Computer system in contemporary usage refers to a desktop system, including the computer itself ("The CPU" or "The Box") and all the peripheral devices needed to operate it, usually including: Monitor
A monitor displays information in visual form, using text and graphics. The portion of the monitor that displays the information is called the screen. Like a television screen, a computer screen can show still or moving pictures.
There are two basic types of monitors: CRT (cathode ray tube) monitors and LCD (liquid crystal display) monitors.
Modem
To connect your computer to the Internet, you need a modem. A modem is a device that sends and receives computer information over a telephone line or high-speed cable. Modems are sometimes built into the system unit, but higher-speed modems are usually separate components.
System Unit
The system unit is the core of a computer system. Usually it's a rectangular box placed on or underneath your desk. Inside this box are many electronic components that process information. The most important of these components is the central processing unit (CPU), or microprocessor, which acts as the "brain" of your computer. Another component is random access memory (RAM), which temporarily stores information that the CPU uses while the computer is on. The information stored in RAM is erased when the computer is turned off.
A mouse is a small device used to point to and select items on your computer screen. Although mice come in many shapes, the typical mouse does look a bit like an actual mouse. It's small, oblong, and connected to the system unit by a long wire that resembles a tail. Some newer mice are wireless.
Speakers
Speakers are used to play sound. They may be built into the system unit or connected with cables. Speakers allow you to listen to music and hear sound effects from your computer.
A printer transfers data from a computer onto paper. You don't need a printer to use your computer, but having one allows you to print e‑mail, cards, invitations, announcements, and other materials. Many people also like being able to print their own photos at home.
A keyboard is used mainly for typing text into your computer. Like the keyboard on a typewriter, it has keys for letters and numbers.
HARDWARE | |
CPU | = Central Processing Unit = the processor chip that runs your computer = term is also used to designate the case with the basic computer parts inside = includes the processor chip, motherboard, RAM memory chips, hard disk drive, & basic operating system instructions |
RAM | = Random Access Memory = the part of the computer that temporarily holds a program and related files and manipulates data (non-permanent) |
PERIPHERALS = extra parts to your computer system | |
INPUT DEVICE | = hardware that gets data to your CPU = keyboard = mouse = scanner = digitized tablet & stylus = digital camera = joy stick |
OUTPUT DEVICE | = hardware that lets you comprehend the data being processed by the CPU = monitor = printer = speakers |
STORAGE DRIVES & MEDIUM | = hardware that records information and the hardware medium that stores it = harddrive disk = 3.5" floppy drive & disk = 100 or 250 MB zip drive & disk = CD ROM (Read-Only Memory) drive & prewritten Compact Disks = writable CD drive with disks (that you create) = 1 GIG jazz drive & disk disk = tape backup drives and product-specific tapes = Websites that will store your data for you on the Internet = Flashdrive/USB, memory card (cellphone, d-came, cardreader) |
SOFTWARE = non-physical components of a computer system such as programs, applications, or other lists of instructions needed by the computer to perform specified tasks | |