Computer S~stem Overview

chapter
1
In This Chapter
1.1 Introduction
1.2 Computer Components and Basic Computer Organization
1.3 Mobile System Organization
1.4 Types of Software

Introduction
t,°mputers are the machines that have revolutionised the world around us. The way we used to
ve around 25-30 years ago is very different from how we live today. A modem age student
fannot even imagine life, without email, Internet, print outs, playing music on computers or
martphones, photos just a click away in the form of smartphones and so on. In short, in every
aspect of life around us, we see computers play a role directly or indirectly.
Computers deliver so mu91, diligently and efficiently, all thanks to the wonderful combination
of their hardware and software.
¢) Hardware. The physical electronic components of a computer are called hardware, e.g.,
keyboard, CPU, monitor, printer etc.
¢) Software. These are the recorded instructions and programs that govern the working of a
computer. Recall that a program is a set of instructions to carry out a specific task or achieve a
special work goal.
In this chapter, we shall discuss computer's functioning in broad sense by discussing computer
system organization and how various types of software aid in computer's overall performan~e.
!/
1.2 Computer Components and Etasic Computer Organization
A computer system comprises of five basi~ omponents (see Fig. 1.1) :
(i) Input Unit. It is responsible for taking input for the computer. The input devices
attached to the computer system make the input unit.
' , (ii) Output Unit. It is responsible for taking input for the computer. The output devices
attached to the computer system make the output unit.
1
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI

th e data and
(ii,) Central Processing Unit (CPU). It is responsible for processing
instructions. It comprises of two parts : h .h
· 'ble for carrying out t e ant metic
(a) Aritlimctic and Logic Unit (ALW. It 1s responsi . . d . . s (greater th
instructions (add, subtract, multiply, divide) and making logic ecision an,
less than, equal to): •
(b) Control Unit. It is responsible for secondary Storage
controlling and supervising the
processing. • T

Central Processing Unit

(iv) Primary Memory. It is the internal vol atile
memory where data and instructions are
stored during processing.
[ Control Unit
I
(v) Secondary Storage Unit. It refers • ,,.., Output

to the external storage devices

which provide permanent
Input
Device
I
Arithmetic/Logic Unit
I
rt Device

memory to the computer system.

f +
The components of a computer system I PrfmetYMemoly
I-
make the physical structure of a
computer whereas the logical structure Figure 1.1 Components of a computer system.
of a computer system is defined as
Computer Organisation.

l .2 . l Computer Organisation
Computer organization refers to the logical structure of a computer describing how its
components are connected to one another ; how they affect one another's functioning, and
contribute to overall performance of the computer.
Computers, as you must be knowing, follow the 'IPO' principle i.e., Output
(a certain input is processed to generate specific output). So, the computer organization is
also like this - there are component(s) dedicated to obtain input in different forms,
component(s) dedicated to perform processing part and component(s) to produce output
in different forms.
Thus basic computer organization is as shown in Fig. 1.2. To see the interconnections and basic
j working of computer (Computer O.rganization), scan this QR Code with SIPO app.
cpu
r::::=:::------;::===::-i
rrN'-o~T!""!E~-
• -
J
To see
Computer Organization
In action
r;:;--;;iALU
L=.J
I I Registers
A computer runs on

IControl I. Memory
electricity power.

Scan
QR Code BUS

Input Output Storage

unit unit unit

Figure 1.2 Basic computer organization.

 Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW 3

Let us talk about these functional components of a computer, one by one.

1.2.2 Input Unit

The input unit is formed by the input devices attached to the
computer. Examples of input devices and media are : keyboard, An Input unit takes the Input and
mouse, magnetic ink character reader (MICR), optical mark converts It Into binary form so
reader (OMR), optical character reader (OCR), joystick etc. The that It can be understood by the
input unit is responsible for taking input and converting it into computer.
computer understandable form (the binary code).
All the i11p11ts consisted of data (on which the action was to be performed) as well as the instruction
(the action to be taken).
The input unit is comprised of different input devices that take the input in different forms
and pass them in digital form to CPU for processing. Some common input devices are :
(1) Keyboard. Keyboard is a typewriter like device which is used to type in the letters, digits
and commands. For visually challenged people, Braille keyboards are also available these
days.
(i1) Mouse. Mouse is pointing device with either a roller on its base or some laser
mechanism. Mouse controls movement of pointer (also called mouse pointer) on screen.
(ii,) Microphone (Mic). We can send sound input to computer through a special input
device called microphone or mic in short. A mic converts the sound received into
computer's format, which is called digitized sound or digital audio.
A mic can work if your computer has a special hardware known as sound card.

l .2 .3 O utput Unit
The output unit is formed by the output devices attached to the
computer. The output coming from the CPU is in the form of Output Unit converts the
electronic binary signals which needs conversion in some form ou,tput in binary form to
, human readable form.
which can be easily understood by human beings i.e., ·characters,
graphical or audio visual form. This function of conversion is
performed by output units. Some popular output devices are :
(1) Monitors. Monitor (or "screen") is the most common form of output from a computer.
It displays information in a similar way to that shown on a television screen. Th~
picture on a monitor is made up of thousands of tiny coloured dots called pixels.
For visually challenged people, Braille monitors are also available these days.
(ii) Printers. Printers are the devices that deliver information by means of printed
characters on paper. Printers come in variety of forms, e.g., inkjet, laserjet, dotrnatrix
printers etc. Unlike old style printers, which printed on a paper, these days 3D printers
are also available which can print/create 3D models.
(iii) Speakers. Spea}cers receive the sound in form of electric current from the sound card
and then convlrt it to sound format audible to user.

1.2.4 The CPU (Central Processing Unit)

The CPU or the Central Processing Unit is the main control centre and processing unit. It is
also called brain of the computer as it guides, directs, controls and governs the performance of
a computer. The CPU has some sub-components that help in carrying out the processing of a task.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XJ

•t (CU} (iii) Registers

IU
These are : (i) Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) (i1) Contro ru

(i) Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) -

The ALU performs all the four arithmetic(+,-,•,/) and some logical (<,>,t:::fr, <=,>=,!=)
numbers are sen om memory
dd d these
operations. When two numbers are required to be a. e t ,b ck in the memory. In the same way,
to ALU where addition takes place an d the resul t JS pu a
other arithmetic operations are performed (through ALU only).
sent
For logical operations also, the numbers to be compared are ALU perforDis arithmetic
from memory to ALU where the comparison takes place and the (+, - , •./) and logic
result is returned to the memory. The result of a logical operation operations.
is either TRUE or FALSE. These operations provide the capability •~ - J ·- '
of decision-making to the computer.

(ii) Control Unit (CU)

The CU controls and guides the interpretation, flow and manipulation of all data and
information. The CU sends control signals until the required operations are done properly by
ALU and memory. Another important function of CU is the program execution i.e., carrying
out all the instructions stored in the program. The CU gets program instructions from memory
and executes them one after the other. After getting the instructions from memory in CU, the
instruction is decoded and interpreted i.e., which operation is to be performed. Then the asked
operation is carried out. After the work of this instruction is completed, control unit sends
signal to memory to send the next instruction in sequence to CU. CU acts as a supervisor by
The control unit even controls the flow of data from input controlling and guiding
devices to memory and from memory to output devices. the operation taking place.

(iii) Registers
Registers or processor registers are small
units of data holding places. The CPU Modem days' smart machines (e.g., washing machines.
uses registers to temporarily hold some microwave oven etc.) also come with embedded CPUs. In
important processing-information during fact, these embedded CPUs are more than the CPU as these
the time the processing is taking place. also contain little ROM, RAM and other required circuitry
containing some embedded instructions. These embedded
CPU may store some part data or some
CPUs with accompanying memory and embedded
memory address or some instruction in its
instructions are called mlcrocontrollers.
processor registers.

1.2.5 The Memory [Main Memory/Primary Memory]

TheIdmain
d · memory is· the internal workspace of the computer where d a ta and mstructions
· • are
e
h , unng processing. Each memory location has a unique memory address Wh th k ·
ed ·t I · • en e tas IS
penormed, 1 c ears its memory and memory space is then a vai·1able for the next task to be
_L

penorm .
... •··················-········Fr.r=--Bit
Cello
When the power is switched off,
0 1 0 0 0 1 1 0 Celll everything stored in the memory gets
erased and cannot be recalled. The
memory of computer is often called
main memory or primary memory.

Figure 1.3 Memory cells.

Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW 5

A bit is an elementary unit of tlie memory. Eight bits together form a byte.
One byte is the smallest unit which can represent a data item or
a character. Other units of memory are KB, MB, GB, TB etc. I BYTE OR N IBBLE
A group or 8 bits Is called a byte
Every higher memory unit is equal to 2 JO of its lower unit.
and a group of 4 bits Is called a
Following Table 1.1 lists various memory units used. nibble.

T able 1.1 Units of Computer Memory Measurements

Unit Short Name ~ Full Name ,..__ Full Name
1 Bit Bit
-
Binary Digit 2 10
Unit
-
i.e., 1024 GB
Short Name
-- - --
l TB Terra Byte
-
8 Bits 1 Byte Byte 2 10
i.e., 1024 TB l PB Peta Byte
2 i.e., 1024 Bytes
10
1 KB Kilo Byte 2 i.e., 1024 PB
10
l EB Exa Byte
10
2 i.e., 1024 KB 1 Ml3 Mega Byte 2 10 i.e., 1024 EB l ZB Zetta Byte
2 10 i.e., 1024 Ml3 1 GB Giga Bvte 2 10 i.e., 1024 ZB l YB Yotta Bvte
--
Since computer's main memory (primary memory) is temporary, secondary memory space is
needed to store data and information permanently for later use. Some most common secondary
storage media are the hard disk, pen drive etc. The secondary memory devices are also known
as storage devices.

l .2.SA Parts of Main Memory/Primary Memory

In the random-access memory (RAM), the memory cells can be accessed for information
transfer from any desired random location. That is, the process of locating a word in memory is
the same and requires an equal amount of memory, thus the name "random access".
The main drawback of RAM memory is that it is a volatile memory. That is, when the power
goes off, the contents of RAM get erased. The RAM chips in a computer can be of two basic types:
(i) Dynamic RAM (DRAM) . These are made up of transistors and capacitors. Today's
DRAM chips have memory access times (time taken to produce data from memory)
ranging from below 20 to 70 nanoseconds.
(ii) Static RAM. These are made up of flip-flops 1 and offer I
MEM ORY ACC ESS TIME
faster access times (about 10 nanoseconds) than DRAMs. The amount of time taken to
Static RAMs are thus used in specialized applications produce data required from
while dynamic RAMs are used in the primary storage memor,,, from the start of access
until the availability of data, is
sections of most computers.
called Memory Access Time .
Read Only Memory (ROM)
A read-only memory (ROM) is a memory unit that performs the read operation only; it does not
have a write capability. This implies that the binary information stored in a ROM is made
permanent during the hardware production of the unit and cannot be altered by writing
different words into it (hence non-volatile). ROM, however, is slower than RAM.
There are various types of ROM which are given below :
(i) PROM (programmable ROM). Also called OTP (One Time Programmable). PROM is a
user-programmable memory in which information is burnt using special equipment
called a ROM burner.
1. A flip-flop is a binary cell capable of storing one bit of information.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI
6
OM 0 ne can program the memory
(ii) EPROM (erasable programmable ROM). In EP~ . ' d erase it many times as
chip (through various mechanisms e.g., UV _radiation) ~sing EPROM contents.
needed. The UV-EPROM can take up to 20 minutes for er M ti EPROM .
bl ROM) In EEPRO , 1e is
(iir) EEPROM (electrically erasable program~a e · fve
1 bytes can be erased
erased electrically which is faster. Also, with EEPROM, se1ec
unlike UV-EPROM which erases fully. f
f st aratively (the erasure o the
(iv) Flash EEPROM. It is like EEPROM but is very_ a compll and not selectively.
entire contents takes less than a second). Also, 1t erases fu Y
(v) Mask ROM. Mask ROM refers to a kind of ROM in which the contents are programmed
by the IC manufacturer. It is not a user-programmable ROM.

i .2.6 Cache Memory

Pronounced as cash, the cacfie memory is a special high-speed ICACHE M EMO RY
storage mechanism. It can be either a reserved section of main The Cache Memory is a high
memory or an independent high-speed storage device or even speed memory available inside
. on CPU chip. Whenever some data is required, the CPU first CPU in order to speed up access
looks in the cache, if it is there or not. If the data is found in , to data and instructions stored in
cache, CPU does not access memory and hence the process RAM memory.

becomes very fast.

When data is found in the cache, it is called a cache hit, and the effectiveness of a cache is judged
by its hit rate. 95% of the time the processor is working, it is accessing information from cache .

...: ,., --~,,c.~ .\{',\ . ,. 1.2.7 The Storage Unit

~ - 1.. 1 Computers need to store and
1. (i) Storage of 1 KB · means the ; Some most common
retrieve data for processing. storage ·devices
following number of bytes : Since primary memory has a
(a) 1000 (b) 964,.(c) 1024 (d) 1064 . Hard disks] Magnetic

J
limited storage capacity and is Media
(it) One Megabyte is equivalent to : not permanent, secondary
(a) 210 bytes (b) 220 bytes CD ROMs Optical
storage devices are used to
(c) 230 bytes (d) none of the above 1 DVDs Media
store large amount of data
2. What are the functional components of 1
a digital computer ?
permanently. There are various
types of secondary devices
Pen drive
J memory~~·"'_
Flash

3. What are the components of CPU ? available these days. ··-

What is its role ? What is the function
of control unit of CPU ? We can represent the storage capacity of storage devices in
4. What role does the input unit play in a
terms of kilo bytes (KBs), mega bytes (MBs), giga bytes (GBs)
computer? and tera bytes (TBs) as we do for main memory.
s. What is the function of ALU ? Let us now talk about some most common storage devices.
6. What role does the output unit play in · 1. Hard Disks. The hard disk memories store
a computer? information on one or more circular platters (or disks)
7. What is the function of main memory ? which are continually spinning. These rotating disks are
What are the measuring units of memory ? coated with a magnetic material and stacked with space
8. What are different types of ROM ? between them. Information is recorded on the surface of
9. What is the role of cache memory ? rotating disks by magnetic heads as tiny magnetic spots.
10. Which storage device is considered a The hard disks of today have storage capacity measured in
portable device ? giga bytes upto tera bytes.
 / ,;,1
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTE_M OVERVIEW
7
2. Compact Disks (CDs). The compact disks or CD~ are optical media. The CDs are
relatively cheap and have a storage capacity of upto 700 Mb.
3. DVDs. DVD is an optical storage device that looks the same as a compact disc but is able
to hold about 15 times as much information and transfer it to the computer about 20 times as
fast as a CD-ROM. A DVD, also called a Super Density disk (SD), can hold upto 17 gigabytes
of data or four hours of movies on a side.
4. Flash Memory. A flash drive is a small, ultra-portable storage device with a 'solid state'
memory i.e., it has no moving parts unlike magnetic storage devices, nor does it make use of
lasers - unlike optical drives. Instead, it works in a similar way to RAM. The key difference is
that data is retained in Flash memory even when the power is switched off. They are now fairly
inexpensive. Typical sizes range from 256 Mbytes up to 128 GB and beyond.
5. Blu Ray Disk. Blu-ray Disc (also known as Blu-ray or BO) is an optical disc storage media
format. Its main uses are high-definition video and data storage. The disc has the same
dimensions as a standard DVD or CD. While current optical disc technologies such as DVD,
DVD± R, DVD± RW, and DVD-RAM rely on a red laser to read and write data, the new format
uses a blue-violet laser instead, hence the name Bfo-ray. The benefit of using a blue-violet laser
(405 n_m) is that it has a shorter wavelength than a red laser (650 nm), which makes it possible to
focus the laser spot with even greater precision. This allows data to be packed more tightly and
stored in less space, so it's possible to fit more data on the disc even though it's the same size as a
CD/DVD. Blu Ray disks of today are capable of storing upto 128 GB of data.

1.2.8 The System . Bus

The system bus (or the bus) is an electronic pathway composed of connecting cables and that
· connects the major components of a computer system. Through system bus, data and instructions
are passed among the computer system components.
_¢) The·data carrying part of system bus is called data bus.
¢) The control instruction carTYing part of system bus is called control bus.
¢) The memory a~dress ca!rying part of system bus is called Address bus.
¢) A sepa:i;ate type of bus called 1/0 Bus connects the Input, Output and other external
devices to the system.

·1.3 Mobile System Organization

Modem mobile system are tiny computers in your hand. Although they have less computing
power compared to their bigger versions, they handle diverse type of applications such as
making calls through radio signals, offering camera utilities, handling touch sensitive screen,
display audio/video/graphical content but having little battery based power etc.
Thus, the system organization of a mobile system has
components to handle all these. The block diagram of a
. . . .!N
r,.__-~ - --·--.
0 T E -· --------------l

mobile system is as shown in Fig. 1.4 on next page. These days major components' of a
Let us talk about these functional components of a mobile mobile system are integrated on a
single chip called System on a Chip
system one by one. (SoC). The Soc chips consume less
A mobile system's CPU handles diverse types of applications power compared to other
but has a little power compared to computers as mobile alternatives.

systems run on battery power.

<Etus;a, •. :Y
8 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON _ XI

Dlaplay Subayatam
Camera Unit
Touch sensitive Interface , (Image Signal
Processor)

Keyboard j

~-----------~-----~---7 CPU

I1ran:!1ver 1--E)l COMMUNICATIONS

PROCESSOR
APU (Appllcallon
Processing Unit)
Storage

External
Radio Signal Management (Digital Signal GPU (Graphic
Storage
Processor) Processing Unit)

Power Management
----------........--,
,---
Battery
pack
Battery ,
management 1 I I
CODEC
I

Charger
I AOC 11 I 0AC Ii Memory
Audio Subsystem

Mic Speaker

Figure 1.4 Mobile system organization.

1 . Mobile Processor (Mobile CPU)
This is the brain of a smartphone. The CPU receives commands, makes instant calculations,
plays audio/video, stores information and sends signals throughout the device.
The CPU of a mobile system has majorly two sub-processor2 types : (I) Communications
Processing Unit (ii) Applications Processing Unit (APU)
(i) Communications Processing Unit. [Mobile System 1/0 Unit] This subsystem is responsible for
making and receiving phone calls on a mobile handset. It has a digital signal processor that helps it
work with RF Transceiver and the Audio subsystem.
¢) Radio Signal Management Unit is responsible for connecting SIM (which provides a type of
modem) to the base stations through radio signals. (3GILTE/4G based cellular networks).
(i1) Applications Processing Unit (APU). This subsystem is responsible for governing, controlling
all types of operations taking place on a mobile system by
~ 2 •••• · s-\.
S ,"'" <•
W running various types of mobile applications (apps).
• -''·"

·
1. What· are major functional components
1
2. Display Subsystem
of a mobile system ? This subsystem is responsible for providing display facilities,
2. What is the rote of communication : touch sensitive interface and touch sensitive keyboards.
processor of a mobile system ?
3. How does a mobile system manage and · 3 . Camera Subsystem
draw power ? · This subunit is designed to deliver a tightly bound image
4. What is the rote of display management processing package and enable an improved overall picture
unit of a mobile system ? . . . .
s How does memory of mob1 e·t functio n• ·
1 and video expenence.
. It
. has
. an mtegrated Image Signal Pro-
6.• How does th e CPU of amobitesystem • cessor ensures
. .. .like instant imaoe
things o ctmture
··r , high- resolution
work ? · support, image stab,l,zat,on, and other image enhancements.

2. In fact, major subsystems are lilce processors in themselves e.g., Radio Signal Management system can be termed as Radio
signal processor.
Chapter I : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

4 . Mobile System Memory

Like its other counterparts, a mobile system also needs memory to work. A mobile system's
9"'
memory is comprised of following two types of memories : .
~,) RAM (Random Access Memory). It is the work memory of your mobile system. The
installed mobile apps, when run, are first loaded in the RAM and then executed. The more
RAM you have on a smartphone, the better the performance and faster the phone will generally
be. RAM does not store information once the device is turned off.
(ir) ROM (Read Only memory). The ROM or Read Only
Memory is a part of mobile system's internal storage and it is
not accessible for users to write on and is thus referred to as RAM memory is volatile, it loses its
Read Only Memory. The ROM is basically Flash memory or contents when you switch off the
technically EEPROM (electrically erasable and programmable device.
read only memory).
5 . Stora ge
The external storage of a mobile system is also called expandable storage. It comes in the form
of SD cards, or micro SD cards etc. It is the storage which can be removed easily by you and can
be used for storing pictures, music, videos and the likes. To an extent, even the cloud storage
can also be categorized as external storag~. ,, .
6 . Powe r Ma nagement Su bsystem (Battery)
This subsystem is responsible for provid" g power to a mobile system. The mobile systems
work on limited power provided through an attached battery unit. This subsystem has a battery
management system that works with a battery charger and a battery unit, and provides power
to the mobile system in required form.

1. 4 Types of Software
A computer system consists of hardware and software for its proper functioning.
Hardware represents the physical and tangible components of the computer i.e., the components
, that can be seen and touched. Input devices, output devices, CPU, hard disk, printer etc. are
__ examples of computer hardware. ,. ..
Application Software
Software represents the set of programs that won1 proalS1QB
g overn the operation of a computer system s i - - -1s System Software
and make the hardware run. Software can be
classified broadly into two categories.
=
I
Hardware
Graphic Operating

-
1. System Software System . CPU. dllb,rnouse.
' prinlar, ....
2. Application Software
Language Devia,
Following sections discuss system software prncesson

and application software in details.

Figure 1.5 Working hierarchy in a computer.
1.4 . l System Software
The software that controls internal computer operations (viz. reading data from input devices,
transmitting processed information to the output devices, checking system components, converting
data/instructions to computer understandable form etc.) is known as system software.
 10 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI

The system software can further be classified into two categories : I SYSTEM SOFTWARE
1. Operating System 2. Language Processor. The software that controls
Internal computer operations Is
Let us discuss each one of these individually. calle~ System Soft_ware.

1.4. lA Operating System

The primary goal of an operating system is to make the computer system convenient to use and
secondary goal is to use computer hardware in an efficient manner. An operating system is an
important component of a computer system which controls all
other components of the computer system. Major components of
a computer system are : An Operating System Is a program
which acts as an Interface
1. The Hardware 2. The Operating System (OS) between a user and the hardware
3. The Application program routines (compiler, linkers, . (I.e., all co~pute~ resources).
database management systems, utility programs)
4. The Humanware (users)
where hardware provides the basic computing resources, the application program routines define the
ways in which these resources are used to solve the computing problems of th~rs and the
Operating System controls and coordinates the use of the hardware among the various
application programs for the various users. ·
An operating system's major role is to execute a program and manage the resources of
computers.
There are different types of operating systems available today to
cater to varied type of requirements. These are : Single user OS,
As soon as a computer is booted
Multiuser OS, Time sharing OS, Real time OS, Multiprocessing OS, up, OS is loaded on RAM so that it
Distributed OS etc. can execute programs and
We are not discussing these operating systems types here as it is applications, and manage other
beyond the scope of the syllabus. resources of computer.

l .4. l B Language Processors/Language Translators

- A language processor is a special type of a computer software that can translate the source code
into an object code or machine code. Here you should know the meaning of the terms source code
or object code. ·
~> A source code refers to the program-code written by a programmer in a high level
programming language (HLL) such as in C, Java, C++ etc.
¢) An object code refers to a code usually in machine language or binary code, a language
that computer can understand easily and run on hardware. .•
So, you can safely say that language processors are software that convert source codes into object
codes.
There are three types of language processors: assembler, compiler and interpreter.
(1) Assembler. This language processor converts the program written in assembly language
into·machine language.
(i1) Interpreter. An interpreter is a type of system software that translates and executes
instructions written in a computer program line-by-line, unit by unit etc.
(ii,) Compiler. A Compiler is another type of system software that translates and executes
instructions written in a computer program in one go.
 11
Chapter I : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW

The translated machine code runs fast (faster execution time) as now computer does not require
any type of conversion . to run it ; unlike source code which requires conversion into
object/machine code before it can be executed.

1.4.2 Ap r lirn tio n Snftware

This ~e of software pertains to one specific application. For instance, a software that can
perform railway reservation functions cannot prepare result for a school.
These are the programs written by programmers to enable I
A PPLICATION SOFTWARE
computer to perform a specific task such as processing An Application Software Is the set of
words, inventory control, handling calculations and programs necessary to carry out
figures, medical accounting, financial accounting, result operations for a specified application.
preparation, railway reservation, billing etc.
Application software can further be subdivided into four categories :
1. Packages 2. Utilities 3. Customised Software 4. Developer Tools

l .4.2A Packages
As applications may be numerous (from thousands to millions of them), it is not feasible to design
software for each one of them. Rather some general software are designed that may be used by
individual users in the manner it suits their needs and requirements. Such general-application
software are known as packages.
Some major and most common categories of general application software (packages) are :
(r) Word Processing Software (iz) Spreadsheets
(iii) Database Management Systems (iv) Desktop Publishing Software
(v) Graphics, multimedia, and presentation applications.

1.4.28 Utilities
Utilities are those helpful programs that ensure the smooth I UT! LI T I ES
functioning of the computer. Utility programs or simply Utilities are those application
Utilities are meant to assist your computer. programs that assist the computer by
performing housekeeping functions
Utilities bridge the gaps by helping to solve the problems like backing up disk or scanning /
and maximize your computer's potential. Some important ' cleaning viruses or arranging
utilities are being discussed below. information etc.

1. Text Editor. This utility program is used for creating,

editing text files.
2. Backup Utility. This utility program facilitates the backing-up of disk. Back-up means
duplicating the disk information so that in case of any damage or data-loss, this backed
up data may be used.
3. Compression Utility. This utility program facilitates compression of files. Large files can
be compressed so that they take less storage area.
· 4, Disk Defragmentor. A file is fragmented (i.e., stored at different storage locations) when
it becomes too large for your computer to store in a single location on a disk.
Fragmented files slow down a computer.
Disk Defragmentor utility program speeds up disk access by rearranging the files and
free space on your computer, so that files are stored in contiguous units and free space
is consolidated in one contiguous block.
 12 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI

5. Antivirus Software. This utility program ensures virus-free work en~nment. A computer
virus is a malicious computer program that disrupts normal functtomng of a computer.
An antivirus software scans your disk for viruses and removes them, if any ~ s is
found. Moreover, some antivirus software remains present in memory all th e time so
that they can detect the viruses (as soon as they occur) and counterattack them.
l .4.2C Business Software
This type of software is specifically created according to a business requirements. For inS t ance,
a company wants to computerize its' Accounts' department and gets a softw are_ that can serve
its needs. Such a software is business software. There are many readymade business software.
These can cater to a variety of business needs. Examples of these software are Inventory
Management System (for managing inventory details of a company), Payroll system (for handling
payroll of a company's employees), Financial Accounting etc. Although there are standard
business software available in market, yet some companies prefer getting customized
(tailor-made) software as per their specific requirements. However, such softwares cannot be
directly installed at any other user's workplace as the requirements of the second user may
differ from the first and the software may not fit in the requirements of the new user.

1.4 .3 Software Libraries I

SOFTWARE LIBRARIES
When programmers develop software and programs, A software library is a predefined and
they have a prewritten set of code/functions, classes, available to use, suite of data and
scripts etc. available to do a variety of tasks, which programming code in the form of prewritten
code / fun ctions I scripts I classes etc. that
they can use directly in their code. These predefined
can be used in th e development of new
sets of codes are called software libraries. A software sofrware programs and applications.
library is a predefined and available to use, suite of
data and programming code in the form of prewritten code/functions/scripts/classes etc. that
can be used in the development of new software programs and applications.
The software libraries combine codes/ functions / scripts / classes etc. on the basis of their common
domain. In order to use the rewritten functionality, a programmer needs to add that libraries to
its code. For instance, if your software requires some heavy mathematical work then you need
not write the functions/code etc. for complex mathematical functions. Rather what you need to
do is that to include/import an available math based software library in your program. Then
.. ,,.,.,,_cJ-~ you can use all the available functions and features of this
1.3 library in your code without having to rewrite them. You
can use a software library in a variety of projects. For
1. How can computer software be classified ? example, Python comes equipped with many software
2. What are two categories of system libraries. Some of these are :
software ?
1. NumPy (Numerical Python). It provides an abundance
3. What is an operating system ? What is
of useful features and functions for operations on
its role ?
numeric arrays and matrices in Python.
4. What is application software ? What are
the three categories of application 2. SciPy (Scientific Python). SciPy contains modules for
software ? linear algebra, optimization, integration, and statistics.
5. Differentiate between a compiler and
3. Panda Library. Pandas is a Python package designed
interpreter.
t~ do work with "labeled" and "relational" data. It is
6. What is utility software ?
designed for quick and easy data manipulation,
7. What are software libraries? How are
aggregation, and visualization.
they useful to programmers ?
 Chapter I : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW
13

Computt'rs can deliver pt'rformanre because of an efl)cient combination of hardware and software.
While hardware refers to physical electronic components of a computer, software represent the recorded
instructions/software that govern Its operation.
Computer organization refers to logical structure of a computer describing their Interconnections and work
dependency.
The functional components of a computer include : Input unit. CPU, Memory, Storage Unit, Output Unit.
The Input unit is responsible for obtaining Input from user and converting it to digital form.
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) processes the received Input as per a set of Instructions and produces output.
The CPU has these sub-components : ALU, Control Unit and Registers.
The ALU (Arithmetic of Logic Unit) is responsible for carrying out arithmetic operations and logic operations
(e.g., comparing two values).
The Control Unit controls or supervises the processing taking place.
Registers are small data holding areas within CPU that hold data, instructions and memory address during the
processing.
The main memory or memory holds the data and programs for the processing.
Main memory can either be ROM or RAM.
ROM is read only memory that stores some prewrltten Instructions.
RAM is Random access memory that can be read and written and is used for manipulating data during processing.
The primary memory (RAM) is volatile in nature os all contents are erased as soon as power goes off.
The cache memory is a special high speed memory storing the most recently accessed data.
The storage unit stores the contents permanently.
Major storage devices are hard disks, CD, DVD, flash drive and Blue-Ray discs.
A mobile system handles complex types of operations including input, output and processing.
1 Major functional components of a mobile system are Radio Signal Management subsystem, Display subsystem,
power management subsystem, CPU, Memory and storage subsystems.
Software represents the set of programs that govern the operation of a computer system and make the hardware
run.
The software that controls internal computer operations is called system software.
An operating system is a program which acts as an interface between the user and the hardware.
There are different types of OSs available -single program OS, multiprogram OS, time-sharing OS, real-time OS,
multiprocessing OS etc.
A language processor convt'rts a program written in high level language to machine language.
There are three language processors : (i) assembler which converts assembly language code to machine code, (ii) compiler
and (iii) interpreter which convert high level language code to machine code.
Application software is a set of programs necessary to carry out operations (or a specified application.
There are three categories of upplicucicm software : (I) packages (ii) utilities and (iii) customised software.
Utility programs assist the computer in maintaining its perfo:"!nnce. Some of t/1e utilities are: trxt editors, backup
uti/itlc.~, compression utilities, disk defragm Pmors, and ont1vrr11s software.
Customised software Is tailor made softwarr according to user's requlreme11ts.
Software libraries are sets of prewritten codelfunctlons/classes etc. available to programmers for use In the
development of new co_de.
14 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI

MULTIPLE CHOICE QUESTION ~

1. Which of the following components is the main memory of computer 7

(a) CD (b) DVD (c) Internal hard drive (d) RAM
2. Which component of a computer connects the processor to the other hardware 7
(a) System Bus (b) CPU (c) Memory (d) Input Unit
3. Which of the following is referred to the brain of coll:lputer 7
(a) Processor (b) RAM (c) ROM (d) Hard drive
4. What is the name of programs that control the computer system 7
• (a) Hardware (b) Keyboard (c) Software (d) Mouse
5. The physical components of a computer are called
(a) Software (b) Hardware (c) ALU (d) CPU
6. Which of the following is the common measurement of unit of computer memory 7
(a) IQ (b) Byte (c) Terabyte (d) Gigabyte
7. What is the name of the component that used to both read and writes data ?
(a) ROM (b) RAM (c) Hard Drive (d) Cache Memory
8. The CPU is also known as
(a) The Brain (b) The Processor
(c) The Central Processing Unit (d) All of these
9. Which smaller unit of the CPU directs and coordinates all activities within it and determines the
sequence in which instructions are executed, sending instructions sequence to other smaller unit.
(a) CU (b) ALU (c) PROCESSOR (d) All of these
10. Which smaller unit of the CPU performs all ~rithmetic and logic functions in a computer 7
(a) CU (b) ALU (c) PROCESSOR (d) All of these
11 . Component of CPU which is responsible for comparing the contents of two pieces of data is
(a) ALU (b) CU (c) Memory (d) Register
12. In a computer, CU stands for
(a) Control unit (b) Cache unit (c) Calculating unit (d) Communication unit
13. Arithmetic and logic unit alongwith control unit of a computer, combined into a single unit, is
known as
(a) Central processing unit (b) Memory unit (c) 1/0 unit (d) Operating unit
14. Word Processor and Desktop Publishing program are the examples of
(a) Hardware (b) Software (c) CPU (d) None of these
15. Operating System is an example of
(a) Application Software (b) System software
(c) Utility program (d) None of these
16. A disk fragmentor is an example of
(a) Application Software (b) System software
(c) Utility program (d) None of these
17. Flash memory and Blu Ray disk are the examples of
(a) Hardware (b) Software (c) CPU (d) None of these
 Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVJEW
15
18. Flash memory is a type of ___ memory.
(a) primary (b) RAM (c) secondary (d) all of these
19. Which of the following memory types will store the data or information permanently?
(a) RAM (b) Cache (c) Flash Memory (d) Hard disk
20. Which of the following memory types cannot store the data or information permanently ?
(a) RAM (b) Cache (c) Flash Memory (d) Hard disk

FILL IN THE BLANKS

1. - - - refers to the logical structure of a computer describing their interconnections and dependency.
2. RAM and ROM are the types of ___ memory.
3. The ___ is responsible for carrying out arithmetic and logic operations.
4. The ___ of the CPU controls or supervises the processing taking places.
5. The small memory providing units inside the CPU are called the ___ .
6. The ___ memory is a special high speed memory storing the most recently accessed data.
7. The power unit of a mobile system is called ___ .
8. The set of programs necessary to carry out operations/tasks pertaining to a specific application, are
called ______ .
9. Software that controls and manages internal computer operations is called ______ .
10. Utility programs are a type of_·_·_ _,_ _ .
11. Antivirus software is a ·type of ______'_ .
12. Windows OS is a type of ______ .

TRUE/FALSE QUESTIONS

1. A computer system consists of both hardware and software.

2. Hardware is a set of instructions called programs that the computer uses to carry out tasks while
Software are all the parts of the computer you can see and touch, also known as peripherals.
3. The two smaller units of the Processor are CU and ALU.
4. Main Memory holds ·data and instructions being processed by the computer and is directly
accessible by the CPU. ' ·
5. A mobile system also contains a CPU. 6. A ·mobile system works with electricity.
7. A mobile system has its own little power unit 8. A cache memory is a type of RAM.
9. Language processors are a type of application software.
IO. Customised software is a type of system software.

ASSERTIONS AND REASONS

DIRECTIONS
Jn the following questions, a statem,ent of Assertion (A) is followed by a statement of Reason (R).
Mark the co"ect choice as :
(a) Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true but R is false (or partly true).
(d) A is false (or partly t_rue) but R is tf\l~~- (c) Both A and R are false or not fully true.
,•.-16 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI

1. Assertion. A computer can deliver performance only through an efficient combination of hardware
and software.
Reason. While hardware refers to the physical electronics equipment, software are the recorded
programs that govern the hardware to perform tasks in a computer.
2. Assertion. The CPU of a computer uses registers as memory.
Reason. Registers are small data holding areas within CPU that hold data, instructions etc. during
the processing.
3. Assertion. The primary memory is volatile memory as all its contents get erased as soon as the
power goes off.
Reason. The cache memory is also a primary memory.
4. Assertion. A part of main memory is non-volatile too.
Reason. ROM is a read only memory with some pre-written instructions, which are retained even
after power is off.
5. Assertion. Not all types of software are system software.
Reason. Application software are designed to carry out operations for a specific application.
6. Assertion. An operating system is a system software.
Reason. The software that controls internal computer operations, is called system software.
7. Assertion. Customised software is a tailor made software according to user's requirements.
Reason. Software libraries are customised software.
8. Assertion. Utility software programs are application software.
Reason. Application software are the programs necessary to carry out operations for specific
applications.

' NOTE : Answers for OTQs are given at the end of the book.

1. State the basic units of the computer. Name the subunits that make up the CPU, and give the function ofeach
of the units.
Solution. The basic units of a computer are :
1. Input unit 2. Central Processing Unit (CPU) 3. Output Unit 4. Memory.
The CPU has two subunits : the control unit (CU) and the arithmetic logic unit (ALU).
The control unit controls the entire operation being carried out.
The ALU performs the arithmetic and logical operations.
2. What is the function of memory ? What are its measuring units ?
Solution. The memory temporarily holds the_data and information during processing.
The smallest unit of memory is a byte (8 bits). A byte can store one character in binary form. Other
10
measuring units are kilobyte (KB) equal to 1024 (2 ) bytes, Megabyte (MB) equal to 1024 KB,
Gigabyte (GB) equal to 1024 MB and Terabyte (TB) equal to 1024 GB.
3. Give examples for each of system software and application software. Explain the function of each type.
Solution. Examples of system software are :
(1) Operating system (i1) Language Processor (iii) Application Software
Examples of Operation System are : Single user OS, multiuser OS, batch processing OS, multiprocessing
OS etc.
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW 17
. .
As the names suggest, single user OS supports single user whereas multiuser OS can support multiple
users. The batch processing OS processes the batches (groups) of jobs (processes given to it) and
multiprocessing OS is capable of handling multiple CPUs at the same time.
The examples of language processors are : (1) Interpreter (ii) Compiler (iii) Assembler
. An i~terpreter converts and executes an HLL program into object program line by line whereas a
~ompiler converts an HLL program into object program in one go and once the program is error free,
it can be executed later. An assembler converts an assembly language program into object program.
Examples of application software are : (1) Customised Software (ii) General software.
The customised software pertains to the requirements of a specific user for whom the software has
been developed. General software is developed keeping in mind general specifications of a problem.
4. Why is primary memory termed as 'destructive write' memory but 'non-destructive read' memory ?
Solution. When a memory location is read from in the primary memory, the contents of the memory
word remain the same ; they are not altered. Therefore, a primary memory is termed as 'non-
destructive read' memory since the read operation does not destruct the contents of a memory word.
When a write operation takes place, the previous contents of the memory word are overwritten.
Thus, the primary memory is termed as 'destructive write' memory as the write operation destructs
the contents of a memory word.
5. What is the difference between RAM and ROM ?
Solution. RAM refers to random access memory where both read and write operations can take
place. But the RAM is a volatile memory ; its contents are lost when power is turned off.
ROM refers to read only memory where only read operation can take place. The ROM is a
non-volatile memory.
Both RAM and ROM are parts of the primary mem_ory.
6 What is Cache memory? Why is it considered crucial for a microprocessor's performance?
Solution. Cache memory is a special high-speed memory that stores most recently used data in
order to speed up the process of instruction execution. A cache can speed up data retrieval because
recently used data is likely to be used again by the computer.
7. What is the role of CPU of a mobile system ?
Solution. A mobile system has to cater to a variety of operations and applications and its CPU has to
manage all these. Thus the CPU of a mobile system has many sub-processors that help it control and
manage diverse applications. The CPU of a mobile manages all these types of applications and operations :
• Manages communications while connec- • Manages audio through ADC (analog to digital
ting to radio transceivers and SIM. converter) and DAC (digital to analog converter).
• Manages display and touch sensitive • Works in tandem with memory and storage.
sensors and interface.
8. What are various categories of software ?
Solution. There are broadly two categories of software:
1. Syst~m Software. This type of software controls internal computer operations. The system
software can further be classified in two categories :
(I) Operating System. An operating system is a program which acts as an interface between a user
and the hardware.
(ii) IAnguage Processor. This program is responsible for converting an HLL code (High Level
Language code) into machine understandable code.
2. Application Software. An application software is the set of programs necessary to carry out
operations for a specified application.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON - XI

9. Wl,nt is the difference betwce11 a11 interpreter and a compiler ? J'ne

1 by line and
I·nto machine language
Solution. An interpreter converts an HLL program at always be present in the
h d II Also an Interpreter mu.. . . .
simultaneously executes t e conv~r e t ne. , , J'ne
1 the line 1s displayed
memory along with the program for its execution. If an error occurs m a '
and inli•rpr~ter does nol' proceed unless the error is rectified. ors 1' n th
in one go. If there are err e
A compiler converts an HLL program in machine language h s are removed, error-free
pro~ram, it gives the error list along with the line ~u"".bers. Once t :;;~o;n th!'! memory.
objl'ct code is made available and after thls compiler 1s no more ne

10. Wlint is applicnticm software ? W/1y is it required ?

Solutio1,. Application software is a software that pertains to one application.
out the routine jobs
Application software is required because system softw~re cannot carry
performed by the user which application. software can easily do. ,
. . f mes In various categones :
To perform various kinds of activities, the apphcahon so tware co
(i) Packages (ii) Utilities (iii) Business Software (iv) Developer Tools.
·
Five stateme11ts about mterprelcrs · are given
and con1p1lers · beIow. St udY each statement and determine which
11.
of tl,cm 1,o/d true for a compiler or for nn interpreter.
(1) takes one statement at n time nnd executes it.
(ii) gencrntes nn error report at the end of trn11slation of the whole program.
(iii) stops the trnnslation process as soon ns the first error is encountered.
(iv) slows speed of execution of progrnm loops.
(v) trnns/ntcs the entire program in one go.
Solution. Interpreter : (i), (iii), (iv) ; Compiler: (ii), (v)

q , uidelines ' to NCERT Questions [NCERT Chapter 1]

1. Name tile software required to make a computer functional. Write down its two primary services.
Ans. Operating System. Two of its primary services are : managing CPU and managing primary
111e111ory.
2. Hou, does the computer 11ndersta11d a progrom written in /1igh level language ?
Ans. The program written in high level language is first converted/translated into machine language
by a language processor, which is then handed over to a computer. Thus, the computer is able to
understand the programs written in high level language.
3. Wiry is the execution time of the 111ncl1i11e code less than that of source code ?
Ans. The translated machine code runs fast (faster execution time) as now the computer does not
require any type of conversion to run it ; unlike source code which requires conversion into
object/machine code before it can be executed.
4. Wliat is the need of RAM ? How does it differ from ROM ?
Ans. The RAM is needed for the smooth running of a computer's operations as it provides memory
for reading as well writing; its contents can be modified as and when required. ROM, on the other
hand, stores some instructions which are permanent. ROM cannot be written onto. One can only
read instructions from ROM.
Thus RAM along with ROM, is required for the smooth functioning of a computer system.

L
Chapter 1 : COMPUTER SYSTEM OVERVIEW 19
5. Wlzat is the need for secondan; memory ?
Ans. The primary memory holds the data and instructions only during processing and after that, it
gets erased. One cannot store data and instructions permanently on RAM.
To permanently store data and instructions, the secondary memory is required.
6. How do different components of the computer communicate with each other ?
Ans. Different components of a computer communicate through the bus which connects the
functional components of a computer system.
13. Na me the input or output device used to do the following :
(a) To output audio (b) To enter textual data
(c) To make hard copy of a text file (d) To display the data or information
(e) To enter audio-based command (f) To build 3D models
(g) To assist a visually-impaired individual in entering data
Ans. (a) speaker (b) keyboard (c) printer (d) monitor (e) MIC
(j) 3D printer (g) Braille Keyboard
, 14. ldentifiJ the categon; (system, application, programming tool) of the following software
(a) Compiler (b) Assembler (c) Ubuntu (d) Text editor
Ans. (a) system software (b) system software
(c) system software (d) programming tool

GLOSSARY

Bit A binary digit.

Byte A group of eight bits.
' ALU Arithmetic Logic Unit that carries out arithmetic and logical operotions.
1Appl/cation Software pertaining to the operations of o specified application.
r Softwore
; Compiler Program that converts HLL program into machine language In one go and reports all the errors along
with their line numbers.
Operating System Program which acts as on interface between o user and the hardware.
CPU Central Processing Unit that carries out the given process and supervises the entire operotion.
Memory An organized collection of cells used to store data and programs in o computer.
EPROM Erasable programmable read-only memory, o device that is ultraviolet-erasable and electrically
reprogrammable.
PROM Programmable read-only memoiy, Wdh o PROM progronvner, you ain bum in your own programs and dalo.
RAM Random-access memory. It is also called o read-write memory because you con read the contents of
o memory locotion or write new contents into it. '
I

ROM Read-only memory. (ROM Rymes with Mom) This device provides non-volatile storage of programs
and data. You con access any memory location by supplying its address. 1

Software Set of programs that govern the operation of a computer system.

l.onguage PtocasorSoftwore that converts o high level language code into machine understandable form.
Systtm Software Software that controls Internal computer operations.
Utility Softwtn A software that assists the computer by performing housekeeping functions •
.,.
 COMPUTER SCIENCE WITH PYTHON _ XI

i21ii5?%C%i5!ScF:i7Wnr

1. Briefly explain the basic architecture of a computer.

2. What do you understand by input unit ? What Is its significance ? What does computer input consist of?
3. What is the function of CPU in a computer system ? What are its subunits ?
4. What functions are performed by the control unit ? Can we call it the control centre of computer
system ? Why ?
5. What functions are performed by the ALU ? Is it an independent unit ? If not, which unit does ALU
work in coordination with ?
6. Distinguish between CPU and ALU.
7. What is the function of output unit in a computer system ? Give examples of some output devices.
8. What role does memory play in the functioning of computer system ?
9. Define each of the following :
(a) byte (b) kilobyte (c) megabyte (d) gigabyte (e) terabyte.
10. What is the meaning of the term volatile primary memory ? What can be done to overcome the
problems of volatility ?
11. Distinguish between internal and external memory.
12. What is the role of memory in a computer functioning ? What types of memory does the computer work
with?
13. What are RAM and ROM ? How are they alike ? How are they different ? What are EEROM, PROM and
EPROM?
14. What is cache memory ? How is it useful ?
15. What are major functional components of a mobile system ?
16. Draw a block diagram depicting organization of a mobile system.
17. What is the role of power management unit in a mobile system ?
18. What does the communication processor do ?
19. What is the role of application processing unit in a mobile system ?
20. How does display subsystem of a mobile system work ?
21. What are different categories of software ? Give examples.
22. What is system software ? What role does it play in the functioning of the computer ?
23. Discuss the role of utility software in the context of computer performance.
24. What is the importance of an OS ?
25. How are software libraries useful ? Name some software libraries of Python.
26. How is system software different from application software ?
27. What is the utility of these software ?
(i) disk fragmentor (ii) backup software.
28. To run your computer system, what types of software are necessary ? What role does each type play in
computer's functioning ?