What is a Computer
- A data processing machine
- a general-purpose device that can be programmed to carry out a set of arithmetic or logical operations automatically
Four features of a computer
- Input
- Processing
- Storage
- Output
What are the two main components that make up a computer
hardware and software
Describe the four features of hardware and what it allows users to do.
The four features of hardware are:
- input
- processing (CPU)
- storage (RAM, HDD, DVD, SD CARD)
- output (printer, headphones)
Hardware allows users to interact with the computer.
What are the 2 types of hardware storage
- short term
- long term
Describe short term hardware storage
- temporary volatile storage
- working memory while power is on
- Influences number of tasks that can be
opened simultaneously. - is Random Access Memory (RAM)
- seen as 4GB, 8GB, 16GB, 32, 64…
Describe Long Term hardware storage
- More “permanent”
- Remains after power / shutdown
- Can be wiped/ erased – Hard Disk Drive (HDD), Solid State Drive (SSD), Flash
- Permanent – ROM (Read Only Memory)
What are the 5 software types
- System Software
- Word Processing
- Spreadsheet - used for accounts / financial and data
- Data Management
- Application Software - Software customized for special purpose. E.g., Photoshop and computer games
Describe a computer network
A computer network is two or more computing devices connected in order to share resources and communicate.
Network resources might include (examples)
Network resources might include
- printers
- scanners
- storage
- Internet etc.
Communication within networks can be via
Communication within networks can be via
- emails
- instant messages
- voice and/or video calls
Define a Network Interface Card (NIC):
A Network Interface Card (NIC) provides a means for connecting a computer to a network
Define network media:
Network media is the communication channels used to interconnect nodes on a computer network.
Can be wired or wireless medium through which data is sent/received by computers on a
network.
Network Protocols:
define the format & order of messages sent and received between network entities, and actions taken on message transmission, receipt
What is a computer capable of
- accepting input from users in form of data and processing or storing these data
- computers give output based on user supplied logic.
