As a result of the various improvements to the development of computing technology, we have seen computer
devices being used in different aspects of modern living. It has become vital tool that continues to evolve with the
passage of time. Today, we carry more computing power on our smartphones than what was available in
earlier models. However, the fundamental aspects of a typical computer system have not changed as much even
with its continued evolution. Let us take a look at these components.
Let’s keep an eye to the discussions below! You may highlight important points
here for easy rereading.
For this discussion, we are going to look at the three core aspects of computer technology. Each one is
interdependent with the other facets in such a way that the three work interdependently to achieve results, form
solutions or make processes more efficient. Each one may also be categorized according to classes and similar
features.
Hardware
Computer Hardware are the physical parts or tangible components of a computer system; these include the
monitor, keyboard, computer data storage, graphics card, sound card and motherboard—among
others.
A. Input Device
Input Devices are peripherals used to
provide data and control signals to an
information processing system such as
a computer or other information
appliance.
B. Output Device
Output Devices are computer hardware
equipment used to communicate
the result of data processing carried out
by an information processing
system, which then converts the
electronically generated information
into human- readable form.
C. Storage Device
Storage Devices hold information and
serve as recording mediums.
Devices that process information may
either Removable—that is, they
access a separate portable recording
medium; or Fixed—in which they
serve as a permanent component to
store and retrieve information.
Software
A Software is known as a collection of computer programs and related data that provides the instructions
which tells a computer what to do and how to do it. It is the set of instructions that a piece of hardware
executes to carry out a specific task for you.
A. System Software
This is responsible for managing a variety of independent hardware components to work
together in harmony.
B. Operating System (OS)
The OS is a system software that manages
computer hardware and software
resources and provides common services
for computer programs. For hardware
functions such as input and output and
memory allocation, the Operating System
acts as an intermediary between programs
and the computer hardware.
C. Utility Software
This computer system software is used to
analyze, configure, monitor, or help
maintain a computer system.
D. Application Software
Applications are designed to perform a
group of coordinated functions, tasks, or
activities for the benefit of the user.
It is a set of programs that allows the
computer to perform a specific data
processing job for the user.
CATERGORIES OF APPLICATION
SOFTWARE
• Business Software
• Graphic & Multimedia
• Home / Personal / Education
• Communication
• Video Games
Firmware
These are computer software that provide the low-level control for a particular device's specific hardware
Programming Software
Programming Software usually refer to
relatively simple programs such as
compilers, debuggers, interpreters, linkers,
and text editors, and are intended to
assist a programmer in writing computer
programs.
Peopleware
Refers to anyone that has to do with the role of people in the development or use of
computer software and hardware systems.
The IT Practitioners and Professionals
Computer Engineers
Computer engineers are commonly engaged in software and application design to address the needs
of an industry or sector. They are primarily responsible for the update in the software as well as
providing additional customization of current software to ensure the system functionally.
Software Engineers
Software engineers are primarily responsible for the design and development of computer software, as
well as its testing and evaluating. They usually work on computer chips to ensure that it is
functioning well and suited to the company’s need.
Information Technology Specialists
The IT specialists are tasked to plan and coordinate the installation, operations, troubleshooting, and
maintenance of the computer’s software and hardware systems. They ensure that the necessary
security programs, procedures and policies are implemented to guaranty the company’s data are safe
and secure.
Website Designer
Website Designers engage in the construction of the navigation schemes of a website. Their job also
includes putting together online content and applications in the internet. They also work on the web
page’s layout as well as the strategic placement of the useful and practical information about
the website.
Computer Technicians
These technicians oversee the repair and maintenance of computers and servers. They also build or
configure new hardware as well as install and bringing up to date the software. They are also tasked
with the creation and maintenance of computer networks
“How Computers Work: What Makes a Computer, a Computer?” references https://youtu.be/mCq8-xTH7jA
Code. org. (2018) Introducing How Computer Work. Retrieved August 14, 2020 from https://youtu.be/OAx_6-wdslM
Code.org. (2018) How Computers Work: Hardware and Software. Retrieved August 14, 2020 from
https://youtu.be/xnyFYiK2rSY
Code.org. (2018). How Computers Work: CPU, Memory, Input & Output. Retrieved August 14, 2020 from
https://youtu.be/DKGZlaPlVLY
Apiag, et., al. (2018) Living in the IT Era: Surviving Through the Information Age Textbook. Bukidon State
University. Bukidnon State University.
Gangwar, A. (2018, August 13). 10 Best Audio Editing Software in 2018 (Free and Paid). Retrieved from
https://beebom.com/best-audio-editing-software/
Marshall, A. (2019, May 22). The best video editing software 2019. Retrieved from
https://www.techradar.com/best/best-video-editing-software-premium-free
Microsoft Excel. (2019, May 17). Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microsoft_Excel
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