Lesson 1: Introduction to Computer
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Module 1 β’ Lesson 1
Introduction to Computer & System Architecture
1. What is a Computer?
A Computer is an electronic device that accepts raw data as input, processes it according to stored instructions, and produces meaningful information as output (Input-Process-Output Model).
Figure 1.1: Functional Architecture of a Computer System (IPO Model)
Key Components of CPU:
- ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Performs mathematical calculations (+, -, *, /) and logical comparisons (>, <, ==).
- CU (Control Unit): Acts as the brain coordinator. It fetches instructions from memory and directs data flow.
- MU (Memory Unit): High-speed registers and cache inside the CPU for temporary processing.
2. Memory Hierarchy & Comparison
| Memory Type | Volatility | Speed | Storage Capacity | Example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RAM (Random Access Memory) | Volatile (Lost on Power Off) | Very Fast | 4GB - 64GB | DDR4 / DDR5 RAM |
| ROM (Read Only Memory) | Non-Volatile (Permanent) | Fast | 4MB - 16MB | BIOS / UEFI Chip |
| HDD (Hard Disk Drive) | Non-Volatile | Moderate | 500GB - 4TB | SATA HDD |
| SSD (Solid State Drive) | Non-Volatile | Ultra Fast | 256GB - 2TB | NVMe M.2 SSD |
π οΈ Lab Practical Exercise
- Identify physical components of the computer system (Cabinet, Monitor, Keyboard, Mouse, SMPS).
- Check system RAM and Processor specifications in Windows using
Win + Pause/BreakorSettings > System > About. - Perform safe system boot and graceful shutdown procedure.