digital elements to the real world (Snapchat filters, Pokémon Go).