What is the definition of a computer?
A computer is an electronic device that is used to store data for later use. It is also used to process and retrieve data.
Different computer system performs different tasks. When humans used mechanical calculators like the abacus and numerical calculations, the name “computer” was first applied to them.
Computer Overview
A computer is used to store data for later use. It performs arithmetic and logical operations. Owing to their adaptability and programming capabilities, computers can perform a wide variety of activities.
History of Computers
Early computers, such as the ENIAC, were only found in companies, academic institutions, or government buildings. They were big sometimes almost room size and ran on vacuum tubes.
After that, transistors were smaller, and less expensive parts were used in system, making them affordable to the general public.
Components of Computer
There are different components of computer systems such as:
Hardware: The physical components that we can see or touch.
Storage Devices: The devices that are utilized to store data. The data is kept on file for later use.
Input devices: A device that is used to enter data. For example mouse, keyboard, mike etc.
Output Devices: A device that is used for output. For example speaker, printer, monitor, etc.
| Type of Computer | Description | Example Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Supercomputer | Extremely powerful system used for complex calculations | Weather forecasting, scientific simulations, cryptography |
| Mainframe Computer | Large and powerful systems used in enterprises | Bulk data processing, transaction processing, database management |
| Minicomputer | Mid-sized computers are less powerful than mainframes but more than personal system | Manufacturing process control, scientific research |
| Workstation | High-performance computer used for technical or scientific work | CAD (Computer-Aided Design), 3D graphics rendering |
| Personal Computer (PC) | General-purpose computers for individual use | Word processing, internet browsing, gaming |
| Laptop | Portable personal computer | Mobile computing, on-the-go productivity |
| Tablet | Portable touchscreen computer | Media consumption, mobile applications |
| Smartphone | Mobile phone with advanced computing capability | Communication, apps, internet browsing |
| Embedded Computer | Specialized embedded within a device | Home appliances, automotive systems, industrial machines |
| Server | A system that provides data or services to other system | Hosting websites, managing network resources |
| Gaming Console | Specialized computer for playing video games | Gaming, media streaming |
| Hybrid Computer | Combines features of analog and digital computers | Medical devices, scientific instruments |
Parts of Computer
Here are the common parts of the computer:
| Part | Description | Example Functions |
|---|---|---|
| Bay | An enclosure that houses various storage devices | Holds hard drives, optical drives, etc. |
| Case or Chassis | The outer shell of the computer | Protects and holds all internal components |
| Case Fan | Cooling device for the case | Helps regulate the temperature inside the case |
| Optical Drive | Reads and writes optical discs | Blu-ray, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, or DVD |
| CPU (Central Processing Unit) | The brain of the computer | Executes instructions and processes data |
| Floppy Disk Drive | Legacy storage device | Reads and writes floppy disks |
| Hard Drive | Data storage device | Stores operating systems, applications, and files |
| Keyboard | Input device | Allows users to input text and commands |
| RAM (Random-Access Memory) | Volatile memory | Temporary storage for data being used by the CPU |
| Microphone | Audio input device | Captures sound |
| Monitor LCD | Display device | Visual output for the system |
| Motherboard | Main circuit board | Connects all components |
| Mouse | Pointing device | Allows users to interact with the computer’s interface |
| Network Card | Network connectivity device | Connects to a network |
| Power Supply | Provides power to the system | Converts electrical power to the correct voltage and current |
| Printer | Output device | Prints documents and images |
| Sound Card | Audio processing device | Manages audio input and output |
| Speakers | Audio output device | Produces sound |
| Video Card | Graphics processing unit | Render images and video |
| Wearable | Body-worn device | Smartwatches, fitness trackers |
Types of Computer Systems
A desktop or laptop system is typically what comes to mind when most people hear the word. On the other hand, it work in our daily lives in a wide variety.
Desktop Computer: Desktops are widely used in offices, homes, and educational settings. It has a monitor screen, keyboard, mouse, etc.
Laptop Computer: A type that is easily carried from one place to another. It is available in small sizes and has a battery for running laptop.
Server Computer: A system that servers other systems. One approach to constantly read content that is kept on a server is when utilizing the Internet. Enterprises also widely use local file servers for internal file sharing and storage.
Mini Computer: It is Mid-sized and is less powerful than mainframes but more than personal systems. Its function is Manufacturing process control and scientific research.
Super-Computer: It is an extremely powerful system used for complex calculations. Its function is Weather forecasting, scientific simulations, and cryptography.
Hardware Vs Software
Hardware: The physical parts of the system are called hardware. We can see or touch such as the keyboard or mouse.
Software: It tells hardware what to do. Without software, hardware is not usable. For example windows, linux, unix, macOS, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1: What are the names of devices that are used to input data?
Ans: Here are some common names of devices that are used to enter data:
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Touchscreen
- Scanner
- Microphone
- Joystick
Q2: What are the main components of a computer system?
Ans: The main components are as follows:
- CPU
- Keyboard
- RAM
- Storage Device
- Input Device
Q3: What are the types of software that are different from one another?
Ans: Here is the difference between hardware and software:
| Aspect | Hardware | Software |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Physical components of a system | Programs and operating systems running on hardware |
| Nature | Tangible and physical | Intangible and digital |
| Examples | CPU, RAM, hard drives, keyboard, monitor | Operating systems (Windows, macOS, Linux), applications (Microsoft Word, Adobe Photoshop) |
Q4: What are the differences between types of software?
Ans: Here are the differences between system software and application software:
| Aspect | System Software | Application Software |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Manages hardware and provides a platform for running applications | Performs specific tasks for end-users |
| Scope | Essential for the functioning of the system | Enhances user productivity and performs specialized functions |
| Installation | Installed during the setup of the operating system | Installed separately after the operating system installation |