Input, Processing and Output
Trace how data moves through a computer system.
Every computer system is built around input, processing, output and storage.
- Identify input, output and storage devices.
- Explain the role of the CPU.
- Describe how data flows through a system.
The CPU
The CPU is the "brain" of the computer. It fetches instructions, decodes them and executes them. Its speed is measured in gigahertz (GHz), and its cores allow it to work on several tasks at once.
Devices
- Input — keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, scanner, camera.
- Output — monitor, printer, speaker, projector.
- Storage — hard disk, SSD, flash drive, cloud storage.
Data Flow
Input data enters through a device, travels to memory, is processed by the CPU, and the result is sent to output or saved to storage. A touchscreen is both input and output.
Cashier scans a barcode — input.
The computer looks up the price and calculates the total — processing.
The receipt prints and the sale is stored — output and storage.
Practice
- Name two input, two output and two storage devices.
- What does the CPU do?
- Explain why a touchscreen can be called both an input and an output device.
Recap
Data enters through input, is processed by the CPU, and leaves as output or is kept in storage. RAM is temporary, storage is permanent.
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Computer Fundamentals
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