Updated File
Updated File
SUBMITTED BY
Aditya Kashyap
25/B01/013
I SEM, 1st YEAR
BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY
IN
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING
SUBMITTED TO:
Dr. Abhilasha Sharma
Associate Professor
SOFTWARE ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT
Delhi Technological University, Delhi
2025-26
Index
S.no Experiment Page Date Signature
1 To understand basics of computer
Input/Output devices
EXPERIMENT 1
AIM – To understand basics of computer
THEORY -
1. What is a computer?
• A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability
to store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can use a computer
to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. You can also use it to
edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.
• Modern digital devices use hardware like the circuits, microchips and wiring. The
intangible instructions, like the apps and files you interact with, are known as software.
The combination of hardware and software allows the device to perform tasks ranging from
simple calculations to complex operations like running entire businesses.
• An input/output (I/O) device is any hardware that enables a human user or another system
to communicate with a computer. As the name suggests, these devices can both receive
data (input) from the user or another source and deliver data (output) from the computer.
Essentially, an I/O device bridges the computer and external entities, facilitating seamless
data exchange.
• Examples include monitors (which display visuals), speakers (which produce sound), and
printers (which produce physical copies of digital data)
3.What are the characteristics of a computer
• Speed
Executing mathematical calculation, a computer works faster and more accurately than human.
• Diligence
A human cannot work for several hours without resting, yet a computer never tires.
• Reliability
A computer produces consistent results for similar sets of data, if we provide the same set of input
at any time we will get the same result.
• Automation
The world is quickly moving toward AI-based technology. A computer may conduct tasks
automatically after instructions are programmed.
• Versatility
Versatility refers to a capacity of computer. Computer perform different types of tasks with the
same accuracy and efficiency.
• Memory
A computer can store millions of records. these records may be accessed with complete precision.
Computer memory storage capacity is measured in Bytes,
Kilobytes(KB), Megabytes(MB), Gigabytes(GB), and Terabytes(TB).
• Accuracy
When a computer performs a computation or operation, the chances of errors occurring are low.
• Diligence
Unlike humans, computers do not get tired, bored, or distracted, and can work continuously.
• Communication
Computers enable communication through emails, video calls, and messaging.
• Data Processing
They can process both numerical and non-numerical data efficiently.
Victorian-era Computer The ENIAC
(1848) (1945)
Quantum Computer
(2019)
4. Brief History of the computer
The history of computers goes back over 200 years. At first theorized by mathematicians and
entrepreneurs, during the 19th century mechanical calculating machines were designed and built to solve
the increasingly complex number-crunching challenges. The advancement of technology enabled ever
more-complex computers by the early 20th century, and computers became larger and more powerful.
• 1848: Ada Lovelace, an English mathematician and the daughter of poet Lord Byron, writes the
world's first computer program. According to Anna Siffert, a professor of theoretical mathematics
at the University of Münster in Germany, Lovelace writes the first program while translating a
paper on Babbage's Analytical Engine from French into English.
• 1945: Two professors at the University of Pennsylvania, John Mauchly and J. Presper Eckert,
design and build the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC). The machine is the
first "automatic, general-purpose, electronic, decimal, digital computer.
• 1953: Grace Hopper develops the first computer language, which eventually becomes known as
COBOL, which stands for Common, Business-Oriented Language according to the National
Museum of American History. Hopper is later dubbed the "First Lady of Software" in her
posthumous Presidential Medal of Freedom citation. Thomas Johnson Watson Jr., son of IBM
CEO Thomas Johnson Watson Sr., conceives the IBM 701 EDPM to help the United Nations keep
tabs on Korea during the war.
• 1968: Douglas Engelbart reveals a prototype of the modern computer at the Fall Joint Computer
Conference, San Francisco. His presentation, called "A Research Center for Augmenting Human
Intellect" includes a live demonstration of his computer, including a mouse and a graphical user
interface (GUI), according to the Doug Engelbart Institution. This marks the development of the
computer from a specialized machine for academics to a technology that is more accessible to the
general public.
• 1981: "Acorn," IBM's first personal computer, is released onto the market at a price point of
$1,565, according to IBM. Acorn uses the MS-DOS operating system from Microsoft. Optional
features include a display, printer, two diskette drives, extra memory, a game adapter and more.
• 2019: A team at Google became the first to demonstrate quantum supremacy — creating a
quantum computer that could feasibly outperform the most powerful classical computer — albeit
for a very specific problem with no practical real-world application. The described the computer,
dubbed "Sycamore" in a paper that same year in the journal Nature.
Analog Computers
Hybrid Computer
Digital Computer
5. Classification of computers (Analog, Digital, Hybrid)
Analog Computers
Analog computers are machines that work with continuous data and represent information using
physical quantities such as electrical voltage, current, mechanical rotation, pressure, or
temperature. They are particularly useful in solving differential equations, simulations, and
processes where values change continuously with time. Unlike digital systems, they do not work
with binary numbers but instead model real-world phenomena directly. For example, early flight
simulators, weather prediction machines, and scientific instruments made heavy use of analog
computing because they could handle real-time data quickly. Although they are very fast in
specific tasks, analog computers are limited in accuracy, difficult to reprogram, and lack the
flexibility of digital machines. With the growth of modern digital systems, their use has decreased,
but they are still valuable in some engineering and control applications.
Hybrid Computers
Hybrid computers combine the speed of analog computing with the accuracy of digital systems.
They can process both continuous and discrete data, making them highly useful in specialized
applications such as medical equipment (ECG machines, ICU monitors), industrial control
systems, nuclear power plants, and scientific research. These systems are powerful because they
merge the best of both analog and digital worlds, though they are costly and complex to design.
Digital Computers
Digital computers, in contrast, process discrete data in the form of binary numbers—0s and 1s.
They are the most common type of computers used today in personal, educational, commercial,
and scientific fields. Digital computers use logic circuits, microprocessors, and arithmetic-logic
units to perform tasks ranging from simple calculations to complex artificial intelligence
processing. They are highly versatile, accurate, and reliable, with the ability to store large volumes
of data and execute multiple applications simultaneously. Because of their flexibility, digital
computers are found everywhere—inside desktops, laptops, smartphones, banking systems,
industrial automation, and even space technology. Unlike analog computers, they can easily be
programmed and reprogrammed to perform new tasks, which makes them far more practical in
daily use.
6. What are various applications of the computer
Science
Today computer is the best-suited machine for collecting, analyzing, classifying, and storing
data. It becomes the most essential medium to spread knowledge internally and internationally. It
allows scientists from different locations to work together and share ideas on the same project.
Medical
Computers are used to record patients’ information, monitoring heart rate, oxygen level, and
blood pressure. To conduct various surgeries junior doctors get the help of another professional
doctor by web conferencing.
Education
Computers are very crucial for online classes, download study material on the internet and
interact with fellow learners. Computers are also used to track student attendance and learning
strategies.
Entertainment
We can play various interesting video games using a computer. We can watch movies, TV
shows, and reality shows on the computer. A computer is also used to create sarcastic memes and
make us happy.
Government Sectors
Government can easily monitor government sectors such as road services, railway, development,
and other rising funds. The information of every citizen is stored on the server through the
computer.
Banking
A computer help in storing several account holder details on a bank server. All transactions such
as deposits and withdrawals perform by a computer. A banking company can easily monitor all
ATMs and passbook printing machines.
Defence System
Computers are used to track airplanes, missiles, tanks, and different kinds of weapons. Once the
radar system tracks a missile and artificial intelligence is programmed to target a missile and
destroy it before it comes on the surface. It also used for GPS tracking, controlling defense
vehicles, records of all members of the military.
Hardware
Software
7. What are hardware and software?
Hardware
Computer Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that you can touch and see.
These parts work together to process data and perform tasks. Examples include the Processor,
Memory Devices, Monitor, Printer, Keyboard, Mouse, and Central Processing Unit (CPU).
• Input Devices
Input devices allow users to enter data and instructions into the computer. These devices enable
interaction with the system by providing information for processing.
• Output Devices
Output devices display or produce the results of computer processing, allowing users to see or hear
the information processed by the computer.
• Storage Devices
Storage devices are used to store data either temporarily or permanently.
Software
• System Software
System software is responsible for directly interacting with computer hardware and managing its
internal functions. It helps control hardware devices such as printers, storage devices, and more.
• Application Software
Application software is designed to perform specific tasks for users. It operates on top of system
software and supports everyday computer functions.
Motherboard
Processor
Memory
8. What are the physical components of a computer
Motherboard
The motherboard is the central backbone of a computer system, often called the main circuit board,
as it connects and allows communication between all components. It provides slots and sockets to
hold the processor (CPU), memory modules, storage devices, expansion cards, and other
peripherals. The motherboard also contains the chipset, which controls data flow between the
processor, memory, and other parts of the system, along with the BIOS/UEFI firmware, which
helps in system startup. It has power connectors to distribute electricity from the power supply unit
(PSU) to different hardware, and various ports for USB devices, monitors, audio, and networking.
In short, the motherboard acts as a communication hub that ensures every component works
together properly.
Processor
The processor or CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the most important component of a computer,
often referred to as its “brain.” It is responsible for executing instructions, performing calculations,
and controlling the overall operations of the system. Modern CPUs contain multiple cores, where
each core can independently process instructions, allowing faster multitasking and parallel
processing. They also have an internal cache memory to store frequently used instructions for
quick access, which improves performance. The speed of a processor is measured in clock cycles
(GHz), and its efficiency depends on factors like architecture, core count, and instruction set. Some
CPUs also include integrated graphics processing units (GPUs) to handle visual output without
requiring a separate graphics card.
Memory
The memory of a computer is an essential element that stores data and instructions for
processing. The primary memory is RAM (Random Access Memory), which is fast and volatile,
meaning it loses data when the power is switched off. RAM allows quick access to active
programs and data, which directly affects system speed and multitasking. Another type of
memory is ROM (Read-Only Memory), which is non-volatile and stores permanent instructions,
such as the firmware required for booting the system. Besides these, computers also have
secondary storage like hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-state drives (SSDs), which provide
permanent and large-capacity data storage. Memory hierarchy, including cache, RAM, and
storage, ensures that the CPU gets the required data quickly and efficiently for smooth operation.
Speed & Capacity of Memory
9. What are bits, bytes and other units of measure?
What is a bit?
A bit has only one of two values that is 0 or 1, where electrical values of 0 stand for off and 1
stand for on. It is a smallest unit of data on a system.It is binary digit.
What is a byte?
Computer memory and storage used megabytes (MB) and gigabytes (GB).
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that is used to temporarily store
data that the computer is currently using or processing. RAM is volatile memory, which means
that the data stored in it is lost when the power is turned off.
Read Only Memory (ROM) is a type of computer memory that is used to permanently store data
that does not need to be modified. ROM is non-volatile memory, which means that the data stored
in it is retained even when the power is turned off.
Cache Memory
Cache memory is a small, high-speed storage area in a computer. It stores copies of the data from
frequently used main memory locations. There are various independent caches in a CPU, which
store instructions and data.
THEORY -
What is a Processor?
A processor is a chip or a logical circuit that responds to and processes the basic instructions
needed to operate a computer. Its main functions include fetching, decoding, executing, and
writing back the results of an instruction. The processor is often referred to as the brain of any
system that includes computers, laptops, smartphones, and embedded systems.
Types of Processor
There are different types of processors in the embedded system which include the following.
The earliest type of computer processor is the single-core CPU. These processors were used in the
1970s. A single-core CPU has only one core that performs different operations. This means it can
handle only one task at a time, making it unsuitable for multitasking.
• Dual-Core Processors
Dual-core CPUs consist of a single integrated circuit with two cores. Each core has its own cache
and controller, which work together as a single unit. Dual-core CPUs can perform tasks faster than
single-core processors.
• Quad-Core Processors
Quad-core CPUs contain two dual-core processors within a single integrated circuit or chip. A
quad-core processor has a chip with four independent cores. This design helps increase the overall
speed of the processor.
Clock Speed
Clock speed, also known as clock rate or clock frequency, measures how quickly a computer’s
central processing unit (CPU) can execute instructions. It is typically measured in gigahertz (GHz).
A higher clock speed generally means the CPU can process more instructions per second and
perform better on tasks that require quick processing.
• Improved performance: A higher clock speed results in faster processing and better
performance on tasks requiring significant computing power.
• Better multitasking: A CPU with a high clock speed can handle multiple tasks more
efficiently, which improves multitasking.
• Greater efficiency: In some cases, a CPU with a high clock speed can complete tasks faster,
leading to increased efficiency and productivity.
• Increased power consumption: Higher clock speeds require more power, which increases
energy use and heat production.
• Increased cost: CPUs with high clock speeds may be more expensive than those with lower
clock speeds.
• Limited by other factors: A CPU’s clock speed is just one factor affecting its performance.
Other factors, such as the number of cores and the CPU’s architecture, also play a role in
overall performance.
The speed of a CPU determines how many calculations and instructions it can perform in one
second, and this speed is largely influenced by its clock speed. The clock speed represents the
number of cycles the processor can execute per second, usually measured in gigahertz (GHz). A
higher clock speed allows the CPU to process tasks faster, improving the overall performance of
the computer. In some cases, users increase the clock speed beyond the manufacturer’s
specifications through a process called overclocking, which can boost performance for gaming,
video editing, or other demanding tasks. However, overclocking comes with risks, as pushing the
processor beyond its safe operating limits can lead to system instability, errors, or even hardware
failure. It also causes the CPU to generate more heat, which may require advanced cooling systems
like liquid cooling or high-performance fans to prevent damage. To maintain safety and reliability,
modern processors include built-in mechanisms such as thermal throttling, where the CPU
automatically reduces its frequency when it gets too hot, thereby preventing overheating. While
clock speed is an important factor in determining performance, it is not the only one—other aspects
like the number of cores, cache size, and processor architecture also play a major role in how
efficiently a CPU handles workloads.
Overclocking
Types of Cores
Core Counts
A CPU core is actually a processing unit that is quite independent inside of the processor. Every
core can manage independent tasks, and extra cores usually let a CPU execute additional
operations. This means a CPU having more cores can perform more operations simultaneously.
• Only one instruction stream at one time could be executed by Single-Core CPUs (old
generation). Combine multiple cores in a single chip like dual, quad, hexa, octa, etc. for
parallel processing → Multi-Core CPUs (modern).
• Basic multitasking and office tasks occur with 2 Cores (Dual-Core).
• 4 Cores or Quad-Core are standard throughout everyday computing including light
gaming.
• 6 Cores (Hexa-Core): Performs smoothly with heavier workloads.
• For gaming, 8 Cores (Octa-Core) are popular. Furthermore, they are suitable enough for
streaming as for productivity.
• 12 or 16 Cores: High-end consumer CPUs that are good for video editing or 3D rendering
as well as virtualization.
Types of Cores
CPU Cores
A CPU core (Central Processing Unit) is designed for a wide variety of tasks. These cores are
powerful and are optimized for serial processing, meaning they handle tasks one after another.
They are responsible for running the operating system, applications, and managing data flow.
CPUs can have a few cores (dual-core, quad-core) to many (up to 64 or more for some high-end
processors), which allows them to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, a concept known as
multitasking.
GPU Cores
A GPU core (Graphics Processing Unit) is a specialized processing unit optimized for parallel
processing. Unlike CPU cores, which are few and powerful, GPU cores are numerous (often in
the thousands) and are simpler.
• CUDA Cores: A type of GPU core developed by NVIDIA for general-purpose parallel
processing.
• Tensor Cores: A specialized type of GPU core, also from NVIDIA, designed specifically to
accelerate matrix operations used in deep learning and AI
CONCLUSION - To conclude, processors are the heart of every computer system, and their
performance depends on both core count and operating frequency. Multi-core processors allow
better multitasking, while higher frequencies enable faster execution of tasks. By understanding
the types of processors and their specifications, we can make better decisions when choosing or
upgrading computer systems for various needs.
Computer Cables
THEORY -
What are Computer Cables?
Computer Cables are the wires and cords that carry the electricity and data signals for our high-
tech lives. If you’ve used home computers, you’ve likely dealt with bundles of different cables (or
maybe large, tangled ‘rat’s nests’ of them) that connect the computer to its necessary support
devices and peripheral accessories like monitors, printers, keyboards, mice, and speakers. All these
have different cabling needs, and RS can help equip you with the cables for them all.
Data cables include any computer cable types meant for transferring digital signals between
computers and computer peripheral devices. They carry the information signals of the internet and
other digital communications.
Data cable lengths are made of the following computer leads types:
• Twisted Pairs: Two insulated copper wires that are twisted together and can have additional
shielding to enhance signal security and quality. They have various numbered categories, like
Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7, and Cat8.
• Coaxial: These cables are a single copper wire within a durable, flexible insulating layer. They
have a higher bandwidth than twisted pairs and are often used to transmit video signals in CCTV
security systems and home TV.
• Fibre Optic: These high-performing cables feature strands of plastic or glass within a cladding
layer (along with further protective layers). Fibre optic cables transfer data via reflected light
pulses very securely at high bandwidths and speeds across incredible distances, making them key
for high-performing telecommunications.
Ethernet Cable
USB Cable
VGA Cable
Types of Computer Cables and Ports
1. Ethernet cables
Wireless connections might be more convenient and make for a tidier working environment, but
in many ways cables are superior. They aren’t hampered by nearby networks and other
interference, meaning they can maintain fast speeds at all times.
Most routers have Gigabit Ethernet ports, which can transfer at speeds up to 1Gbps. To benefit,
however, the device you’re connecting it to needs to support Gigabit Ethernet, as must the actual
cable. If you’re using older cables, they may be the slower Cat5 type, which will reduce speeds to
around 100Mbps. If you’re not sure which you have, the Cat rating will be on the cable. Cat5e or
Cat6 Ethernet cables will support speeds of 1Gbps.
2. USB Cables
USB (Universal Serial Bus) cables are widely used to connect, transfer data, and provide power
between computers, smartphones, and other electronic devices. They were developed as a standard
to replace multiple types of connectors and make device connections simple and universal. USB
cables come in different types, such as USB-A, USB-B, USB-C, Micro-USB, and Mini-USB, each
designed for specific devices and purposes. Modern USB versions, such as USB 3.0, USB 3.1, and
USB 3.2, offer faster data transfer rates compared to older versions like USB 2.0. The latest
standard, USB Type-C, is reversible, meaning it can be plugged in either way, and it supports very
high data transfer speeds as well as fast charging for smartphones and laptops. Besides data
transfer, USB cables are also used for charging, connecting external devices like keyboards, mice,
printers, and storage drives, making them one of the most essential accessories in everyday
computing.
3. VGA cables
Back in the 1970s and 1980s, computers like the Acorn Electron used coaxial cables to connect to
standard, low-resolution TV sets. However, by the 1990s most computers were using VGA cables
to connect to dedicated monitors, which were able to produce much sharper pictures. VGA cables
are still widely used today, mostly connecting older monitors or PCs. They can only carry analog
signals, so the quality can’t match digital alternatives such as DVI and HDMI.
Fibre Optic Cable
DVI Cable
HDMI Cable
4. Fibre Optic Cables
An essential technology for long-distance telecommunications, they feature long, protected strands
of plastic or glass and continuously reflect light pulses along the cable’s length. They handle high
speeds and bandwidth, are highly durable and data-secure, and have no problems with
electromagnetic interference.
5. DVI cables
The DVI cable started appearing around 2000, offering a digital and higher-quality alternative to
VGA. While modern computers mostly provide HDMI ports for sending video signals, it’s fairly
common for them to also have one or more DVI ports.
There are two main types of DVI cable: DVI-I and DVI-D. If you find your DVI cable doesn’t fit
the port on your PC or monitor, it’s likely that you’re trying to connect a DVI-I cable to a DVI-D
port. Although they look almost identical, there is a difference. DVI-I has four extra pins that
prevent you from plugging a DVI-I cable into a DVI-D port.
If you are experiencing this problem, you can buy an adapter, but you’re far better off simply
buying a DVI-D cable instead because these work with both DVI-I and DVI-D ports.
6. HDMI cables
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables are widely used to transmit high-quality
audio and video signals between devices such as computers, televisions, monitors, projectors, and
gaming consoles. Unlike older analog cables, HDMI provides a digital connection, which ensures
sharper images and clearer sound without signal loss.
HDMI cables can carry both video and multi-channel audio through a single connection, reducing
the need for multiple cables. Over the years, different versions of HDMI have been developed,
such as HDMI 1.4, 2.0, and 2.1, each offering improved bandwidth, higher resolutions, faster
refresh rates, and features like 3D support, 4K and 8K video, HDR (High Dynamic Range), and
enhanced audio return channels (eARC).
HDMI also supports features like CEC (Consumer Electronics Control), allowing users to control
multiple devices (like TV and sound system) with a single remote. Because of its ability to deliver
both sound and picture together in high quality, HDMI has become the universal standard for
connecting modern multimedia devices.
Aux Cable
Thunderbolt Cable
DisplayPort Cable
7. Aux Cables
The classic ‘headphone jack,’ auxiliary cables feature a 3.5mm male stereo connection at both
ends. They send analogue audio signals from a source (like a mobile phone, computer, or music
player) to a system with speakers (like a home stereo, car, or headphones).
8. Thunderbolt Cables
These are versatile cables with the same small, symmetric profile as USB-C. They support data
transfer, video signals, and power delivery, and even interconnect multiple computing devices in
a daisy-chain. The arrowed lightning bolt symbol on connectors and ports indicates Thunderbolt
capability.
9. DisplayPort Cables
Similar to HDMI, DisplayPort cables are easily connected computer audiovisual cables. They are
used mostly for computers rather than home theatre devices. DisplayPort connections are
trapezoid-shaped, use 20 pins, and can feature a locking mechanism for secure connections.