COMPUTER SPECIFICATIONS

WHAT IS A COMPUTER?

• It is an electronic device which is made to

fulfill our day to day needs.
• Explain these terms with examples in relation to the
key features of a computer
1.Accuracy
2.Reliability
3.Consistency
4.Speed and Efficiency
5.Storage and Capacity
 FEATURES OF A COMPUTER

• Speed and efficiency

• Accuracy
• Reliability
• Consistency
• Storage capacity
• Cost – initial cost is high
• Intelligence - it can only act according to the given instructions
• It cannot take decisions on its own like a human.
Accuracy
• Computers perform calculations with 100% accuracy. Errors may occur due to data inconsistency or
inaccuracy.

Speed and Efficiency

• A computer can perform millions of tasks or calculations with the same speed and accuracy. It doesn’t
feel any fatigue or lack of concentration. Its memory also makes it superior to that of human beings.
Versatility
• Versatility refers to the capability of a computer to perform different kinds of works with same
accuracy and efficiency.
Consistency
• it means that computer produces consistent output when the same input is given.
Reliability
• A computer is reliable as it gives consistent result for similar set of data
FUNCTIONS OF A COMPUTER
 COMPONENTS OF A COMPUTER

• Input devices
• Output devices
• Storage devices
• Communication Devices
• Central Processing Unit – it is known as the brain of the
computer.
• It controls and process data according to the given
instructions
• Main Memory – it is also known as the “primary memory”
 RAM

• Random Access Memory

 PROCESSOR

• A processor, or "microprocessor," is a small chip that resides in computers and other electronic

devices.
• Its basic job is to receive input and provide the appropriate output.
• This processor handles all the basic system instructions, such as processing mouse
and keyboard input and running applications.
• The speed of the processor is measured by the number of instructions executed per second.
• Most desktop computers contain a CPU developed by either Intel or AMD, both of which use
the x86 processor architecture. Mobile devices, such as laptops and tablets may use Intel and AMD
CPUs, but can also use specific mobile processors developed by companies like ARM or Apple.
• Processors that include two cores are called dual-core processors, while those with four cores are
called quad-core processors. Some high-end workstations contain multiple CPUs with multiple
cores, allowing a single machine to have eight, twelve, or even more processing cores.
 MAIN MEMORY / PRIMARY MEMORY

• A computer with a higher main memory capacity stores more data and instructions.
• The capacity of the main memory is measured in units of bits. (MB or GB)
• Main memory consists of RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory)
• When a device has sufficient RAM, several programs can run simultaneously without any
slowdown. 
 SECONDARY MEMORY (HARD DISK)

• Hard disk provides permanent storage space for storing data and to install software.
• Hard drives can be external or internal.
• A hard drive determines the size of digital files in terms of megabytes (MB), gigabytes
(GB), and terabytes (TB).
 MONITOR

• It is the main output device of a computer.

• The user interacts with a computer via the monitor or display.
• The monitor size is measured in terms of its diagonal length in inches. (
19 inch/ 32 inch)
 TYPES OF MONITORS.

1. CRT –
Disadvantages - they are heavy, consume more electricity , take more space. 
Less expensive than LCD and LED
2. LCD – Advantages – Easy to handle
Less heat and electricity consumption
Disadvantages – expensive
LED -
Advantages –
they produce images with higher contrast,
have less negative environmental impact when disposed,
are more durable than CRT or LCD monitors, and features a very thin design.
Less heat and electricity consumption
Disadvantages – expensive
 EMBEDDED SYSTEMS

• The equipment which include computer programs are known as “ embedded

computer systems”

• Advantages
• Embedded system saves our time
• It is efficient and speedy
• It can work without humans
• Digital alarm clocks
• GPS navigation devices
• Smart watches
• Heart rate monitors
• Washing machines • CD players, iPods and MP3 players
• dishwashers • Parking lot ticket machines
• Home security systems • Digital signature pads
• Air-conditioners • Electronic toys
• Motion sensors • Refrigerators and freezers
• Electronic safes
 SOFTWARE & HARDWARE

Hardware
• All the things you can touch in a
computer are called “hardware”.
(Tangible)
• Eg – monitor, system unit, printer,
speaker, mouse, CPU,
motherboard, RAM, keyboard
Software
• All the things that you cannot be
touched are called “ Software”.
(Intangible)
• Eg- Programmes with data and
instructions
 WHAT IS A SOFTWARE?

• A software is a set of programs designed to execute certain tasks

by using a computer.
• A user can perform different tasks by using different software
according to his need.
Eg – MS word, powerpoint, computer games, media players,
video editing software, photos editing software, MS piant
 USER

• The person who operates the computer is called a “ user”.

• Types of users and their work.
 OPERATING SYSTEM

• An operating system is important to

run application software.
• When it is installed in a computer,
software the necessary application software
can be installed.
• It acts as an interface between the
user and the hardware.
• Eg – Linux, Ubuntu (free)
Windows xp, 8, 10 , mac os
(licensed)
 TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Non- Portable Computers Portable / Mobile computers

• Desktop computer • Laptop
• Notebook
• All in one computer • Tablet
• Server computer • Smart phone
• Workstation computer
• Use rechargeable batteries
• Use electricity power supply • Can take from place to place
• Heavy • Small in size
• Large in size • Light weight
• Used in schools, offices, banks. • Can be used personally
 APPLICATION OF COMPUTERS IN VARIOUS SECTORS

SCHOOL
• Computers are used instead of blackboards and books.
• Teachers can use interesting videos and slides to explain the lesson.
• Use multimedia projectors in the classroom.
• Access the internet to obtain additional knowledge.
• Computers can simplify the office or administrative work in the school system.
• E- Learning
Banking
• Use of ATM (Automated Teller Machine) to deposit and withdraw
money.
• Use of electronic cards (visa, mastercard) to settle bills when
purchasing goods.
• Internet banking facilitates international trade.
• Mobile banking
Hospitals
• Use of computers and embedded computer devices in ICU (Intensive
Care Unit) and operation theatre .
• MRI scanners
• Digital thermometer
• Digital Glucometer
Factories
• Use of machines instead of human labour. So, the production can be
increased.
• Use of robotic technology.
Eg – Automobile in Japan
• Video conferencing facilities for the management
• Security system – finger print ID
Face recognition
Agriculture
• Use of embedded computer devices in harvesting, weeding and water
supply.
• Sensors used for pest control
• Technological devices to examine the growth of the plantation.
 NON- TECHNICAL FEATURES TO BE CONSIDERED WHEN
PURCHASING A COMPUTER

• Warranty (assures to cover the defects and damages for a certain time period)
Manufacturer Warranty
Extended Warranty
On- site warranty
• Price
• Services after sale
Technical advice
Technical assistance
Telephone, email, website information of the vendor
• Pre installed software
• Company Reputation
 PORTS AND NETWORK CONNECTIONS

• Ports are used to connect the peripheral devices to the computer.

• USB ( Universal Serial Bus) Ports
– printer, keyboard, mouse, scanner, external hard disk, external dvd drive, pen drive
• Network Port / RJ45 connector
– this is used to connect to network.
• Sound Ports
• Bluetooth and Wifi facilities
- provide cable free network connections to a computer.
 Specification
s

Non-
Technical technical

Processor Price
speed

Hard disk Warranty

capacity

Memory After- sale

capacity service

Screen size Company

reputation