Basics of Hardware and Software
Introduction
A computer system is made up of two essential components: hardware and software. Both work together to process data and perform tasks efficiently.
1. Hardware
Definition:
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that can be seen and touched.
Types of Hardware:
A. Input Devices – Used to enter data into the computer.
📌 Examples:
- Keyboard 🖋️ – For typing text and commands.
- Mouse 🖱️ – For navigation and selecting items.
- Scanner 📠 – Converts physical documents into digital format.
- Microphone 🎤 – Captures audio input.
B. Processing Unit – The brain of the computer.
📌 CPU (Central Processing Unit) 🖥️
Performs all calculations and processes instructions.
Made up of:
- ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) – Performs mathematical operations.
- CU (Control Unit) – Directs the flow of data and instructions.
C. Storage Devices – Used for storing data.
📌 Examples:
- Primary Storage (RAM - Random Access Memory) – Temporary memory used for quick data access.
- Secondary Storage (HDD/SSD - Hard Disk Drive/Solid State Drive) – Permanent storage of data.
- External Storage (USB, Memory Card) – Portable storage for transferring data.
D. Output Devices – Display the processed data.
📌 Examples:
- Monitor 🖥️ – Displays text, images, and videos.
- Printer 🖨️ – Prints documents and photos.
- Speakers 🔊 – Outputs sound.
E. Communication Devices – Used for data transfer and networking.
📌 Examples:
- Modem 🌐 – Connects to the internet.
- Router 📶 – Distributes internet across multiple devices.
- Network Interface Card (NIC) 🛜 – Enables wired and wireless networking.
2. Software
Definition:
Software is a set of programs and instructions that tell the computer how to perform specific tasks.
Types of Software:
A. System Software – Controls and manages computer hardware.
📌 Examples:
- Operating System (OS) – Manages hardware and software.
- Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.
- Utility Software – Performs maintenance tasks.
- Examples: Antivirus, Disk Cleanup, File Compression.
B. Application Software – Used for specific tasks.
📌 Examples:
- Productivity Software – MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
- Multimedia Software – VLC Media Player, Photoshop.
- Web Browsers – Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari.
C. Programming Software – Used to create new software.
📌 Examples:
- Programming Languages – C, Java, Python.
- Compilers & Debuggers – Convert code into executable format