Types & Components of Computer

System

Hardware and software

Hardware is a general term for the physical components that make up a
typical computer system.
software
Software is the general term used for the programs that control the computer
system and process data.
Note
Applications software provides the services that the user requires to solve a

given task. For example:

» word processing

» spreadsheet

» database (management system)

» control and measurement software

» apps and applets

» video editing

» graphics editing

» audio editing

» computer-aided design (CAD).

Note

1. Word processing- This is used to manipulate text documents and text

entered via keyboard, the software offers tools for editing, formatting and
managing text, including copy and paste, spell check, image Import, and
translation.
2. Spreadsheet- This organizes and manipulate numerical data. It uses a grid
with cells identified by column and row combinations. Functions include
calculations, graphing and modelling.
3. Database- Database software organizes, manipulates, and analyzes data
using tables made up rows and columns. Each row is record and each
column is a field. Functions include querying data and producing reports as
well as adding, deleting and modifying data in tables.
4. Control and Measurement Software- It enables computers to interact with
sensors, measuring physical quantities and controlling applications by
analyzing data and sending signals for parameter adjustments.
5. Apps and Applets- Applets are small applications embedded in web pages
that perform single tasks within a browser. Apps are software capable of
larger tasks, such as streaming media or banking, originally downloaded
from app stores for smartphones.
6. Video Editing- video editing software enables users to manipulate videos,
adding titles, color correction and alter sound, rearranging clips, applying
filters and creating transitions between them, thereby producing a new
video
7. Graphics Editing- It can modify modify bitmap and vector images- Bitmap
images consist of pixels that determine brightness and color, while vector
graphics editors manipulate lines, curves and text. The choice of software
depends on the original image format
8. Audio Editing- enables users to manipulate and generate audio data by
altering track length, start/stop time, conversion, volume, fading in/out,
combining tracks, noise reduction and creating new versions.
9. Computer-Aided Design- This software aids in creating, manipulating,
modifying and analyzing 2D or 3D designs, producing full dimensions,
estimating manufacturing costs, and predicting structural issues.
Note
System software is the software designed to provide a platform on which all

other software can run. For example:

» compilers

» linkers

» device drivers

» operating systems

» utilities.

Note

1. Compiler- A compiler translates high-level language code into machine code

for a computer to use directly. The source code becomes object code,
allowing repeated use without. recompilation- Eg. Java, Python, Fortran,
Algol, C++ etc. The original program is called the source code and the code
after compilation is called the object code.
2. Linker- A linker is a computer program that combines object fles. from a
compiler into a single program that can run. It is responsible for assembling
separate modules of code into a final program.
3. Device Driver- A device driver is software that enables hardware device to
communicate with a computer's operating system. without drivers, devices
like printers, memory sticks, Mouse cannot function.
4. Operating System- The operating system is crucial software for computer
systems, managing basic functions and enabling communication, error
handling, program running and security management.
5. Utilities- Utility programs are computer software designed to carry out
specific tasks. It helps to manage, maintain, control computer resources.
Such as antivirus, backup, disk repair, file management etc.

Analogue and digital data

Computers can only understand data which is in a binary format (that is, a
base 2 number system where only the values 0 and 1 can be used). This is
often referred to as digital data (because it can only have discrete,
discontinuous values).
Analogue data is physical data that changes smoothly from one value to the
next, and not in discrete steps as with digital data.
Internal Memory

Backing Storage
The main memories in a computer are RAM and ROM. To permanently store
large data, backing storage is needed, usually as an internal hard disk drive
(HDD) or solid-state drive (SSD). This is where applications, operating systems,
and files are kept. A key feature of backing storage is that it must be non-volatile,
storing data permanently.
Operating System
The general tasks for a typical operating system include:

» control of the operation of the input, output and backing storage devices

» supervising the loading, running and storage of applications programs

» dealing with errors that occur in application programs

» maintaining security of the whole computer system

» maintaining a computer log (which details computer usage)

» allowing communication between user and the computer system (user

interface).

User Interfaces

Command Line Interface (CLI):

A command line interface (CLI) requires a user to type in instructions to

choose options from menus, open software, etc.
A programmer, analyst, or technician uses CLI for direct communication with
a computer to develop software and locate errors.

Graphical User Interface (GUI):

 A graphical user interface (GUI) allows the user to interact with a computer
using pictures or symbols (icons) rather than having to type in a number of
commands.
Uses WIMP (Windows Icons Menu and Pointing device)
The end-user who uses the computer for software, games, or photo
storage/manipulation doesn't need advanced knowledge.

Dialogue-Based User Interface:

Dialogue-based user interfaces use the human voice to give commands to a

computer system.
For eg- Siri, Alexa, Luxury Modern Cars

Gesture-Based User Interface:

Gesture-based interfaces use hand, head, or foot movements for human-

computer interaction without mechanical devices, employing computer vision
and image processing techniques.

» rotating a finger clockwise near the radio will increase the sound volume

» opening the thumb and next finger will change the track being listened to

» moving the foot under the rear bumper of the car automatically opens the

boot lid

» moving a hand near a window switch automatically opens a window.

Desktop Computers
Advantages of Desktop over Laptops:-

• Spare parts and connections are standardized, resulting in lower costs.

• Easier and less expensive to upgrade or expand.
• Better specifications (e.g., faster processor) for a given price.
• Power consumption is not critical; larger casings allow better heat dissipation.
• Less likelihood of damage or theft as they are usually fixed in one location.
• More stable internet access due to wired connections, while laptops often use
variable wireless connectivity.

Disadvantages of Desktop over Laptops:-

• Not very portable due to separate components

• More complicated with wiring that clutters desk space
• Needs file copying to a memory stick for work elsewhere
• Cloud storage reduces the issue but may not suit sensitive data files.

Main Uses:-

• Office and business work (word processing, spreadsheets, finance software,

databases)
• Educational use (interactive software for teaching or learning)
• Gaming device (chess, crossword puzzles, fantasy games)
• General entertainment (live or 'catch• up' streaming of television programs)

Laptop
 Note
Advantages when compared to Desktop

1. Portability: Laptops can be taken anywhere, enabling work and leisure in

various environments, making them ideal for travel.

2. Convenient Setup: With only one cord needed for power, laptops reduce
cable clutter, making setup easier.

3. Space Efficiency: Laptops occupy less desk space than desktops, perfect for
smaller work areas.

4. Wireless Connectivity: Laptops leverage wireless networks for easy internet

access, promoting a tidy workspace.

5. Multimedia Integration: They can easily connect to multimedia systems for

presentations, streaming, and gaming, enhancing user experience.

Disadvantages:-

» Because they are easily portable, they are also easier to steal!

» They have limited battery life so the user may need to carry a heavy power

adaptor.

» The keyboards and pointing devices can sometimes be more awkward to use.

» It is not always possible to upgrade them, for instance by adding more RAM.

Main uses:-

office and business work, such as word processing and finance software
educational use with interactive learning software
gaming for various games like chess and puzzles
general entertainment like streaming TV shows
control and monitoring for data collection from the environment.