Computer components

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Parts of a Computer

You will be tested on:* being able to name parts of the computer* being able to identify parts of the computer* knowing what type of device they are* knowing what their job is* knowing what other components they link to

Task 1

Central Processing Unit

Function: Carries out instructions of the computer system. The brain of the computer

Motherboard

Function: The central circuit board of the computer. Everything plugs into it and it relays informationbetween everything.

Keyboard

Function: To enter data into the computer

Connection to a network

or the internet

Function: To transfer data from the network or internetto the computer and/or back again.

Display Monitor

Function: Outputs data in human readable form onto a screen

Disk Drive

Function: To store data

Random Access Memory

RAM

Function: The main memory within a computer. It holds active information such as data and programs that can be written over and changed

Read Only MemoryROM

Function: This is Read Only memory. It can not bechanged.For example, it stores instructions on starting up the computer and stores the programmes such as Microsoft Office and Photoshop, etc.

Printer

Function: Prints the output data onto paper (hard copy)

Digital Camera

Function: Captures data and stores it in digital form

Scanner

Function: Converts a picture into digital form so thecomputer can process it

Modem

Function: A modem allows a computer to talk to other computers through the phone system

Mouse

Function: Input data by:* moving the mouse which moves the cursor* clicking buttons

Types of DevicesInput - An input device is a piece of hardware used to input information/data into the computer.Storage - Storage devices hold information. They operate just like a filing cabinetOutput - Outputed information can be displayed as screen information, printed on paper, or outputed as sound.Processing - main function is to process instructions, manage the flow of information through the computer system, and perform calculations.Data Transfer - Any cable that transfers information between computers, storage, internet, etc. Return to Task 1