Chapter 2 - Basic Computer Hardware and Software Components

Chapter 2: Basic Computer Hardware and Software Components

Introduction

  • A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information or data.
  • It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data.
  • Computers are versatile tools for typing documents, sending emails, playing games, browsing the web, and editing or creating spreadsheets, presentations, and videos.

Fundamental Components

  • All computers share two fundamental components: hardware and software.

Hardware

  • Refers to the physical elements of a computer system.
  • Includes external components like the keyboard and mouse.
  • Includes internal parts such as the Central Processing Unit (CPU), memory modules, storage drives, and graphics cards.
  • These components work together to perform various computing tasks.

Software

  • Consists of the programs and operating systems that instruct the hardware on what tasks to perform and how to execute them.
  • Examples include web browsers, games, word processors, and operating systems like Windows or macOS.
  • Enables users to interact with hardware to accomplish specific objectives.
  • A computer’s operating system (OS) and all its applications are software as well.

Different Types of Computers

  • Computers come in many shapes and sizes and perform different functions.

Desktop Computers

  • Designed to be placed on a desk.
  • Typically made up of several parts, including the case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
  • Used at work, home, and school.

Laptop Computers

  • Also known as notebooks.
  • Portable, battery-powered computers that offer greater mobility than desktop computers.
  • Feature an integrated screen, keyboard, and battery.
  • Can be used in various locations.

Tablet Computers

  • Commonly referred to as tablets.
  • Portable, handheld devices that are even more mobile than laptops.
  • Feature a touch-sensitive screen for input and navigation.
  • Eliminate the need for a physical keyboard and mouse.
  • Example: iPad by Apple.

Basic Parts of a Desktop Computer

  • The computer hardware components are divided into four types:

1. Input Devices

  • Hardware used to input data into the computer system.
    • Examples: keyboard, mouse.
Keyboard
  • Essential for tasks like typing, coding, and navigating the operating system.
  • A key input device for communication with a computer.
Mouse
  • Another important tool for communicating with computers.
  • A pointing device that allows you to point to objects on the screen, click on them, and move them.

2. Output Devices

  • Hardware used to output processed data from the computer system.
    • Examples: Monitor, printer.
Monitor
  • Works with the video card (graphics card), which is typically inside the computer case.
  • The video card processes data and sends it to the monitor for display.
  • The video card determines the quality and performance of the images shown.
Printer
  • An output device that prints paper documents, including text, images, or a combination of both.

3. System Unit

  • The computer case (chassis) is the enclosure that contains most of the hardware of a computer.
    • Hardware present: CPU, Motherboard, Graphics Card, Data Bus, System Cables, Ports etc.
  • Provides mechanical support and protection for internal components such as the motherboard, CPU, memory, storage devices, and power supply unit (PSU).
  • Helps control and direct airflow over internal components for heat dissipation.
  • Each computer is different, so the buttons, ports, and sockets may vary.
  • Certain essential ports are typically found on most desktop computers for connecting devices like printers, keyboards, or mice.
Motherboard
  • The computer's main circuit board.
  • Connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer.
CPU (Central Processing Unit) or the processor
  • The "brain" of the computer where programs are run.
  • One of the most expensive parts of the hardware.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
  • The computer's high-speed, short-term memory.
  • Temporarily stores data and instructions for programs that run on the computer.
Expansion Cards
  • Circuit boards that can be inserted to add functionality to a computer system.
    • Examples: network, sound, or video cards.
Power Supply
  • Converts electricity from the wall into the form that the other computer components use.

4. Storage Devices

  • Hardware used to store data.
    • Examples: hard disk, pen drive, CD.

Software Components

  • Software consists of the programs and operating systems that instruct the hardware on what tasks to perform and how to execute them.
  • Software include web browsers, games, word processors, and operating systems like Windows or macOS.
  • Software enables users to interact with hardware to accomplish specific objectives.
  • A computer’s operating system (OS) and all its applications are software as well.

Operating System (OS)

  • An operating system (OS) is software that allows a user to run other applications on a computing device.
  • The operating system manages a computer's software hardware resources, including:
    • Input devices such as a keyboard and mouse.
    • Output devices such as display monitors, printers and scanners.
    • Network devices such as modems, routers and network connections.
    • Storage devices such as internal and external drives.

Examples of Operating Systems (OSs)

  • Android:
    • An open-source mobile operating system based on the Linux kernel and sponsored by Google.
  • iOS:
    • Formerly iPhone OS, a mobile operating system developed by Apple for its mobile devices.
  • MacOS:
    • A Unix-like operating system developed and marketed by Apple.
  • Microsoft Windows:
    • A product line of proprietary graphical operating systems developed and marketed by Microsoft.
  • Linux:
    • An operating system kernel released by Linus Torvalds.