What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic device that takes input such as raw data which can be numbers, text, sound, image, animations, video, etc., processes it, and converts it into meaningful information that could be understood , presenting the changed input (processed input) as output. All numbers, text, sound, images, animations, and video used as input are called data, and all numbers, text, sound, images, animations, and video returned as output are called information.
- The data consists of numbers, text, sound, images, animations, and video.
- The process converts numbers, text, sound, images, animations, and video (data) into usable data, which is called information.
- The information consists of numbers, text, sound, images, animations, and video that has been converted by the process.
- The data is inserted using an input device.
- The central processing unit (CPU) converts data to information.
- The information is put on an output device.
A storage device is an apparatus for storing data and information.
A basic computer consists of 4 components: an input device , a CPU, output devices, and memory.
- One of the most common input devices is the keyboard, used to enter text.
Keyboard
Keyboard with a Swedish layout
Keyboard with Danish layout
Optimus-113 keyboard with color screens in each key
Apple keyboard with German layout
- A computer will process data differently based on the kind of data being handled, using a set of instructions called a program or routine.
Computer Case
The CPU and Memory are put into a computer case/ housing.
Macintosh Performa 6400
Power Macintosh 7600
Power Macintosh 8100
Power Macintosh 8200
Fujitsu-Siemens Celvin-1
Monitor
• A computer monitor is the most commonly used output device, for the information processed by the CPU.
A Fujitsu computer monitor
A CRT computer monitor
KDS XFlat monitor, screen
LCD, SyncMaster 710
Computer System
The minimum requirements for a functional computer system include; a keyboard, a case/ housing containing a CPU and memory (although the case itself isn't strictly necessary), and a monitor. The data is usually entered via the keyboard and the information is usually presented through a screen; however, information can also be presented through speakers, braille displays, or any other output devices.
The way components inside a computer fit together helps describe how the computer works.
Data comes in through an Input Device, and is sent to the CPU by Memory. The CPU processes the data, based on the input data and the program which is installed in the computer memory. When the CPU has finished processing the data, it is presented through the output device as information. The information can be stored in the computer memory or presented through an Output Device.
