About Lesson
A computer system is made up of several basic components that work together to perform tasks. These components include:
2.1 Central Processing Unit (CPU)
- The CPU is the “brain” of the computer, responsible for executing instructions from programs and performing calculations. It has two main subcomponents:
- Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): Handles mathematical and logical operations (e.g., addition, subtraction, comparison).
- Control Unit (CU): Controls the operation of the processor, directing the flow of data and instructions.
2.2 Memory
- Memory refers to storage devices used to hold data and instructions while the computer is in use. It is divided into:
- Primary Memory: Also known as RAM (Random Access Memory), stores data temporarily while the CPU processes it.
- Secondary Memory: Includes storage devices like hard drives and SSDs that store data permanently.
2.3 Input/Output (I/O) Devices
- I/O devices allow the computer to interact with the outside world. Input devices include keyboards, mice, and scanners, while output devices include monitors, printers, and speakers.
2.4 Bus System
- The bus system is a set of physical pathways used to transfer data between the CPU, memory, and I/O devices. It consists of three primary buses:
- Data Bus: Transfers actual data between components.
- Address Bus: Carries memory addresses to and from the CPU.
- Control Bus: Sends control signals to manage the operations of the system.