A computer system is a combination of hardware and software components that work together to perform tasks and solve problems. The hardware components include the physical parts of the computer such as the monitor, keyboard, mouse, central processing unit (CPU), and memory. The software components include the programs and operating system that are installed on the computer.
How Computers Work 1.Operational Unit 2.System Unit 3.Von-Neumann Architecture 4.Classification of Computers 5.Classification by Technology
Computers work by processing and manipulating data using binary code, which consists of only two digits: 0 and 1. The binary code represents instructions and data that are stored in the computer’s memory.
The computer’s central processing unit (CPU) reads the instructions and performs calculations and logical operations using the data. The results are then sent back to the memory for storage or to the output devices such as the monitor or printer for display or printing.
The process of how computers work can be broken down into several steps. First, the input devices such as the keyboard or mouse allow users to enter data or instructions into the computer. The data is then converted into binary code and sent to the memory for storage.
The CPU then reads the instructions from memory and performs the necessary calculations or operations. The results are then sent back to the memory for storage or to the output devices for display or printing.
The process of how computers work is governed by the Von Neumann architecture, which is a design concept for computers that was proposed by John Von Neumann in the 1940s. It consists of four main components: the memory unit, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), the control unit, and the input/output (I/O) devices.
What is Operational Unit
The operational unit of a computer is responsible for processing data and performing operations. It consists of three main components: the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), the control unit, and the memory unit.
The ALU performs mathematical and logical operations, the control unit manages the flow of data and instructions within the computer, and the memory unit stores data and instructions.
System Unit
The system unit is the main component of a computer that houses all the internal hardware components.
It consists of the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), power supply unit (PSU), and other components such as hard drives, RAM, and graphics cards. The system unit also includes ports for connecting external devices such as keyboards, mice, and monitors.
Von-Neumann Architecture:
The Von-Neumann architecture is a design concept for computers that was proposed by John von Neumann in the 1940s. It is the foundation for most modern computers and consists of four main components: the memory unit, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), the control unit, and the input/output (I/O) devices.
The memory unit stores both data and instructions, the ALU performs mathematical and logical operations, the control unit manages the flow of data and instructions, and the I/O devices allow for communication with the outside world.
Classification of Computers:
Computers can be classified based on their size, functionality, and intended use. Some common classifications include supercomputers, mainframe computers, minicomputers, microcomputers, and personal computers.
Supercomputers are used for scientific research and simulations, while mainframe computers are used for large-scale data processing. Minicomputers are smaller versions of mainframes, and microcomputers are small, general-purpose computers that include desktops, laptops, and tablets.
Classification by Technology:
Computers can also be classified based on the technology they use, such as analog, digital, or hybrid. Analog computers use continuous physical variables to perform calculations, while digital computers use binary digits (0s and 1s). Hybrid computers combine both analog and digital technology to take advantage of the strengths of both systems.