2.1 INTRODUCTION
In the previous lesson we discussed about the evolution of computer. In this lesson we will provide you with an overview of the basic design of a computer. You will know how different parts of a computer are organized and how various operations are performed between different parts to do a specific task. As you know from the previous lesson the internal architecture of computer may differ from system to system, but the basic organization remains the same for all computer systems.
2.2 OBJECTIVES
At the end of the lesson you will be able to:
Understand basic organization of computer system
Understand the meaning of Arithmetic Logical Unit, Control Unit and Central Processing Unit
Differentiate between bit , byte and a word
Define computer memory
Differentiate between primary memory and secondary memory
Differentiate between primary storage and secondary storage units
Differentiate between input devices and output devices
2.3 BASIC COMPUTER OPERATIONS
A computer as shown in Fig. 2.1 performs basically five major operations or functions irrespective of their size and make. These are 1) it accepts data or instructions by way of input, 2) it stores data, 3) it can process data as required by the user, 4) it gives results in the form of output, and 5) it controls all operations inside a computer. We discuss below each of these operations: (more…)
