INTRODUCTION TO
COMPUTERS
IT 100
Objective:
• Students will understand the basic components and functions of
a computer system and differentiate between types of computers.
WHAT IS A
COMPUTER?
WHAT IS A COMPUTER?
• A computer is an electronic device that processes data
according to a set of instructions, known as a program.
• It can perform various tasks, such as calculations, data
storag e, and data manipulation, by executing these
instructions at high speed.
WHAT ARE THE TWO
MAIN COMPONENTS
OF A COMPUTER?
Computers consist of two main components:
HARDWARE and SOFTWARE.
• Hardware refers to the physical parts of the computer,
like the processor, memory, and storage devices, while
• Software includes the programs and operating systems
that tell the hardware what to do.
IMPORTANCE OF
COMPUTERS
Importance of Computers:
• Efficiency and Speed: Computers can process large amounts of
data quickly and accurately, enabling tasks that would take humans
much longer to complete.
• Automation: Computers can automate repetitive tasks, reducing
the need for manual intervention and increasing productivity in
various industries.
Importance of Computers:
• Data Management: Computers allow for the storage, retrieval,
and manipulation of vast amounts of data, which is essential for
businesses, research, and everyday tasks.
• Communication: Computers facilitate global communication
through the internet, email, and social media, connecting people and
businesses around the world.
Importance of Computers:
• Innovation: The computing power of computers drives innovation
in fields such as medicine, engineering, entertainment, and more,
enabling advancements that improve quality of life.
• Access to Information: Computers provide access to a wealth of
information, from educational resources to news and entertainment,
helping to inform and educate people globally.
KEY COMPONENTS
OF A COMPUTER
KEY COMPONENTS
OF A COMPUTER
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
2. Memory (RAM)
3. Storage
4. Motherboard
5. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
6. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
7. Input Devices
8. Output Devices
9. Network Interface Card (NIC)
10.Cooling System
11.Case (Chassis)
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• Function:
• Often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, the CPU
performs most of the processing inside the computer.
• It executes instructions from programs, performing basic
arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output (I/O) operations.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
• Components:
• Control Unit (CU): Directs the operation of the processor by
telling the other parts of the computer how to respond to
instructions.
• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Handles arithmetic and logical
operations.
Central Processing
Unit (CPU)
2. Memory (RAM)
• Function:
• Random Access Memory (RAM) is the computer's short-term
memor y, used to store data that is actively being used or
processed.
• The more RAM a computer has, the more tasks it can handle
simultaneously.
Memory (RAM)
• Importance:
• RAM significantly impacts the system's speed and performance,
especially when running multiple applications.
Memory (RAM)
3. Storage
• Function:
• Storage devices are used to save data permanently.
• Unlike RAM, which is volatile and loses its data when the power
is off, storage retains information long-term.
Storage
• Types:
• Hard Disk Drive (HDD): A traditional storage device that uses
spinning disks to read/write data.
• Solid State Drive (SSD): A faster, more reliable storage device
with no moving parts, using flash memory.
Storage
4. Motherboard
• Function:
• The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all the
components of a computer.
• It allows the CPU, memory, storage, and other peripherals to
communicate with each other.
Motherboard
• Features:
• Expansion Slots: Allow additional cards (like graphics or sound
cards) to be added.
• BIOS/UEFI: Firmware that initializes hardware during the boot
process.
Motherboard
5. Power Supply Unit (PSU)
• Function:
• The PSU converts electrical power from an outlet into usable
power for the computer's internal components.
• It supplies the necessary voltage and current to run the computer..
Power Supply Unit
(PSU)
6. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
• Function:
• The GPU handles rendering images, video, and animations.
• While the CPU can perform these tasks, a dedicated GPU is more
efficient for graphics-intensive applications like gaming, video
editing, and 3D rendering.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)
• Types:
• Integrated GPU: Built into the CPU, suitable for everyday tasks.
• Dedicated GPU: A separate card with its own memory, offering
superior performance for demanding graphics tasks.
Graphics Processing
Unit (GPU)
7. Input Devices
• Function:
• Input devices allow users to interact with the computer by
providing data or commands.
• Examples:
• Keyboard: For typing text and commands.
• Mouse: For navigating and interacting with the graphical user
interface (GUI).
• Touchscreen: A display that responds to touch.
8. Output Devices
• Function:
• Output devices present data from the computer to the user in a
readable or usable form.
• Examples:
• Monitor: Displays visual output from the computer.
• Printer: Produces physical copies of digital documents.
• Speakers: Output sound.
9. Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Function:
• The NIC enables the computer to connect to a network,
allowing it to communicate with other computers and access the
internet.
Network Interface Card (NIC)
• Types:
• Wired (Ether net): Uses a physical cable to connect to a
network.
• Wireless (Wi-Fi): Connects to a network wirelessly.
10. Cooling System
• Function:
• Cooling systems prevent overheating by dissipating heat
generated by the CPU, GPU, and other components.
• Types:
• Fans: Commonly used for airflow inside the case.
• Heatsinks: Metal pieces that absorb and disperse heat.
• Liquid Cooling: Uses liquid to transfer heat away from
components.
Cooling System
11. Case (Chassis)
• Function:
• The case houses and protects all the internal components of the
computer.
• It also supports cooling and airflow to maintain optimal operating
temperatures.
Case (Chassis)
• Types:
• Tower Case: A common type for desktops, available in various
sizes (full, mid, mini).
• Small Form Factor (SFF): Compact cases for space-saving
designs.
Case (Chassis)
QUESTIONS?
THANK YOU!
