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• Computer definition

  -          is an electronic device that is designed to work with Information.

  -          an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as input from the user and processes these  data  under  the  control  of  set  of  instructions  (called  program)  and  gives  the  result  (output)

  and saves output for the future use.

  -          can be defined as an automatic electronic machine for performing calculations or controlling operations that are expressible in numerical or logical terms.

  refers  to  the  Center  Processor  Unit  plus Internal memory
• Functions of computer

  -           An electronic machine, capable of performing basic operations like addition, subtraction,  multiplication,  division,  etc. 

  -          capable  of  storing  information,

  -          can  process  millions  of  instructions  in  a  few  seconds  and  at  the  same time with high accuracy.

  -          can process both numerical  and non-numerical (arithmetic and logical) calculations.

  -          cannot do anything without a Program
• Computare

  • latin term that means to calculate or programmable machine.
• Charles  Babbage

  • "Grand  Father"  of  the  computer.
• Analytical Engine

  • First mechanical computer designed by Charles  Babbage
  • Uses read-only memory in the form of punch cards.
• Functional units of a computer system

  Basically any computer is supposed to carry out the following functions.

  -          Accept the data and program as input 

  -          Store the data and program and retrieve as and when required. 

  -          Process  the  data  as per  instructions  given  by  the  program  and  convert  it  into  useful information 

  -          Communicate the information as output 
• Hardware components can be classified into four main units

  • Input Unit 
  • Output Unit 
  • Central Processing Unit
  • Memory Unit