Computer Definition Sep 2023
Computer Definition Sep 2023
An electronic programmable device that accepts data (input), process data, output
and store information. You may want to watch this video from GCF learn for
details.
Word Meaning
Electronic It uses electricity OR it needs electricity to operate.
Programmable It works by following instructions and those are
contained in programs.
Device It is a tool/machine.
Accepts data (Input) [means that it allows the user to enter data into the
computer], the following are some of the devices that
can be used:
Touch pad or mouse (for giving the computer
instructions)
Keyboard (for entering text (letters, numbers
and symbols))
Microphone ( for voice input)
Sensors e.g. light sensor
Scanners e.g. barcode reader, finger print
Process data [It turns data into meaningful and usable information]
E.g. Central Processing Unit-CPU the only
processing device.
Output data and/or [It provides the user with feedback], the following are
information some of the devices that can be used:
Screen/monitor (for visual display e.g. Video,
pictures, text)
Speakers (for voice output)
Printer (for hardcopy or paper feedback), you
can print text or pictures.
Store data and/or [It can keep the user’s data or information for future
information. use]
NB: [You can store Primary storage Secondary storage devices
your documents or files devices
online/remotely (e.g. on Random Magnetic media:
Google drive, drop box Access -Hard disk drive
or one drive ) or Memory- (HDD) and it can be
offline/locally e.g. on RAM external or internal.
the hard disk] -Floppy disk (obsolete)
Read Only Solid state storage:
Memory- -USB flash
ROM -Memory card
Basic Input Optical media:
Output -Compact Disk (CD)
System-BIOS -Digital Video Disk
(memory (DVD)
intended for
keeping
booting
results)
Communication
(e.g. MODEM,
USB cable)
Storage (data or
information)
Computer as a system
Software (S/W)
Operating System (OS): Android it is pre-installed on most devices.
Suite(s): WPS office (it has a PDF reader), Kingsoft office suites need to be
downloaded and installed.
Apps (they have an .apk extension): An example can be WhatsApp Apps need
to be downloaded and installed.
Hardware (H/W)
Input: (Touch) screen, keypad (a miniature keyboard), microphone (for picking
your voice) camera (for taking pictures and videos), and sensors (e.g. when
making a call, certain phones will automatically lock the screen once the phone
gets closer to the ear)
Output: (Touch) screen, speakers, headphones (they cross-over your head),
earphones (they rest on your ear canal), headsets (headphone + microphone) and
ear sets (earphone + microphone).
Storage: Phone memory and memory card.