Computer Hardware and Software.pdf
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Yale University
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Computer Hardware and Software Computer Hardware is defined as the physical part or component of a computer system which can be felt, seen, and touched. Monitor which we use to view the display is a Hardware Device. A printer which we use to Produce outputs, a computer memory which is used to store...
Computer Hardware and Software Computer Hardware is defined as the physical part or component of a computer system which can be felt, seen, and touched. Monitor which we use to view the display is a Hardware Device. A printer which we use to Produce outputs, a computer memory which is used to store data or programs all are the types of hardware used in computer system for better functionality of computers. Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer, such as the case, central processing unit (CPU), monitor, mouse, keyboard, computer data storage, graphics card, sound card, speakers and motherboard. Computer software can be defined as a set of instructions or collection of programs which are designed and developed to perform specific tasks. These types of software or programs are very helpful and can reduce human efforts immensely. Internal Components of Computer Motherboard The motherboard is the main board that is screwed directly inside the computer case. All other cards and everything else plug directly into the motherboard, hence its name. The CPU, RAM, drives, power supply, and more all get connected to it. Its function is to integrate all the components so they can communicate and operate together. CPU: Central Processing Unit The CPU is basically like the brain of a computer. It processes all the information on a computational level. It takes information from the RAM and processes it to perform the tasks required from the computer. There are other ways CPUs can be attached to the motherboard. RAM: Random Access Memory RAM is a data storage device that can provide fast read and write access. RAM is also volatile, which means that it loses all the stored data when power is lost. The RAM keeps data ready for the CPU to process. The speed of the RAM is a big contributor to the overall speed of a computer. It plugs directly into a long slot that has contacts on either side of the slot. ROM: Read Only Memory Read-only memory (ROM) is a type of non-volatile memory used in computers and other electronic devices. Data stored in ROM cannot be electronically modified after the manufacture of the memory device. Graphics Card A graphics card processes the data from the motherboard and sends the appropriate information to the monitor for it to be displayed. A graphics card can also be referred to as a video card or a display card. It takes the burden of all the video processing from the main CPU. This gives a computer a big boost in performance. Sound Card Most of the time, the sound chip built into the motherboard is used for audio output. But, if you are a sound enthusiast or prefer higher detailed audio while playing a game, you might be inclined to use a sound card. Hard Drive A hard drive is found in most computers. It’s usually a mechanical drive that stores all the data. Apart from storing data, it can also be used as a boot drive to run the operating system from it. 4. Answer the questions. Not detail only short notes that you understand. 1. Write down motherboard function? 2. Write down Central Processing Unit function? 3. Write down Random Access Memory function? 4. Write down Read Only Memory function? 5. Write down Graphics Card function? 6. Write down Sound Card function? 7. Write down Hard Drive function?