Understanding Computer Basics; Hardware vs. Software; Key Internal Components (CPU, RAM, Storage); External Devices & Connectivity; How Components Work Together

Computer Components Explained

Physics

Computer Components Explained

Explore how computers work from the inside out.

Agenda

• Understanding Computer Basics

• Hardware vs. Software

• Key Internal Components (CPU, RAM, Storage)

• External Devices & Connectivity

• How Components Work Together

Your Digital World

Think about your smartphone, laptop, or even a smart TV. These are all computers, and they rely on amazing internal parts to function. We'll explore what makes these devices tick, from tiny chips to powerful processors.

Gaming devices: computers with amazing internal parts.

Computer Components

• CPU: The 'brain,' processes all instructions.

• RAM: Temporary memory for active programs.

• Storage: Saves files, like an SSD or HDD.

• Motherboard: Connects all components to work.

Hardware: The Physical Parts

Software: The Instructions

Hardware refers to all the physical components of a computer system that you can touch and see. Think of it as the 'body' of the computer, providing its structure and physical capabilities. Examples include the keyboard, mouse, monitor, and the central processing unit (CPU) inside the computer case.

Software is the set of instructions or programs that tell the hardware what to do. It's like the 'brain' or 'mind' of the computer, enabling it to perform tasks and interact with users. Common examples are web browsers like Google Chrome, operating systems such as Windows 11, and popular video games like Minecraft.

Outside the Box

• Input devices: Keyboard, mouse, webcam, microphone.

• Output devices: Monitor, printer, speakers, headphones.

• Storage devices: External hard drive, USB flash drive.

• Network devices: Router, modem, Ethernet cable.

Talking to Computers

Input devices are essential for us to communicate with computers. They allow us to send commands and data, like typing a search query on a keyboard or selecting an app with a mouse. Without these tools, computers wouldn't know what actions we want them to perform.

Hands typing on keyboard: essential input device for computer interaction.

Computers Talk Back

Output devices allow computers to 'talk back' by presenting information in a human-readable form. A monitor, like a Dell UltraSharp display, shows you images and text on a screen. A printer, such as an HP LaserJet, produces physical copies of documents.

Comparing digital texts on monitors in a workspace.

Internal Hardware

• Motherboard: Connects all parts; PC's backbone.

• CPU (Processor): The "brain," executes all instructions (e.g., Intel Core).

• RAM (Memory): Temporary data storage, fast access (e.g., 8GB DDR4).

• Storage Drive: Stores files permanently (e.g., SSD, HDD).

The Computer's Brain

The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is like the computer's brain, handling all the instructions and calculations. It processes everything from opening a web browser to running complex games. Modern CPUs, like the Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 7, perform billions of operations per second.

CPU: The brain of your computer, processing billions of operations.

Computer Components Explained

Understanding Computer Basics; Hardware vs. Software; Key Internal Components (CPU, RAM, Storage); External Devices & Connectivity; How Components Work Together

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