CHAPTER – 5:

COMPUTER HARDWARE

LLB 1, Computer Applications 1

Academic Year, 2024/ 2025, Semester – I

Islamic University In Uganda

 Chapter Learning Outcomes
❑ After studying computer hardware, learners
should be able to;

1. Identify and describe the primary hardware

components of a computer system
2. Gain knowledge of the specific functions and roles of
each hardware component
3. Make informed decisions when selecting computer
hardware components

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 2 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 What is Computer Hardware?
❑ Computer hardware refers to the physical,
tangible components and electronic circuits of a
computer system that work together to;

▪ Input data and instructions, store and process them by

carrying out specified instructions and outputs the
results as information for use

− Computer hardware interacts with software, the intangible

set of instructions that control the hardware’s operations, to
enable a wide range of computing tasks and functions
Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 3 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
 Categories of Computer Hardware
❑ Computing hardware can generally be divided
into five types:

▪ Input,
▪ Processing,
▪ Output,
▪ Storage, and
▪ Communication.

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 4 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Input Hardware
❑ Are peripheral devices that allow users to provide
data, commands, or information to a computer

▪ These devices enable communication between the user

and the computer system

− The above functions are essential for interacting with

software, navigating user interfaces, and performing tasks.

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 5 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Keyboard
▪ Comprises of a set of keys representing alphanumeric
characters, symbols, and functions, used for typing text,
entering commands, and navigating app interfaces
− Used to type legal documents, case notes, emails, and memos

❑ Mouse
▪ A pointing device with buttons and often a scroll wheel,
allowing users to control an on-screen cursor, making
selections, and interacting with graphical interfaces
− Used for navigating legal databases and documents

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 6 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Touchpad
▪ A touchpad is a touch-sensitive surface typically found on
laptops, serving as a substitute for a mouse
− Used on laptops for cursor control and navigating documents
and websites when working remotely

❑ Touchscreen
▪ Displays that respond to touch input directly, allowing
users to interact with on-screen elements
▪ They are often used in tablets and hybrid laptops
− Used for presenting evidence and annotating documents during
client meetings and court proceedings
Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 7 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Stylus
▪ A small metal or plastic basic input device used to
manipulate information on touchscreen devices, graphics
tablets, smart phones, signature capture devices etc.

− Are small and thin, as compared to digital pens since they

contain no internal electronic components

− Allow users to select through menus, write notes, and draw on

their device

− Used digital pens for handwritten notes during client meetings,

and annotating digital documents

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 8 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Digital Pen
▪ It’s a more advanced input device that provides more
functionality than a stylus, featuring pressure sensitivity,
electronic erasers and programmable buttons

− Are designed for precise drawing and artworks, writing, and

note-taking on certain graphics tablets, 2-in-1 laptops

− Used to annotate legal digital documents, sign e-Contracts, take

handwritten notes during client meetings, and create visual
exhibits for courtroom presentations

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 9 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Graphics Tablet
▪ A specialized input device with a drawing surface and a
stylus, designed for digital art and design
− Used to create diagrams, charts, and visual exhibits for
courtroom presentations

❑ Scanner
▪ They input and convert physical documents, images, and
photos into digital format
− Used to digitize legal documents, contracts, case files, and
evidence for efficient storage and sharing

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 10 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Microphone
▪ Captures audio input & converts it into digital audio data
− Used for recording client meetings, interviews, depositions, and
for dictating notes and documents

❑ Webcam
▪ Captures video input, often used for video conferencing
and recording
− Used for virtual client meetings, remote court appearances, and
video documentation of legal proceedings

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 11 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Joystick
▪ It is a manual input device used for controlling the
movement and actions of objects in digital environments,
such as video games and simulations
− It consists of a lever that can be moved in many directions, often
accompanied by buttons for additional functions

❑ Gamepad Console
▪ Input devices designed for gaming on consoles and PCs
− They feature buttons, triggers, and analog sticks for gaming
interactions

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 12 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Barcode Scanner
▪ They read barcodes on products, documents, or labels and
convert them into digital data
− They are used for efficient library management, document
tracking, and cataloging physical files and records

❑ Biometric Input Devices (Fingerprint Scanner)

▪ They authenticate users based on unique biological traits
− They enhance the security of confidential legal documents and
systems, providing restricted access to sensitive information

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 13 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Image Sensor (e.g., Digital Camera)
▪ They capture visual data for photos and videos
− Used for visual evidence, documenting crime scenes, or property
conditions for legal documentation

❑ RFID Reader
▪ Capture data from RFID tags for tracking & access control
− They assist in tracking physical legal files and assets within law
offices or libraries

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 14 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Magnetic Stripe Reader (e.g., Card Reader)
▪ Input data from magnetic stripes on cards, such as credit
cards or ID cards
− They record data from identification cards or access cards during
investigations or authentication processes

❑ Light Pen
▪ A pen-like device with a light-sensitive tip used in older
cathode-ray tube (CRT) monitors for precise selections
− They were used in the early days of computing for design tasks
like drawing, selecting menu options, and interacting with
graphical user interfaces

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 15 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Hardware
❑ Trackball
▪ A pointing input device used to control the movement of
an on-screen cursor on a computer monitor
− It consists of a stationary base with a protruding ball that can be
rotated freely in any direction by the users fingers

− Used as an alternative to a mouse and touchpads in gaming,

architectural plan drawings, etc.

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 16 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Type of Input Devices
The common types of input devices

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 17 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Input Devices
The common types of input devices

Light Pen Card reader

RFID reader

Barcode reader

Biometric scanners
Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 18 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
 Types of Input Devices
The common types of input devices

Game Console

Graphics tablet
Digital pen

Touch pad Stylus

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 19 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
 Processing Hardware
❑ These are physical components of a computer that
work together to process data by carrying out
instructions and performing calculations

▪ Key elements of computer processing hardware include:

− A central processing unit (CPU) containing;

• Control Unit (CU)

• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
• Registers
• Cache Memory
• Clock Generator

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 20 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Processing Hardware
❑ A Central Processing Unit (CPU)
▪ It is the primary and most essential component of a
computer’s hardware

▪ It serves as the “brain” of the computer, that works

together with the main memory, responsible for;

− Interpreting and executing instructions provided by software,

− Performing calculations,
− Carrying out logical tasks, and
− Managing data processing tasks.

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 21 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Processing Hardware
The CPU or micro-processor – illustrated

The CPU

The CPU located on a motherboard

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 22 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 The CPU Components
❑ Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
▪ It performs arithmetic, comparison and logical operations,
such as;
− Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division
− Comparing two numbers and
− Bitwise or logical operations

▪ It executes these operations based on instructions

(software programs) from the control unit

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 23 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 The CPU Components
❑ Control Unit (CU)
▪ It manages the flow of data within the CPU, by
transmitting control signals to the various devices and
units connected to a CPU

▪ Controls the operation of other hardware components

▪ Ensuring that instructions are executed in the correct
sequence

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 24 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 The CPU Components
❑ Registers
▪ Small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU
− They are used for temporary data storage currently being
processed by the CPU

❑ Cache Memory
▪ Small and extremely fast type of memory that is located
between primary memory and the CPU
− It stores frequently accessed data and instructions from RAM
− It helps reduce the time it takes to access data, improving overall
CPU performance

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 25 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 The CPU Components
❑ Illustrating the CPU components responsible for
data processing

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 26 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 The CPU Components
❑ How the CPU works?

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 27 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Storage Hardware
❑ These are physical components used to store and
retrieve digital data on a computer system

▪ These hardware components are essential for preserving

and accessing data, programs, and files

▪ To store data and information, a computer uses two types

of storage components:

− Temporary (primary) storage and

− Permanent (secondary) storage.

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 28 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Storage Hardware
❑ Temporary storage (primary or main memory)
stores data & programs that a computer’s CPU is
actively accessing and using during its operation
▪ Located on the motherboard, this gives a CPU fast access
to the data and instructions that the primary storage holds

▪ There are four types of primary storage:

− Read only memory (ROM)
− Random access memory (RAM)
− Flash memory
− Cache memory

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 29 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Temporary Storage
❑ Random Access Memory (RAM)
▪ It stores data and programs a CPU is currently actively
using or processing
▪ It provides for ultra-fast read and write access to data and
programs randomly from any location in memory
▪ RAM is volatile, i.e. it loses its data when the computer is
powered off or restarted
▪ The amount of RAM in a computer is measured in
gigabytes (GB) to terabytes (TB). More RAM generally
allows for better multitasking and performance for
memory-intensive tasks
Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 30 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
 Types of Temporary Storage
❑ Read-Only Memory (ROM)
▪ It is primarily used to store firmware or permanent
software essential for booting up the computer and
initializing its hardware components
▪ It is read-only, meaning that its contents cannot be easily
modified or updated by the user
▪ It is non-volatile, i.e. it retains its data even when the
computer is powered off.
▪ It contains instructions and data that are not expected to
change over the lifetime of the device

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 31 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Temporary Storage
Types of Temporary (primary) storage devices

RAM chip ROM chip fixed onto the motherboard

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 32 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Permanent Storage Hardware
❑ Permanent (secondary) storage components stores
data, files & instructions (software) already
processed or not currently needed during
processing

▪ The information is organized in such a way to retrieve it in

minimum time whenever required
▪ The stored information remains as long the user wants it
▪ Ii is even retained after the power is turned off

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 33 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Permanent Storage Hardware
❑ Hard Disk Drives (HDDs)
▪ These are mechanical storage devices that use spinning
magnetic platters to store data
− Commonly found in desktop computers and servers, offering
relatively high storage capacities and cost-effectiveness

❑ Solid-State Drives (SSDs)

▪ Use flash memory to store data and have no moving parts
− Are faster, more durable, and consume less power than HDDs
− SSDs are commonly used in laptops, desktops, and modern
storage solutions

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 34 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Permanent Storage Hardware
❑ External Hard Drives
▪ Portable HDDs / SSDs that connect to a computer via USB
− Used for backup, additional storage, and data transfer between
computers

❑ Optical Drives
▪ These read and write data to optical discs like CDs, DVDs,
and Blu-ray discs

❑ USB Flash Drives

▪ Are small, portable storage devices that connect to a
computer via USB ports

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 35 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Permanent Storage Hardware
❑ Memory Cards
▪ Memory cards, such as SD cards and microSD cards, are
used in digital cameras, smartphones, and other devices to
store data like photos, videos, and documents

❑ Network Attached Storage (NAS)

▪ NAS devices are specialized storage solutions connected to
a network, providing shared storage and file server
capabilities

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 36 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Permanent Storage Hardware
❑ Cloud Storage
▪ While not a physical device, cloud storage involves using
remote servers and data centers to store and manage data
over the internet
− Popular cloud storage providers include Google Drive, iCloud,
Dropbox, and Amazon S3

❑ Tape Drives
▪ Tape drives are used in some enterprise environments for
long-term data archival and backup due to their high
capacity and data retention capabilities

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 37 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Permanent Storage
Types of permanent (secondary) storage

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 38 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Permanent Storage
Types of permanent (secondary) storage

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 39 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Output Hardware Devices
❑ Peripherals components that allow a computer to
provide information, data, or results to the user or
other external devices
▪ These devices take data from the computer and convert it
into a human-readable or machine-readable form

− That form may be audio, visual, textual, or hard copy

− There are four different categories of output device;
• Visual,
• Data,
• Print, and
• Sound

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 40 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Output Hardware Devices
❑ Monitors
▪ Monitors or display screens are the most common output
devices for computers
− They visually display text, images, videos, and other graphical
content to the user

❑ Printers
▪ These produce hard copies of documents, images, and
other digital content on paper or other media
− Common types of printers include inkjet, laser, dot matrix, and
thermal printers

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 41 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Output Hardware Devices
❑ Speakers
▪ They produce sound & allow the computer to play audio,
e.g. music, videos, system sounds, and voice
❑ Headphones and Earphones
▪ These provide private audio output and are used for
listening to music, watching videos, or participating in
online meetings without disturbing others
❑ Projectors
▪ Are used to display computer content on a large screen or
surface, making them useful for presentations, movies, and
educational purposes
Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 42 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
 Types of Output Hardware Devices
❑ Plotters
▪ Are specialized output devices used primarily in
engineering, design, and architectural applications to
produce high-quality, large-scale drawings & diagrams

❑ Braille Displays
▪ Braille displays are designed for visually impaired users
and provide output in Braille format, allowing them to
read digital content through touch

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 43 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Types of Output Hardware Devices
Illustrating the common types of output devices

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 44 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Communication Hardware
❑ Devices that enable computers and other electronic
devices to connect, communicate, and exchange
data with each other over networks

▪ They play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining

data connections, both within a local area network (LAN)
and across wide area networks (WANs) or the internet.

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 45 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Communication Hardware
❑ Network Interface Card (NIC)
▪ A NIC, also known as a network adapter or network card,
enables a computer to connect to a network
− It provides the physical interface for connecting to Ethernet, Wi-
Fi, or other network types
− NICs can be integrated into a computer’s motherboard or
installed as separate expansion cards.

❑ Modem
▪ A modem (short for modulator-demodulator)
− It translates digital data from a computer into analog signals sent
over analog communication lines (telephone lines) or vice versa

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 46 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Communication Hardware
❑ Network Cabling
▪ Physical cables, such as Ethernet cables and fiber-optic
cables, are used to connect devices in wired networks
❑ Wireless Network Cards
▪ These provide wireless connectivity to laptops and
desktop computers. They enable Wi-Fi communication,
allowing devices to connect to wireless networks
❑ Antennas
▪ In wireless communication, antennas play a vital role in
transmitting and receiving radio signals. They are used in
Wi-Fi routers, access points, & other wireless devices
Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 47 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU
Types of Communication Hardware
❑ Access Point (AP)
▪ An access point is a hardware device that allows wireless
devices to connect to a wired network

❑ Router
▪ A router is a networking device that forwards data packets
(signals) between different networks, such as between a
local network and the internet
− Routers determine the best path for data to reach its destination

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 48 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

Types of Communication Hardware
The common types of communication devices devices

USB modem

Router

Network cables

Network Interface Card

Wireless Access Point

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 49 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Evaluation Factors
❑ Performance
▪ Assess the computer’s processing power, speed, and
overall performance, including CPU, RAM, and GPU
capabilities
❑ Price
▪ Consider the cost of the computer or components relative
to the budget available
❑ Compatibility
▪ Evaluate compatibility with existing hardware, software,
and peripherals

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 50 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Evaluation Factors
❑ Operating System
▪ Determine if the computer supports the desired operating
system(s)

❑ Portability
▪ Assess the device’s portability and weight, crucial for
laptops and tablets

❑ Storage Capacity
▪ Evaluate the amount of storage space available on the
device or the option to expand storage

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 51 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Evaluation Factors
❑ Battery Life
▪ For portable devices, assess the duration the battery can
operate on a single charge

❑ Connectivity
▪ Check available ports (USB, HDMI, etc.) and connectivity
options like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

❑ Display
▪ Evaluate screen size, resolution, type (LCD, OLED, etc.),
and touch capabilities

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 52 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Evaluation Factors
❑ Memory (RAM)
▪ Consider the amount and speed of RAM for multitasking
and performance

❑ Build Quality
▪ Examine the durability and build quality of the computer
or device

❑ Warranty
▪ Review the manufacturer’s warranty, including coverage
and duration

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 53 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Evaluation Factors
❑ Audio Quality
▪ Evaluate the quality of built-in speakers and microphone

❑ Security Features
▪ Consider built-in security features like biometric
authentication (fingerprint reader, facial recognition) and
encryption

❑ Brand Reputation
▪ Research the reputation and reliability of the manufacturer

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 54 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 Computer Evaluation Factors
❑ Scalability
▪ Assess the ability to expand or customize the computer
over time

❑ Software Needs
▪ Ensure the computer supports the required software
applications and tools

❑ Support and Service

▪ Evaluate the availability and quality of customer support
and service options

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 55 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU

 - The End -

Chapter 5: Computer Hardware 56 © 2024 By D. A. K, LLB 1 – IUIU