Basics of Hardware and Software

Introduction

A computer system is made up of two essential components: hardware and software. Both work together to process data and perform tasks efficiently.

1. Hardware

Definition:

Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that can be seen and touched.

Types of Hardware:

A. Input Devices – Used to enter data into the computer.

📌 Examples:

• Keyboard 🖋️ – For typing text and commands.
• Mouse 🖱️ – For navigation and selecting items.
• Scanner 📠 – Converts physical documents into digital format.
• Microphone 🎤 – Captures audio input.

B. Processing Unit – The brain of the computer.

📌 CPU (Central Processing Unit) 🖥️

Performs all calculations and processes instructions.

Made up of:

• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) – Performs mathematical operations.
• CU (Control Unit) – Directs the flow of data and instructions.

C. Storage Devices – Used for storing data.

📌 Examples:

• Primary Storage (RAM - Random Access Memory) – Temporary memory used for quick data access.
• Secondary Storage (HDD/SSD - Hard Disk Drive/Solid State Drive) – Permanent storage of data.
• External Storage (USB, Memory Card) – Portable storage for transferring data.

D. Output Devices – Display the processed data.

📌 Examples:

• Monitor 🖥️ – Displays text, images, and videos.
• Printer 🖨️ – Prints documents and photos.
• Speakers 🔊 – Outputs sound.

E. Communication Devices – Used for data transfer and networking.

📌 Examples:

• Modem 🌐 – Connects to the internet.
• Router 📶 – Distributes internet across multiple devices.
• Network Interface Card (NIC) 🛜 – Enables wired and wireless networking.

2. Software

Definition:

Software is a set of programs and instructions that tell the computer how to perform specific tasks.

Types of Software:

A. System Software – Controls and manages computer hardware.

📌 Examples:

• Operating System (OS) – Manages hardware and software.
• Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android.
• Utility Software – Performs maintenance tasks.
• Examples: Antivirus, Disk Cleanup, File Compression.

B. Application Software – Used for specific tasks.

📌 Examples:

• Productivity Software – MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint.
• Multimedia Software – VLC Media Player, Photoshop.
• Web Browsers – Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari.

C. Programming Software – Used to create new software.

📌 Examples:

• Programming Languages – C, Java, Python.
• Compilers & Debuggers – Convert code into executable format