Types and Components of Computer Systems

Hardware & Software

Hardware

the electronic, physical components that make up a typical computer system. These may include

input and output devices as well.

Internal Hardware Devices:

Central processing unit

Processor

Motherboard

Internal memory consisting of RAM & ROM

Graphics & Sound Cards

Internal Storage devices like Hard disk drives (HDD) and solid-state drives (SSD)

Network interface card (NIC)

External Hardware Devices:

Monitor

Keyboard

Mouse

Printer

External Storage Devices

Software

The techniques, methods, commands, and instructions tell the device what to do and how to do it.

They are the programs which control the computer system and process data.

Relates to ideas & instructions for using physical objects.

Two types of software:

Application software:

Provides services that allow the user to do specific tasks.

It can be general-purpose software or custom-made software. (Specialist software)

E.g., Spreadsheets, databases, and word processors.

System Software:

The software is designed to provide a platform all other software to run on. For example:

Compilers: The software translates the High-level language into Machine code (Language

Processor).

Linkers: A Software that creates the links between Language processors into workable solutions

(Data definition language).

Device drivers: A software that enables the device to work with another, externally connected

device.

Utilities: A system software that provides the necessary facilities (Antivirus, Scan Disk, Disk

Defragmentation, etc.)

Operating systems: To enable computer systems to function and allow users to communicate with

computer systems, special software, known as operating systems (OS), have been developed.

Analogue and Digital Data

Computers can only understand data in the form of binary digits (0,1); this is commonly known as

digital data. However, data in the real world is analogue, not limited to two specific values.

The figures show how data changes in analogue and digital forms; analogue data forms smooth

curves, whereas digital data changes in discrete steps.

So, for a computer to process real-world data, it first needs to convert the received data into digital

form. This is done by hardware known as ADC (analogue to digital converter), and its output is given

back in analogue form using DAC (digital to analogue converter).

The Main Components of Computer Systems

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The component of the computer that understands and executes hardware and software operations.

Nowadays, it's also known as a microprocessor. It is a single integrated circuit at the core of most

PCs and is also present in many household gadgets and equipment where some control or

monitoring is required.
It consists of a control unit (CU) that manages the input and output devices, an arithmetic and logic

unit (ALU) that performs computations and makes logical judgments, and tiny memory regions

known as registers.

It processes the input and produces the outcome of the processing in the form of output.

Internal Memory

Random access memory (RAM): temporary memory storage, lost after power is shut down,

performs read and write functions, is used to store data that are currently in use, and can be

increased in size to improve operational speed.

Read-only memory (ROM): permanent memory storage, non-volatile, can only be read from, used to

store computer's configuration data, such as BIOS.

N.B: The BIOS (basic input/output system) stores the date, time and system configuration on a

non-volatile chip called a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) - this is usually battery

powered.

Differentiating between Internal memories:

RAM is a temporary memory device, whereas ROM is a permanent one.

RAM is volatile, ROM is non-volatile.

RAM can be written to and from, but ROM can only be read from.

RAM is used to store data, files, programs, and parts of OS that are currently in use. However, ROM

is used in storing start-up data,

Input & Output Devices

Input devices Output devices

An input device is any hardware that enables data entry. An output shows the result or solution of

the input after it has been processed.

An input device can only send data. An output device can only receive data.

Input devices are necessary for a computer to receive commands from the user for processing to be

permitted. Output devices are needed in order to display the outcome of the processing that took

place to the user.

Input devices are complex as they must ensure proper communication between the computer and

the user. Output devices are simpler as they only need to display the finale.

Input devices are pieces of hardware that allow users to enter data into computers.

An output device displays the computer's output in a human-readable format. For example, words

on a printer or moving graphics on a monitor.

Backing and Secondary Storage

Required to store significant amounts of data permanently.

Most commonly in the form of Hard disk drives and Solid-state drives.

Differentiating between internal memory and backing storage:

RAM contents are lost when power is lost, ROM is read-only, and backing storage is permanent

even without power.

RAM and ROM are much smaller than backing storage.

RAM and ROM are significantly faster in accessing data than backing storage.

Backing storage is much cheaper than internal memory.

Internal memories are fixed, and backing storage can be fixed or portable.

Internal memories can be directly read by the CPU, while backing storage needs to be moved into

the RAM before being read by the CPU.

Operating Systems

Controls operation of input, output & backing storage

Supervises loading, running & storage of application programs.

Deals with errors in application programs.

Maintains security of the whole computer system

Maintains a computer log.

Operating systems offer various types of user interfaces, for example:

Command line interface: user needs to type in commands to communicate with the computer. The

user is in direct communication with the computer. Not restricted to pre-defined options. Possible to

alter computer configuration settings. Needs to learn many commands for basic operations. All
commands need to be typed in, which is time-consuming. Very error prone, as commands must

have correct format, spelling etc.

N.B: Mainly used by programmers who need to have direct communication with the computer.

Graphical user interface: Uses WIMP (windows icons menu and pointing device). The user does not

need to learn any commands. It is more user-friendly; icons are used to represent applications. A

pointing device is used to click on an icon to launch the application, this is simpler than typing in

commands. This type of interface uses up considerably more computer memory than a CLI

interface. The user is limited to the icons provided on the screen. Needs a more complex operating

system.

N.B: Mainly used by end-users who don't have great knowledge of how the computer works.

Dialogue-based user interface: use the human voice to give commands to a computer system. no

need for a driver to take their hands off the steering wheel. In a home, it is especially useful for

people with disabilities because many tasks can be carried out by the spoken word only. Possible to

use it as a security feature because voice recognition could be used to identify a person. Still

unreliable, with many commands not being recognized or needing to be repeated several times

(especially if there is background noise). Can be quite complex to setup. User needs to know which

commands can be used.

Gesture-based user interface: relies on human interaction by the moving of hands, head or even

feet. Replaces mechanical input devices. No physical contact is required. Very natural interface for a

human operator. No training is needed to interface with the computer. It is possible for unintentional

movement to be picked up. Only works near the camera or sensor (maximum of 1.5 meters). May

only accept a limited number of movements (for example, it may take several attempts to determine

exactly what finger movements are recognized).

Types of Computers

Desktop Computers

Desktop usually refers to a general-purpose computer that is made up of a separate monitor,

keyboard, mouse, and processor unit. It is distinguished from, for example, a laptop computer by the
fact that it is made up of several separate components, which makes it not very portable.

Uses:

office and business work

educational use

general entertainment

gaming device

Advantages:

They are easier and less costly to upgrade and expand.

Spare parts are standardized, which makes them cheaper.

They tend to have better specifications for a given price.

No critical power consumption because they plug into a wall socket.

Due to fixed positions, they are less likely to be damaged or stolen.

As they usually have wired connections, they have more stable internet access.

Disadvantages:

They are not particularly portable because they are made up of separate components.

More complicated because all the components need to be hooked up by wiring, which also clutters

up the desk space.

Because they aren't portable, files must be copied to another portable storage device to take work

elsewhere.

Mobile Computers

1. Laptop computer:

(Or notebook) refers to a type of computer where the monitor, keyboard, pointing device and

processor are all together in one unit. This makes them extremely portable. lightweight (to aid

portability). Low power consumption (and also long battery life). Low heat output (cooling is very

important).

Uses:

office and business work

educational use

used as a gaming device.

general entertainment

Advantages:

Portability: all components are in a single unit, so they can be taken anywhere.

Because of one single unit, there are no trailing wires and desk clutter.

take up much less room on a desk, so they can be easily used in public spaces.

portability allows them to take full advantage of Wi-Fi features.

Disadvantages:

portability makes it easier for them to be stolen.

limited battery life means the user needs to carry a charger at all times.

keyboards and pointing devices may be awkward to use.

not easy to upgrade, like adding more RAM.

2. Smartphones:

Allow normal phone calls to be made, but also have an operating system (such as iOS, Android, or

Windows), allowing them to run a number of computer applications (known as apps or applets).

Smartphones communicate with the internet either by using Wi-Fi hot spots or by using 3G/4G/5G

mobile phone networks.

Uses:

They allow users to send/receive emails.

They allow users to use a number of apps.

They allow users to use a camera feature (to take photos or videos).

They allow users to use an MP3/4 player (for music and videos).

Advantages:

very small in size and lightweight, makes them portable.

connecting to the internet while on the move.

because they use Wi-Fi and mobile phone networks, they can be used almost anywhere.
they have apps which can tell instant location, which is a feature that isn't available in either

desktops or laptops.

they have reasonable battery life.

Disadvantages:

small screens and keyboards make pages difficult to read.

more difficult and slower when typing things in.

Web browsing and photography can quickly drain the battery.

Memory size in most phones is not very large when compared to laptops and desktops.

Not all website features are compatible with smartphone operating systems.

Because of their small size, it is much easier to lose a smartphone or for it to be stolen compared to

laptops or desktops.

The data transfer rate using mobile phone networks can be slower than with Wi-Fi.

3. Tablets:

They work similarly to a smartphone. The only main difference is that they are somewhat bigger in

size as compared to a smartphone.

Uses:

They allow users to send/receive emails.

They allow users to use a number of apps.

They allow users to use a camera feature (to take photos or videos).

They allow users to use an MP3/4 player (for music and videos).

Advantages of tablets compared to laptops:

very fast to switch on (no time delay waiting for the operating system to load up).

fully portable - they are so lightweight that they can be carried anywhere.

touch screen technology means they are simple to use and don't need any other input devices.

not much heat, they use solid-state technology.

The battery life of a tablet is a lot longer.

when the power button is pressed, it goes into standby but remains connected to the internet so the
user still hears alerts when emails or other 'events' are received.

Disadvantages of tablets compared to laptops:

tend to be rather expensive when compared to laptops.

they often have limited memory/storage when compared to a laptop.

typing on a touch screen can be slow and error-prone compared to a standard keyboard.

laptops tend to support more file formats than tablets.

4. Phablets:

Some of the latest smartphones have been designed as a hybrid between a tablet and a

smartphone, referred to as a phablet. They have much larger screens than a smartphone but are

smaller than a tablet.

Uses:

Entertainment (streaming of music, videos, and television programs).

Gaming (including group games).

As a camera or video camera.

Internet use (online sales, social networks, using QR codes, and so on).

Sending/receiving emails.

Global positioning system (use of maps to navigate to a location).

Calendar functions.

Telephone banking (sending and receiving money using banking apps).

Voice over Internet Protocol: telephone network using the internet, which also allows video calling.

Instant access to social networks (social contact with friends no matter where you are in the world).

Instant messaging.

Office and business management (allows rapid voice and video communication).

Education use (using interactive software to teach or learn from).

Remotely control devices.

Laptops are the most expandable of these devices, while smartphones are the most portable.

Tablets and phablets fall somewhere in between, offering a balance of portability and expandability.
The choice of device will depend on your specific needs and use case.

Impact of Emerging Technologies

Artificial Intelligence (AI): There are many definitions of artificial intelligence (AI). Essentially, AI is a

machine or application which carries out a task that requires some degree of intelligence.

The use of language

recognizing a person's face, the ability to operate machinery, such as a car, aeroplane, train, and so

on,

and analyzing data to predict the outcome of a future event, such as weather forecasting. Impact:

Whenever AI is mentioned, people usually think of science fiction fantasies and think of robots. The

science fiction writer Isaac Asimov even went as far as producing his three laws of robotics: »

Robots may not injure a human through action or inaction. » Robots must obey orders given by

humans without question. » A robot must protect itself unless it conflicts with the two laws above.

Everyday uses:

An autonomous (driverless) vehicle - we already have driverless trains and autopilots on

aeroplanes, but future developments include driverless cars.

Robotic research is leading to improvements in technology to help amputees and people with

disabilities.

Robots are used to help people carry out dangerous or unpleasant tasks - for example, bomb

disposal.

Negative impacts of AI

Unemployment, robots are capable of doing tedious human tasks with much more efficiency and

excellence than humans.

Dependency on technology could lead to problems in the future.

De-skilling: Tasks that used to be considered a talent are now part of general, tedious processes

that are done on a regular basis by machines.

Extended Reality refers to combined real and virtual environments. The two most common

examples at the moment are:

Augmented reality (AR) is a merger between the virtual and physical (real) world; it lays objects onto

pre-existing objects. e.g., Pokémon GO! Impact: safety and rescue operations' training, shopping

and retail (getting a better look at a car before the purchase), healthcare (better understanding of a

patient's body)

Virtual reality (VR) enables an entirely new world to be created, unlike AR, which has no link to the

actual surroundings of the user. It requires the user to be specially equipped with a VR headset,

joystick, and headphones.

Impact: Military applications, educational purposes (looking at ancient buildings), healthcare, media

(interactive special effects in a movie), scientific visualization (part of molecular structures/cells).

Input & Output Devices

Input Devices and Their Uses

An input device is any hardware device that allows a user to enter data or instructions into a

computer directly.

An input device can send data to another device, but it cannot receive data from another device.

Input devices are necessary for a computer to receive commands from its users and data to

process; they are under the user's control or can be direct data entry.

Input devices can be complicated because they must ensure the user can interact with the computer

correctly.

1. Keyboards:

Uses:

Input of data into applications software

Typing in commands to the computer

Advantages:

Fast entry of new text into a document.

Well-known method.

Easy to use for most people.

Easier to do verification checks as data is entered (can immediately compare the source document
with typed data on the screen).

Disadvantages:

It can be difficult to use if the user has limited arm/wrist use.

Slow method when compared to direct data entry.

It is a fairly large device that uses up valuable desk space.

2. Numeric keypads:

Uses:

Automatic teller machines (ATMs), where the customer can key in their PIN, amount of money, etc.

Mobile phones allow phone numbers, etc., to be keyed in.

Point of sale terminals (POS) in case the barcode reader fails to read the barcode - the number has

to be keyed in manually by the operator.

Chip and PIN devices when paying by credit/debit cards.

Fast entry of numeric data into a spreadsheet.

Advantages:

Faster than standard keyboards when entering numeric data.

Because many are small devices, they are very easy to carry around.

Disadvantages:

Sometimes, they have small keys, which can make input more difficult.

Sometimes, the order of the numbers on the keypad is not intuitive.

3. Mouse:

Uses:

Opening, closing and minimizing software

Grouping, moving and deleting files.

Image editing, for example, controls the size and position of a drawing pasted into a document.

Controlling the position of a pointer on the screen to allow selection.

Advantages:

It is a faster method for choosing an option than a keyboard.

It's a very quick way of navigating through applications and the internet.

Does not need a large desk area when compared to a keyboard.

Disadvantages:

It can be more difficult for people with restricted hand/wrist movement than using a keyboard for

data entry.

Easy to damage, the older type of mouse quickly becomes clogged up with dirt.

Difficult to use if no flat surface is readily available.

4. Touchpad:

Uses:

Opening, closing and minimizing software

Grouping, moving and deleting files.

Image editing, for example, controls the size and position of a drawing pasted into a document.

Controlling the position of a pointer on the screen to allow selection.

Advantages:

Faster than a keyboard for choosing options.

Used to navigate applications and the internet.

Because the touchpad is integrated into the laptop computer, there is no need for a separate

mouse; this aids the portability and is a big advantage if no flat surfaces are available.

Disadvantages:

People with limited hand/wrist movement find the device difficult to use.

It can be more difficult to control the pointer when compared to a normal mouse.

Drag and drop operations are more complicated using a touchpad.

5. Tracker ball:

Uses:

A good alternative to a mouse for people with conditions such as RSI.

Used in an industrial control room environment.

Used in some luxury cars to select functions such as radio.

Advantages:

Does not need the same fine control as a mouse.

It is easier to use than a mouse if the operator has problems with their wrist.

More accurately position the pointer on the screen.

They are more robust than a mouse.

Needs less desk space than a mouse or keyboard.

Disadvantages:

It is not supplied with the computer as a standard; therefore, it is more costly.

Users may need training because it is not standard equipment.

6. Remote Control:

Uses:

Televisions, satellite systems, DVD/Blu-ray players and Hi-Fi systems, to alter controls such as

volume, on/off, etc.

Used to control multimedia systems.

Used in industrial applications to remotely control processes.

Advantages:

It can be operated from any reasonable distance.

In some conditions, e.g., in chemically hazardous environments, we can control and measure from

safe distances.

Disadvantages:

Difficult to use for people with limited hand/wrist movements.

Physical obstacles can easily block the signal.

7. Joysticks:

Uses:

Used in video games.

Used in simulators to mimic the actual controls.

Advantages:
It is easier than keyboards for screen navigation.

In some applications, the control is more realistic than using a mouse.

Disadvantages:

The on-screen pointer is more difficult to use.

8. Driving wheel:

Uses:

Used in video games, especially car racing games.

Used in simulators to mimic actual vehicle controls.

Advantages:

It's a more realistic experience than both mouse and joystick.

Easier than a keyboard or joystick to control steering movements.

Disadvantages:

It is a rather expensive input device as compared to a mouse or joystick.

Steering movements tend to be over-sensitive, which gives an unrealistic feel.

Unless it is an expensive simulator, feedback to the steering wheel is non-existent.

9. Touch screen (as an input device):

Uses:

Automatic teller machines (ATMs) to choose from on-screen options.

Point of sale terminals such as in restaurants.

Interactive whiteboards in education.

Computer-based training (CBT) where answers are selected during on-screen testing.

Advantages:

Faster entry of options than using a keyboard or mouse.

Very easy method for choosing options.

User-friendly method - no training necessary in its use.

Option to expand the size of the display if necessary.

Disadvantages:
A limited number of input options are available.

This can lead to problems if an operator uses the system frequently (straining of arm muscles, RSI,

etc., are all possible).

The screen can get very dirty with constant touching.

10. Scanners:

Uses:

Scanning documents and converting them into different formats

Scanning in old documents to protect them in case the original is lost/damaged.

Scanning in photographs for storage

Scanning in barcodes at POS terminals.

Advantages:

Images can be stored for editing at a later date.

When used with OCR, they are much faster and more accurate than typing the documents in.

It is possible to recover damaged documents by scanning and producing an acceptable copy.

Disadvantages:

Limited quality, depending on how good the scanner's resolution is.

Fairly slow input method, especially if color mode is selected.

11. Digital Cameras:

Uses:

Taking photographs is still better than using smartphones and tablets.

Data-capture device, e.g., as a reversing aid in cars.

Dentistry, to help capture pictures for better diagnosis.

The creation of virtual reality tours around houses, buildings, etc.

Advantages:

Easier to produce better-quality photographs than with a traditional camera.

Uploading photographs to a computer is faster than scanning hard copies.

Memory cards can store many thousands of photographs.

There is no need to develop film and printouts; it saves money and is more environmentally friendly.

Unwanted images can quickly be deleted from a memory card.

Disadvantages:

Need to be computer literate to know proper use.

Loss of artistry due to clever software doing all the work.

Images need to be compressed to reduce the amount of memory used.

12. Microphones:

Uses:

To input speech to be used in various applications.

Input in voice recognition software for authentication.

As a sensor to pick up sound in an intruder alarm system.

Used in audio conferencing or VoIP applications.

Advantages:

It is faster to read text than it is to type it in.

It is possible to manipulate sound in real time rather than working on a completed recording.

It improves security if used as an authentication system.

Disadvantages:

Sound files use up a lot of computer memory.

Reading data is more error-prone than typing in.

13. Sensors:

Uses:

Temperature sensors are used in automatic washing machines, central heating systems, ovens, and

glasshouses.

Pressure sensors are used in intruder alarm systems and washing machines.

Light sensors are used in automatic glasshouses, doors, and street lighting control.

Sound/acoustic sensors are used in intruder alarm systems, monitoring liquid and powder flow in

pipes.
Humidity/moisture sensors are used in automatic glasshouses, environmental monitoring, and in

factories where moisture levels are crucial.

pH sensors are used in automatic glasshouses, chemical processes and environmental monitoring.

Advantages:

Readings are more accurate as compared to human operators.

Readers are continuous, with no breaks in the monitoring.

Because it is a continuous process, any action or warnings needed will be initiated immediately.

Automatic systems don't need human intervention.

Disadvantages:

Faulty sensors can give spurious results.

Most sensors are analogue; therefore, they require conversion using Analogue to Digital Convertors.

14. Light pens:

Uses:

Selecting objects on CRT screens

Drawing on screens

Advantages:

Greater accuracy than touch screens

Small makes them portable and capable of being used in small spaces.

Easy-to-use technology.

Disadvantages:

Lagging problems while drawing on the screen.

It only works with CRT monitors.

Rather dated technology.

Direct Data Entry & Associated Devices

1. Magnetic Stripe Readers:

Uses:

On credit/debit card for use at ATMs

Security device to allow entry to buildings, hotels, etc.

Advantages:

Faster than keying in data manually.

Error-free, no human intervention needed.

Secure information isn't in human-readable form.

Robust, there are no moving parts.

Disadvantages:

If the card is damaged, the data is lost.

Doesn't work at a distance.

As the information isn't human-readable, this can be a disadvantage in some cases.

2. Chip and PIN reader:

Uses:

Where payments are made using cards

Advantages:

It is more secure than contactless cards as the PIN acts as a second security layer.

More robust system than Magnetic Stripe Cards

Disadvantages:

Be very careful so the PIN isn't seen by anyone while being typed in.

3. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) reader:

Uses:

Livestock tracking

Retail, instead of barcodes, as they don't need to be scanned in.

Admission passes.

Library books, to acknowledge the books which have been borrowed.

Advantages:

No line-of-sight contact is needed.

Very robust and reliable technology.

Very fast read rate.

Bidirectional data transfer.

Bulk detection is possible.

Disadvantages:

Tag collision

As they use radio waves, they are easy to jam/interrupt.

Easy to hack into the signal.

RFID is more expensive than a comparable barcode system.

4. Optical Mark Reader/Recognition (OMR):

Uses:

Used in MCQs checking.

Used in reading voting papers.

Advantages:

Very fast way of inputting survey results.

It is more accurate because there is no human intervention.

More accurate than OCR methods.

Disadvantages:

Designing the forms can be complicated to ensure the marks are correctly positioned.

If there are problems, they need to be manually checked, which can be time-consuming.

5. Optical Character Recognition/Reader:

Uses:

Processing passports and identity cards.

Converting hard copy documents into electronic form.

Used in automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) systems.

Digitizing historic hard copies for archiving.

Advantages:

It is a much faster data entry system than manual typing.

No human intervention, its error free.

Disadvantages:

System has difficulty in reading different handwritings.

Still not a very accurate technique.

6. Barcode readers:

Uses:

Used in supermarkets for stock control.

In libraries, to keep track of books.

As a safety function to ensure checking of electrical equipment on a daily basis.

Advantages:

Much faster than manually keying in data.

Allow automatic stock control.

They are a tried and trusted technology.

Disadvantages:

Relatively expensive system to administer.

Not fool-proof, barcodes can be swapped between items.

Can be more easily damaged than RFID tags or magnetic stripes.

7. Quick response (QR) code scanner:

Uses:

used in advertising to contain information about the advertising company.

Wi-Fi authentication

Used in restaurants, you can see the menu by scanning.

Advantages:

hold much more information than normal barcode.

fewer errors than with barcodes.

QR codes are easier to read because the cameras can even read them on a smartphone.

It is possible to encrypt QR codes.

Disadvantages:

More than one QR format is available.

QR codes can be used to transmit malicious data.

Output Devices and Their Uses

1. Cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors:

Uses:

Their large screens allow complex diagrams to be created in Computer-aided design.

Used with light pens to allow designs to be created.

Advantages:

Can be seen at a wider range of angles, unlike LCDs.

Allow the use of light pens.

Disadvantages:

They are very heavy and bulky.

They run very hot and can cause fires if left unattended.

They use a lot more power than LCDs.

Their flickering can lead to headaches.

Image burn-in is a common issue.

2. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) screens:

Uses:

Main output device for modern computers.

Mobile phones, laptops, video games use LCD screens.

Advantages:

Very efficient, low power consumption.

Lightweight devices.

Screens can made in various sizes.

No flickering images.

Very sharp image resolution.

Disadvantages:

Colour and contrast from different angles are inconsistent.

Motion blur is a common issue.

Lower contrast than CRT monitors.

3. Touch screen (as an output devices):

Uses:

ATMs

POS terminals

Information kiosks.

Advantages:

Don't need additional input devices.

They are very interactive, and many functions, such as swiping, can be done.

They add a high-tech feel to devices and interfaces.

Disadvantages:

They tend to get dirty with frequent use.

Frequent use results in straining of arm muscles, RSI, etc.

If large amounts of data are input/output, they aren't very accurate, and the interface isn't very fast.

4. Multimedia projectors:

Uses:

Training presentations to allow the whole audience to see images.

Advertising presentations.

Home cinema systems.

Advantages:

More people can watch as they don't have to crowd around a laptop.

Avoids the need for several networked computers.

Disadvantages:

Images can be fuzzy.

Expensive to buy.

Set-up can be complicated.

5. Laser printers:

Uses:

In uses where low noise is required.

If fast, high quality, high-volume printing is required.

Advantages:

Printing is fast.

They can handle very large print jobs.

Quality is consistently high.

Toner cartridges last for a long time.

Disadvantages:

They are only considerably fast if several copies are being made.

Color laser printers are expensive to run.

They produce ozone and volatile organic compounds because of their printing method and toner.

6. Inkjet printers:

Uses:

Where low-output volumes are required.

Where high-quality printing is required for single pages.

Advantages:

High-quality output

Cheaper than laser printers.

Very lightweight

Don't produce ozone and volatile organic compounds.

Disadvantages:

Slow output if many copies are needed.

Can't do large print jobs.

Printing can smudge if user isn't careful.

Can be expensive if used a lot.

7. Dot matrix printers:

Uses:

Used in environments where noise isn't a major issue.

Carbon copies or multi-part outputs can be produced.

Widely used in till receipts.

Advantages:

Can be used in varying environments unlike laser/inkjet printers.

Carbon copies or multi-part outputs can be produced.

Very cheap to run and maintain.

Good for continuous printing.

Disadvantages:

Very noisy

Initial cost is more than an inkjet printer.

Very slow, poor-quality printing.

8. (Graph) Plotters:

Uses:

Producing architectural drawings

Producing engineering drawings

Drawing animation characters.

Advantages:

Very high-quality output.

can produce large, monochrome and color drawings very accurately.

Can print on a variety on materials.

Disadvantages:

Very slow printing.

Expensive equipment to purchase initially.

Have a very large physical footprint compared to a printer.

9. 3D printers:

Uses:

Custom-made prosthetic limbs.

In aerospace, if parts of the aircraft are made using 3d printers they can be very lightweight.

Making spare parts for items that aren't now manufactured, e.g., parts of a vintage car.

Advantages:

Manufacturing objects has become much easier.

Even though the initial cost is high, it is still cheaper than the more conventional way.

Parts for machinery that aren't available can be made.

Disadvantages:

Potential to make counterfeit items.

Could lead to manufacture of dangerous items by almost anyone.

Job loss potential.

10. Speaker:

Uses:

Used in all phones and most computers.

Helps visually impaired people.

Plays downloaded sound files.

Advantages:

Amplified sounds can be much louder than the original sound.

Amplified sounds can be enough to be heard by a huge crowd.

Very simple technology.

They are especially useful for blind people, for instance, reading e-books.

Disadvantages:

Speaker output can disturb irrelevant people in the same area, e.g., an office.
Sound quality is high only expensive speakers.

They take up a lot of desk space.

11. Actuators:

Uses:

Used to turn on motors, buzzers, and switches.

Allow a computer to control physical devices,

Advantages:

Allow remote operation of many devices.

Relatively inexpensive devices.

Disadvantages:

They are an additional device in the system that could go wrong.

As analogue devices, signals need to be converted using a DAC.

Storage Devices and Media

Backing-Up Data

Backing up refers to copying files or data into a different medium in case of damage or loss of

original copy.

Why do we back up data?

To safeguard against loss of data.

To safeguard against damages caused by hackers.

In case files need to be sent elsewhere, to protect the original format of files.

Magnetic Backing Storage Media

Holds data magnetically.

The surface area of the media is magnetised so that it can hold bits of data.

The device that reads media can also read the bits held on the surface area

Magnetic tape drives

Uses:

used in applications where batch processing is used.

used as a backup media where vast amounts of data need to be stored.

used in long-term archiving of data, they have huge data storage capacities and are known to be

very stable.

Advantages:

They are generally less expensive than hard disk drives.

It is a very robust technology.

They have a huge data storage capacity.

The data transfer rate is fast.

Disadvantages:

Prolonged data access times (uses serial access).

When updating, another tape is needed to store the final updated version.

They are affected by magnetic fields, a strong field can corrupt data stored on the tape.

Fixed Hard Disks/Drives

Uses:

To store the OS, systems software and working data/files.

Storing applications files.

Used in real-time systems and in online systems.

Used in file servers for computer networks.

Advantages:

They have a very fast data transfer rate and fast access times to data.

They have a very large memory capacity.

Disadvantages:

It can be fairly easily damaged.

They have many moving parts which affect overall reliability.

Their read/write operation can be quite noisy when compared to solid-state drives.

Portable Hard Disk Drives

Uses:
Can be used as a backup system to prevent data loss.

It can be used to transfer data/files/software between computers.

Advantages:

Data access time and data transfer rate are very fast.

It has a very large memory capacity.

It can be used as a method of transferring information between computers.

Disadvantages:

They can be easily damaged if user accidentally drops it or doesn't correctly shut down the drive

after use.

The data transfer rate is not as fast as for fixed hard disk drives.

Optical Media and Optical Storage Devices

Holds data by burning 'dots' onto the surface with a high-powered laser.

The data that reads the media can read the data by shining a lower-powered laser over the dots.

CD-R/DVD-R ~ Write Once Only

Uses:

Home recordings of music and (CD-R) and films (DVD-R).

Used to store data to be kept for later use to be transferred to another computer.

Advantages:

Cheaper medium than RW disks.

Once burned (and finalised), they behave like a ROM.

Disadvantages:

It can only be recorded once; if an error occurs, then the disk has to be thrown away.

Not all CD/DVD players can read CD-R/DVD-R.

CD-RW/DVD-RW ~ Read and Write

Uses:

Used to record television programs which can be recorded over, time and time again.

Used in CCTV systems.

It can be used as a backup device for files and data.

Advantages:

It can be written over many times.

You can use different file formats each time it is used.

It is not as wasteful as the R format because the files/data can be added later.

Disadvantages:

It can be relatively expensive media.

Possible to accidentally overwrite data.

CD-ROM/DVD-ROM ~ Read Only

Uses:

These are read-only memory (ROM), which means they can't be written over and can only be read.

Permanent storage method.

CD-ROM is used to store music files and to store software, computer games and reference

software.

DVD-ROM has much larger storage and is used to store films.

Used in applications where there is a real need to prevent deletion or overwriting of important data.

Advantages:

They are less expensive than hard disk drive systems.

They are very portable as they are small and light.

Data stored on them is read-only, so it cannot be accidentally overwritten.

Disadvantages:

Hold far less data than hard disk drives or memory sticks.

Very slow data transfer rate and data access times, as compared to hard disk drives.

You cannot add your files to the disks because they are both read-only.

Blu-Ray Discs

The main differences between DVD and Blu-ray are:

Blu-ray uses a blue laser rather than a red laser. (The wavelength of blue light is 405nm, much
smaller than the 650nm red laser) This makes pits and lands much smaller, so they store five times

more data than DVDs.

Blu-ray disks automatically come with a secure encryption system, which helps to prevent piracy

and copyright infringement.

The data transfer rate for a DVD is 10 Mbps, and for a Blu-ray disc, it is 36 Mbps.

Uses:

Home video consoles.

Storing and playing back movies.

Computers can use this technology for data storage or backing hard drives.

Camcorders can use this media to store movies.

Advantages:

Very large storage capacity.

Very fast data transfer rate.

The data access speed is also greater than with other optical media.

Blu-ray discs automatically come with a secure encryption system.

Disadvantages:

Relatively expensive discs.

Encryption problems when used to store videos.

The introduction of HD (high definition) DVD players has reduced the advantages of using Blu-ray

technology.

Solid State Backing Storage

Holds data on devices that don't have any moving parts.

Solid-state drives (SSD)

Uses:

Storage device to store files, applications, OSs, and so on.

Advantages:

They are more reliable as they have no moving parts.

They are considerably lighter and suitable for laptops.

They do not have to 'get up to speed' before they work correctly.

They have lower power consumption.

They run much cooler than HDDs.

Because they have no moving parts, they are very thin.

SSD data access time is only 0.1 milliseconds compared to 10 milliseconds for HDD.

Data transfer speed for SSDs is also much faster than for HDDs.

Disadvantages:

SSD endurance - SSDs are conservatively rated at only 20GB write operations per day over three

years.

More expensive than magnetic hard disks.

Smaller storage capacity than magnetic hard disks.

Pen drives (Memory sticks)

Uses:

Transporting files between computers or using them as a backing store.

Used as a security device to prevent software piracy (known as a dongle).

Advantages:

Very compact and portable media.

Very robust.

Does not need additional software to work on most computers.

They are not affected by magnetic fields.

Disadvantages:

Cannot protect the data/files by making it 'read-only'.

Easy to lose (due to the small physical size).

The user needs to be very careful when removing a memory stick from a computer - incorrect

removal will corrupt the data on the memory stick and make it useless.

Flash Memory cards

Different types of memory cards:

» SD cards (secure digital card)

» XD cards (extreme digital card)

» CFast card (compact, fast card).

Uses:

Storing photos on digital cameras.

Used as mobile phone memory cards.

Used in MP3 players to store music files.

Used as a backing store in hand-held computer devices.

Advantages:

Very compact.

Because they have no moving parts, they are very durable.

They can hold large amounts of data.

Compact cameras and smartphones can read and write memory cards, allowing users to transport

extensive collections of photographs, songs, etc.

Disadvantages:

Expensive per gigabyte of memory when compared to HDDs.

Have a lower storage capacity than hard disks.

Have a finite life regarding the number of times they can be read from or written to.

Memory cards, specifically the micro SD card, are the smallest sized devices available, making them

more likely to be lost, stolen or damaged. The storage should be sized cause the amount of storage

does not prevent the drive from being stolen

Users must often purchase a card reader or USB converter to view the data.