Topic 1 - Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware (NCC Education) PDF

Introduction to Computer Science Topic 1: Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware © NCC Education Limited  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.2 Scope and Coverage This topic will cover:  De...

Introduction to Computer Science Topic 1: Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware © NCC Education Limited  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.2 Scope and Coverage This topic will cover:  Definition of computer system  Functions of a computer system: Input, Process and Output  Types of computer systems  Embedded Systems  Definition of hardware  Hardware components  Input and Output Peripherals  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.3 Learning Outcomes By the end of this topic students will be able to: Describe the purpose of a computer system Identify types of computers for different functions Describe an ‘embedded system’ and be able to recognise and provide examples of where this type of computing is used Describe the purpose of the main hardware components found in a typical desktop PC including motherboard, buses, ports, CPU, optical drives, hard disk store, cooling fan, ram sticks, power supply and graphics card Define the term ‘hardware’ and peripheral’ and identify methods of connecting peripherals to a computer system Describe a range of input and output peripheral devices and justify the use of a type of device for a particular purpose  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.4 The Unit Roadmap Introduction to Computer Systems There are 12 CPU and Primary Memory lessons/topics in this Secondary Storage Application Software unit. System Software The topic for today is - Data Representation – Numbers and Text Computer Systems, Data Representation – Images and Sound Hardware and Logic Gates Software. Computer Networks Network Security In the next topic, you Computer Ethics will look at the CPU Summary and Exam Preparation and Primary Memory.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.5 Terminology Terminology will be explained in the lectures, tutorials on computer systems and computer hardware. You should make notes. Ask questions if you there is anything that you don’t understand. 1.1 Purpose of a Computer System  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.7 Computer Systems Computers have gone through many changes over the decades. Whilst their size and cost has decreased, their processing power has increased. This is What year do you think this from computer is from? 1981.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.8 Computer Systems Computers used to be made for one or two purposes. Now computers are general purpose with many uses. From the early 1980’s, the personal computer (PC) was born. Most homes now have a desktop or laptop computer.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.9 Personal Computing A PC is an example of a general purpose computer. This is designed to be able to carry out many different tasks. Among other things, it can be used to: Access the internet Play games Communicate via email and social media Design and build web pages Store and retrieve Play videos and music  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.10 Personal Computing Technology has changed the way we live our life. When we discuss home computing we now include : Wearable technology such as smart-watches Tablet technology Mobile phones Games Consoles Streaming Television Services Virtual Reality Hardware and Software Smart appliances such as smart-fridges, smart speakers Security Systems Mobile controlled heating systems  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.11 Definition of a Computer System The basic processes of a computer system are: Input Process Output Hardware and software interact to receive and process data and this results in the output of information. Data and information can be stored on the computer.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.12 Definition of a Computer System Input Process Output Data is input using Data is processed by the Information is hardware devices into a processor in the output by the system. computer, we call this the computer back to CPU. the user.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.13 Definition of a Computer System During the processing stage the data can be Primary memory stored on the primary memory of the computer, this is fast, easy to access memory which is may not permanent. CPU During the processing stage the data can be stored on the secondary storage of the computer, this is slower to access but has a higher capacity and can be Secondary Storage permanently stored.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.14 Functions of a Computer System The main functions of a computer system are: Input of data Output of information Processing of data Storage of data/information  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.15 Input Input refers to data that is provided to a computer system. It can be provided in a variety of ways, for example, a keyboard, a barcode scanner, etc. A user does not always have the responsibility of inputting data, for example, a system may process data input from a sensor.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.16 Process Data that is input to a computer is processed, by the computer’s central processing unit (CPU). After data is processed, it can be stored and/or output. A computer system can be categorised according to the speed of its processing.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.17 Basic Components of a Computer System During the input stage we During the processing use hardware to input data stage we software to use into a computer system. and change data in a computer system. Hardware interacts with data and software to Software interacts with produce information. data and hardware to produce information.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.18 Output Information can be output by a computer system. Output can be provided in a variety of ways, for example, displayed on a computer’s screen, in the form of sound via speakers, etc. A user does not always have to generate output, for example, a system may output data automatically after processing.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.19 Storage Data that is processed can be stored. A computer system has internal storage. A computer system has external storage. Storage can be permanent or temporary. A computer system can be categorised by how much data it can store.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.20 Data vs information Data is: Collection of raw facts or statistics Unorganised Has no context or meaning Examples: 50% 200’000  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.21 Data vs information Information is: The result of interpreting/processing data Useful in making decisions Organised Has context Examples: 50% customer happiness in survey 200’000 web visitors in March  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.22 Information When data is processed and then organised it becomes information. An interest rate percentage is processed and a report produced that lists the average monthly savings - this is information.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.23 Exam Tip You should be able to describe a computer system in a scenario in terms of data input, processes and information output. Here are some examples:  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.24 Example 1 Q1. Give an example of data input, process and output that would take place in a school or college. 1. Input - Teachers use a keyboard to input the daily attendance data of pupils. 2. Process – The school will use a computer to work out the daily percentage of pupils attending. 3. Output – This information may be printed out to be given in daily report.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.25 Example 2 Q2. Give an example of data input, process and output that would take place in a hotel. 1. Input - Staff use a computer to input customers data into the system, including length of stay. 2. Process – The computer will check length of stay against current date. 3. Output – The computer will output daily morning occupancy information to the hotel as to which guests and how many are leaving today.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.26 Practice Question Q3. Give an example of data input, process and output that would take place in a supermarket food store. 1. Input - Staff use a scanner to input the item of food to be bought. 2. Process – The computer will find the price of the item from a database and add this price to a total. 3. Output – The computer will output the current total to a screen for the cashier and customer. 1.2 Hardware  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.28 Hardware Hardware refers to the physical devices that make up a computer system this includes: Components inside a computer Devices outside a computer which can be connected to the computer and removed from it Hardware can be an input device, a storage device or an output device.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.29 Hardware In this computer system, the hardware includes: the bar code scanner, the price display unit, the receipt printer the cashier touch screen  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.30 The Role of Computer Hardware Hardware is used to perform the four basic functions of a computer system: Input Process Storage Output It receives its instructions from software. It needs to be compatible with software.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.31 Hardware Hardware refers to: Computers Components inside computers Devices outside computers which are connected to computers Let’s take a look at some hardware in more detail starting with what is inside the main unit of a desktop computer.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.32 Components of Internal Hardware The main components inside a modern PC include: Motherboard Bus CPU (Processor) Fan Power Unit Storage Memory Expansion Cards  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.33 Motherboard It is the main circuit board in a computer. It contains chips – integrated circuits that contain miniaturised elements such as wires, transistors, capacitors and resistors. It's a thin plate that holds the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion cards to control the video and audio, and connections to your computer's ports (such as USB ports).  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.34 Purpose of a Motherboard The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part of the computer. Peripheral devices are also connected by connectors such as USB. It integrates a computer’s main functions by controlling the communications between the components.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.35 Purpose of a Bus A bus is a link between components or devices connected to a motherboard. For example, a bus carries data between a CPU and the system memory via the motherboard. The bus contains multiple wires (signal lines) with addressing information describing the memory location of where the data is sent or retrieved. Each wire in the bus carries one or more bits of information, which means the more wires a bus has, the more information it can address. For example, a computer with a 32-bit address bus can address 4 GB of memory, and a computer with a 36-bit bus can address 64 GB of memory.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.36 Main Types of Bus Front side bus (FSB) – Connects RAM and the CPU as RAM has the greatest volume of data ‘traffic’. Peripheral Component Interconnect Bus (PCI) bus – Connects peripheral components such as network interface cards and sound cards. Input/output buses – Connects a motherboard to a computer system’s peripheral devices.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.37 Features of a Bus A bus is organised as follows: It has control lines that signal requests and acknowledgements and inform what type of data is on the data lines. Data lines transmit data between source and destination, such as data and addresses and complex commands. A bus transaction includes two parts: sending an address and receiving or sending data.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.38 Central Processing Unit (CPU) Situated within the computer case on the motherboard, the central processing unit (CPU), also known as a processor, is often referred to as the computer's brain. Its primary function is to execute commands. Whether you're pressing a key, clicking the mouse, or launching an application, you are essentially sending instructions to the CPU. Typically, the CPU is a compact two-inch ceramic square housing a silicon chip about the size of a thumbnail. The chip fits snugly into the CPU socket on the motherboard, which is protected by a heat sink—an apparatus designed to absorb heat emanating from the CPU.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.39 Fan Computers can overheat and a fan is located on a CPU as CPUs are prone to overheating.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.40 Power Supply This component supplies power to all components in a computer. It includes a transformer, voltage control and a cooling fan. It transforms mains voltage into the voltages required by a computer’s components.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.41 Memory - RAM RAM serves as your system's momentary memory, holding data temporarily when your computer engages in calculations. This short-term storage is volatile, disappearing once the computer is powered off. Its data and instructions can be accessed in any order, which is why it’s given the name ‘random access’. To prevent data loss, especially when working on documents, spreadsheets, or other files, it is crucial to save them, transferring the data to the hard drive, which functions as long-term storage.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.42 Memory - RAM The capacity of RAM is measured in megabytes (MB) or gigabytes (GB). Having more RAM enables your computer to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. Insufficient RAM may result in sluggish performance when running several programs concurrently. Consequently, many individuals opt to augment their computer's RAM to enhance overall system performance. RAM can be extended by adding strips of RAM as extension packs.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.43 Storage – Hard Drive The hard drive functions as the permanent store for your software, documents, and various files, constituting long-term storage. The data remains preserved even when the computer is powered off or unplugged. During program execution or file access, the computer transfers portions of the data from the hard drive to the RAM. Saving a file involves copying the data back to the hard drive. The speed of the hard drive directly impacts the computer's startup and program loading times, with faster drives contributing to quicker performance. Hard Drives can be magnetic disks often found in desktop PC’s or solid state drive often found in laptops.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.44 Extension Cards (PCI) Expansion slots are designed for incorporating different types of expansion cards, commonly referred to as PCI (peripheral component interconnect) cards. In many cases, the inclusion of built-in video, sound, network, and other functionalities in modern motherboards may render the addition of PCI cards unnecessary. Nevertheless, if you aim to enhance your computer's performance or upgrade an older system, the option to add one or more cards is always available. The next slide outlines some types of expansion cards.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.45 PCI Cards A video card is in charge of rendering images on your monitor. While many computers incorporate a GPU (graphics processing unit) directly into the motherboard, some users opt to enhance graphics performance by adding a separate video card to an expansion slot, particularly if they engage in graphics-intensive gaming. A sound card, also known as an audio card, plays a role in producing what you hear through speakers or headphones. Although most motherboards come with integrated sound capabilities, users seeking higher-quality audio can upgrade to a dedicated sound card.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.46 PCI Cards The network card enables communication over networks and internet access. It can establish connectivity either through an Ethernet cable or wirelessly (often referred to as Wi-Fi). While many motherboards come equipped with built-in network connections, the option to add a network card to an expansion slot is available.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.47 Ports A port in computer hardware is a jack or socket that peripheral hardware plugs into. There are many other types of ports, such as FireWire, USB, and HDMI. Ports are used to connect peripherals to a computer.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.48 Peripheral Devices Include input, output and storage devices. Devices can be connected by wires to ports. Devices can also be connected wirelessly. Devices can be selected according to criteria such as the application, accessibility and cost.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.49 Input and Output As we have discussed, input and output are essential processes of any computer system. They provide a connection between a user and the input and output channels of a computer. They also enable communication between users and software. There are numerous input and output devices and we will look at a range of types.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.50 Input Devices Enable data to be entered into a computer. Issue instructions to a computer. Once input, data is transformed into a form that can be processed by a computer (binary). Different devices can be used for the same input tasks, for example, keyboard and voice recognition.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.51 Input Devices Types Input devices can be placed into categories depending on how data is input to a computer: Keys, buttons Pointing devices Visual-digital devices Speech, audio Head and eye assistive Hand-writing recognition Biometric devices  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.52 Key and Button Input Devices Key and button input devices include: Keyboards (QWERTY, ergonomic, braille, chord, numeric keypads, etc.) Keypads (alphabetic, numeric, special purpose - remote control, etc.) Buttons Function keys Cursor keys  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.53 Pointing Input Devices Pointing input devices include: Mouse Light pen Touch screen Trackball Pen and tablet Joystick/controller Footmouse Dataglove Graphics tablet  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.54 Visual-Digital Input Devices Digital cameras Web cams Scanners: o Document/image readers o Bar code readers o Magnetic stripe reader – MIR o Magnetic ink character recognition – MICR o Optical character recognition – OCR o Optical mark reader – OMR o QR code scanner Smart card readers Chip and pin readers Sensors  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.55 Speech and Audio Input Devices Speech and audio digital input devices include: Voice recognition (continuous speech recognition, speaker dependant recognition, discrete word recognition, adaptive speech recognition) Microphone Headset  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.56 Head and Eye Input Devices Assistive input devices that include: Sense, track and record head and eye movements Electrophysiological sensing Photo-electric reflection Head-movement tracking  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.57 A Range of Input Devices 1 2 3 4 5 7 6 8 11 10 9  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.58 Input Devices Devices that are used to input data into a system are called input devices, these include: Keyboard: A standard input device with keys for typing text and executing commands. Mouse: A pointing device that allows users to move a cursor on the screen and interact with graphical elements. Touchpad: Common on laptops, it provides a touch-sensitive surface to control the cursor. Joystick: Often used for gaming, it provides control for movement and actions in games. Gamepad/Controller: Commonly used for gaming, these devices have buttons, triggers, and analog sticks for game control.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.59 More Input Devices Graphic Tablet: A device used by artists and designers to draw or input graphics using a stylus on a sensitive tablet surface. Webcam: Captures video and images, commonly used for video conferencing or live streaming. Microphone: Captures audio input for voice commands, communication, or recording. Touchscreen: Displays that allow direct interaction by touching the screen. Barcode Scanner: Reads barcodes for inventory management or product identification. MIDI Controller: Used by musicians to input musical data into a computer. Digital Camera: Can be connected to a computer for transferring and editing photos. Gesture-based Devices: Devices that interpret gestures, like hand movements or finger swipes, for interaction.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.60 Output Output is used to convert information from a computer system into a form that is understand by a user Visual Sound Tactile (braille) Haptic  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.61 Visual Output Devices Visual output devices include: Screens/monitors Printers Plotters Multimedia projector Smart card readers Biometric device readers  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.62 Sound Output Sound output includes: Speakers Headphones Alerts Alarms (warning signals) Digitised speech Text-to-speech synthesis Non-speech sounds/icons  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.63 Tactile Output Tactile output includes: Braille output Haptic feedback (vibrations) Virtual reality (VR) models  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.64 Output Devices Devices that are used to output data from a system are called output devices, these include: Monitor/Display: Displays visual information, including text, graphics, and videos. Printer: Produces hard copies of documents or images on paper. Speaker: Outputs audio, allowing users to hear sounds, music, or other audio content. Headphones: Provides a private audio output experience, often used for listening to music or audio without disturbing others. Projector: Displays computer content on a larger screen or surface for presentations or entertainment.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.65 More Output Devices Devices that are used to output data into a system are called output devices, these include: Haptic Devices: Devices that provide tactile feedback, such as vibration, to simulate touch sensations. Braille Display: Converts digital text into Braille characters for visually impaired users. LED/LCD Screen: Display technology commonly used in monitors, TVs, and other visual output devices. Notification Lights: LEDs or indicators that convey status or alerts, such as power, Wi-Fi, or battery status. Digital Signage: Large electronic displays used for advertising, information, or communication in public spaces. Scrolling LED Sign: A display that presents messages by scrolling LED lights.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.66 Types of Printer There are different types of printer. You should the range and be able to select the right printer based on user requirements. Inkjet Printer: Sprays tiny droplets of ink onto paper to create high-quality prints. Laser Printer: Uses laser technology to produce high-speed, high- resolution prints. Thermal Printer: Produces images by selectively heating coated paper, commonly used in point-of-sale systems. 3D Printer: Creates three-dimensional physical objects based on digital designs. The most common found in homes are inkjet and laser printers.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.67 Laser Printers Generally faster, especially for black-and-white text printing. Laser printers are often preferred in office environments for their speed. Generally better for text documents and monochrome printing. Colours may not be as vibrant as inkjet prints, but laser printers are improving in colour reproduction. Toner cartridges can be more cost-effective, providing a lower cost per page, particularly for black-and-white printing. Generally more robust and require less frequent maintenance. Toner cartridges have a longer shelf life than ink cartridges. Generally have a higher initial cost, but the cost may be justified by lower per-page printing costs in the long run.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.68 Ink Jet Printers Excellent for producing high-quality photo prints and colour documents. Ideal for graphic-intensive tasks and detailed images. Slower compared to laser printers, especially for high-volume printing tasks. Ink cartridges can be expensive, and the cost per printed page may be higher, especially for colour prints. Prone to clogging, especially if not used regularly. Regular maintenance and cleaning may be required. Can handle various paper types, including glossy photo paper. Suitable for a range of printing tasks, including photo printing. Often less expensive upfront, making them more accessible for home users.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.69 Removable Storage Devices Can be connected to a computer via insertion into a port or drive. Examples include: Memory sticks / SD Cards CD-ROM DVD Blu-ray External hard drives  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.70 Wearable Hardware Recent developments of miniature computers include wearable computers or body-borne computers. Hardware can be worn: On the body (wrist, head, finger) With clothing On clothing Under clothing  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.71 Wearable Hardware Smartwatches: Devices worn on the wrist that offer features such as fitness tracking, notifications, and the ability to run apps. Fitness Trackers: Small devices that monitor physical activity, such as steps taken, distance travelled, and heart rate, to help users maintain a healthy lifestyle. Smart Clothing: Clothing items embedded with sensors or electronics to track health metrics, monitor posture, or provide other functionalities. Hearables: Ear-worn devices, including wireless earbuds with additional features such as fitness tracking, heart rate monitoring, and voice assistants.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.72 Wearable Hardware VR or AR Headsets: Devices worn on the head that immerse users in virtual environments for gaming, entertainment, or educational purposes. Smart Jewellery: Accessories like rings, bracelets, necklaces, or earrings with embedded technology for fitness tracking, notifications, or style enhancement. Wearable Body Cameras: Compact cameras that can be worn, capturing photos or videos from the user's point of view. Wearable GPS Trackers: Devices that can be worn to track location, useful for activities like hiking or keeping tabs on children or pets. Wearable Chargers: Devices that can be worn as accessories, such as wristbands or clothing, to charge electronic devices on the go.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.73 Accessibility of Computer Hardware Hardware devices should be able to be used easily by as many people as possible. Hardware that is accessible is also known as assistive technology. It is essential that people are not excluded from using a computer system because of poor hardware design.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.74 Accessible Hardware Developments in computer hardware have made it possible for people who find it difficult or impossible to use traditional hardware devices to use computers. Many more people are now able to study, work, shop and communicate via a computer and the aid of assistive technology.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.75 Types of Accessible Hardware Many hardware devices have been designed to be accessible and these include: Input devices, e.g. touchscreens, keyboards, alternatives to mice and keyboards Output devices, e.g. screen magnifiers, braille embossers Notetakers  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.76 Criteria when Selecting Hardware When choosing hardware devices, the following criteria should be considered: Capacity Speed Portability Durability Reliability Accessibility Cost  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.77 Connectors A connector is a cable that connects a component to a peripheral device There are different types that include the following: Universal Serial Bus (USB) Firewire PS/2 Ethernet SCSI Parallel Serial HDMI  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.78 USB The main type of connector that has replaced lots of older types of connector is the Universal Serial Bus (USB). Is a connector between a computer and a peripheral device, such as a keyboard, mouse, monitor or printer Is fast – transfer speeds are up to 480Mbps. Carry power as well as signals, which allows for USB powered gadgets and recharging batteries in cameras and other USB peripherals Designed to make it easy to identify which plug goes into the computer and which plug goes into the peripheral device USB cables are a global universal standard.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.79 HDMI HDMI, which stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface, is the standard connector used for transmitting digital audio and video data between devices. It is commonly used to connect devices such as televisions, monitors, projectors, Blu-ray players, gaming consoles, and other audio-visual equipment.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.80 Checkpoint Summary You can now: Describe the purpose of the main hardware components found in a typical desktop PC including motherboard, buses, ports, CPU, optical drives, hard disk store, cooling fan, ram sticks, power supply and graphics card. Define the term ‘hardware’ and peripheral’ and identify methods of connecting peripherals to a computer system. Describe a range of input and output peripheral devices and justify the use of a type of device for a particular purpose. 1.3 Types of Computer System  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.82 An Overview of a Computer System There are many types of computer system. Let’s take a look at a popular type of computer system:  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.83 Types of Computer Systems A computer system can be categorised according to criteria that includes: Its application - what it is used for Its size How powerful it is, for example, its speed of processing Let’s have a look at each category.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.84 Applications of Computer Systems Standalone - a computer system not linked to another computer system Network - two or more computer systems linked together General purpose - undertakes most frequent tasks required of general users Embedded system - a device that contains a computer, for example, car, washing machine  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.85 Sizes of Computers Supercomputer (largest) Mainframe, server Desktop, tower, server Laptop, notebook, netbook Tablet, handheld, games console Smartphone Watch (smallest)  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.86 Types of Computer Personal Computers (PCs): Traditional computers designed to sit on a desk. File Servers: Manage and distribute files within a network. Mainframes: High-performance computers used for large-scale data processing and enterprise-level applications. Microcontrollers: Small computers embedded in electronic devices to control specific functions.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.87 Types of Computer II Quantum Computers: Experimental computers that use quantum bits (qubits) to perform complex calculations. Raspberry Pi and Single-Board Computers: Compact and affordable computers designed for educational purposes and DIY projects. Embedded Systems: Computers integrated into everyday devices and systems, such as cars, appliances, and industrial machines.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.88 Embedded Systems An embedded system is one that is designed to perform a dedicated function or set of functions within a larger system. Unlike general-purpose computers, which are designed to run a variety of applications, embedded systems are typically tailored for a specific task and are often part of a larger device or product.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.89 Embedded Systems- Examples Examples of Embedded Systems are: In-car navigation systems. Smartphones Tablets. Smart TVs. Pacemakers Point-of-sale (POS) systems in retail. Gaming Consoles 1.4 Technological Developments  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.91 Computer Systems Computer systems of today are vastly different to those twenty, even ten years ago. Some of the developments in computer systems are: AI The Internet of Things Nanotechnology 5G Mobile Technology Big Data Growth of the Internet  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.92 Artificial Intelligence Computers An AI computer, is a computer system specifically designed for artificial intelligence (AI) tasks. AI computers are equipped with hardware that can quickly process the complex calculations associated with machine learning, and other AI algorithms. AI computers may incorporate components associated with high-performance computing, such as powerful central processing units (CPUs), large amounts of random-access memory (RAM), and fast storage solutions.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.93 The Internet of Things (IoT) The Internet of Things refers to the rapidly growing network of connected objects that are able to collect and exchange data in real time using embedded sensors. Thermostats, cars, lights, refrigerators, and more appliances can all be connected to the IoT. Computer systems are evolving to meet this need to connect to the Internet. Businesses, medicine and farming are three areas that are involved in the development of the IoT. In the future, you may be able to control.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.94 Nanotechnology Nanotechnology is a field of computer science, that deals with the changing of technology size at the nanoscale— (i.e. at the level of individual atoms or molecules). Chips, phones and wearable technology are getting increasingly smaller. Research into medical science suggests in the future computer chips can be implanted in the human brain to support with neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s Disease.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.95 4G / 5G Mobile Technology 4G (Fourth Generation) and 5G (Fifth Generation) refer to different generations of mobile network technology. 4G can provide download speeds of up to 100 Mbps or more. 5G networks promise significantly faster data speeds compared to 4G. Theoretical peak speeds can reach multiple gigabits per second. 5G enables new and enhanced applications, such as augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), 8K video streaming, and advanced industrial automation. 6G is in development.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.96 Big Data Big data refers to extremely large and complex datasets that cannot be easily managed, processed, or analysed using traditional tools. The three characteristics of big data are often referred to as the "Three Vs": volume, velocity and variety. Volume: big data involves massive amounts of data that exceed the capacity of traditional databases and storage systems. Velocity: refers to the speed at which data is generated, collected, and processed. Variety: big data comes in diverse formats, analysis.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.97 Growth of the Internet There are 5.35 billion internet users in the world today. The total number of internet users around the world grew by 97 million during the past 12 months. Globally, internet user numbers are growing at an annual rate of 1.8 percent, but year-on-year growth is even higher in many developing economies. Soon there may not be any need for high street shops as all purchases will be online The way we listen to music, watch TV, where we work has all changed thanks to the internet. End of lecture slides  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.99 Topic Summary You can now: Describe the purpose of a computer system Identify types of computers for different functions Describe an ‘embedded system’ and be able to recognise and provide examples of where this type of computing is used Describe the purpose of the main hardware components found in a typical desktop PC including motherboard, buses, ports, CPU, optical drives, hard disk store, cooling fan, ram sticks, power supply and graphics card Define the term ‘hardware’ and peripheral’ and identify methods of connecting peripherals to a computer system Describe a range of input and output peripheral devices and justify the use of a type of device for a particular purpose  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.100 Topic 1 Exam questions / Quiz Q1. What are the three main components of any computer system? Q2. Describe three input devices and state their primary purpose. Q3. Describe three storage devices. Q4. Explain why hardware needs to be accessible. Q5. Describe the term ‘Internet of Things’.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.101 References Computing Components News http://www.techradar.com/news/computing-components The tech giving people power to deal with disability, Padraig Belton, BBC News, 29th January 2016 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-35427933 The Latest News in Assistive Technology http://assistivetechnology.about.com/  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.102 Do You Know This? Why is a computer bus called a bus? A computer bus maintains a strict schedule, "picking up" data and "dropping it off" at a regular interval. For example, if a bus operates at a frequency of 200 MHz, it completes 200 million data transfers per second. This speed is called the bus width.  Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Topic 1 - 1.103 References  TechRadar. (n.d.). Computing Components News. Retrieved from http://www.techradar.com/news/computing-components  Belton, P. (2016, January 29). The tech giving people power to deal with disability. BBC News. Retrieved from http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-35427933  About.com. (n.d.). The Latest News in Assistive Technology. Retrieved from http://assistivetechnology.about.com/ Topic 1 – Introduction to Computer Systems and Hardware Any Questions?