Kabale University
Faculty of science
Course work : unit 1
Characteristics of a computer
Types of memory
Input devices
a.) Characteristics of a computer
1. Speed;
A computer process data and instructions much faster than humans. It
can process information incredibly fast, often performing millions of instructions
per second.
2. Accuracy ;
If the instructions are correct, a computer gives exact results (errors
usually come from input not the computer itself)
3. Automation ;
Once a computer is programmed, it can work automatically without
human intervation.
4. Storage;
A computer can store large amounts of data or information and recall it
when needed and for future use.
5. Versatility;
A computer can perform many different tasks, from calculation to
complex data analysis and multimedia.
6. Multitasking;
A computer can handle many different operations at the same time.
7. Deligence;
It does not get tired or bored, can work continuously without losing
efficiency. ( It perform repetitive tasks tirelessly and consistently)
8. Reliable;
A computer is generally reliable, especially when compared to manual
methods. It can perform tasks consistently without errors
9. Consistency;
It can perform the same task repeatedly with the same level of accuracy and
speed ensuring consistent results without getting tired.
( Using information technology by Williams Brain.K 2006)
b) Types of memory
Storage memory are parts of a computer that hold data,
programmes and files temporarily or permanently.
There are two types of computer memory
Primary storage memory
Secondary storage memory
1. Primary memory ( main memory)
They are directly accessible by the central processing unit (CPU)
Examples of the primary memory
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Read Only Memory (ROM)
a). Random Access Memory
Stores data or information temporarily when the computer is running. When
power is turned off, data is lost.
RAM is the computer workspace and is fast but loses data when power is turned off.
b). Read Only Memory (ROM)
They are known as essentials that start up instructions .
They store data or information permanently. Here data is not lost when power is off
Examples of ROM
PROM (Programmable ROM). They can be programmed once.
EPROM (Erasable PROM). They can be erased with UV light.
EEPROM (Electrically EPROM). They can be erased electronically.
Other types of computer memory
Cache memory; are very fast and found between the CPU and RAM. Stores frequently
used data to speed up processing.
Registers; are smallest, fastest memory inside the CPU for immediate data.
2. Secondary storage memory
They are referred to as the non- volatile storage devices that are used to
store data permanently. They are slower but stores large amounts of data
Types of secondary storage memory
a) Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
They have the magnetic storage and high capacity. E.g internal or external
drives.
b) Solid State Drive (SSD)
They are faster, more durable and no moving parts. E.g SATA SSDs
c) Optical Disks
For these, they use laser technology. E.g CDs, Blue ray disks.
d) Flash storage
They are compact and no moving parts.E.g USB flash drive, SD cards.
e) Magnetic tapes
They are used in backups and archives. E.g tape cartridges.
f) Cloud storage
They are the remote storage via the Internet. E.g Google drive, Dropbox,
OneDrive
Characteristics of secondary storage
They are non- volatile, data remains even after power is off.
They have a large capacity to store much more data than primary memory .
They are generally slower than RAM and CPU caches.
They are used for a long -term storage of files, OS, programs and backups.
(Introduction to computer by Peter Norton 5th edition 2004)
Input devices
These are hardware components of a computer used to send data, commands or
signals to a computer.
Input devices
Mouse; moves the cursor and selects items on the screen.
Keyboard; used to type texts and commands.
Touchscreen; allows user to interact by touching the display.
Microphone; captures voice or sound.
Scanner; converts paper documents into digital form.
Webcam; captures video and images.
Joystick; controls movement.
Fingerprint scanner; reads biometric data for security.
(Computers today by Suresh K Basandra. 2008)
Output devices
These are hardware components of a computer system that are used to display,
project or reproduce the results of data processing to the user another machine.
Examples
Monitor; displays output in soft copy
Printer; used to produce hardcopy output e.g line printers, dot matrix printer,
inkjet printer, laser printer.
Plotters; used for printing large engineering drawings, Blue prints and graphics.
E.g drum plotters, flat bed plotters.
Speakers; output devices for audio signals, converts digital signals into audible
sound, multimedia, voice output, music.
Projectors; projects computer screen onto a large screen, used in presentations ,
classrooms and seminars.
(Computer fundamentals by P .K Sinha. 2004)
