Computer Architecture Basics

Computer Architecture

• Computer architecture is a set of rules and methods that describe the functionality, management, and implementation of computers.
• It deals with the functional behavior of a computer system.
• It tells us how computer hardware and software are implemented and placed inside a computer system.

Computer

• A computer is a machine that executes certain commands set by the user.
• A computer is broken into two basic categories: Hardware and Software.

Hardware

• Hardware refers to everything you can take in your hands.
• Examples of hardware include: screen, mouse, keyboard, PC case, everything inside that case, printer, etc.

Hardware Categories

• Input: Devices that are used to input commands or data into the computer system.
  • Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Touchscreen, Microphone.
• Output: Devices that the computer uses to show the user processed data or outcomes.
  • Examples: Watch/Screen, Printer, Speakers, Projector.
• Processing: Devices that the computer system uses to carry out instructions and manipulate data.
  • Examples: CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), Motherboard.
• Hybrids: Devices that combine characteristics of both input and output devices or blur the lines between them.
  • Examples: Touchscreen Displays, 2-in-1 Laptops, Interactive Whiteboards, Smart Home Devices (e.g., Amazon Echo, Google Home).

Processing

• A processor (CPU) is the logic circuitry that responds to and processes the basic instructions that drive a computer.
• Storage is a process through which digital data is saved within a data storage device by means of computing technology.

Memory/Storage

• Primary Storage: Internal Memory.
  • ROM (Read Only Memory): Keeps data forever, even when the computer is not in use.
  • RAM (Random Access Memory): A kind of volatile memory used to hold machine code and data that must be quickly accessed by the CPU.
• Secondary Storage: External memory.
  • Hard drives: An example of secondary storage.

Software

• Is divided into two categories: System Software and Application Software.

System Software

• Refers to a collection of programs that control and manage the hardware resources of a computer system.
• Makes it easier for the system's hardware and software components to communicate with one another and offers a platform for the execution of application software.
• Examples: Operating systems, device drivers, utility apps, and other software that is necessary for a computer to run.

Application Software

• Applications created with specific functions or tasks in mind for end users.
• Examples: Word, Paint, etc.