Notes on Computer Systems

1. Definition of a System

• A system is a collection of entities that work together to achieve a common goal.

2. Definition of a Computer System

• A computer system is a collection of entities (hardware, software, liveware, and firmware) that work together to:
  • Receive information
  • Process information
  • Manage information
  • Present information in a meaningful format

3. Components of a Computer System

A. Liveware

• Also known as wetware or greyware.
• Refers to the computer user.

B. Hardware

• Tangible parts of a computer, including:
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • CPU
  • Monitor
  • Other physical components

C. Software

• Intangible parts of a computer, including:
  • Computer programs
  • Applications that run on hardware

D. Firmware

• Manufacturer’s settings can be classified under software.
• Typically consists of programs stored in ROM chips.

Input Devices

1. Definition of Input Devices

• Input devices are devices that convert input data from human-readable form into machine-readable form.

2. Forms of Data

A. Human Readable Form

• A type of language that users understand, such as:
  • Kiswahili
  • English
  • Other spoken or written languages

B. Machine-Readable Form

• A type of language that computers understand, including:
  • Binary language
  • Assembly language
  • Other programming or machine languages

Examples of Input Devices

• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Scanner
• Microphone
• Webcam
• Touchscreen
• Graphics tablet
• Motion sensor
• Light sensor
• Barcode scanner
• Magnetic stripe reader
• RFID reader
• Biometric scanner.

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