Chapter 1: Computer System – Structured
Notes
1. Introduction to Computer System
A computer is an electronic device that:
o Accepts data (Input)
o Processes it
o Produces results (Output)
A computer system includes:
o Hardware + Software working together
Main Components:
o CPU
o Memory
o Input Devices
o Output Devices
o Storage Devices
2. Components of Computer System
2.1 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Called the brain of computer
Performs processing
Parts:
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) → calculations & logical operations
CU (Control Unit) → controls instructions and data flow
Registers → very fast memory inside CPU
2.2 Input Devices
Used to enter data
Examples:
o Keyboard
o Mouse
o Scanner
o Touchscreen
o Braille keyboard
2.3 Output Devices
Convert processed data into human-readable form
Examples:
o Monitor
o Printer
o Speakers
o 3D Printer
3. Evolution of Computers
Abacus → earliest calculating device
Pascaline → mechanical calculator
Analytical Engine → concept of modern computer
Turing Machine → programmable machine
Important Concept
Von Neumann Architecture
o Data + Program stored in same memory
Technology Development
Vacuum Tubes → Transistors → IC → VLSI
Moore’s Law
Transistors double every 2 years
Cost reduces
4. Computer Memory
4.1 Units of Memory
Bit = 0 or 1
Nibble = 4 bits
Byte = 8 bits
4.2 Types of Memory
Primary Memory
RAM
o Volatile
o Temporary storage
o Read & Write
ROM
o Non-volatile
o Permanent storage
o Stores boot program
4.3 Cache Memory
Very fast memory between CPU & RAM
Stores frequently used data
Reduces access time
4.4 Secondary Memory
Permanent storage
Examples:
o HDD
o SSD
o CD/DVD
o Pen Drive
5. Data Transfer & Microprocessors
System Bus
Transfers data between components
Types:
Data Bus → bidirectional
Address Bus → one-way
Control Bus → one-way
Microprocessor
CPU on a single chip
Features:
Word Size
Clock Speed
Memory Size
Number of Cores
Microcontroller
Small device with:
o CPU + RAM + ROM + I/O
Used in:
o Washing machines
o Microwaves
6. Data and Information
Data → raw facts
Information → processed data
Types of Data
Structured → tables
Unstructured → audio/video
Semi-structured → XML, CSV
Data Life Cycle
1. Capture
2. Store
3. Retrieve
4. Delete/Recover
7. Software
Definition
Set of instructions that control hardware
7.1 System Software
Controls hardware
Examples:
Operating System
Device Drivers
Utilities (Antivirus)
7.2 Programming Tools
Assembler → assembly → machine code
Compiler → whole program at once
Interpreter → line by line
7.3 Application Software
General Purpose
o MS Word, VLC
Customised
o Banking software
7.4 Software Licenses
FOSS → free + source code available
Freeware → free, no source code
Proprietary → paid (Windows, Tally)
8. Operating System (OS)
Definition
Acts as resource manager
Manages:
o CPU
o Memory
o Devices
Objectives
1. Run applications
2. Provide user interface
8.1 Types of User Interface
1. Command-Based
Text commands
Example: MS-DOS
2. GUI (Graphical User Interface)
Icons, menus
Example: Windows, Ubuntu
3. Touch-Based
Touchscreen devices
Example: Android, iOS
4. Voice-Based
Voice commands
Example: Siri, Cortana
5. Gesture-Based
Motion/gesture control
Used in gaming, advanced devices
8.2 Functions of Operating System
1. Process Management
Manages running programs
Allocates CPU
2. Memory Management
Allocates & frees memory
Keeps track of usage
3. File Management
Create, delete, update files
Provides security
4. Device Management
Controls hardware devices
Uses device drivers.