3.Computer Components

 Computer Components

A computer system is a collection of electronic and mechanical devices operating as a unit.

Input devices are used to get data into the computer system

Processing devices manipulate the data using to a set of instructions called a program

Output devices are used to get data out of a computer system

Storage devices they can store the data for use at a later stage

Communications devices can send the data to another computer system.

Computer cabinet Case: A computer cabinet, is the enclosure that contains most of the components of a computer.

System Unit Devices and Peripherals

The system unit is the main container for system devices. It protects the delicate electronic and mechanical devices from damage. Typical system unit devices include:

 • Motherboard

• CPU (Processor)

• Memory

• Disk drives

• Expansion cards - sound card, graphics card, network card etc.

• Ports - USB etc.

• Power supply

Peripherals are devices that connect to the system unit using cables or wireless technologies.

 • Monitor

• Keyboard

• Mouse

• Speakers

• Printer

• Plotter

• Scanner