ZMedia Purwodadi

Computers

Table of Contents

 


1. What is a Computer?

A computer is an electronic device that can store, process, and retrieve data. It takes input, processes it according to instructions (software), and gives output.


2. Main Components of a Computer

A computer has two main parts: Hardware and Software.

a) Hardware (Physical parts you can touch):

  • Input devices: Devices used to give data to the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse).

  • Output devices: Devices used to get results from the computer (e.g., monitor, printer).

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer; it processes data.

  • Memory / Storage:

    • RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary memory, fast, cleared when power is off.

    • Hard Drive / SSD: Permanent storage for files and programs.

b) Software (Programs and instructions):

  • System software: Helps run the computer (e.g., Windows, Linux, macOS).

  • Application software: Programs for specific tasks (e.g., Microsoft Word, web browsers, games).


3. Types of Computers

  • Supercomputers: Extremely fast; used for scientific simulations.

  • Mainframe computers: Large; used by big organizations for processing lots of data.

  • Personal computers (PCs): Desktop or laptop; used by individuals.

  • Mobile devices: Smartphones, tablets; small computers in your pocket.


4. How Computers Work (Simplified)

  1. Input: Data is entered (e.g., typing a document).

  2. Processing: CPU processes the data.

  3. Storage: Data is temporarily or permanently stored.

  4. Output: Results are displayed (e.g., document appears on screen).


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