Elements of Computer Systems
Computer Science: OCR A Level, topic 1.3.1
Elements of Computer Systems
Computer systems are made of hardware and software which work together. Hardware are the physical components of the computer, such as:
Input/Output (I/O) devices
- I/O devices allow users to input data into the computer, or receive a data output from the computer.
- Examples of common I/O devices are:
- Keyboard.
- Mouse.
- Monitor.
- Speakers.
Processors
- A processor is a special component that processes data and instructions to control other components within the computer.
- The two main types of processor are:
- Central Processing Unit (CPU).
- Graphics Processing Unit (GPU).
Primary storage
- Primary storage is the memory in which the computer can store the data or instructions that are currently in use.
- The two main types of primary storage are:
- Random Access Memory (RAM).
- Read-Only Memory (ROM).
Secondary storage
- Secondary storage is the memory in which the computer can store the data or instructions which are NOT currently in use.
- Not all computer systems use secondary storage.
- The main types of secondary storage are:
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD).
- Solid State Drive (SSD).
- Compact Disk (CD).
- Flash (USB Drive).
Types of Computer System
There are lots of different types of computer systems, including:
General purpose systems
- General purpose systems are capable of performing many different tasks.
- For example:
- PCs
- Macs
- Smartphones
Embedded systems
- An embedded system is a computer system which is built into another device to support its operation.
- For example:
- Washing machines.
- Digital cameras.
- Sat-Navs.
Test yourself on Elements of Computer Systems
Toggle until all are correct: common Input/Output devices include..?
Where does the computer store data and instructions which are NOT currently in use?
A client has asked you to develop a self-checkout machine for his small supermarket which allows customers to scan their shopping and pay for it without him having to oversee the process.
What type of computer system would you be developing?