Category: computer Fundamentals

Computer Fundamentals – Useful Resources ”; Previous Next The following resources contain additional information on Computer Fundamentals. Please use them to get more in-depth knowledge on this topic. Useful Video Courses Computer Networks Online Course 107 Lectures 8 hours Tutorialspoint More Detail Computer Fundamentals Online Training 47 Lectures 2.5 hours Tutorialspoint More Detail IT Networking Fundamentals (Computer Networking from Basic Level) Most Popular 20 Lectures 4.5 hours Anchal Kamra More Detail Computer Network Basics 20 Lectures 2 hours TELCOMA Global More Detail Computer Hardware, Operating System and Networking Best Seller 43 Lectures 20 hours ILANCHEZHIAN K More Detail Computer Hardware Engineering Training 18 Lectures 10 hours Uplatz More Detail Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Discuss Computer Fundamentals ”; Previous Next Computer is an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as an input from the user and processes it under the control of a set of instructions (called program), produces a result (output), and saves it for future use. This tutorial explains the foundational concepts of computer hardware, software, operating systems, peripherals, etc. along with how to get the most value and impact from computer technology. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Computer Fundamentals – Quick Guide ”; Previous Next Computer – Overview Today’s world is an information-rich world and it has become a necessity for everyone to know about computers. A computer is an electronic data processing device, which accepts and stores data input, processes the data input, and generates the output in a required format. The purpose of this tutorial is to introduce you to Computers and its fundamentals. Functionalities of a Computer If we look at it in a very broad sense, any digital computer carries out the following five functions − Step 1 − Takes data as input. Step 2 − Stores the data/instructions in its memory and uses them as required. Step 3 − Processes the data and converts it into useful information. Step 4 − Generates the output. Step 5 − Controls all the above four steps. Advantages of Computers Following are certain advantages of computers. High Speed Computer is a very fast device. It is capable of performing calculation of very large amount of data. The computer has units of speed in microsecond, nanosecond, and even the picosecond. It can perform millions of calculations in a few seconds as compared to man who will spend many months to perform the same task. Accuracy In addition to being very fast, computers are very accurate. The calculations are 100% error free. Computers perform all jobs with 100% accuracy provided that the input is correct. Storage Capability Memory is a very important characteristic of computers. A computer has much more storage capacity than human beings. It can store large amount of data. It can store any type of data such as images, videos, text, audio, etc. Diligence Unlike human beings, a computer is free from monotony, tiredness, and lack of concentration. It can work continuously without any error and boredom. It can perform repeated tasks with the same speed and accuracy. Versatility A computer is a very versatile machine. A computer is very flexible in performing the jobs to be done. This machine can be used to solve the problems related to various fields. At one instance, it may be solving a complex scientific problem and the very next moment it may be playing a card game. Reliability A computer is a reliable machine. Modern electronic components have long lives. Computers are designed to make maintenance easy. Automation Computer is an automatic machine. Automation is the ability to perform a given task automatically. Once the computer receives a program i.e., the program is stored in the computer memory, then the program and instruction can control the program execution without human interaction. Reduction in Paper Work and Cost The use of computers for data processing in an organization leads to reduction in paper work and results in speeding up the process. As data in electronic files can be retrieved as and when required, the problem of maintenance of large number of paper files gets reduced. Though the initial investment for installing a computer is high, it substantially reduces the cost of each of its transaction. Disadvantages of Computers Following are certain disadvantages of computers. No I.Q. A computer is a machine that has no intelligence to perform any task. Each instruction has to be given to the computer. A computer cannot take any decision on its own. Dependency It functions as per the user’s instruction, thus it is fully dependent on humans. Environment The operating environment of the computer should be dust free and suitable. No Feeling Computers have no feelings or emotions. It cannot make judgment based on feeling, taste, experience, and knowledge unlike humans. Computer – Applications In this chapter, we will discuss the application of computers in various fields. Business A computer has high speed of calculation, diligence, accuracy, reliability, or versatility which has made it an integrated part in all business organizations. Computer is used in business organizations for − Payroll calculations Budgeting Sales analysis Financial forecasting Managing employee database Maintenance of stocks, etc. Banking Today, banking is almost totally dependent on computers. Banks provide the following facilities − Online accounting facility, which includes checking current balance, making deposits and overdrafts, checking interest charges, shares, and trustee records. ATM machines which are completely automated are making it even easier for customers to deal with banks. Insurance Insurance companies are keeping all records up-to-date with the help of computers. Insurance companies, finance houses, and stock broking firms are widely using computers for their concerns. Insurance companies are maintaining a database of all clients with information showing − Procedure to continue with policies Starting date of the policies Next due installment of a policy Maturity date Interests due Survival benefits Bonus Education The computer helps in providing a lot of facilities in the education system. The computer provides a tool in the education system known as CBE (Computer Based Education). CBE involves control, delivery, and evaluation of learning. Computer education is rapidly increasing the graph of number of computer students. There are a number of methods in which educational institutions can use a computer to educate the students. It is used to prepare a database about performance of a student and analysis is carried out on this basis. Marketing In marketing, uses of the computer are following − Advertising − With computers, advertising professionals create art and graphics, write and revise copy, and print and disseminate ads with the goal of selling more products. Home Shopping − Home shopping has been made possible through the use of computerized catalogues that provide access to product information and permit direct entry of orders to be filled by the customers. Healthcare Computers have become an important part in hospitals, labs, and dispensaries. They are being used in hospitals to keep the record of patients and medicines. It is also used in scanning and diagnosing different diseases. ECG, EEG, ultrasounds and CT scans, etc. are also done by computerized machines. Following are some major fields of health care in which computers are used. Diagnostic System − Computers

How to Buy a Computer? ”; Previous Next In this chapter, we will supply relevant information to help you buy a desktop on component by component basis. As desktops are highly customizable, so it is better to learn about the main parts and then visit the manufacturer or the retailer shop or site, instead of just looking at some specific model directly. Popular desktop brands are Dell, Lenovo, HP and Apple. Always compare the desktops based on their specifications and base price. Monitor Size − It is the diagonal size of the LCD screen. Larger the area, bigger the picture screen. A bigger picture is preferable for movie watching and gaming. It will increase the productivity as well. Resolution − This is the number of pixels on the screen. For example, 24inch display is 1920×1200 (width by length) and 22-inch display is 1680×1050. High resolution provides better picture quality and a nice gaming experience. Inputs − Now-a-days monitors can accept inputs from cable as well apart from the computer. They can also have USB ports. Stand − Some monitors come with adjustable stands while some may not. Recommended − 24 Inch LCD. Operating System Operating System is the main software of the computer as everything will run on it in one form or other. There are primarily three choices: Windows, Linux, Apple OS X. Linux is free, however people generally do not use it for home purpose. Apple OS X works only on Apple desktops. Windows 7 is very popular among desktop users. Most of the computers come pre-equipped with Windows 7 Starter edition. Windows 8 is recently introduced and is available in the market. Windows 7 and Windows 8 come in multiple versions from starter, home basic, home premium, professional, ultimate, and enterprise editions. As the edition version increases, their features list and price increases. Recommended − Windows 7 Home Premium. Optical Drive (CD / DVD / Blu-ray) Optical drive is the drive on a computer, which is responsible for using CD, DVD, and Blu-ray discs. Now-a-days, DVD burners are industry standards. DVD Burner can burn CD, DVD and play them. DVD Burner is cheaper than Blu-ray drives. Blu-ray drives can play HD movies but are costlier component. Recommended − DVD Burner. Memory RAM is considered as Computer Memory as the performance of a computer is directly proportional to its memory and processor. Today”s software and operating system require high memory. Today commonly used RAM is DDR3, which operates at 1066Mhz. As per Windows 7, 1 GB is the minimum RAM required to function properly. Recommended − 4 GB. Hard Drive Hard disk is used for storage purpose. Higher the capacity, more data you can save in it. Now-a-days computers are equipped with 500GB hard drive, which can be extended to 2TB. Most hard drives in desktop operate at the standard performance speed of 7200RPM. Recommended − 500GB. CPU Frequency (GHz) − This determines the speed of the processor. More the speed, better the CPU. Cores − Now-a-days CPUs come with more than one core, which is like having more than one CPU in the computer. Programs which can take advantage of multi-core environment will run faster on such machines. Brand − Intel or AMD. Both are equivalent. Intel is in lead. Cache − Higher the L1, L2 cache, better the CPU performance. Recommended − Intel Core i3-3225 3.30 GHz Processor. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Computer – Available Courses ”; Previous Next Nowadays, various types of courses are provided by educational institutions. Following are some of the common as well as important courses. Course Name Duration (years) Minimum Qualification B.C.A Bachelor of Computer Applications 3 10+2 P.G.D.C.A Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Applications 1 Graduation M.C.A Master of Computer Applications 3 Graduation B.Sc.(CS) Bachelor of Science (Computer Science) 3 10+2 M.Sc.(CS) Master of Science (Computer Science) 2 Graduation B.Tech.(CSE) Bachelor of Technology (Computer Science and Engineering) 4 10+2 B.Tech.(IT) Bachelor of Technology (Information Technology) 4 10+2 M.Tech.(CSE) Master of Technology (Computer Science and Engineering) 2 B.Tech / B.E. M.Tech.(IT) Master of Technology (Information Technology) 2 B.Tech / B.E B.E.(CSE) Bachelor of Engineering (Computer Science and Engineering) 4 10+2 B.E.(IT) Bachelor of Engineering (Information Technology) 4 10+2 Diploma Courses Apart from regular degree courses, computer centers also provide short-term courses (from 3 months to 1 year). Online courses on topics such as Computer Basics, Programming Languages Training, Hardware Training, and Network Certifications are also gaining in popularity. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Computer Fundamentals – Data and Information ”; Previous Next What is Data? Data is a raw material; it’s a collection of facts and figures. Data does not have a significant meaning because of its raw nature. Data may include text, figures, facts, images, numbers, graphs, and symbols and it can be generated from different sources like sensors, surveys, transactions, social media etc. G15, KPL, and Gud are some examples of data. Data needs to be processed to convert into a useful manner which is known as information. For example – Gud is data; after text processing, it converts into Good which is information. Raw material Unstructured information It has no context Processed Data Structured information It has context A proper analysis of data plays an important role in fields like research, science, business, healthcare, agriculture, and technology, driving decision-making and innovation. Characteristics of Data Some characteristics of different types of data are as follows − Type of Data Characteristics Quantitative Data It”s in numerical nature. It can be measured and quantified like height, weight, temperature, etc. This type of data can be analysed using statistical methods. Qualitative / Descriptive Data It is descriptive. It can be explored using colours, textures, opinions or any other related feature. It”s often subjective which requires interpretation. It can be categorical or ordinal. Structured Data It is organized in a predefined structure and usually includes a tabular form like databases, or spreadsheets. Easy to search It can be analysed using standard tools like SQL. Allows performing queries to insert, delete and update. Unstructured Data It lacks a predefined structure. It does not have a pre-defined structure. It may include text documents, social media posts, images, videos, etc. It is difficult to analyse using traditional methods. It processes using advanced techniques like natural language processing (NLP), machine learning, etc. Big Data Data are bigger. It is complex and processes using traditional data processing applications. It has five V”s to identify i.e. volume, velocity, variety, veracity, and value. Metadata It gives information on data about data. It includes data dictionaries, file descriptions, tags, etc. It gives a direction to understand, manage, and improve data search ability and usability. Streaming Data It is continuously generated and transmitted in a real-time environment like sensor data, social media updates, financial market data, etc. It requires real-time data processing. It often uses applications like IoT, real-time analytics, etc. Types of Data Types of Data Quantitative data It”s available in numerical form, like 50 Kg, 165 cm, 15887 etc. Discrete Data Data that take certain values like whole numbers. For example, the number of employees in a department. Continuous Data Data that can take any value within a range. For example, wind speed, and temperature. For example – Over time, certain continuous data, such as the weight of the baby over the year changes or the temperature in the room during the day changes. Qualitative data It”s available in a descriptive form for example name, gender, address, and features of a person. Nominal Data Data that represents categories with no inherent order. For example, colours, and gender. Ordinal Data Data that represents categories with a specific order or ranking. For example, ranking satisfaction levels as “poor,” “average,” or “excellent.” Categorical Data The data which represents categories or labels and is often qualitative is called categorical data. It can include nominal and ordinal data. Numerical Data This type of data includes numbers. It can be either quantitative or qualitative. Time Series Data Data collected over time intervals like stock prices, weather data, and sales figures. Spatial Data Data associated with geographic locations like Google maps, GPS data, and satellite images. What is Information? Information is processed data. It is always useful and used in decision-making. A person who has a lot of information about a particular thing is always considered a knowledgeable person. Hence, a good information base always makes a good knowledge base and a good knowledge base helps to make healthy or fruitful decisions. Characteristics of Information General Characteristics of Information are as follows − It is effective and complete to make decisions. True information is broad in scope. Information relates to the current situation and has an acceptable level of integrity. Information is always compatible with response time. Information is concise and does not contain delicacy. Information is precise and accurate. Information is always relevant. Information can be verifiable. Information contains facts; that can be shared for making fruitful decisions. Information is organised and stored for future reference. Differences Between Data vs Information S.No Data Information 1 Data is a raw material It”s processed data 2 It is meaningless It is meaningful 3 Is not use in decision-making Uses in decision-making 4 Data does not rely on information The information relies on data 5 Data is a collection of facts Information

Basics of Computer Networking ”; Previous Next A computer network is a system in which multiple computers are connected to each other to share information and resources. Characteristics of a Computer Network Share resources from one computer to another. Create files and store them in one computer, access those files from the other computer(s) connected over the network. Connect a printer, scanner, or a fax machine to one computer within the network and let other computers of the network use the machines available over the network. Following is the list of hardware”s required to set up a computer network. Network Cables Distributors Routers Internal Network Cards External Network Cards Network Cables Network cables are used to connect computers. The most commonly used cable is Category 5 cable RJ-45. Distributors A computer can be connected to another one via a serial port but if we need to connect many computers to produce a network, this serial connection will not work. The solution is to use a central body to which other computers, printers, scanners, etc. can be connected and then this body will manage or distribute network traffic. Router A router is a type of device which acts as the central point among computers and other devices that are a part of the network. It is equipped with holes called ports. Computers and other devices are connected to a router using network cables. Now-a-days router comes in wireless modes using which computers can be connected without any physical cable. Network Card Network card is a necessary component of a computer without which a computer cannot be connected over a network. It is also known as the network adapter or Network Interface Card (NIC). Most branded computers have network card pre-installed. Network cards are of two types: Internal and External Network Cards. Internal Network Cards Motherboard has a slot for internal network card where it is to be inserted. Internal network cards are of two types in which the first type uses Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) connection, while the second type uses Industry Standard Architecture (ISA). Network cables are required to provide network access. External Network Cards External network cards are of two types: Wireless and USB based. Wireless network card needs to be inserted into the motherboard, however no network cable is required to connect to the network. Universal Serial Bus (USB) USB card is easy to use and connects via USB port. Computers automatically detect USB card and can install the drivers required to support the USB network card automatically. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Types of Computer Ports ”; Previous Next What are Computer Ports? The computer ports are physical docking points of a computer that facilitate users to connect required external devices to the computer or computer network. A connection point that acts as an interface between the computer and external devices like a mouse, printer, modem, etc. is called a port. Ports are of two types − Internal port − It connects the motherboard to internal devices like hard disk drives, CD drives, internal modems, etc. External port − It connects the motherboard to external devices like modem, mouse, printer, flash drives, etc. Expansion of a computer network or interconnection between multiple peripheral devices was possible through computer ports where network connections start and end. Generally, Ports are computer hardware which are software-based means they are operated by a software program like an operating system. The below image gives an idea about what ports are look like − Fig: Some most commonly used computer/ networking ports Generally, ports are docking points through which information flows from a program to the computer or over the Internet. Working Principles of Computer Ports Computer ports are tangible or virtual connectors on a computer or device that provide connectivity to external devices, peripherals, or networks. They enable the exchange of information between the computer and external devices. The functions or working principles of some common computer ports are as follows − Fig: Functions of computer ports Thunderbolt − These allow peripherals such as external storage, monitors and docking stations to be connected at high speed. Thunderbolt ports, which were created by Intel and Apple, allow for fast data transfer as well as the carrying of power and video. USB-C connectors are frequently used with Thunderbolt 3 ports. Thunderbolt Physical Connection i. Ports are physical sockets ii. Fixes on computer or devices to plug cables or connectors from external devices iii. Cables have connectors at both ends, one to fit into the port on the computer and the other to fit into the external device. Data Transfer i. Once the device connected to a port, data can be transferred between the computer and the device. ii. Allows transferring files to and from external storage devices iii. Sending and receiving data over a network connection iv. Streaming audio and video to external devices. Communication Protocols i. Port uses specific communication protocols to transfer data ii. For example, USB, which offers different data transfer speeds and capabilities, uses protocols such as USB 3.0, USB 3.0C, and USB 2.0C, each of which offers different data transfer speeds and capabilities. Device Recognition i. The device is recognised by the computer and drivers and automatically install drivers or configure settings to support it For example, when we connect a USB mouse, the system detects it automaticall and enables pointer control. Power Supply i. Ports provide power to connected devices. For example Smartphones, tablets, and USB accessories can be powered using USB ports without an adapter. Overall, Computer ports allow the computer to communicate and transfer data with external devices and peripherals. Characteristics of Ports A port has the following characteristics − External devices are connected to a computer using cables and ports. Ports are slots on the motherboard into which a cable of the external device is plugged in. Examples of external devices attached via ports are the mouse, keyboard, monitor, microphone, speakers, etc. Let us now discuss a few important types of ports − Serial Port In the past, it was used to connect different devices which includes modems, mice, and printers; however, due to the prominence of USB, it has become completely obsolete in modern computers. Serial ports transmit data sequentially means one bit at a time. To do the same, these ports require one cable to transmit 8 bits. However, this makes slower communication. Serial ports are usually having 9-pin or 25-pin male connectors. They are also known as COM (communication) ports or RS323C ports. Overall, serial ports act as a port which is − Used for external modems and older computer mice Two versions: 9-pin, 25 pin model Data travels at 115 kilobits per second Parallel Ports Another older port that is primarily used for connecting printers and other devices that are used for external storage; like serial ports, parallel ports are rarely found on modern computers. Parallel ports can send or receive 8 bits or 1 byte at a time. Parallel ports come in the form of 25-pin female pins and are used to connect printers, scanners, external hard disk drives, etc. Used for scanners and printers Also called a printer port 25 pin model IEEE 1284-compliant Centronics port PS/2 Port PS/2 stands for Personal System/2. It is a female 6-pin port standard that connects to the male mini-DIN cable. PS/2 was introduced by IBM to connect Input/output peripherals to personal computers. Used to create a connection between keyboards and mice on computers that is of an earlier generation. PS/2 ports have a circular shape, and they are coloured purple for keyboards and green for mice. This port is now mostly obsolete, though some systems compatible with IBM may have this port. Used for old computer keyboard and mouse Also called the mouse port Most of the old computers provide two PS/2 ports, each for the mouse and keyboard IEEE 1284-compliant Centronics port Universal Serial Bus (or USB) Port USB stands for Universal Serial Bus. It is the industry standard for short-distance

Computer – Power Supply Unit (PSU) ”; Previous Next What is a Power Supply Unit (PSU)? A Power Supply Unit also known as PSU is an essential computer hardware component that converts alternating current (AC) into direct current (DC) and then supplies voltage to every component connected to the system. The power supply transforms a 110-115 or 220-230 volt AC to a stable low-voltage DC that the computer can use and is rated by the number of watts it generates. Most of the power supplies are switched-mode (SMPS), which improves efficiency and simplifies design for different voltage inputs. PSUs have the abilities where the power input varies. Why Power Supply Unit is Important? A power supply is needed and works as an essential component in the computer system for the following reasons − Conversion of AC to DC Power − A primary function of a PSU is to convert AC from the wall outlet into DC and make computers” important components functional like the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and storage drives because they operate on DC power. Voltage Regulation − A PSU supplies the required voltage to different components to ensure that they receive the required voltage to perform +12V, +5V, and +3.3V. Power Distribution − A PSU works as a power supply distributor for the different components connected to the system. Protect system − A PSU also protects systems from overvoltage short-circuit, and thermal protection. Energy Efficiency − Efficient power supplies can cut electricity costs and the environmental effects of running a computer. How Does a Power Supply Unit (PSU) Work? A Power Supply Unit works by converting AC to DC and supplying required voltages to the different components connected to the system. Following are the steps to demonstrate how a PSU works − AC voltage as input − The PSU takes AC voltage as input. Rectification − A rectifier converts inputted AC voltage into DC. Filtering − The rectified DC power is subsequently filtered by capacitors to smooth out fluctuations and remove ripple, producing a more stable DC voltage. Switching − Switching is a process of sending filtered DC power to a high-frequency transformer; the switch-mode power supply (SMPS) converts DC voltage to high-frequency AC. This high-frequency AC enables the use of a smaller and more efficient transformer. Transformation and Isolation − The high-frequency AC is then transferred using a transformer, which steps down the voltage to the desired levels. This transformer keeps isolation between input and output to improve safety. Rectification and Filtering Again − The transformed AC voltage is rectified back into DC with diodes. This DC is then filtered once again with capacitors to remove any residual ripple, resulting in get stable DC voltage. Voltage Regulation − Voltage regulators are used to keep output voltages within limits, despite the changes in input voltage. This is critical to the computer”s stable operation. Output − The regulated DC voltages are supplied to every component connected to the system using specified connectors and cables. It includes common voltages like +12V, +5V, and +3.3V. Protection Mechanisms − Modern PSUs protect the system from overvoltage, short circuits, and thermal protection. Cooling − PSUs are equipped with cooling fans which keep systems cool from system heat generated during operations. Types of Power Supply Units Types of Power Supply are as follows − ATX Standard − These are the most common PSUs usually used in desktop systems. These power supplies are tailored to be compatible with the ATX motherboard and deliver three distinct positive voltage rails: +3.3 V, +5 V, and +12 V, in addition to a standby voltage rail of +5 V SB, which ensures that computers receive power when in standby mode. Entry-Level Power Supply Specification (EPS) − Based on the ATX standard, this PSU was specifically designed for servers. It sets a more stable environment for critical applications than ATX standards, which makes it perfect for critical servers. Small Form Factor (SFX) − These PSUs are used in smaller form-factor computers using MicroATX motherboards. These are the power supply units used in smaller set-top boxes like DVD players and cable boxes. Thin Form Factor (TFX) − TFX power supplies are longer and thinner than traditional ATX power supplies which are used in ultra-slim and low-profile desktops. Modular and Semi-Modular Power Supply − Modular PSUs allow users to connect using cables; this process minimises cable clutter and improves airflow while Semi-Modular PSUs use fixed and detachable cables. Non-Modular Power Supply − All cables are permanent and not removable. These are frequently less expensive, however, they result in more cable clutter. Laptop Power Supply / AC Adapter − External power supplies that convert AC to DCto power laptop computers. These are referred to as power bricks or AC adapters. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) − An external device that provides backup power during power outages, rather than a computer”s power supply unit. It contains batteries and can keep a system working for a short period if the main power fails. Functions of a Power Supply Unit The Power Supply Unit (PSU) in a computer performs different essential functions. Some of them are as follows − Power Conversion − The main function of a PSU is to convert AC from the wall outlet into DC. Generally, it provides multiple DC voltage outputs like +12V, +5V, +3.3V. Voltage Regulation − A PSU supplies the required voltage to different components to ensure that they receive the required voltage to perform +12V, +5V, and +3.3V. This is crucial for reliable operation and stable voltage. Power Distribution − A PSU works as a power supply distributor to the different components connected to the system like motherboard, CPU, graphics card, storage devices, and peripherals. Protection Mechanisms −

Computer – Hardware ”; Previous Next What is Computer Hardware? Hardware is the computer”s peripheral devices which are used to assemble the system. Hardware devices majorly include computer input-output devices, memory, and CPU. Generally, Hardware is the internal and external components of a computer that allow you to accomplish major functions such as input, output, storage, communication, and processing. Some most common examples of computer hardware are − Input / Output devices like Keyboard, mouse, & monitor The central processing unit (CPU) Motherboard Random access memory (RAM) Storage drive (HDD or SSD) Graphics processing unit (GPU) Computer hardware is an umbrella term for computer peripherals. Hardware refers to tangible devices of the system that can physically see, touch and understand its structure. These are the essential components for a computer to work on. Computer hardware is attached to the system internally or externally, depending on whether the physical component is located within or outside of the system. Generally, internal hardware is essential for the computer to function, whereas external hardware improves its use or functionality. Internal computer hardware can be a video card, memory, or the central processing unit (CPU), whereas exterior computer hardware can include a keyboard or mouse. Types of Computer Hardware There are two types of computer hardware − Internal hardware External hardware Internal Hardware Internal hardware is the computer peripherals which are connected inside the computer. These include motherboards, hard drives, and DDR (RAM). The following images are the core examples of computer hardware. External Hardware External hardware is the computer peripherals which are connected to the computer system externally. External hardware includes monitors, keyboards, printers, and scanners. Functions of Computer Hardware Generally, functions of computer hardware depend on hardware units like input, output, and processing and storage units. Hardware functions in a computer system include a wide range of operations that allow the machine to complete its tasks efficiently. These functions are often separated into different categories, each handled by a unique set of hardware components. Below are some of the key functions of the computer hardware”s − Input hardware facilitates users to input the data into the system A keyboard is used to type text, a Mouse to select an option by clicking on it, a scanner to scan images or pages etc. Output hardware produces the output into human understandable forms like a Monitor is used to display the output on the screen, a Printer to print output in the form of hard copy, speakers used to produce audio sound and projectors are used to project visual output on larger surfaces. Processing hardware like processors executes programs or instructions and performs calculations or does computations. Storage hardware like memory devices stores data to retain for future use. RAM for temporary storage and HDD to store data permanently. Communication hardware devices enable users to data exchange between multiple devices over the computer network. These include Network Interface Card (NIC), Modem, and Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Adapters. Control hardware manages and directs the operations of different components attached to the system. It includes a Motherboard, Power Supply Unit (PSU) and BIOS/UEFI. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;