Summary 2.5
Capabilities and characteristic of hardware and software - input
Inside the computer
The Processor : Its role is to process the data entered, following the
directions of the software, into the information require.
Memory
These include the inputted data, the operating system and the
application program. Memory falls into 2 distinct types :
- Primary (the internal memory in the CPU)
- Secondary (the external of a more permanent type)
Read only memory (ROM)
Read only memory is a permanent internal silicon chip
that is inserted before construction. The programs in the memory can be used and
store but cannot be changed or erased.
Random access memory (RAM)
Random access memory is the temporary memory that is
available to the operator to use and manipulate.
BUS
The bus is a series of circuits connecting the processor and other
parts of the motherboard.
PORTS
Ports are the interface between peripheral devices, such
as printers and modem and the computer.
Input Devices
Keyboard
Usually made up of numbers, letters, special characters
and special function keys. Most of them also have a numeric keypad located
on the right side it.
Mouse
A mouse is a hand -operated and allows the user to move the cursor
around the screen. It is made of a rolling ball encased in a small box, and
can have up to four buttons on top.
Barcode reader
A barcode is a block of vertical black lines and white spaces,
representing an alphanumeric code that identifies the item. The barcode
reader reads these codes and produce a series of pulses that corresponds to
the barcode.
Swipe card reader
Electronically read the magnetic strip on the back of a card.
Scanner
Scanners are input devices that can take text and images and turn them
into digital data.
Digital camera
Digital cameras have provided a new way of taking pictures and
transferring reasonable quality photograph to the PC.
Touch screens
Allows user to select the desired option by the touch of a finger on
the screen.