Unit-1

Introduction to Components of Computer System

A computer system is a dynamic and interconnected assembly of hardware and software program
application components that is designed to approach, store, and communicate information.
Historical Perspective
1. Pre-Modern Computers
Early computing gadgets like the abacus and slide rule date back hundreds of years, serving as
essential gadgets for mathematical calculations.
2. First-Generation Computers (1930s-50s)
The first-technology Computers have been big electromechanical devices, together with the
ENIAC, regularly used for clinical and RMC calculations. They used vacuum tubes and punched
gambling cards for information processing.
3. Second-Generation Computers (1950s-60s)
Second-generation computer structures replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, resulting in
smaller, more reliable machines. They have nonetheless been particularly used for scientific and
agency programs.
4. Third-Generation Computers (1960s-70s)
Integrated circuits, or microchips, have been introduced, making computer systems even smaller
and more powerful. Mainframes and minicomputers have become more common, not unusual.
5. Fourth-Generation Computers (1970s-Present)
The development of microprocessors marked the beginning of the personal computer era. This
era witnessed the emergence of PCs and the microcomputer revolution.
6. Fifth-Generation Computers (Present and Beyond)
The combination of synthetic intelligence and the advanced era in computer structures
characterizes this era. It includes trends in quantum computing, deep learning, and herbal
language processing.

Components of Computer system

Given below are the 5 components of a computer along with their purpose and functions.
 Input Unit
A computer will only respond when a command is given to the device. These commands can be
given using the input unit or the input devices.
For example: Using a keyboard we can type things on a Notepad and the computer processes the
entered data and then displays the output of the same of the screen.
The data entered can be in the form of numbers, alphabet, images, etc. We enter the information
using an input device, the processing units convert it into computer understandable languages
and then the final output is received by a human-understandable language.
 Output Unit
When we command a computer to perform a task, it reverts for the action performed and gives us
a result. This result is called output. There are various output devices connected to the computer.
The most basic of which is a monitor. Whatever we write using a keyboard or click using a
mouse, is all displayed on the monitor.
Thus, the output unit gives us the final result once the entire processing is done within the
mechanism of a device.
For example: when we visit an ATM, we enter our details like language, pin, amount to be
withdrawn, etc. and then the final money which the cash dispenser releases is our outcome. In
this case, the cash dispenser acts as an output unit.
 Memory Unit
When we enter the data into the computer using an input device, the entered information
immediately gets saved in the memory unit of the Central Processing Unit (CPU). Because of the
presence of some existing programming, the Memory Unit transmits the data further to the other
parts of the CPU.
Similarly, when the output of our command is processed by the computer, it is saved in the
memory unit before giving the output to the user.
 Control Unit
This is the core unit which manages the entire functioning of the computer device. It is one of the
most essential components of the computer system.
The Control Unit collects the data entered using the input unit, leads it on for processing and
once that is done, receives the output and presents it to the user. It can be said to the centre of all
processing actions taking place inside a computer device.
Basically, the instructions taken, interpretation of entered data, issuing signals to execute the data
and then finally retrieving the data is all done in the Control Unit.
 Arithmetic & Logical Unit
As the name suggests, all the mathematical calculations or arithmetic operations are performed in
the Arithmetic and Logical Unit of the CPU.
It can also perform actions like a comparison of data and decision-making actions. The ALU
comprises circuits using which addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and other numerical
based calculations can be performed.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The Central Processing Unit is the core of any computer devices. It comprises three major
components of the computer which have been discussed above:
 Memory Unit
 Control Unit
 Arithmetic and Logical Unit
All these three units are elements of CPU and together help in the efficient working and
processing of data. It is also known as the “Brain of Computer” and no action can be conducted
by a device without the execution and permission of the Central Processing Unit.
What is an Operating System?

An Operating System is a System software that manages all the resources of the computing
device.
 Acts as an interface between the software and different parts of the computer or the
computer hardware.
 Manages the overall resources and operations of the computer.
 Controls and monitors the execution of all other programs that reside in the computer,
which also includes application programs and other system software of the computer.
 Examples of Operating Systems are Windows, Linux, macOS, Android, iOS, etc.
What is an Operating System Used for?
 As a platform for Application programs: It provides a platform, on top of which, other
programs, called application programs can run.
 Managing Input-Output unit: It also allows the computer to manage its own resources
such as memory, monitor, keyboard, printer, etc. Management of these resources is
required for effective and fair utilization.
 Multitasking: It manages memory and allows multiple programs to run in their own
space and even communicate with each other through shared memory.
 Manages memory and Files: It manages the computer’s main memory and second
storage. Additionally, it allows and deallocates memory to all tasks and applications.
 Provides Security: It helps to maintain the system and applications safe through the
authorization process. Thus, the OS provides security to the system.

What is Computer Memory?

Computer memory is just like the human brain. It is used to store data/information and
instructions. It is a data storage unit or a data storage device where data is to be processed and
instructions required for processing are stored. It can store both the input and output can be
stored here.
Characteristics of Computer Memory
 It is faster computer memory as compared to secondary memory.
 It is semiconductor memories.
 It is usually a volatile memory, and main memory of the computer.
 A computer system cannot run without primary memory.
How Does Computer Memory Work?
When you open a program, it is loaded from secondary memory into primary memory. Because
there are various types of memory and storage, an example would be moving a program from a
solid-state drive (SSD) to RAM. Because primary storage is accessed more quickly, the opened
software can connect with the computer’s processor more quickly. The primary memory is
readily accessible from temporary memory slots or other storage sites.
Memory is volatile, which means that data is only kept temporarily in memory. Data saved in
volatile memory is automatically destroyed when a computing device is turned off. When you
save a file, it is sent to secondary memory for storage.
There are various kinds of memory accessible. It’s operation will depend upon the type of
primary memory used. but normally, semiconductor-based memory is more related with
memory. Semiconductor memory made up of IC (integrated circuits) with silicon-based metal-
oxide-semiconductor (MOS) transistors.
Types of Computer Memory
In general, computer memory is of three types:
 Primary memory
 Secondary memory
 Cache memory
1. Primary Memory
It is also known as the main memory of the computer system. It is used to store data and
programs or instructions during computer operations. It uses semiconductor technology and
hence is commonly called semiconductor memory. Primary memory is of two types:
 RAM (Random Access Memory): It is a volatile memory. Volatile memory stores
information based on the power supply. If the power supply fails/ interrupted/stopped, all
 the data and information on this memory will be lost. RAM is used for booting up or start
the computer. It temporarily stores programs/data which has to be executed by the
processor. RAM is of two types:
o S RAM (Static RAM): S RAM uses transistors and the circuits of this memory
are capable of retaining their state as long as the power is applied. This memory
consists of the number of flip flops with each flip flop storing 1 bit. It has less
access time and hence, it is faster.
o D RAM (Dynamic RAM): D RAM uses capacitors and transistors and stores the
data as a charge on the capacitors. They contain thousands of memory cells. It
needs refreshing of charge on capacitor after a few milliseconds. This memory is
slower than S RAM.
 ROM (Read Only Memory): It is a non-volatile memory. Non-volatile memory stores
information even when there is a power supply failed/ interrupted/stopped. ROM is used
to store information that is used to operate the system. As its name refers to read-only
memory, we can only read the programs and data that is stored on it. It contains some
electronic fuses that can be programmed for a piece of specific information. The
information stored in the ROM in binary format. It is also known as permanent memory.
ROM is of four types:
o MROM(Masked ROM): Hard-wired devices with a pre-programmed collection
of data or instructions were the first ROMs. Masked ROMs are a type of low-cost
ROM that works in this way.
o PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory): This read-only memory is
modifiable once by the user. The user purchases a blank PROM and uses a PROM
program to put the required contents into the PROM. Its content can’t be erased
once written.
o EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory): EPROM is an
extension to PROM where you can erase the content of ROM by exposing it to
Ultraviolet rays for nearly 40 minutes.
o EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory): Here
the written contents can be erased electrically. You can delete and reprogramme
EEPROM up to 10,000 times. Erasing and programming take very little time, i.e.,
 nearly 4 -10 ms(milliseconds). Any area in an EEPROM can be wiped and
programmed selectively.

2. Secondary Memory
It is also known as auxiliary memory and backup memory. It is a non-volatile memory and used
to store a large amount of data or information. The data or information stored in secondary
memory is permanent, and it is slower than primary memory. A CPU cannot access secondary
memory directly. The data/information from the auxiliary memory is first transferred to the main
memory, and then the CPU can access it.
Characteristics of Secondary Memory
 It is a slow memory but reusable.
 It is a reliable and non-volatile memory.
 It is cheaper than primary memory.
 The storage capacity of secondary memory is large.
 A computer system can run without secondary memory.
 In secondary memory, data is stored permanently even when the power is off.

Types of Secondary Memory

1. Magnetic Tapes: Magnetic tape is a long, narrow strip of plastic film with a thin, magnetic
coating on it that is used for magnetic recording. Bits are recorded on tape as magnetic patches
called RECORDS that run along many tracks. Typically, 7 or 9 bits are recorded concurrently.
Each track has one read/write head, which allows data to be recorded and read as a sequence of
characters. It can be stopped, started moving forward or backward, or rewound.

2. Magnetic Disks: A magnetic disk is a circular metal or a plastic plate and these plates are
coated with magnetic material. The disc is used on both sides. Bits are stored in magnetized
surfaces in locations called tracks that run in concentric rings. Sectors are typically used to break
tracks into pieces.
Hard discs are discs that are permanently attached and cannot be removed by a single user.

3. Optical Disks: It’s a laser-based storage medium that can be written to and read. It is
reasonably priced and has a long lifespan. The optical disc can be taken out of the computer by
occasional users.
Types of Optical Disks
CD – ROM
 It’s called compact disk. Only read from memory.
 Information is written to the disc by using a controlled laser beam to burn pits on the disc
surface.
 It has a highly reflecting surface, which is usually aluminium.
 The diameter of the disc is 5.25 inches.
 16000 tracks per inch is the track density.
 The capacity of a CD-ROM is 600 MB, with each sector storing 2048 bytes of data.
 The data transfer rate is about 4800KB/sec. & the new access time is around 80
milliseconds.
WORM-(WRITE ONCE READ MANY)
 A user can only write data once.
 The information is written on the disc using a laser beam.
 It is possible to read the written data as many times as desired.
 They keep lasting records of information but access time is high.
 It is possible to rewrite updated or new data to another part of the disc.
 Data that has already been written cannot be changed.
  Usual size – 5.25 inch or 3.5 inch diameter.
 The usual capacity of 5.25 inch disk is 650 MB,5.2GB etc.
DVDs
 The term “DVD” stands for “Digital Versatile/Video Disc,” and there are two sorts of
DVDs:
o DVDR (writable)
o DVDRW (Re-Writable)
 DVD-ROMS (Digital Versatile Discs): These are read-only memory (ROM) discs that
can be used in a variety of ways. When compared to CD-ROMs, they can store a lot more
data. It has a thick polycarbonate plastic layer that serves as a foundation for the other
layers. It’s an optical memory that can read and write data.
 DVD-R: DVD-R is a writable optical disc that can be used just once. It’s a DVD that can
be recorded. It’s a lot like WORM. DVD-ROMs have capacities ranging from 4.7 to 17
GB. The capacity of 3.5 inch disk is 1.3 GB.

3. Cache Memory
It is a type of high-speed semiconductor memory that can help the CPU run faster. Between the
CPU and the main memory, it serves as a buffer. It is used to store the data and programs that the
CPU uses the most frequently.
Advantages of Cache Memory
 It is faster than the main memory.
 When compared to the main memory, it takes less time to access it.
 It keeps the programs that can be run in a short amount of time.
 It stores data in temporary use.
Disadvantages of Cache Memory
 Because of the semiconductors used, it is very expensive.
 The size of the cache (amount of data it can store) is usually small.