Types of Hardware and Function
Types of Hardware and Function
The physical parts that make up a computer are called hardware. A computer enables hardware
components to work together to store, retrieve and process data. The computer uses software
(programs or sets of instructions) to carry out the storage, retrieval and processing of data.
In this image you can see the hardware components of a typical personal computer:
1. Monitor
2. Motherboard
3.CPU (Microprocessor)
4. Main memory (RAM)
5. Expansion cards
6. Power supply unit
7. compact disk drive (CDD)
8. Hard disk drive (HDD)
9. Keyboard
10. Mouse
System Software
System software is a collection of one or more programs used to control and coordinate the
hardware and other application software. Generally the system software may perform the
following functions:
Communicates with hardware devices. Controls and monitors the proper use of various
hardware resources like CPU, memory, peripheral devices like monitor, printer etc.
Supports the execution and development of other application software.
Few examples of system software are:
Operating system
Programming language translators
Communication software
Compiler and Interpreters
Command line shell
Application Software
Application software is a collection of one or more programs used to solve a specific task.
Anti-virus
Registry cleaners
Disk defragmenters
Data backup utility
Disk cleaners