Computer Science Lesson 13 Components of a computer systems

Components of a computer systems

A computer system consists of both hardware and information stored on hardware. Information stored on computer hardware is called software.

The hardware components of a computer system are the electronic and mechanical parts.

The software components of a computer system are the data and the computer programs.

The major hardware components of a computer system are:

1. Processor

2. Main memory

3. Secondary memory

4. Input devices

5. Output devices

For a complete desktop computer, the processor, main memory, secondary memory, power supply, and supporting hardware are housed in a metal case. These components of the computer are connected to the main circuit board of the computer, called the motherboard. The power supply supplies power for the components. Various input devices (such as the keyboard) and output devices (such as the monitor) are attached through connectors at the rear of the case.

There are other components that are inside the computer that are not visible, let me start from CPU.

• Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Is the brain behind  your computer. The CPU is responsible for performing calculations and tasks that make program work. 

The faster your CPU the quicker your system will run faster and run commands.

• Random Access Memory

CPU is useless without an adequate amount of RAM. RAM is usually refer to as computer's memory, that is, it stores information that is use by computer to run applications. Without RAM your system cannot boot

• Hard Disk Drive (HDD)

The HDD of a computer is where permanent information is stored. For Example Documents, databases, spreadsheets, and applications are all stored on the hard disk.
The larger the Hard disk the more you can store on the drive, the size of the hard disk does not affect the speed in which application can run.

Other Components are

• Video Card
• Sound Card
• Modem
• Network Card
• Fans
• Cables

Devices which are not an integral part of the CPU are referred to as being peripherals, they are usually used for either input, storage or output. A device does not necessarily have to be outside the same physical box as the CPU. A good example is the hard disk, which is a peripheral even though it is not usually housed within the main case.

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