Computer Basics

Computer

Introduction

The word Computer comes from the word ‘Compute‘, which means ‘To Calculate‘

• A computer is an electronic device that can performs arithmetic operations at high speed.
• The computer is also called a Data Processor because it can store, process, and derive data whenever desired.

Five Basic Operations of Computer

Types

• Inputting
• Storing
• Processing
• Outputting
• Controlling

Description

1. Inputting: The process of entering data and instructions into the computer system.
2. Storing: Saving data and instructions to make them readily available for initial or additional processing whenever required.
3. Processing: Performing arithmetic operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide, etc.) or logical operations (comparisons like equal to, greater than, less than, etc.) on data to convert them into useful information.
4. Outputting: The process of producing useful information or results for the user such as printed reports or visual display.
5. Controlling: Directing the manner and sequence in which all of the above operations are performed.

---

Block Diagram of Computer

---

Memory Hierarchy Diagram

Main Memory

1. Every computer has a temporary storage built into the computer hardware.
2. It stores instructions and data of a program mainly when the program is being executed by the CPU.
3. Thos temporary storage is known as main memory, primary storage, or simply memory.
4. Physically it consists of some chips either on the motherboard or on a small circuit board attached to the motherboard of a computer.
5. It has random access property.
6. It is volatile.

Memory capacity

• Memory capacity of a computer is equal to the number of bytes that can be stored in its primary storage.
• Its unit are:
• Kilobytes (KB)- 1024(210) bytes,
• Megabytes (MB)- 1048576(220) bytes,
• Gigabytes (GB)- 1073741824(230) bytes.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Primary Storage of a computer is often referred as a RAM because of its random access compatibility.
• RAM chips are volatile memory.
• A computers motherboard is designed in the manner that the memory capacity can be enhanced by adding more memory chips.
• The additional RAM chips which plugged into special socket on the motherboard, are known as single-inline-memory modules (SIMMs).