Categorize the major components of computer system and give their function.
Computer is made up of mainly four components,
- Central processing unit
- Input section
- Output section
- Storage devices
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- Central processing unit is a main part of the computer system.
- It contains electronics circuitry that processes the data based on instructions.
- It also controls the flow of data in the system.
- It is also known as the brain of the computer.
- CPU consists of ALU, CU, and Memory.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
- It performs all arithmetic calculations and makes logical decisions.
- It can perform add, subtract, multiply, compare, count, shift and other logical activities.
- It calculates very fast.
- It takes data from the memory unit and returns data to the memory unit, generally primary memory.
Control Unit (CU)
- It controls all other units in the computer system. It manages all operations.
- It reads instructions and data from memory.
Primary Memory
- It is also known as main memory.
- The processor or the CPU directly stores and retrieves information from it.
- This memory is accessed by the CPU, in a random fashion.
- Generally currently executing programs and data are stored in primary memory.
- Its storage capacity is very small compared to secondary storage.
- It is very fast in an operation compared to secondary storage
- RAM is Random Access Memory and it is volatile in nature.
- ROM is Read Only Memory and it can hold data permanently.
Input Section
- The devices used to enter data into computer systems are called input devices.
- It converts human understandable input to computer controllable data.
- CPU accepts information from the user through input devices.
- Examples: Mouse, Keyboard, Touch Screen, Joystick, etc.
Output Section
- The devices used to send the information to the outside world from the computer are called output devices..
- It converts data stored in 1s and 0s in computer to human understandable information.
- Examples: Monitor, Printer, Plotter, Speakers, etc.
Input Section
- Secondary memory is also called Auxiliary memory or External memory.
- Users can store data permanently.
- It can be modified easily.
- It can store large data compared to primary memory.
- Examples: Hard disk, Floppy disk, CD, DVD, Pen drive,
