Main Computer Components

Question 1

What is the CPU?

Answer 1

CPU is considered as the brain of the computer.

• performs all types of data processing operations
• stores data, results and instructions (program)
• controls operations of all computer parts

Question 2

What are three components the CPU itself has?

Answer 2

1) Arithmetic Logic Unit
2) Control Unit
3) Memory Unit

Question 3

What does the Memory Unit do?
(Working with CPU)

Answer 3

This unit consists of the RAM (primary) & ROM (secondary)
- stores data, information and intermediate results
- supplies information to other parts of the computer when needed
- all inputs and outputs transmitted through the main memory

Question 4

What does the Arithmetic Logic Unit do?

Answer 4

Consists of two sections:
Arithmetic: performs and calculates all arithmetic operations like; addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
Logic: performs logic operations such as comparing, matching, selecting and merging of data

Question 5

What does the Control Unit do?

Answer 5

• controls transfer of data & instructions among other units of the computer
• manages and coordinates all units of the computer
• obtains and interprets the instructions from the memory and directs operations of the computer
• communicates with INPUT/OUTPUT devices for transfer of data/results from storage
• DOES NOT PROCESS/STORE DATA

Question 6

What is Memory?
(computer-wise)

Answer 6

Three types:
a) cache memory
b) primary/main memory
c) secondary memory