Computer Hardware Basics

Hardware

• Data Processing (IPO): Input (raw data), Output (processed data)
• Hardware: Tangible, physical computer parts
• Main Units of a Computer (IOMP): Input, Output, Main Storage, Processor (interprets and carries out instructions).
• Parts of Processor (CARS): Control Unit (passes data to ALU), Arithmetic Logic Unit (performs calculations), Registers (small, high-speed storage for temporary data), System Clock (controls timing).
• Types of Memory (RRCm CMOS): RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory), Cache Memory, CMOS (Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor).
• RAM: Volatile memory, temporary storage for data/systems software/applications,
• ROM: Non-volatile memory, stores instructions.
• Cache Memory: Stores frequently accessed data for faster processing.
• CMOS: Provides information like date/time and storage.
• Input Devices: Devices to send data to computer (e.g., MICR, Touch Screen, Sensor, Speech Synthesizers).
• Output Devices: Devices to send data from computer (e.g., Printer, Monitor, Xerox, Speaker, Projector).

Second Storage Devices

• Second storage devices are used for permanently storing data outside of primary storage.
• Primary storage is limited, and data stored there is volatile and temporary.
• Example storage devices: Magnetic Tape, Magnetic Disk, Optical Disc (CD, DVD, Blu-ray), Solid State Devices (External Hard Drives).

Software

• Software: step-by-step instructions that tell computers what to do
• Two Types of Software: System Software and Application Software
• System Software: Controls computer operations, manages hardware, and interfaces between applications, hardware, and the users. (e.g. Operating System, Utility Programs, Compilers/Interpreters).
• Application Software: Programs that make users productive (e.g., Business software, Graphics, Desktop Publishing, Home/Personal/Education software, Communications software).

System Software

• Types of System Software (OS, Utility, Compiler/Interpreter): Operating System, Utility Programs, Compiler/Interpreter.
• Operating System: Coordinates computer activities, manages internal workings, and enables user communication with the computer
• Types of Operating Systems: IOS, macOS, Android, Linux, Windows.
• Boot Operation (BIOS, POST, CMOS): How a computer starts up (relies on BIOS). BIOS performs POST (Power-On Self-Test) checking components. CMOS stores system configuration info.
• UI (User Interface): How users interact with software (Cmd Line, Menu-Driven, GUI).
• Device Driver: Small program for OS to communicate with specific devices.

Category of Operating Systems

• Stand Alone OS: Can operate without network access.
• Network OS: Enables multiple users to access and share resources on a network.

Utility Programs

• Supporting computer infrastructure (e.g., Anti-virus, Backup, Disk compression).

Software Varieties

• Open Source Software, Shareware, Freeware, and Public Domain Software.

Peopleware (IT Groups and Job Titles)

• Management Group (e.g. Computer Systems Manager): Plans, organizes, controls, and staffs project.
• Systems and Procedures Group (e.g. Systems Analyst, Computer Engineer): Develops/designs applications and programming tools.
• Programming Group (e.g. Computer Programmer): Writes, tests, and maintains programs.
• Computer Operator: Sets up the computer, loads and unloads programs.

Specializations

• Cyber, System and Network, Security and Forensics: Focuses on application, data, network security, and information technology security management.
• Data Analytics and Data Science: Collects, cleanses, and processes data using statistical analysis.
• Data and Database Administrator: Oversees data resources, handling security, availability, and data accuracy
• Software Development: Creates sophisticated applications.
• Web Design and Application Development: Designs and develops websites/online applications.
• Network, Information, and Communications Technology: Focuses on network applications and management.

This quiz covers essential concepts of computer hardware including data processing, main units of a computer, types of memory, and key components of the processor. Test your knowledge on input and output devices, as well as the functions of RAM and ROM. Perfect for students seeking to understand the fundamental aspects of computer architecture.