Basic Computer Organization
A computer system is an integrated setup of hardware (physical components) and
software (programs/instructions) that work together to process data and provide
meaningful output.
1. Hardware Components
These are the tangible parts of a computer:
A. Input Devices
- Used to enter data/commands into the computer.
- Examples:
- Keyboard (text input) - Mouse (pointing/clicking) - Scanner (digitizes
documents)
- Microphone (audio input) - Touchscreen (direct interaction)
B. Output Devices
- Display or produce processed results.
- Examples:
- Monitor (visual output) - Printer (hard copy output) - Speaker (audio output)
- Projector (displays on a large screen)
C. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- The "brain" of the computer that executes instructions.
- Components of CPU:
- ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) – Performs calculations (+, -, ×, ÷) and logical
operations (AND, OR, NOT).
- CU (Control Unit) – Directs operations by fetching, decoding, and executing
instructions.
- Registers – Small, high-speed memory locations for temporary data storage.
- Cache Memory – Faster than RAM, stores frequently used data.
D. Memory (Primary Storage)
- RAM (Random Access Memory) – Temporary storage for active programs (volatile).
- ROM (Read-Only Memory) – Permanent storage for firmware (non-volatile).
E. Storage Devices (Secondary Storage)
- Used for long-term data storage.
- Examples:
- HDD (Hard Disk Drive) – Magnetic storage (slow but high capacity).
- SSD (Solid State Drive) – Faster, no moving parts.
- USB Drive / SD Card – Portable storage.
3. How a Computer Works?
1. Input → Data is entered via input devices.
2. Processing → CPU processes data using ALU & CU.
3. Memory → Data is temporarily stored in RAM.
4. Storage → Results are saved in secondary storage.
5. Output → Processed information is displayed/printed.