Computer Systems Flashcards
What does a computer system do?
A computer system takes a set of digital inputs, processes them and creates a set of outputs. This is done by a combination of hardware and software.
List some examples of an input device
Keyboard Mouse Touchscreen Microphone Heat Sensor
Where does the processing of instructions take place?
The processing stage takes place within the CPU (Central Processing Unit)
What is another name for the CPU?
A Microprocessor
What is system software?
Programs that manage the operation of the computer. The system software boots up the computer when you switch it on
Give an example of a system software
An ‘operating system’ such as Windows
What is application software?
Computer programs written for a specific purpose
Give an example of an application software
Word Processing Application
Music Player
Photo Editor
List some examples of an output device
Computer Monitor
Printer
LED Light
Speakers
What is a bus?
A bus is a set of wires or tracks laid down on a printed circuit board
List the 3 types of bus’s
Data Bus
Address Bus
Control Bus
What does the data bus do?
It carries data around the system. Each wire or track carries a single data bit
What does the address bus do?
It carries information on where the data needs to go or come from i.e. the data address
What does the control bus do?
It carries signals around the system to control various components such as the DVD drive, hard disk or graphics card
What is an embedded computer?
A computer designed with a specific task in mind
