topic 1- computer systems

Computer

a machine that processes data

Hardware

physical components of the computer (cpu, motherboard, monitor)

Software

Programs or applications that a computer system runs. E.g. an operating, word processor or video game

Embedded systems

Computers built into other devices, dedicated to specific tasks

What are the 3 main purposes of a computer

1. take data

2. Process it

3. Output it

Peripherals

Your mouse, keyboard and printer- added hardware

Embedded systems example

Microwaves, dishwashers, tvs

Why use an Embedded system?

• they have an easier design

• Cheaper to produce

• Efficient at doing their assigned task

Power supply

Supplies power to the motherboard, optical and hard drives and other hardware

Cooling fan

Extracts hot air from the computer case

CPU heat sink & cooling fan

Keeps the cpu at a steady temperature

Cpu

Most important, does all the processing

Optical drive

For read/writing of optical disks

Motherboard

The main circuitboard of a computer where all the hardware is connected