Discussion: Computer Literacy

Computer Literacy
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Discussion 1
The Difference between Software and Hardware
Hardware and software are terms used in computers that are inter-related and used to characterize different types of paraphernalia used in computers. They work together in digital devices and systems in order to provide computer functionality. Hardware comprises of objects related to a computer and are physically tangible. These are all the physical components of a computer and are, for example, a keyboard, the Central Processing Unit (CPU) or the printers just to mention a few. Software, on the other hand, comprises of intangible components of a computer that are the computer programs. These are, for example, the operating system, memory, or anti-virus programs. Therefore, all the devices used for storage and safe keeping of data in electronic form are hardware while the data comprises of computer software. While both are usually linked to computers, software can also function in other hardware such as medical equipment, PDAs, or GPS units.
Discussion 2
The Role of the CPU
This is the Central Processing Unit of any computer and commonly referred to as a processor. It is a computer hardware that is responsible for carrying out the instructions of a certain computer program. It comprises of the Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU), the unit for decoding instructions, and the Control Unit (CU). The CPU’s role is to execute stored instructions (programs) that are stored in the computer’s memory, and it does this in four steps that include fetching, decoding executing, and writing back to complete its operation.
The Role of the Random Access Memory (RAM)
The Random Access Memory is the memory pool that is readily accessible in the computer’s processor. It is composed of tiny memory chips that form memory modules that are installed on the computer’s motherboard in the RAM slots. RAM is a computer’s memory portion that can be accessed in any order. The role of the RAM is to hold the computer data and instructions for completing certain tasks temporarily hence endows the CPU with quick accessibility to stored data and instructions. In addition, its function is to store and load the operating system and other computer programs and applications while the PC is functioning. Therefore, it is only operational when the computer is ON and functions to store data put in the computer while the computer program is running.
The Role of Hard Disks
A computer hard disk or internal hard drive forms the main storage device for a computer and differs from the other forms of computer memory due to their non-volatile nature that is data they retain data even when the computer is off. Therefore, the role of the computer hard disk is storing volumin...