Computer Hardware: Input, Processing, Output, and Storage Devices

Computer Hardware Components

• RAM (Random Access Memory) is a type of primary storage device that stores data temporarily while a computer is running.
• ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of non-volatile memory that permanently stores data.
• A storage device is used to store data either temporarily or permanently in a computer system.

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

• The CPU is responsible for performing all arithmetic and logical operations in a computer system.
• The control unit of the CPU directs the operation of the whole computer system.
• Registers are used to store temporary results and control information within the CPU.

Input/Output Devices

• Plotters are used as output devices in a computer system.
• A scanner is an example of an input device in computer hardware.
• An output device in computer hardware allows a computer to communicate the results of data processing to the outside world.

Software

• System software is responsible for controlling individual hardware components of a computer system.
• An operating system is a type of system software that manages a computer's hardware and software resources.

Storage Devices

• RAM is an example of a storage device that stores current data, programs, and instructions that can be accessed by the processor as needed.
• The main function of a storage device in a computer system is to store data either temporarily or permanently.

Arithmetic-Logic Unit (ALU)

• The main function of the ALU is to perform arithmetic and logical operations in a computer system.

Control Unit

• The main function of the Control Unit is to direct the operation of the whole computer system.