Computer Basic Operation
Computers perform a variety of basic operations that allow
them to function and carry out tasks.
1. Input: Receiving data and instructions from external
sources. Input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, and cameras.
2. Processing: Performing operations on the input data as
per the instructions provided. This is done by the Central Processing Unit
(CPU), which performs arithmetic and logic operations.
3. Storage: Saving data and instructions for future use. There
are two types of storage:
=> Primary
Storage: This includes RAM (Random Access Memory), which is volatile and used
for temporary storage while the computer is on.
=> Secondary
Storage: This includes hard drives, SSDs (Solid State Drives), CDs, and USB
drives, which are non-volatile and used for long-term storage.
4. Output: Sending processed data to external devices.
Output devices include monitors, printers, and speakers.
5. Control: Directing the manner and sequence in which all
of the above operations are carried out. The control unit within the CPU
manages this function.
Detailed Breakdown of Each Operation:
Input
=> Devices: Keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanner, and
digital camera.
=> Function: Converts user actions and environmental data
into a form the computer can process.
Processing
=> Components: CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU
(Graphics Processing Unit).
=> Function: Executes instructions from software
applications, performs calculations, and processes data. The CPU has an ALU (Arithmetic
Logic Unit) for arithmetic operations and a control unit for managing
instruction execution.
Storage
=> Primary Storage (RAM): Temporary storage used for
quick access by the CPU. Data is lost when the computer is turned off.
=> Secondary Storage: Permanent storage for data and
applications. Examples include HDDs (Hard Disk Drives) and SSDs (Solid State
Drives). Data remains stored even when the computer is powered off.
Output
=> Devices: Monitor, printer, speakers.
=> Function: Converts processed data from the computer
into a human-readable or usable form.
Control
=> Function: The control unit within the CPU manages and
coordinates all activities of the computer by interpreting and executing
instructions from the memory.
How These Operations
Work Together
1. Input: User inputs data through a keyboard.
2. Processing: The CPU processes this data according to the
instructions from an application.
3. Storage: The processed data may be stored in RAM for
quick access or saved to a hard drive for long-term storage.
4. Output: The result is displayed on the monitor or printed
out.
Example Scenario
Typing a Document
1. Input: You type text using the keyboard.
2. Processing: The CPU processes each keystroke, displaying
characters on the screen.
3. Storage: The document is temporarily stored in RAM; when
saved, it is written to the hard drive.
4. Output: The document is displayed on the monitor, and you
may print it using a printer.
5. Control: The control unit coordinates the input from the keyboard, processing by the CPU, storage in RAM and on the hard drive, and output to the monitor and printer.
Classification of computer
Computers can be classified in various ways based on their
size, functionality, purpose, and performance. Here are the main
classifications:
Based on Size and Processing Power
1. Supercomputers
=> Description:
The most powerful computers in terms of performance and data processing
capabilities.
=> Uses: Complex
scientific calculations, weather forecasting, nuclear simulations, and advanced
research.
=> Examples: IBM
Summit, Fujitsu Fugaku.
2. Mainframe Computers
=> Description:
Large, powerful systems used primarily by large organizations for bulk data
processing and critical applications.
=> Uses:
Transaction processing, large-scale enterprise resource planning (ERP), and
managing large databases.
=> Examples: IBM
zSeries, Unisys ClearPath.
3. Minicomputers (Midrange Computers)
=> Description:
Mid-sized computers that are more powerful than microcomputers but less
powerful than mainframes.
=> Uses:
Manufacturing process control, telecommunications, and small to medium-sized
business applications.
=> Examples: DEC
PDP-11, IBM AS/400.
4. Microcomputers (Personal Computers)
=> Description:
The most common type of computer used by individuals and businesses.
=> Uses: General
purpose tasks such as word processing, internet browsing, gaming, and personal
productivity.
=> Examples:
Desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.
Based on Functionality
1. Servers
=> Description:
Computers designed to manage network resources and provide services to other
computers (clients) in a network.
=> Uses: Hosting
websites, managing databases, email hosting, and file storage.
=> Examples: Web
servers, database servers, mail servers.
2. Workstations
=> Description:
High performance computers designed for technical or scientific applications.
=> Uses: CAD
(Computer-Aided Design), 3D modeling, video editing, and complex data analysis.
=> Examples:
Dell Precision, HP Z Workstation.
3. Embedded Computers
=> Description:
Specialized computers embedded within other devices to perform specific control
functions.
=> Uses:
Consumer electronics, automotive control systems, medical devices, and
industrial machines.
=> Examples:
Embedded systems in microwaves, car engines, and smartwatches.
Based on Purpose
1. General Purpose Computers
=> Description:
Versatile systems capable of performing a wide range of tasks.
=> Uses: Office
work, gaming, internet browsing, and multimedia.
=> Examples: Desktops,
laptops.
2. Special Purpose Computers
=> Description:
Designed to perform specific tasks or functions.
=> Uses:
Scientific research, industrial control, and telecommunications.
=> Examples:
Calculators, digital signal processors (DSPs).
Based on Performance and Capacity
1. High Performance Computers
=> Description:
Systems with very high processing power, large storage capacity, and high-speed
communication capabilities.
=> Uses:
Scientific research, financial modeling, and simulations.
=> Examples:
Supercomputers, high-end servers.
2. Medium Performance Computers
=> Description:
Systems with moderate processing power and storage capacity.
=> Uses: General
business applications, mid-sized database management.
=> Examples:
Minicomputers, mid-range servers.
3. Low Performance Computers
=> Description:
Systems with lower processing power and storage capacity, suitable for basic
tasks.
=> Uses: Basic office work, internet
browsing, and educational purposes.
=> Examples:
Entry level desktops, netbooks.
Examples of Each
Type
=> Supercomputers: IBM Summit, Tianhe-2, Fujitsu Fugaku.
=> Mainframe Computers: IBM z15, Unisys ClearPath.
=> Minicomputers: IBM System/3, PDP-11.
=> Microcomputers: Apple MacBook, Dell Inspiron, Samsung
Galaxy Tab.
=> Servers: Dell PowerEdge, HP ProLiant.
=> Workstations: Lenovo ThinkStation, Apple Mac Pro.
=> Embedded Computers: Arduino boards, Raspberry Pi,
automotive ECUs.
