Characteristics of Computers ( Part 2 ) | Computer Basics | BCA , BSc , B. Tech CS | #DDU #Computer

* Characteristics of Computers : (Part 2)

ANATOMY OF A COMPUTER

The five major functional units of a digital computer are:

(a) Central Processing Unit (CPU)

(b) Input units

(c) Output units

(d) Storage devices

(e) Communication interface

CPU is the brain of a computer. The other parts are used to transfer data and to communicate with the CPU. The CPU constitutes the main memory, control unit and arithmetic logic unit.

It depicts the five major building blocks, or functional units of a digital computer system. These five units correspond to the five basic operations , namely , inputting , storing , processing , outputting and controlling data , carried out by all computer systems.

Explaining below the five units mentioned above : 

Inputting :

Refers to the process of entering data into the computer with the help of, an input device, such as a keyboard.

Storing : 

Refers to the storage of data and instructions in the computer’s main memory, for manipulations.

Processing:

Refers to performing operations ( both arithmetic and logical ) or manipulation of data entered into the computer so that useful information may be gathered from the entered data.

Outputting: 

Refers to the process of showing the information or result to the user either on screen ( monitor ) or on paper ( through

printer ).

Controlling: 

Refers to directing all the above processes , in coordination. This controlling is done by the Control Unit (CU) in a CPU.

NOTE : 

A CPU is the brain of a computer. Its primary function is to execute programs.

In addition, a CPU also controls the operation of all other components, such as memory, input and output devices. Under the CPU’s control, programs and data are stored in the memory and results are displayed on the monitor or printed on paper.