Understanding Computer Fundamentals and Concepts
ROM (Read-Only Memory)
Read-Only Memory (ROM) is a type of computer memory that cannot be overwritten. The information stored inside is read-only and permanent. This information consists of predefined processes and is part of the hardware. ROM is non-volatile, meaning the data is retained even when the power is turned off.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
Random Access Memory (RAM) is a type of computer memory that can be overwritten. The information stored inside is loaded when there is a request for a process. RAM is volatile, meaning the data is lost when you restart or turn off your computer.
Input Devices
Input devices are peripherals that connect to a computer, complementing its functionality. An example of an input device is a mouse.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the most important part of a computer; it’s the computer’s brain. All arithmetic and logical processes are performed inside the CPU.
Collocations (Example)
A collocation is a combination of words, often a verb and a noun, that naturally go together to form a phrase. Example: Access to the internet.
Two Most Important Parts of Computers
The most important parts of a computer are the software and hardware. Both combine to process information and deliver results according to process requests.
Ports (Examples)
Ports are connectors where we can connect input devices. Ports are the communication methods between the computer and input devices.
The Digital Age
The Digital Age is an era where computers are present in everyday life. We have technology everywhere (cell phones, computers, and other devices). Computers help students and teachers, provide access to the internet, and enable communication with people around the world. They facilitate the work of teachers and students. A device with internet access allows you to download information, make voice calls, send texts, play games, make payments, and know your location thanks to GPS technology.
BUS
The BUS is where information travels to communicate with other devices. For example, information travels from the CPU to other devices via the BUS.
Register
Registers are pieces of information that are loaded into main memory to be used by running applications.
Main Memory
Main memory is where programs are loaded for execution. Loading into main memory depends on the request made to process information.
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
The Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) is responsible for performing all mathematical and logical operations.
Defining Bits
A bit is the basic unit of information in computing, represented as a 0 or 1.
Defining Bytes
Bytes are composed of eight bits and can represent letters, numbers, and symbols.
How Much is One Gigahertz?
One Gigahertz (GHz) is equal to one billion hertz (Hz).
Motherboard
The motherboard is an electronic component where all parts of the computer (hardware) are connected. The motherboard contains the CPU, memory, ports, hard disk, CD-ROM (and others), and slots for adding new devices, such as a new sound card, video card, etc.
Main Parts of the CPU
The main parts of the CPU are:
- The ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
- The Control Unit
- The Registers
What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic machine capable of processing information, which consists of requests for work from programs or hardware users.
Defining the Control Unit
The control unit is responsible for performing all process requests; it interprets and sends the results as information.
Participle (Example)
The participle is a verbal form, often ending in “-ing” in English. Example: Run -> Running (I was running in the park)
Comparative Adjectives (Example)
Comparative adjectives allow us to show a difference between nouns. Example: Chile is more wonderful than Argentina.
Superlative Adjectives
Superlative adjectives are used to indicate the extreme quality of a noun. Example: The Pacific Ocean is the biggest of all.
When to Use “Already” (Example)
“Already” is used for affirmative sentences in the past. Example: I have already gone to the match.
When to Use “Yet”
“Yet” is used for negative sentences. Example: She has not taken the bus yet. “Yet” is also used for interrogative sentences. Example: Has she driven a car yet?
Present Perfect (Example)
The present perfect tense combines the present and the past, referring to something that happened recently. Example: He has broken the window.