Understanding Computers and Computer System Components

What is Computer?
▪ A computer is an electronic device that processes data to produce meaningful information. It takes
input, processes it using instructions, and gives output.

What were the first Computers?

The first computer were people! That is, electronic computers (and the earlier mechanical computers)
were given this name because they performed the work that had previously been assigned to people.
"Computer" was originally a job title, it was used to describe those human beings (predominantly women)
whose job it was to perform the repetitive calculations required to compute such things as navigational
tables, tide charts, and planetary positions for astronomical almanacs.

Imagine you had a job where hour after hour, day after day, you were to do nothing but compute
multiplications. Boredom would quickly set in, leading to carelessness, leading to mistakes. And even on
your best days you wouldn't be producing answers very fast. Therefore, inventors have been searching for
hundreds of years for a way to mechanize this task.

The word computer is derived from the word compute, which means to calculate. Early computers were
used primarily for performing mathematical calculations.

The Earliest Known Computing Device:

▪ Abacus is a manual counting device used for performing basic arithmetic operations such as
addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Charles Babbage (1791–1871) – known as the Father of the Modern Computer.

▪ He designed the Analytical Engine, the first concept of a programmable mechanical computer.
▪ Introduced ideas of automatic calculation, memory, and programmable operations.
▪ Laid the foundation for modern computing concepts.

What Makes a Computer So Powerful?

The use of computers offers many real advantages. The following list highlights why do computer is a more
effective tool than others for specific tasks. In some applications, these advantages make using a computer
essential.

▪ Speed – performs millions or billions of operations in a short time, allowing it to process data and
execute commands much faster than a human or mechanical tool.

▪ Reliability – A computer has the ability to perform its required functions consistently under
specified conditions for a long period of time with minimal errors or failures.

▪ Accuracy – If a computer is given the correct instructions (a program), it can provide information
that is completely and consistently accurate.

▪ Storage Capacity – A computer can store large amounts of data and retrieve it when needed. With
storage devices, it’s possible to save space and organize information efficiently for future use.
Basic Functions of a Computer
1. Input – receiving data
2. Processing – performing operations on data
3. Output – displaying result
4. Storage – saving data temporarily (RAM) or permanently (HDD/SSD)

ELEMENTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM

A. HARDWARE – refers to the physical parts of a computer system. The components that you can
see and touch. These include both internal components (inside the computer) and external
devices (connected to the computer).

Hardware is classified into categories according to its functions.

❖ Input Devices – allow users to enter data into the computer.
1. Keyboard – allows the user to enter text, numbers, and commands into a computer by
pressing keys.
2. Mouse – used to point, click, and interact with items on a computer screen. It can be
wired or wireless.
3. Touchpad – commonly found on laptops, touchpad serves a similar function to a
mouse, allowing users to move the cursor by sliding their fingers on a touch-sensitive
surface.
4. Touchscreen – allow users to interact with a computer or device by touching the display
directly. They are common in smartphones, tablets, and some desktop monitors.
5. Graphic Tablet/Digitizer – allow users to draw or write directly onto a digital surface
using a stylus. They are commonly used by graphic designers and artists.
6. Gamepad/Controller – are input devices designed for gaming consoles and PC gaming.
They typically feature buttons, triggers, and joysticks for gaming interactions.
7. Scanner – converts physical documents or images into digital format for the computer.
8. Microphone – used to captures sound (voice or other audio) and converts it into digital
signals for the computer.
9. Biometric Input Devices – these include fingerprint scanners, retina scanners, and facial
recognition systems, which use unique biological characteristics for user identification.
10. Barcode Scanner – a device that reads and decodes barcodes printed on products, labels,
or documents, converting the information into digital data that a computer can process.
11. Webcam (also called camera) – used to captures video or images in real-time, often used
for video calls or streaming.

❖ Output Devices – display or produce results from the computer.

1. Monitor – displays text, images, and videos from the computer on a screen, allowing the
user to see the results of their work.
 Types of Computer Monitor:
CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) Monitor
✓ Older type of monitor using cathode ray tubes to display images.
✓ Bulky and heavy but was standard before flat screens.
✓ Less common today.

LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) Monitor

✓ Uses liquid crystals and a backlight to produce images.
✓ Thin, lightweight, and energy efficient.
✓ Most common monitor type today.

LED (Light Emitting Diode) Monitor

✓ A type of LCD monitor that uses LED backlighting instead of traditional
fluorescent lights.
✓ Brighter, more energy-efficient, and provides better color and contrast.

OLED (Organic Light Emitting Diode) Monitor

✓ Each pixel emits its own light, allowing true blacks and high contrast.
✓ Expensive but provides superior image quality.

Touchscreen Monitor
✓ Allows users to interact directly with the screen using fingers or a stylus.
✓ Common in tablets, kiosks, and some laptops.

Curved Monitor
✓ Screen is slightly curved for a more immersive viewing experience.
✓ Often used for gaming or large displays.

2. Printer – produces a physical (hard copy) version of digital documents, images, or

graphics on paper.
3. Speakers – converts digital audio signals from the computer into sound that can be heard.
4. Projector – projects images, videos, or presentations from a computer onto a larger
screen or surface for viewing by multiple people.
5. 3D Printer - create physical objects by layering material based on a digital 3D model.
They are used in various fields, including prototyping, manufacturing, and design.
6. Headphones/Earphones - similar to speaker, headphone or earphone deliver audio
output directly to the user. They are commonly used for private listening.
7. Plotter - are specialized output devices used for printing large-scale, high-quality
graphics, such as engineering drawings and architectural plans.

❖ Storage Devices – keep data, either temporarily or permanently.

1. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) – a storage device that uses magnetic disks to store and retrieve
digital data. It is used for long-term storage of files, programs, and the operating system.
2. Solid State Drive (SSD) – a storage device that stores data using flash memory with no
moving parts. It is faster and more durable than HDDs.
3. External Hard Drive – an external storage device connected to the computer via USB,
Thunderbolt, or other interfaces. They provide additional storage space and are often
used for backups, data transfer, and portable storage.
 4. USB Flash Drive – a portable storage device that connects via USB to store, transfer, and
retrieve digital data.
5. Optical Storage Devices – a storage medium used to store and access digital files such as
documents, music, videos, or software.
Type of Optical Storage Devices:
→ CD (Compact Disc)
✓ Stores digital data using laser technology.
✓ Typical storage capacity: up to 700 MB.
✓ Commonly used for music, software, and small files.
→ DVD (Digital Versatile Disc or Digital Video Disc)
✓ Uses a laser to store data with higher density than a CD.
✓ Typical storage capacity: 4.7 GB (single-layer) or 8.5 GB (dual-layer).
✓ Commonly used for movies, software, and larger data files.
→ Blu-ray Disc
✓ Uses blue-violet laser for higher precision and data density.
✓ Typical storage capacity: 25 GB (single-layer), 50 GB (dual-layer) or more.
✓ Used for high-definition video, large software, and games.
→ HD-DVD (High-Definition DVD)
✓ Competing format to Blu-ray that also uses laser technology for HD video.
✓ Typical storage capacity: 15 GB (single-layer), 30 GB (dual-layer).
✓ Largely discontinued after Blu-ray became the standard.
6. Memory Card – a small, portable storage device used in cameras, smartphones, and
other devices to store data like photos, videos, and apps.
Types of Memory Card:
✓ SD Card (Secure Digital Card) – typically used in cameras and older devices.
✓ MicroSD Card – a smaller version of the SD card, commonly used in smartphones,
tablets, and portable gaming devices.
✓ CompactFlash (CF) Card – primarily used in professional cameras and other high-
end devices due to their durability and large storage capacities
7. Cloud Storage (Online Storage) – allow users to store, manage, and access data over
the internet, rather than on a local hard drive or physical storage device. The data is
stored on remote servers, often maintained by third-party providers, and can be
accessed from anywhere with an internet connection (e.g. Google Drive, One Drive,
etc.).

❖ Processing Devices – handle and process data inside the computer.

Processor – is a hardware component that executes instructions and performs calculations
for a computer. It is considered as the "brain of the computer".
 Components of the Processor (CPU):
1. Control Unit (CU)
✓ Directs and coordinates all CPU operations.
✓ Fetches, decodes, and executes instructions.
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
✓ Performs arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide).
✓ Performs logical operations (AND, OR, comparisons).
3. Registers
✓ Small, high-speed storage inside the CPU.
✓ Temporarily holds data, instructions, or memory addresses during processing.

❖ Communication Devices – enable data exchange between computers or networks.

1. Network Interface Card (NIC) – a hardware component that allows a computer to
connect to a network (wired or wireless) and communicate with other devices.
2. Modem (Modulator-Demodulator) – is a hardware device that connects your home
network to the internet by converting digital signals from your devices into analog or
light signals for transmission over different infrastructure, and then converting incoming
signals back to a digital format your devices can understand. It serves as the essential
gateway to your Internet Service Provider (ISP).
3. Router – is a hardware or virtual network device that connects multiple computer
networks, such as your home network to the internet, by forwarding data packets
between them to their correct destinations, allowing devices to share a single internet
connection and enabling seamless communication between all connected devices.
Routers provide functions like creating and managing a Local Area Network (LAN),
directing traffic, assigning IP addresses, and often including a firewall for security.
4. Wi-Fi Adapter – a device (internal or external) that enables a computer to connect to a
wireless network (Wi-Fi) for internet or network access.
5. Network Switch (also known as Switch) – a networking device that connects multiple
devices within a local area network (LAN) and manages the flow of data between them.

Other Hardware Components:

ODD (Optical Disc Drive) – device that reads or writes data on optical discs like CDs, DVDs, or
Blu-ray discs.
Motherboard – The main circuit board that connects and allows communication between all
computer components, such as the CPU, memory, storage, and expansion cards.

Power Supply Unit (PSU) – converts electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the
computer and supplies electricity to all internal components.

AVR (Automatic Voltage Regulator) – a device that automatically maintains a stable voltage level
to protect electronic devices and computers from voltage fluctuations or spikes.

UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) – a device that provides temporary backup power to a
computer or electronic equipment during a power outage, allowing safe shutdown and
preventing data loss.
 Memory - refers to the hardware or storage area where data, instructions, and information are
stored and processed for use by the computer.

It allows the computer to store data temporarily or permanently so the CPU can access it
when needed.

Types of Computer Memory

❖ Primary Memory (Main Memory)

1. RAM (Random Access Memory) – a volatile memory that temporarily stores data and
instructions needed by the CPU while the computer is running. Data is lost when the
computer is turned off.
2. ROM (Read-Only Memory – a non-volatile memory chip that stores permanent
instructions for the computer, such as firmware or BIOS/UEFI. Its contents remain
even when the power is turned off.
❖ Cache Memory – is a small, very fast type of memory located inside or close to the CPU.
It stores copies of frequently used data and instructions so the CPU can access them
more quickly than from regular RAM.
❖ Virtual Memory (also known as Page File) – a memory management technique that uses
a portion of a storage device (HDD or SSD) as an extension of RAM when physical RAM
becomes full.
❖ Secondary Memory (Storage) - used for long-term storage of data.
1. HDD (Hard Disk Drive)
2. SSD (Solid State Drive)
3. USB Flash Drive
4. Memory Card
5. External Hard Drive
6. Optical Storage Devices (CD, DVD, Blu-ray Disk)
7. Cloud Storage (Online Storage)

B. SOFTWARE – is a set of instructions, programs, or data that tell the hardware what to do. Unlike
hardware, software is not physical – you cannot touch it – but it is essential for a computer to
function.

Functions of Software:
❑ Controls and manages computer hardware.
❑ Allows users to perform tasks such as writing documents, browsing the internet, editing
photos, and playing games.
❑ Provides the instructions needed for the computer to operate.

Types of Software:

1. System Software: manages hardware and provides a platform for other software.
Examples: Operating System, Device Drivers, Utility Programs
2. Application Software: Helps the user accomplish tasks.
Examples: Microsoft Word, Excel, Google Chrome, Photoshop, Video Games, etc.
3. Programming Software: Helps developers create software.
Examples: Compilers, Interpreters, Assemblers
OPERATING SYSTEM – a software that acts as an interface between the user and the computer
hardware and manages computer resources.

Main Roles of an OS:

• Manages hardware (CPU, memory, storage, devices)

• Runs and controls applications (apps/programs)
• Provides user interface (GUI like Windows icons, desktop)
• Handles file management (create, save, delete files)
• Manages input and output devices

Examples of Operating Systems:

• Windows – a popular operating system developed by Microsoft that is commonly used
on personal computers and laptops for running applications, managing files, and
controlling hardware.
• macOS – the operating system developed by Apple for Mac computers, known for its
user-friendly interface, security, and smooth integration with Apple devices.
• Linux – an open-source operating system that is widely used in servers, computers, and
other devices, known for its flexibility, stability, and security.
• Android – a mobile operating system developed by Google that is used on many
smartphones and tablets from different manufacturers.
• iOS – the mobile operating system developed by Apple for iPhones, known for its
security, performance, and integration with Apple services.

DEVICE DRIVERS - programs that allow the operating system to communicate with hardware devices.
Examples:
• Printer Driver
• Graphics (Video) Driver
• Audio Driver
• Network Driver

UTILITY PROGRAMS - programs that help maintain, protect, and optimize the computer system.
Examples:
• Antivirus Software (e.g. Microsoft Defender, Avast)
• Disk Cleanup (e.g. Disk Cleanup, Storage Sense)
• Backup Software (e.g. Windows Backup, Acronis True Image)
• File Compression Tools (e.g. 7-Zip, WinRAR, WinZip)

FIRMWARE – is built-in software in a device that helps it function and is usually created by the
company that made the hardware.
Examples:
• BIOS – Firmware that initializes the computer's hardware and starts the operating system.
• UEFI – An advanced firmware that replaces BIOS in most modern computers and provides
additional features and better performance.
 C. People

▪ People who use or interact with the computer.

Examples: Students, Educators, Employees, Software Developers, Multimedia Artists,
Gamers, Scientists, Researchers, Business Owners, etc.

Types of Personal Computers

1. Desktop – stationary computer placed on a desk
2. Laptop (Notebook Computer) – portable computer with built-in screen and keyboard
3. Tablet – touchscreen-based portable computer
4. Smartphones – handheld computer with communication features (calls, SMS, internet)
5. All-in-One PC – desktop computer where the monitor and system unit are combined into one device

Types of Computers
1. Supercomputer
• Fastest and most powerful type of computer
• Used for complex scientific calculations, weather forecasting, and research
• Very large and expensive

2. Mainframe Computer
• Very powerful computer used by large organizations
• Supports many users at the same time
• Used in banks, government offices, airlines

3. Minicomputer
• Medium-sized computer
• Less powerful than mainframe but can still support multiple users
• Used in small to medium organizations

4. Microcomputer (Personal Computer)

• Small and designed for individual use
• Most common type used in homes, schools, and offices
• Examples: desktop, laptop, tablet, smartphone

Uses of Computers
• Education
• Business
• Entertainment
• Communication
• Research
• Healthcare
• Engineering
 Advantages of Computers

• Increased Productivity
• Information Management
• Multi-tasking
• Automates work
• Easy communication

Disadvantages of Computers

• Can lead to data security issues

• May cause health problems (eye strain, posture)
• Risk of addiction or overuse
• Needs electricity and maintenance
Why Computers Sometimes Fail?
Computers are powerful tools, but they are not perfect. Several factors can cause computers or
computerized systems to fail. Below are some of the most common reasons, with explanations:

1. Input Errors
When data is entered into a computer system, it must be accurate and complete. If incorrect,
incomplete, or outdated data is entered, it can lead to incorrect output or system failure, even if
the software and hardware are working perfectly.

Example: Typing the wrong number in a payroll system could result in incorrect employee salaries.

2. Errors in Instructing the Computer

Computers operate based on a set of instructions (called programs) written by programmers. If
these instructions contain logic errors, incorrect formulas, or improper sequencing, the computer
will process data incorrectly.

Computers do not think — they simply follow instructions. If the instructions are wrong, the results
will also be wrong (this is known as "Garbage In, Garbage Out").

3. Communication Gap
One major reason why computerized procedure fail is due to a lack of clear communication
between IT professionals (programmers or system analysts) and the end users (those who will use
the system or information).

If users cannot clearly express their needs, or programmers misunderstand them, the resulting
system may not meet the actual requirements. This leads to wasted resources and system failure.

4. Improper Controls
Without proper security controls, user access levels, and data validation mechanisms, systems can
be misused, hacked, or produce incorrect results. Controls are important for data accuracy, security,
and integrity.
Example: If anyone can access and change employee records without restrictions, errors or fraud
may occur.
5. Lack of Standards
When there are no uniform standards in file formats, documentation, coding practices, or
procedures, systems may become incompatible, hard to maintain, or difficult to update. Standards
help ensure consistency and quality.
Example:
If different departments use different date formats (MM/DD/YYYY vs. DD/MM/YYYY),
confusion and errors can occur.

6. Lack of Adequate Manufacturer’s Support

If the manufacturer of the hardware or software does not provide regular updates, bug fixes, or
technical support, users may face ongoing problems. Poor support can lead to downtime, security
risks, or total system failure.
Example: A software program with no customer service may leave users helpless when they
encounter errors.

7. Computer Viruses
Viruses are malicious programs that can disrupt operations, delete data, steal information, or slow
down the system. They are a major threat to system stability and security.
Prevention: Use antivirus software, keep systems updated, and avoid downloading files from
unknown sources.