Thursday, June 3, 2010

CEDU 581 Computer Architecture Week 3-4

How does a computer work?

There are various essential components of the computer that are necessary for it to function.

The CPU is the brain of the computer. It carries out preprogrammed orders. After watching Bill Kunst's presentation on this, I would say that it is very important to get the right CPU for your computer needs.

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is located on the motherboard, which connects all of the guts of the computer, as well as the periphery devices. The motherboard allows all of the computer's components to connect with each other and work in conjunction.

The hard drive stores large amounts of data. The data is permanently stored, unless the user wipes the hard drive or uses a program to write over it. The hard drive allows the user to recall files and information during each use. Data on the hard drive is nonvolatile, meaning it can store the data when the power is not on.

RAM (Random Access Memory) is also very important for running programs on the computer. The data stored in RAM is volatile, meaning it cannot be stored when the computer is not on.

The BIOS helps the computer start up properly and makes sure that the computer is where it is supposed to be when it is powered up. To me it seems kind of like a parent that makes sure their kids wake up on time, eat breakfast and get to school on time every day.

All of these components, along with others, work in concert to do what the programmers, builders, software writers and users want their computers to do.

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