How a Computer Operates

Introduction

A computer is an electronic machine which can accept data in a certain form, process it, and give the results of the processing in a specified format as information. First, data is fed into the computer’s memory. Then, the computer performs a set of instructions and processes the data. Finally, we can see the results on the screen or in printed form

A computer system consists of two parts : hardware and software. Hardware is any electronic or mechanical part you can see or touch. Software is a set of instructions, called a program, which tells the computer what to do. There are three basic hardware sections : the central processing unit (CPU), memory and peripherals.

CPU

Perhaps the most essential hardware component is the central processing unit. It is built into a single microprocessor chip which executes program instructions and coordinates the activities that take place within the computer system. In a way, it is the brain of the computer. The chip itself is a small piece of silicon with a complex electrical circuit called an integrated circuit

MEMORY : RAM & ROM

Two types of memory RAM and ROM hold the instructions and data which are processed by the CPU. The main function of RAM ( Random Access Memory ) is to provide a temporary storage place for data to be processed. Therefore, when the user runs a program, the CPU looks for it on the hard disk and transfers a copy into the RAM. RAM is volatile that is, the information on RAM is lost when the computer is turned off. ROM is the storage place fort he BIOS (Basic Input/Output System ), which controls communication with peripherals. ROM (Read Only Memory ) is non-volatile, permanently containing instructions and routines for the basic operations of the CPU. Another...

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... devices connected by various communications channels. Networks are mainly used for the following purposes :

Facilitating communications, using a network, people can communicate efficiently and easily via e-mail , instant messaging, chat rooms, video telephone calls, and videoconferencing. They can also share internet access.

Sharing hardware, in a networked environment, each computer on a network can access and use hardware on the network. For example, if several personal computers and a laser printer are connected to a network, each user can then access the laser printer on the network, as they need it.

Sharing files, data, and information, in a networked environment, any authorized user can Access data and information stored on other computers on the same network.

Sharing software, users connected to a network can access applications and programs on the network.