COMPUTER SYSTEM COMPONENTS
(Hardware and Software)
1. What is a Computer System?
A computer system is a complete working unit that consists of hardware,
software, data, users, and procedures working together to process
information.
Main components of a computer system:
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Data
4. People (Users)
5. Procedures
This topic mainly focuses on hardware and software.
2. HARDWARE COMPONENTS
2.1 What is Hardware?
Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer that can be seen
and touched.
Examples:
Keyboard
Mouse
Monitor
CPU
Printer
2.2 Categories of Hardware
A. Input Devices
Input devices are used to enter data and instructions into the computer.
Examples:
Keyboard – typing text and numbers
Mouse – pointing and clicking
Scanner – converts hard copy documents into digital form
Microphone – inputs sound
Webcam – inputs images and video
Touchscreen – direct interaction by touching the screen
B. Processing Devices
Processing devices process data and control all computer operations.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The CPU is the brain of the computer.
It consists of:
1. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
o Performs mathematical calculations
o Handles logical operations (AND, OR, NOT)
2. Control Unit (CU)
o Controls and coordinates all computer activities
o Directs data flow between devices
3. Registers
o Small, fast storage areas inside the CPU
o Hold data temporarily during processing
C. Output Devices
Output devices display or produce the processed information.
Examples:
Monitor – displays text, images, and videos
Printer – produces hard copy output
Speakers – output sound
Projector – displays visuals on a large screen
D. Storage Devices
Storage devices are used to store data and programs.
1. Primary Storage (Main Memory)
Directly accessed by the CPU
Temporary storage
Types:
RAM (Random Access Memory)
o Volatile (data lost when power goes off)
o Stores programs currently in use
ROM (Read Only Memory)
o Non-volatile
o Stores startup instructions (booting)
2. Secondary Storage (Auxiliary Storage)
Permanent storage
Stores large amounts of data
Examples:
Hard disk drive (HDD)
Solid State Drive (SSD)
Flash disks
Memory cards
External hard drives
Optical disks (CD, DVD)
E. Communication Devices
Used to enable data transmission and networking.
Examples:
Network Interface Card (NIC)
Modem
Router
Switch
Wi-Fi adapter
3. SOFTWARE COMPONENTS
3.1 What is Software?
Software refers to the programs and instructions that tell the computer
what to do.
Unlike hardware, software cannot be touched.
3.2 Categories of Software
A. System Software
System software controls and manages computer hardware and provides a
platform for running applications.
1. Operating System (OS)
The Operating System is the most important system software.
Functions of an Operating System:
Manages hardware resources
Controls memory usage
Manages files and folders
Controls input and output devices
Provides user interface
Examples:
Windows
Linux
macOS
Android
iOS
2. Utility Software
Utility software helps to maintain and protect the computer.
Examples:
Antivirus programs
Disk cleanup tools
Backup software
File compression tools
3. Device Drivers
Enable communication between hardware and the OS
Each hardware device needs a driver
Examples:
Printer driver
Sound driver
Graphics driver
B. Application Software
Application software is designed to perform specific user tasks.
1. General-Purpose Application Software
Used for everyday tasks.
Examples:
Microsoft Word – word processing
Microsoft Excel – spreadsheets
PowerPoint – presentations
Web browsers (Chrome, Firefox)
2. Special-Purpose Application Software
Designed for a specific task.
Examples:
Payroll systems
School management systems
Hotel management systems
Point of Sale (POS) systems
3. Customized (Tailor-Made) Software
Developed for a specific organization.
Examples:
Bank systems
Airline reservation systems
C. Programming Software
Used by developers to create programs.
Examples:
Programming languages (Python, Java, C++)
Compilers
Interpreters
Code editors
4. Relationship Between Hardware and Software
Hardware cannot work without software
Software cannot run without hardware
Both must work together for a computer to function
5. Summary Table
Component Description Examples
Hardware Physical parts Keyboard, CPU,
Monitor
System Software Manages Windows, Linux
hardware
Application Performs tasks Word, Excel
Software
Storage Devices Store data HDD, SSD
Input Devices Enter data Keyboard, Mouse
Output Devices Display results Monitor, Printer