Module 1.3- Computing Cycle

Question 1

What does Input mean in the Computing Cycle?

Answer 1

• process of feeding data or commands into the computer which happens every time you type on a keyboard, click a mouse, or tap the screen
• devices that allow you to provide input are called input devices
• e.g. keyboard (text input), mouse (navigation), touchscreen (direct interaction), microphone (voice commands)
• without input there’s nothing for the computer to process

Question 2

What does Processing mean in the Computing Cycle?

Answer 2

• brainpower of the computer and is where the CPU comes in
• processing happens after the computer receives input
• takes raw data and turns it into something useful by following a set of instructions, known as a program or software
• e.g. CPU= chef, input= ingredients get processed by following a recipe= the program, to create a dish= output
• without processing, the computer wouldn’t know how to handle the data

Question 3

What does Output mean in the Computing Cycle?

Answer 3

• delivers the result of what’s been processed
• output devices let you see/hear the final product of what the computer has done
• e.g. monitor (displays processed data visually), speakers (provides audio output such as playing music), printer (outputs a physical copy of documents or photos)
• output is the result of the computers work processing the input

Question 4

What does Storage mean in the Computing Cycle?

Answer 4

• allows computers to save data for future use
• makes sure the data doesn’t disappear when you turn off the machine
• primary storage (RAM) is temp. and only holds data while the computer is on
• secondary storage (hard drives or SSDs) is permanent and stores data even when the computer is off