Answer the questions: 1. What does the term “computer” describe? 2. What are five components of computer system? 3. What is connectivity? 4. What’s the difference between hardware and software?

What does the term “computer” describe?

The term "computer" describes an electronic device that can process data and perform tasks according to a set of instructions, typically a program. Computers are designed to execute calculations, store and retrieve information, and run applications to help users solve various types of problems or automate tasks. A computer takes input, processes it, and then outputs results, often storing information for future use. Computers range from massive mainframes used by organizations to small personal devices like laptops and smartphones.

What are five components of a computer system?

A computer system is typically composed of the following five key components:

• Input Devices: These allow users to enter data into the computer. Examples include keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.
• Output Devices: These display or output data from the computer to the user. Common output devices are monitors, printers, and speakers.
• Central Processing Unit (CPU): Known as the "brain" of the computer, the CPU interprets and executes instructions from software. It handles most of the processing tasks within the computer.
• Memory/Storage: This includes primary memory (RAM), which temporarily holds data and instructions for the CPU to access, and secondary storage, like hard drives or SSDs, which stores data long-term.
• Motherboard: The motherboard is the main circuit board that holds and connects the CPU, memory, and other essential components. It allows these components to communicate and work together.

What is connectivity?

Connectivity refers to the ability of a computer or device to connect and communicate with other computers or networks. It encompasses a range of technologies and protocols that enable data transfer over physical or wireless networks. For example, the Internet, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Ethernet are all forms of connectivity. Connectivity is crucial for accessing shared resources, transferring files, and accessing information from remote servers, enabling functionalities like browsing, emailing, and cloud storage.

What’s the difference between hardware and software?

• Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system, the tangible parts you can see and touch. This includes devices like the CPU, RAM, hard drive, keyboard, and monitor. Hardware provides the platform on which software operates.
• Software, on the other hand, consists of the programs and instructions that run on the computer’s hardware. Software cannot be physically touched; it exists as code that tells the hardware how to perform specific tasks. Examples of software include operating systems like Windows or macOS, applications like Microsoft Word or Adobe Photoshop, and games.