NORMANDY P.

RINGPIS BSIT-1A

 WHAT IS A COMPUTER?
A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs tasks according to a set of
instructions, known as a program. It can execute a variety of operations, such as calculations,
data analysis, and data storage, and can run software applications ranging from word processors
to games.

At its core, a computer typically consists of several key components:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the brain of the computer, the CPU
performs the instructions of a program by carrying out basic arithmetic, logic, control,
and input/output operations.
2. Memory (RAM): Random Access Memory (RAM) is the computer's short-term
memory, where data and programs that are currently in use are kept for quick access by
the CPU.
3. Storage: This includes devices like hard drives (HDDs) or solid-state drives (SSDs) that
store data and programs long-term.
4. Motherboard: The main circuit board that houses the CPU, memory, and other essential
components, and allows them to communicate with each other.
5. Input Devices: Tools like keyboards and mice that allow users to interact with the
computer.
6. Output Devices: Components like monitors and printers that convey information from
the computer to the user.
7. Power Supply: Provides electrical power to the computer’s components.

Computers can range from small, portable devices like smartphones and tablets to large,
powerful machines like servers and supercomputers. They are used in countless applications
across various fields, including business, education, entertainment, and scientific research.

 WHAT PARTS ARE NEEDED FOR A COMPUTER TO WORK?

For a computer to function properly, several essential components and parts are needed.
Here’s a breakdown of the key components:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the computer, handling all
processing tasks and executing instructions from programs.
2. Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects and allows communication between
all the components, including the CPU, memory, storage, and peripherals.
3. Memory (RAM): Random Access Memory (RAM) is temporary storage that holds data
and instructions that the CPU needs while performing tasks.
 4. Storage: Long-term data storage devices such as Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) or Solid-State
Drives (SSDs) where the operating system, software, and files are stored.
5. Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts electrical power from an outlet into a form that the
computer’s components can use. It provides power to the motherboard, CPU, storage
devices, and other components.
6. Input Devices: Devices like keyboards, mice, and scanners that allow users to interact
with the computer.
7. Output Devices: Devices like monitors, printers, and speakers that present information
from the computer to the user.
8. Cooling System: Fans or other cooling mechanisms to dissipate heat generated by the
CPU and other components, preventing overheating and ensuring stable operation.
9. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Handles rendering of images, videos, and animations.
Some systems have integrated GPUs within the CPU, while others use dedicated graphics
cards for more demanding tasks.
10. Case/Chassis: The enclosure that houses and protects all the internal components. It often
includes mounting points for the motherboard, storage drives, and power supply.
11. Network Interface Card (NIC): Enables the computer to connect to a network, such as a
local area network (LAN) or the internet. This can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-
Fi).
12. BIOS/UEFI Firmware: Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) or Unified Extensible
Firmware Interface (UEFI) is the software that initializes and tests hardware components
during the startup process and provides an interface for the operating system to interact
with the hardware.

Each of these parts plays a critical role in ensuring that the computer operates smoothly and
efficiently.

 TYPES OF COMPUTER
Computers come in various types, each designed for specific tasks or environments. Here’s an
overview of the main types:

1. Personal Computers (PCs):

o Desktops: These are stationary computers that consist of separate components
such as a monitor, CPU, keyboard, and mouse. They are typically used in homes
and offices.
o Laptops: Portable computers that combine the monitor, keyboard, and CPU into a
single device. They are designed for mobility and convenience.
o Netbooks: Smaller, lighter laptops designed primarily for internet browsing and
basic tasks. They often have less powerful hardware compared to standard
laptops.
o All-in-Ones: Computers where all components are integrated into the monitor.
They save space and often look sleeker but can be less upgradeable.
2. Servers:
 o File Servers: Manage and store files for multiple users on a network.
o Web Servers: Host and serve websites to users over the internet.
o Database Servers: Manage and provide access to databases for applications or
users.
o Application Servers: Host and manage applications for use by clients or other
servers.
3. Workstations:
o High-performance computers designed for tasks requiring significant computing
power, such as graphic design, 3D modeling, and scientific simulations. They
often have advanced processors and large amounts of RAM.
4. Mainframes:
o Large, powerful computers used by organizations for critical applications, large-
scale transaction processing, and bulk data processing. They are known for their
reliability and scalability.
5. Supercomputers:
o Extremely powerful computers used for complex simulations, research, and
calculations. They are employed in fields like climate modeling, physics research,
and cryptography.
6. Embedded Systems:
o Specialized computers integrated into other devices or systems to perform specific
control functions. Examples include automotive control systems, home
appliances, and medical devices.
7. Mobile Devices:
o Smartphones: Portable devices that combine computing capabilities with
communication functions. They run mobile operating systems like iOS or
Android.
o Tablets: Touchscreen devices that offer a balance between functionality and
portability, often used for media consumption, browsing, and light productivity
tasks.
8. Gaming Consoles:
o Dedicated devices designed specifically for playing video games. Examples
include the PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo Switch.
9. Thin Clients:
o Minimal hardware devices that rely on a server to perform computing tasks. They
are used in environments where central management and security are priorities,
such as in some corporate settings.

Each type of computer is tailored to meet different needs, from everyday personal use to high-
end scientific research.

 WHAT DOES OPERATING SYSTEM (OS) MEAN?

An Operating System (OS) is a crucial software component that manages a computer’s hardware
and software resources and provides common services for computer programs. It serves as an
intermediary between users and the computer hardware, enabling user interaction and application
execution. Here are the key functions and components of an operating system:
Key Functions of an Operating System

1. User Interface (UI): Provides a way for users to interact with the computer. This can be a
graphical user interface (GUI) with windows, icons, and menus (e.g., Windows, macOS)
or a command-line interface (CLI) where users type text commands (e.g., Linux
Terminal).
2. Resource Management:
o Processor Management: Handles the allocation of the CPU to various processes,
ensuring that each gets a fair amount of processing time.
o Memory Management: Manages the computer’s memory (RAM), keeping track
of each byte in the computer's memory and allocating memory space to different
applications as needed.
o Storage Management: Manages data storage devices (like hard drives or SSDs),
organizing files, directories, and handling read/write operations.
o Device Management: Manages peripheral devices such as printers, keyboards,
and mice, enabling communication between the hardware and software.
3. File System Management: Provides a way to store, retrieve, and organize files on storage
devices. This includes creating, deleting, and managing directories and files.
4. Process Management: Manages the execution of processes, including scheduling,
starting, and terminating processes. It ensures that multiple applications can run
concurrently without interfering with each other.
5. Security and Access Control: Enforces security policies to protect data and resources
from unauthorized access. This includes managing user accounts, permissions, and
encryption.
6. Networking: Manages network connections and communication, allowing the computer
to connect to other devices and networks, and facilitating data exchange.

Common Operating Systems

1. Desktop Operating Systems:

o Windows: Developed by Microsoft, widely used in personal computers and
business environments.
o macOS: Developed by Apple, used in Mac computers.
o Linux: An open-source OS with many distributions (like Ubuntu, Fedora) used for
both personal and server environments.
2. Mobile Operating Systems:
o iOS: Developed by Apple for iPhones and iPads.
o Android: Developed by Google for a wide range of smartphones and tablets.
3. Server Operating Systems:
o Windows Server: A version of Windows designed for server environments.
o Linux Server Distributions: Various distributions like Ubuntu Server, CentOS,
and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) designed for server use.
4. Embedded Operating Systems:
o RTOS (Real-Time Operating Systems): Designed for embedded systems requiring
precise timing and reliability (e.g., VxWorks, QNX).
o Embedded Linux: A version of Linux tailored for embedded devices.
In summary, the operating system is fundamental to the functionality of a computer, providing a
user interface, managing hardware resources, and enabling software applications to run
effectively.

 WHAT IS SOFTWARE?
Software refers to a collection of programs, data, and instructions that tell a computer how to
perform specific tasks. Unlike hardware, which includes physical components like the CPU and
memory, software is intangible and exists in digital form. It can be broadly categorized into
different types based on its purpose and functionality:

Types of Software

1. System Software:
o Operating Systems (OS): Manages hardware resources and provides a platform
for running application software. Examples include Windows, macOS, and Linux.
o Utilities: Perform maintenance tasks and manage system resources. Examples
include antivirus programs, disk cleanup tools, and backup software.
2. Application Software:
o Productivity Software: Includes programs designed to help users complete tasks
such as word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Examples are Microsoft
Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Google Workspace.
o Media Software: Used for creating, editing, and managing multimedia content.
Examples include Adobe Photoshop (image editing), Final Cut Pro (video
editing), and VLC Media Player (media playback).
o Web Browsers: Allow users to access and interact with content on the internet.
Examples include Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, and Safari.
o Games: Software designed for entertainment, ranging from simple puzzles to
complex, interactive experiences.
3. Development Software:
o Integrated Development Environments (IDEs): Tools that provide comprehensive
facilities for software development. Examples include Visual Studio, IntelliJ
IDEA, and Eclipse.
o Compilers and Interpreters: Convert code written in programming languages into
executable programs or run them directly. Examples include GCC (GNU
Compiler Collection) and Python interpreter.
4. Middleware:
o Database Management Systems (DBMS): Manage and interact with databases,
allowing for data storage, retrieval, and manipulation. Examples include Oracle,
MySQL, and Microsoft SQL Server.
o Communication Software: Facilitates communication between different software
systems or components. Examples include message brokers and API gateways.
5. Embedded Software:
 o Firmware: Specialized software programmed into hardware devices to control
their functions. Examples include software in routers, cars, and medical devices.
o RTOS (Real-Time Operating Systems): Designed for embedded systems requiring
precise timing and reliability. Examples include VxWorks and QNX.

Key Concepts

 Programs: Specific sets of instructions that perform a particular task or function, such as
a web browser or a text editor.
 Applications: User-oriented software designed to perform specific tasks, often built using
programming languages and tools.
 Software Development: The process of creating, designing, coding, testing, and
maintaining software applications.

Importance of Software

 Functionality: Software enables computers and devices to perform a wide range of

functions, from basic tasks like word processing to complex operations like data analysis
and gaming.
 Customization: Allows users to tailor computer behavior and functionality to their
specific needs and preferences.
 Innovation: Drives technological advancements and solutions across various industries,
from healthcare and finance to entertainment and education.

In summary, software is essential for making hardware useful, providing instructions and
programs that enable computers and devices to perform tasks and solve problems.

 WHAT S HARDWARE?
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system or electronic device. It
encompasses all the tangible elements that make up a computer, as opposed to software,
which consists of intangible programs and data. Hardware components work together to
perform various computing tasks and interact with software to execute operations. Here’s
a breakdown of the main hardware components:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)

 Function: Often called the "brain" of the computer, the CPU performs calculations,
executes instructions, and manages data flow between components.
 Components: Includes the control unit (CU) and the arithmetic logic unit (ALU).

2. Memory

 Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporary storage that holds data and instructions that
are currently in use by the CPU. It allows for quick access to data but is volatile (loses
data when power is off).
  Read-Only Memory (ROM): Permanent storage that contains essential instructions for
booting the computer and hardware initialization. It is non-volatile (retains data without
power).

3. Storage Devices

 Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): Traditional storage devices that use spinning magnetic disks
to read and write data. They offer large storage capacities but are relatively slower than
SSDs.
 Solid-State Drives (SSDs): Faster storage devices that use flash memory to store data.
They have no moving parts, which results in quicker data access and better reliability.
 Optical Drives: Read and write data from optical discs like CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray
discs.
 Flash Drives/External Drives: Portable storage devices that use flash memory, often
connected via USB ports.

4. Motherboard

 Function: The main circuit board that houses the CPU, memory, and other essential
components. It provides connectors for additional peripherals and expansion cards.
 Components: Includes the chipset, expansion slots, and various connectors for attaching
peripherals.

5. Power Supply Unit (PSU)

 Function: Converts electrical power from an outlet into the voltages required by the
computer's internal components. It distributes power to the motherboard, storage devices,
and other components.

6. Input Devices

 Keyboard: Used for typing and entering data into the computer.
 Mouse: A pointing device used to interact with the graphical user interface (GUI).
 Other Devices: Includes scanners, microphones, and webcams, which input various types
of data into the computer.

7. Output Devices

 Monitor: Displays visual output from the computer. Can be CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) or
LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), among others.
 Printer: Produces hard copies of digital documents and images.
 Speakers/Headphones: Output audio from the computer.

8. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

  Function: Handles rendering of images, videos, and animations. It can be integrated into
the CPU or installed as a separate dedicated graphics card for enhanced performance.

9. Cooling System

 Function: Prevents overheating of components. Includes fans, heat sinks, and sometimes
liquid cooling systems.

10. Network Interface Card (NIC)

 Function: Connects the computer to a network, such as a local area network (LAN) or the
internet. Can be wired (Ethernet) or wireless (Wi-Fi).

11. Case/Chassis

 Function: Houses and protects all internal components of the computer. It often includes
mounting points for the motherboard, power supply, storage drives, and cooling systems.

12. Expansion Cards

 Function: Add additional capabilities to the computer, such as enhanced graphics, sound,
or network functions. Examples include dedicated graphics cards, sound cards, and
network cards.

Importance of Hardware

 Performance: The hardware determines the computing power, speed, and efficiency of a
computer system.
 Functionality: It enables the execution of various tasks and supports different types of
software applications.
 Compatibility: Ensures that the computer can interact with external devices and
peripherals, expanding its capabilities.

In summary, hardware consists of the physical components that work together to perform
computing tasks, support software applications, and enable user interaction with the computer
system.

 OPERATING SYSTEM COMPONENTS

An Operating System (OS) is a complex software system that manages hardware resources and
provides services for application software. It is made up of several key components, each
responsible for different aspects of system management and user interaction. Here’s an overview
of the main components of an operating system:

1. Kernel
  Function: The core part of the OS that manages hardware interactions, system resources,
and core functionalities. It operates at a low level and handles tasks like process
management, memory management, and hardware abstraction.
 Components:
o Process Scheduler: Manages the execution of processes and allocates CPU time.
o Memory Manager: Handles memory allocation, paging, and swapping between
RAM and storage.
o Device Drivers: Interfaces with hardware devices to control and manage them.

2. User Interface (UI)

 Function: Provides a way for users to interact with the computer. It can be a graphical
user interface (GUI) with visual elements like windows and icons or a command-line
interface (CLI) where users type text commands.
 Components:
o Graphical User Interface (GUI): Includes elements like windows, menus, and
icons (e.g., Windows, macOS).
o Command-Line Interface (CLI): Allows users to execute commands through
text input (e.g., Linux Terminal).

3. File System

 Function: Manages files and directories on storage devices, providing a way to store,
retrieve, and organize data.
 Components:
o File Management: Handles operations like creating, deleting, and renaming files
and directories.
o Access Control: Manages permissions and security settings for files and
directories.

4. Process Management

 Function: Manages processes running on the system, including their creation,

scheduling, and termination.
 Components:
o Process Control Block (PCB): Contains information about each process, such as
its state, program counter, and memory usage.
o Process Scheduler: Decides which process runs at any given time based on
scheduling algorithms.

5. Memory Management

 Function: Manages the computer’s RAM and virtual memory, ensuring efficient
allocation and deallocation of memory resources.
 Components:
 o Paging/Segmentation: Techniques for managing memory allocation and
swapping data between RAM and disk storage.
o Virtual Memory: Allows the OS to use disk space as an extension of RAM,
enabling larger applications to run.

6. Device Management

 Function: Manages and controls peripheral devices such as printers, keyboards, and disk
drives.
 Components:
o Device Drivers: Software that interfaces with hardware devices, allowing the OS
to control them.
o Input/Output Management: Handles communication between the OS and
external devices.

7. Security and Access Control

 Function: Protects the system from unauthorized access and ensures that resources are
used according to policies.
 Components:
o Authentication: Verifies user identities through passwords, biometrics, or other
methods.
o Authorization: Manages user permissions and access rights to files and system
resources.

8. Networking

 Function: Manages network connections and facilitates communication between

computers over local and wide area networks.
 Components:
o Network Protocols: Define rules for data transmission and communication (e.g.,
TCP/IP).
o Network Interfaces: Manage network connections and data exchange.

9. System Services

 Function: Provides various background services and utilities for system operation and
user applications.
 Components:
o System Call Interface: Provides a way for applications to request services from
the OS (e.g., file operations, process control).
o System Utilities: Include tools for system maintenance, configuration, and
monitoring (e.g., task manager, disk utility).

10. Software Abstraction Layer

  Function: Provides a layer of abstraction between the hardware and software, enabling
applications to interact with the hardware without needing to know specific details about
the hardware.
 Components:
o Hardware Abstraction Layer (HAL): Abstracts hardware specifics, making it
easier for the OS to interact with different hardware configurations.

In summary, the operating system is a multifaceted system composed of several key components
that work together to manage hardware resources, provide a user interface, and enable
applications to run efficiently. Each component plays a crucial role in ensuring the smooth
operation of the computer system.