What is a Computer?

A computer is an electronic programmable device that manipulate data or information. Computer uses binary 1 and 0 to represent data. And combination of 1s and 0s makes much more complex things such as Videos, Images, Games, and websites...etc.

Basically, Whole process of the computer is done in 3 basic steps. Input, Process, and Output.

Input: The process of entering raw data to the computer.

Data: things which is been entered to the computer for process. Data can be text, images, videos, audios, or some control instructions (commands)

Process: raw data is converted in to meaningful information. This is done by the Central Processing unit which is mounted on the computer’s main circuit board (Motherboard)

Output: Act of taking out processed data (Information) from the computer.

Information: Processed data is called information.

Computer as a System

Computer is a combination of hardware, software and Live ware.

Hardware is any tangible or physical parts in the Computer. These parts can be internal or external.

Internal Components: Motherboard, Processor, RAM

External Components: Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, Printer

Software or programs are any set of instructions that tells hardware what to do and how to do it. Such as Media player, Web browser, Spreadsheet…etc.

Live ware is the person who involve with the computer such as Data entry operator, Software developer, system administrator…etc.

Furthermore, Computer hardware can be classified in to five (5) main categories according to their duties.

Characteristics of the computer

Today, Computer is a one of the widely selling products in the world. Because of its some interesting features. Let’s look at some special things that computer has.

Speed

While performing mathematical calculations, computer work much higher speed compared to the human. Millions (1000000) of instructions per second can accept by the computer and then process them to produce meaningful result / output. Computer performs most of its operations within microseconds or within nanoseconds.

Accuracy

If we input consistence or accurate data computer will perform all the calculations with 100% accuracy.

Reliability

For the similar set of data, Computer always produces consistent result as the output. This make computer more reliable.

Automation

All the task in the computer are performed automatically. There is no manual involvement.

Versatility

Computer is capable of doing many different kind of works with same efficiency and accuracy.

Diligence

The computer performs over millions of calculations or tasks with the same accuracy and consistency. It never feels any tiredness or lack of deliberation.