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A Programmable Machine

A computer is a programmable machine that responds to specific instructions in a defined manner and can execute pre-recorded lists of instructions or programs. All computers require basic hardware components including memory to store data and programs temporarily, mass storage to permanently retain large amounts of data, input devices like keyboards to enter data and instructions, output devices like displays and printers, and a central processing unit to execute instructions.

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diether_faropaldino
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17 views

A Programmable Machine

A computer is a programmable machine that responds to specific instructions in a defined manner and can execute pre-recorded lists of instructions or programs. All computers require basic hardware components including memory to store data and programs temporarily, mass storage to permanently retain large amounts of data, input devices like keyboards to enter data and instructions, output devices like displays and printers, and a central processing unit to execute instructions.

Uploaded by

diether_faropaldino
Copyright
© Attribution Non-Commercial (BY-NC)
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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A programmable machine. The two principal characteristics of a computer are: It responds to a specific set of instructions in a well-defined manner.

. It can execute a pre-recorded list of instructions (a program). Modern computers are electronic and digital. The actual machinery -- wires, transistors, and circuits -- is called hardware; the instructions and data are called software. All general-purpose computers require the following hardware components: memory : Enables a computer to store, at least temporarily, data and programs. mass storage device : Allows a computer to permanently retain large amounts of data. Common mass storage devices include disk drives and tape drives. input device : Usually a keyboard and mouse, the input device is the conduit through which data and instructions enter a computer. output device : A display screen, printer, or other device that lets you see what the computer has accomplished. central processing unit (CPU): The heart of the computer, this is the component that actually executes instructions. In addition to these components, many others make it possible for the basic components to work together efficiently. For example, every computer requires a bus that transmits data from one part of the computer to another

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