Components and Types of Computer Systems

Hardware

Physical components of a computer system.

Software

Programs that instruct hardware on operations.

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Executes hardware and software operations.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Temporary storage, lost when powered off.

Read-Only Memory (ROM)

Permanent storage, non-volatile, read-only.

Input Devices

Hardware for entering data into a computer.

Output Devices

Hardware that displays processed data.

Backing Storage

Permanent data storage, e.g., HDD, SSD.

Operating System (OS)

Manages hardware and software operations.

Application Software

Programs for specific user tasks.

System Software

Provides platform for running applications.

Compilers

Translates high-level language to machine code.

Linkers

Creates links between language processors.

Device Drivers

Enables communication between devices.

Utilities

System software for maintenance tasks.

Analogue Data

Continuous data representation in real world.

Digital Data

Data represented in binary form (0,1).

Analogue to Digital Converter (ADC)

Converts analogue signals to digital format.

Digital to Analogue Converter (DAC)

Converts digital signals back to analogue.

Control Unit (CU)

Manages input and output devices in CPU.

Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

Performs computations and logical operations.

Registers

Small memory locations within the CPU.

Command Line Interface (CLI)

User types commands for direct communication.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Uses icons and menus for user interaction.

Dialogue-based User Interface

Uses voice commands for computer interaction.

Gesture-based User Interface

Interacts through hand and body movements.

Motherboard

Main circuit board connecting all components.

Network Interface Card (NIC)

Connects a computer to a network.

Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

Traditional storage device using magnetic disks.

Solid-State Drive (SSD)

Faster storage using flash memory technology.

Printer

Outputs digital documents on paper.

Monitor

Displays visual output from the computer.

Desktop Computer

General-purpose computer with separate components.

Laptop Computer

Portable computer with integrated components.

Smartphone

Mobile phone with operating system and apps.

Tablet

Larger mobile device with touch screen.

Phablet

Hybrid device between smartphone and tablet.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Machine performing tasks requiring intelligence.

Augmented Reality (AR)

Virtual objects overlaying the real world.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Immersive environment created by technology.

General Uses of Desktops

Office work, education, entertainment, gaming.

Advantages of Desktops

Easier upgrades, stable internet, cost-effective.

Disadvantages of Desktops

Not portable, cluttered wiring, file transfer needed.

Laptop Advantages

Highly portable, less desk space, no wires.

Laptop Disadvantages

Limited battery life, theft risk, awkward controls.

Smartphone Uses

Calls, emails, apps, camera, music playback.

Tablet Advantages

Fast startup, lightweight, long battery life.

Tablet Disadvantages

Expensive, limited storage, slow typing.

Phablet Uses

Entertainment, gaming, navigation, communication.

AI in Autonomous Vehicles

Driverless technology for cars and trains.

Negative Impacts of AI

Unemployment, dependency, de-skilling of tasks.

AI in Robotics

Assistive technology for disabled individuals.

AI in Bomb Disposal

Robots performing dangerous tasks safely.

AI's Three Laws

Guidelines for robot behavior by Asimov.

Impact of AR

Enhanced training, retail, and healthcare experiences.

Impact of VR

Applications in military, education, and media.

AI and Unemployment

Robots replacing human jobs in efficiency.

AI Dependency

Reliance on technology leading to future issues.

AI De-skilling

Reduction of human talent due to automation.