Task 1 – Hardware and Software v2

Answer the following questions

1. Explain what is meant by the term hardware [2]

The parts of the computer which you can physically see and touch. The parts could be inside or
outside the computer.

2. Describe what is meant by the term software [2]

Software is a collection of code or computer instructions that run on a computer. Software cannot be
physically touched but it can be stored (in the computer’s memory)

3. Describe what is meant by the term RAM [3]

RAM stands for “Random Access Memory.”

4. Describe the meaning of the term ROM [3]

ROM is a built in memory which cannot be changed. It normally holds the “boot file” which tells the
computer what to do when the computer is switched on.

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5. Name the following computer components [8]

Motherboard

RAM (Random Access Memory)

ROM (Read Only Memory)

Computer fan

Hard Disk

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 SSD (Solid State Drive)

CPU (Central Processing Unit)

Graphics Card/GPU

6. Explain why computers need a fan [2]

Because, when the CPU is running very powerful programs which are doing billions of calculations at a
time, it can get very hot so therefore it needs a fan to cool the computer down.

7. Give three examples of backing storage [3]

1) Hard Disks
2) Memory Sticks
3) SSD (Solid State Drives)

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8. Next to each piece of hardware state its name and whether the device is an input, output or
storage device [10]

Image Name Input, output or storage

Television Output device

Input device

Microphone

Scanner Input device

Visualiser Input device

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 Keyboard

Input device

Image Name Input, output or storage

Memory Stick Storage device

Printer Output device

Barcode Scanner Input device

Mouse Input device

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 Video Projector Output device

Extension (Optional) – Improvements to Computer Advert

You have been asked by your teacher to build a high specification desktop
computer capable to editing 4K video. Your poster must include an image, name
and description of each component.

The poster must be on a single A4 page and must be produced using DTP
software. The poster must be fit for a purpose and suitable for your target
audience.