Question

Explain the basic components of a computer with a neat diagram.

Answer 1

The computer is a combination of hardware and software. Hardware is the physical component of a computer while the software is the set of programs or instructions. Both hardware and software together make the computer system function. Every task given to a computer follows an Input- Process- Output Cycle (IPO cycle).

components of a computer

The functional components of a computer:

1. Input Unit: The input unit is used to feed any form of data to the computer. Example: Keyboard, mouse, etc.
2. Central Processing Unit: The CPU is the major component that interprets and executes software instructions. It also controls the operation of all other components such as memory, input, and output units.
   The CPU has three components which are the Control unit, the Arithmetic, and logic unit (ALU), and the Memory unit.
3. Arithmetic and Logic Unit: The ALU is a part of the CPU where various computing functions are performed on data. The ALU performs arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and logical operations.
4. Control Unit: The control unit controls the flow of data between the CPU, memory, and I/O devices. It also controls the entire operation of a computer.
5. Output Unit: An Output Unit is any hardware component that conveys information to users in an understandable form. Example: Monitor Printer etc.
6. Memory Unit: The Memory Unit is of two types which are primary memory and secondary memory. The primary memory is used to temporarily store the programs and data when the instructions are ready to execute. The secondary memory is used to store the data permanently.
   The Primary Memory is volatile, that is, the content is lost when the power supply is switched off. The Random Access Memory (RAM) is an example of the main memory.
   The Secondary memory is nonvolatile, that is, the content is available even after the power supply is switched off. Hard disk, CD-ROM, and DVD ROM are examples of secondary memory.