What is computer?

What Is a Computer

A computer is an electronic device which is capable of receiving the inputs (data from the user), storing it for a desired period of time, manipulating it according to the set of instructions (called program) and producing the output to the user in desired form. It performs a variety of operations in accordance to the set of instructions. Basic architecture of a computer system consists of:

1.      Input Unit - responsible to give data to a computer. E.g. Keyboard, Mouse etc…

2.      CPU (Central Processing Unit) – consists of three components:

a)      Memory Unit (MU)

Three types of Memory devices are there:

·         Internal Memory/Main Memory

It is a semi-conductor memory used for storing programs as well as data using programs execution. It is directly accessible to the CPU. It is further divided into: RAM (random access memory) ROM (Read Only Memory)

·         External Memory

External memory can be attached to the computer and used as a storage medium. E.g. USB Flash Drives, external hard drives.

·         Cache memory

It is a high speed buffer between the CPU and the Main Memory. The CPU consults the Cache and when it cannot find the instructions, it looks into Main Memory.

b)      Control Unit (CU)

Control Unit is also called the Central Nervous System of the computer and the CPU itself is called the brain or heart of the computer. Control Unit manages the flow of control.

c)      Arithmetic and Logical Unit (ALU)

 It is fundamental Building block of the CPU. Any Arithmetic or Logical operation to be performed is performed by the ALU. Even the basic Microprocessors also contain the ALU. ALU can also be designed to calculate any operations.

3.      Output Unit – responsible for providing information to the user. E.g. Printer, Monitor etc…

 (source: http://www.trivology.com/articles/296/what-is-a-computer.html)

VOCABULARY                

·         Storing            : Menyimpan

·         Manipulating   : Memanipulasi

·         Desired           : Diinginkan

·         Conductor       : Konductor

·         Attached         : Terlampir

·         Storage            : Penyimpanan

·         Speed              : Kecepatan

·         Manages          : Mengatur

·         Block              : Blok

·         User                : Pengguna

EXERCISE

1.      What is the computer?

2.      What does the computer use?

3.      What is the basic architecture of the computer?

4.      What does the function of component of the CPU?

5.       Give example for each basic architecture of the computer!