Computer Hardware Basics

Study Flashcards Play Quiz

Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of the processor in a computer?

To execute instructions and process data

What is the term for the parts of a computer that cannot be physically touched?

Software

What is the purpose of input devices in a computer system?

To get data into the computer

What is the difference between data and information?

Data is raw, while information is processed Signup and view all the answers

What happens to the contents of memory when you save it?

They become permanent Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the programs that tell the computer what to do?

Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of output devices in a computer system?

To get feedback from the computer Signup and view all the answers

What is stored in memory when a program is loaded?

Instructions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the CPU in a computer?

To execute software instructions and manage other parts of the computer Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between storage devices and memory?

Storage devices hold data permanently, while memory holds data temporarily Signup and view all the answers

What happens to data saved on storage devices when the power is switched off?

The data remains intact Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of input devices?

To provide data to the computer Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between data and information?

Data is raw, while information is processed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of system software?

To manage and control the computer's hardware Signup and view all the answers

What happens to unsaved work when the power is switched off?

It is lost Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between memory and processing?

Memory is required for processing Signup and view all the answers

What is a server typically used for in a network environment?

To supply services to connected computers and users on the network Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in determining the processing power of a computer?

The combination of CPU speed, storage, and memory size Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of consumer tablets?

They usually have WiFi, Bluetooth, and 3G communication built in Signup and view all the answers

What type of device is primarily used for mobile access to connectivity and services?

Smartphone Signup and view all the answers

What is a key benefit of having a larger memory size in a computer?

The ability to load more programs and data Signup and view all the answers

What type of device is typically used for productive work and creative applications?

Desktop or laptop Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of portable devices?

They are designed to be controlled through touch screen interfaces Signup and view all the answers

What type of device is used to supply services to connected computers and users on a network?

Server Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Computer Hardware and Software

The processor (Central Processing Unit/CPU) executes instructions, processes data, and manages and controls all other parts of the computer.
Storage devices allow the computer to keep instructions and data that it is not currently working on, so that they can be accessed and used when needed.

Memory (RAM)

Memory is the place where the computer temporarily stores sets of instructions and data it is currently working with.
Programs and data cannot be processed unless they are temporarily loaded into memory.
Memory loses its content when the power is switched off.

Input and Output Devices

Input devices allow data to be entered into the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse, microphone).
Output devices allow feedback to be received from the computer (e.g., screen, printer, speaker).

Software

Software categories:
- System Software
- Application Software (carries out tasks for computer users, such as creating documents, playing games, or updating a database)

Types of Computers

Classified by:
- Size (portable, small, etc.)
- Processing power
Examples of types of computers:
- Servers (used in network environments to help 'run' a network of linked computers)
- Consumer Tablets & Tablet PCs (small, portable devices controlled through touch screen interfaces)
- Smartphones (mobile access to connectivity and services)

Computer Performance

Powerful computers are those with:
- Fast CPU(s)
- Large storage capacity
- Large memory size
Servers are powerful computers used in network environments to provide services to connected computers and users.