Computer Systems

Chapter Two Created By: Mr. Hidra

What is Computer Systems?
Computer system is a complex arrangement of hardware, software,
user and data that work together to perform various task and processes.
Components of Computer Systems
Computer systems are complex entities composed of various
interrelated components that work together to perform a wide range of
tasks.
These components can be broadly categorized into three main
types:
 Hardware,
 Software, and
 Users.
Each plays a crucial role in the functioning of a computer system. ta
centers.
 1. Hardware
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system. These components
can be further divided into two categories: internal components and external components.
1. INTERNAL COMPONENTS:
Internal components are housed within the computer's casing and are integral to its
operation. They include:
 Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, the
CPU performs calculations and executes instructions necessary for computer programs.
 Motherboard: This is the main circuit board that connects all the internal
components, allowing them to communicate with each other. It includes slots for the
CPU, memory, and other crucial components.
 Memory: This includes both Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read-Only Memory
(ROM). RAM is the computer's short-term memory, storing data that the CPU needs
quick access to while running programs. In contrast, ROM is a type of non-volatile
memory that contains essential instructions for booting the computer and performing
hardware initialization. Unlike RAM, the data in ROM is not lost when the computer is
powered off.
Cont..
 Storage Drives: These include Hard Disk Drives (HDD) and Solid State
Drives (SSD), which store data and software permanently, even when the
computer is turned off.
 Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Responsible for rendering images
and videos, the GPU is especially important for gaming and graphic
design tasks.
 Power Supply Unit (PSU): This component converts electricity from the
outlet into usable power for the computer's components.
 Cooling System: This is essential for maintaining optimal temperatures
within the computer. It includes fans, heat sinks, and sometimes liquid
cooling systems to dissipate heat generated by the CPU, GPU, and other
components to prevent overheating.
 Ports and Connectors: These facilitate communication between the
internal components and external devices. Common ports include USB,
HDMI, and Ethernet, which allow for the connection of peripherals and
network devices.
Cont..
2. EXTERNAL COMPONENTS
External components, or peripherals, are devices that connect to
the computer externally to expand its functionality. They include:
 Monitor: The screen that displays visual output from the
computer.
 Keyboard and Mouse: Input devices used for interacting with
the computer.
 Printer: A device that produces hard copies of documents and
images.
 External Storage Devices: Such as USB drives and external
hard drives, used for additional data storage or backup.
 Speakers and Headphones: Audio output devices for sound.
2. Software
Software refers to the programs and operating systems that run
on a computer system. It is the non-tangible part of the computer
that tells the hardware what to do. Software can be categorized
into:
 System Software: This includes the operating system (e.g.,
Windows, macOS, Linux) and utilities that manage computer
resources and provide a user interface.
 Application Software: These are programs designed for
end-users to perform specific tasks, such as word processors,
web browsers, and games.
 Development Software: Tools used by developers to create
other software, such as compilers and integrated development
environments (IDEs).
Data
These are the raw facts entered in to a computer
system that is used to make decisions, solve
problems, or might not have any meaning by itself.
However, when computed into total and average.
That data gives information such as the student’s
progress. That information can be used to make
some conclusions or develop insights about the
student.
For example, the name of a student, subjects, and
corresponding marks is a single point of data. It
3. Users
Users are the people who interact with the
computer system.
They can be individuals using computers for
personal tasks, professionals using them for work,
or developers creating new software and
applications.
Users play a critical role as they provide input,
analyze output, and make decisions based on the
information processed by the computer system.
Computer Generations
Computer generations refer to the evolution of computing technology, where
each generation represents a significant technological advancement over the
previous one.
The history of computers is typically divided into five generations, each marked
by a major technological development that fundamentally changed the way
computers operate.
First Generation (1940s-1950s):
Characteristics:
 Vacuum Tubes: Used for circuitry and switching.
 Magnetic Drums: Used as primary memory.
 Machine Language: Programming was done using machine language.
 Size and Heat: Very large in size and produced a lot of heat.
 Limited Operation Speed: Slow processing speeds.
 Punched Cards: Used for input and output.
 High Power Consumption: Required a lot of electricity.
Cont..
Second Generation (1950s-1960s):
Characteristics:
 Transistors: Replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller.
 Assembly Language: Programming was done using assembly
language, which is more efficient than machine language.
 Magnetic Core Memory: Used for primary storage.
 Batch Processing: Operations were conducted in batches.
 Improved Speed and Efficiency: Faster processing speeds
compared to the first generation.
 Reduced Heat: Less heat generation compared to vacuum
tubes.
 More Reliable: Increased reliability over the first generation.
Cont..
Third Generation (1960s-1970s)
Characteristics:
 Integrated Circuits (ICs): Allowed for smaller and more
powerful computers.
 High-Level Programming Languages: Introduction of
languages like COBOL and FORTRAN.
 Multiprogramming: Capability to run multiple programs
simultaneously.
 Increased Efficiency: Faster and more efficient processing.
 Reduced Size: Further reduced size of computers.
 Lower Cost: More affordable than previous generations.
 User Interface: Development of operating systems and user
interfaces.
Cont..
Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s)
Characteristics:
 Microprocessors: Use of microprocessors for processing, leading to the
development of personal computers.
 VLSI Technology: Very Large Scale Integration technology used for
creating microprocessors.
 Graphical User Interface (GUI): Development of more user-friendly
interfaces.
 Networking: Introduction of computer networking and the Internet.
 Portable Computers: Emergence of laptops and portable computing
devices.
 Enhanced Storage: Use of magnetic disks and optical discs for storage.
 Reduced Cost and Size: Dramatic reduction in cost and size of
computers.
Cont..
Fifth Generation (1980s-Present):
Characteristics:
 Artificial Intelligence (AI): Incorporation of AI technologies in
computing.
 Natural Language Processing: Ability to understand human
language.
 Parallel Processing: Use of parallel processing to increase speed.
 Quantum Computing: Research and development of quantum
computers.
 Advanced Robotics: Integration with robotics for more
sophisticated tasks.
 Ubiquitous Computing: Pervasive computing environments.
 Voice and Gesture Recognition: Advanced user interaction
through voice and gestures.
Future Generations
 Quantum Computing: Development of quantum computers that
leverage quantum bits (qubits) for exponentially faster processing.
 Neuromorphic Computing: Creation of systems that mimic human
brain functions for advanced problem-solving and pattern recognition.
 Ubiquitous Computing: Integration of computing into everyday
objects, making technology seamlessly embedded in daily life.
 Enhanced AI: Continued evolution of AI with greater autonomy,
deeper learning capabilities, and emotional intelligence.
 Sustainability: Focus on creating energy-efficient computing
solutions that minimize environmental impact.
 Advanced Interfaces: Development of more intuitive user interfaces,
including brain-computer interfaces and advanced gesture recognition.
 Cost Accessibility: Further reduction in costs, ensuring that
advanced computing technology is accessible to all segments of
society.
 Classification of Computers
Computers can be classified in several ways, including by
1) Performance,
2) Portability,
3) Signal, and
4) Purpose.
Each category highlights different characteristics and functionalities of
computers, allowing users to select the most suitable device for their needs.
1) Based on Performance
(a) Supercomputers
Description: The most powerful in terms of processing capacity and
speed.
Use: Used for complex simulations, weather forecasting, scientific
research, and cryptography.
Example: Summit, Fugaku.
Cont..
(b) Mainframe Computers

Description: Large, powerful systems used for bulk

data processing and critical applications.

Use: Employed by large organizations for transaction

processing, enterprise resource planning, and census.

Example: IBM Z series.

Cont..
(c) Minicomputers

Description: Mid-sized, less powerful than

mainframes but more powerful than personal
computers.

Use: Used in manufacturing processes, research labs,

and small to medium-sized enterprises.

Example: VAX computers.

Cont..
(d) Workstation computers

Description: These are high-performance computers

designed for technical or scientific applications.

Use: They are typically used by professionals such as

engineers, architects, graphic designers, and video editors
who require powerful processing capabilities, large storage
capacity, and high-quality graphics and display
capabilities.
Cont..

(e) Microcomputers

Description: Commonly known as personal

computers (PCs), designed for individual use.

Use: Everyday tasks such as browsing, gaming,

and document processing.

Example: Desktops, laptops, tablets.

Cont..
1) Based on Portability
(a) Desktop Computers
Description: Non-portable, designed to be used at a single location.
Use: Suitable for office work, gaming setups, and home use.
(b) Laptops
Description: Portable computers with integrated components, such
as a screen and keyboard.
Use: Ideal for mobile work, education, and personal use.

(c) Tablets
Description: Portable, touchscreen devices without a physical
keyboard.
Use: Useful for reading, casual browsing, and entertainment.
Cont..
(d) Palmtops

Palmtops are small computers that literally fit in your palm.

Compared to full-size computers, palmtops are severely limited in

functionality.

However, they are practical for certain functions, such as phone books and
calendars.

They are commonly known as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Because

of their small size, most palmtop computers do not include disk drives.

Palmtops have small keyboards or specialized keypads tailored to specific

industries. Palmtops use pens and keyboards to input data.
Cont..
(e) Notebooks

Notebooks computers are small compared to laptop computers.

Besides the size and portability. The main difference between a

notebook computer and a laptop, is the display screen.

Notebook computers use various techniques, known as flat

panel technologies, to produce a lightweight and non-bulky
display screen.

The quality of notebook display screens varies considerably.

Cont..
3) Based on Signal

(a) Analog Computers

Description: Use continuous data and physical phenomena to perform
calculations.
Use: Employed in scientific and engineering applications for simulations.
Example: Slide rules, thermometers.

(b) Digital Computers

Description: Use discrete values (0s and 1s) for processing information.
Use: Widely used in all modern computing tasks, from simple to
complex.
Example: PCs, Smartphones.
Cont..

(c) Hybrid Computers

Description: Combine features of both analog and

digital computers.

Use: Used in specialized fields like robotics and

process control.

Example: Hybrid computing systems in hospitals.

Cont..
4) Based on Purpose

(a) General-Purpose Computers

Description: Designed to perform a wide variety of tasks.
Use: Suitable for general computing needs, from word
processing to gaming.
Example: PCs, Laptops.

(b) Special-Purpose Computers

Description: Built for a specific task or application.
Use: Used in situations where specific computations are needed,
such as ATM machines or automotive control systems.
Example: Embedded systems, calculators.
This makes an End of Chapter Two