Chapter 1

Computer System:
An Overview

What is a Computer?
A Computer is an electronic device that can perform a variety
of operations according to a set of instruction called Program.
It is a combination of Hardware as well as Software which
transforms some data into information.
Computer consists of four major components1.Input Unit
2.Processing Unit
3.Output Unit
4.Memory Unit

Input Unit
This unit is responsible for accepting input i.e., data and
instructions from the user. This work is accomplished with the
help of input device, in general, refers to an equipment.
ExampleMouse
Keyboard
Joystick
Digital Pad
Microphone

Processing Unit
The processing unit is or the Central Processing Unit is
responsible for carrying out the processing job, the CPU is the
brain of the computer, it is where all the searching, sorting and
calculation making takes place.
CPU has two major components:Arithmetic Logic Unit and
Control Unit.

Output Unit
The output unit is responsible for producing th output in user
readable form.
Its function is to present processed data to the user.
ExampleMonitor
Printer
Plotter
Projector
Speaker

Memory Unit
Memory is the internal storage area , which holds the data and
instructions during processing.
Computer make use of two types of memory:
Internal Memory(Primary or Main Memory):It is built-in memory
which the CPU uses to hold data and instructions. The internal
memory is temporary and has limited storage capacity.
External Memory(Auxiliary or Secondary Memory):It is the
external storage used by computer to store data and instructions
permanently.Ex-Floppy Disks, CDs, DVDs, etc.

Internal Memory
External Memory

Functioning of a Computer

Uses of Computer
Business-Budgeting, billing, accounting, reporting, etc.

Medicine and Health CareDiagnosing illnesses, monitoring

patients, surgery, etc.

Communications-Internet,
e-mails, video/audio conferencing.

Education- E-learning, e-books, etc.

Science, Research and EngineeringCAD(Computer Aided Designing),

CAE(Computer Aided Engineering), predictions, nuclear tests.

Law Enforcement-Speed cameras, storage

of information, like- car owner, license no.
DNA finger printing techniques, etc.

Music and Dance- MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital

Interface,orchestral composer, editing sounds, recording musical
notes, etc.

Government-Census work, economy,

income tax, reservations, etc.

Military- Trajectory of missiles, data

storage, broadcasting, etc
At Home-Learning tool, games, letter & e-mails, listening to
music, own small publications, etc.

Characteristics of a Computer
StrengthsSpeed
High-Storage Capacity
Accuracy
Reliability
Versatility

WeaknessesLack of Decision- Making Power

IQ Zero
No Heuristics

Types of Computers
Embedded Computers

Laptop Computers

Workstations

Mainframes

Supercomputers

The End