Components of Computer and their Functions
A computer system is not a single device or setup that functions on its own. It is made of several
components which have specific functions and features to support the entire system. They make
data processing and performing tasks easier and convenient.
The main three components are
Input Unit,
Output Unit, and
Central Processing Unit.
The central processing unit is further divided into memory or storage unit, control unit, and
arithmetical and logical unit. Each unit has its own special feature to assist the system.
1. Input Unit of Computer System
The computer system responds to the instruction it receives from the users. And to get those
instructions, a computer needs an input unit. This includes all the input devices responsible for
reading the data entered by the user.
The system doesn’t respond unless it receives a command from the user using the input unit or
the input devices. The users use numbers, letters, images, etc. to enter the command, the input
devices are the ones accepting them. For example – we use a keyboard to enter a text, the
keyboard here becomes the input unit.
Examples of Input Unit
Keyboard
Mouse
Joystick
Light pen
Track Ball
Scanner
Graphic Tablet
Functions of Input Unit of a Computer System
Takes in user commands in the form of data.
Converts data in a digital language format.
Sends over the data to the processing unit for the next step
2. Output Unit of Computer System
The user, when sending a set of instructions to the computer, reaches the output device in the
end. The execution of command takes place here and the users get their results.
The processor sends the transcript instructions to the output devices for execution. These devices
always have a connection to the system and thus the coordination is quite easy.
The monitor is one of the main output devices which displays the results to the user. Everything
that the input devices receive, reaches the output devices eventually. All the execution activities
take place inside the mechanism of a device.
Functions of Output Unit of Computer
Receives the instructions in machine language to execute a task.
Coordinates with the processor to get the instruction on time.
Converts the machine language back into a user-friendly one by completing tasks.
It is the medium by which users understand that their demands are met by the system.
Examples of Output Unit of a Computer
Monitor – variants
Printers – all types
Plotters
Projector
LCD Projection Panels
Computer Output Microfilm
Speaker
3. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The data that the input unit accepts goes to the processing unit before execution. This unit
understands what the command actually is and how they can achieve it. It converts data accepted
in human language into machine language for computers to understand. It has a mainboard with
a central chip which is the primary part of the processor.
The function of CPU
1. The CPU receives the data when the computer inputs the data through input devices such
as a keyboard or mouse.
2. After this, the CPU process these input data by performing calculations and technical
algorithm.
3. And then CPU provides the processed data through output devices such as on
the monitor screen.
4. The CPU also stores the process data in the form of a cache for future use.
For example
When you press any key on your keyboard, either it is an alphabet, numerical or special symbol.
The keyboard converts it into computer language. Then CPU calculates how to display the letter
input pixel by pixel on the computer screen.
Conclusion
A computer system has many building blocks that help in its functioning. They are quite
important to understand since we use them every day. Having enough and correct knowledge
about them can save us from wasting time and maintaining device security. They are also
important from the exam point of view.
Many competitive exams, as well as college exams, ask this topic in the general knowledge
section. And many might have it under the computer awareness section. Thus reading the details
carefully can lead to fruitful exam results.
