Basic Parts of a
Computer System
A presentation adapted from UP-SLIS
(ICT Overview for LIS)
Objectives:
1. define a computer;
2. identify the different parts of a
computer system; and
3. cite the importance of computers by
writing its advantages and disadvantages
to our society today.
Introduction
Electronic devices are converging into
single units with multiple capabilities,
such as to:
– Check e-mail on living room television
– Make telephone calls via a computer
– View Internet content on a smartphone
Introduction
• Computer literacy (understanding
what a computer is and how it works)
is an essential skill for everyone.
Do you agree with the
statement?
What is a computer?
- A computer is a programmable,
electronic device that accepts data,
performs operations on that data,
and stores the data.
What is a computer?
A computer is a machine that can
store and process information.
Most computers rely on a binary
system, which uses two
variables, 0 and 1, to complete
tasks such as storing data,
calculating algorithms, and
displaying information.
What is a computer?
Computers come in many different
shapes and sizes, from handheld
smartphones to supercomputers
weighing more than 300 tons.
What is a computer?
(5) Basic operations (the IPOSC cycle)
Input: Entering data into the computer
Processing: Performing operations on the data
Output: Presenting the results
Storage: Saving data, programs, or output for
future use
Communications: Sending or receiving data
Six (6) basic categories/classes
of computers:
Embedded computers
Mobile devices
Personal computers
Servers
Mainframe computers
Supercomputers
Embedded Computers
An embedded computer is
designed to perform specific
tasks or functions for the
product in which it is
embedded.
Ex: household appliances,
sewing machines,
treadmills, cars, self-driving
cars
Mobile Devices
A mobile device is a very small device
with some type of built-in computing
or Internet capability.
Typically has a small screen and
keyboard
Mobile Devices
May use voice or touch
input
Can perform Internet
searches, pay for products,
and view documents
Include smartphones,
handheld gaming devices,
tablets, and smart watches
Personal Computers (PCs)
A personal computer (PC)
is a small computer
designed to be used by one
person at a time
Ex: Desktop computers
Portable Computers
A portable computer is designed to be
carried around easily
Ex: Notebook (laptop) computers, Tablet
computers Hybrid notebook-tablet
computers Netbooks
Servers
A server is a midrange computer used to
host programs and data for a small
network
Users connect via a network with a
computer.
Used to host data and programs, such as
for school computer lab or medical office
network.
Mainframe Computers
A mainframe computer is a powerful
computer used by many large
organizations to manage large
amounts of centralized data.
Often used in hospitals, universities,
large businesses, banks, government
offices, etc.
Supercomputers
A supercomputer is
the fastest, most
expensive, most
powerful type of
computer
Generally run one
program at a time,
as fast as possible
How computer works?
Parts of a Computer system..
Hardware
is the physical parts of a computer;
includes circuit boards with silicon chips
and transistors, input devices like the
keyboard and mouse, and output devices
like printers and monitors in which
makes the computer system functional.
Parts of a Computer system..
Parts of a Computer system..
Software
is the program or instructions used to
tell the computer hardware what to do
System software allows the computer to
operate
Parts of a Computer system..
Software
It includes the operating system (OS),
which starts up the computer and
controls its operation.
Without an operating system, a
computer cannot function.
Parts of a Computer system..
Software – Operating System
Ex:
Parts of a Computer system..
Application Software (Apps)
perform specific tasks or applications
Ex:
Creating letters, budgets, etc.
Editing photographs
Scheduling appointments
Viewing Web pages
Parts of a Computer system..
Application Software (Apps)
Ex:
Exchanging e-mail
Burning DVDs
Designing homes
Playing games, watching videos, listening to
music
Parts of a Computer system..
Input devices
Used to input data into the computer
Include keyboards, mice, scanners,
cameras, microphones, pens, touch
pads, touch screens, fingerprint
readers, etc.
Parts of a Computer system..
Parts of a Computer system..
Output devices
Present results to the user
Includes monitors, printers,
speakers, headphones, etc.
Parts of a Computer system..
Parts of a Computer system..
Storage and Processing Devices
Includes the central processing unit
(CPU), which performs calculations and
controls the computer’s operations
Used to store data on or access data
from storage media – Include hard
drives, CD/DVD discs and drives, USB
flash drives, etc.
Parts of a Computer system..
Storage and Processing Devices
CPU is like the brains of the computers
– every instruction, no matter how
simple, has to go through the CPU.
Let’s say you press the letter ‘k’ on
your keyboard and it appears on your
screen – the CPU of your computer
makes it possible.
Cite the importance of
computers by writing its
advantages and disadvantages
to our society today.
