A computer system is made of different electronic components and parts that make it look complex. These fundamental components constitute a computer system that makes a computer to run effectively. The first component is the motherboard that forms a perfect platform on which internal electronic components are attached (Miller 67).
The motherboard consolidates all the basic components of a computer system. All the programs and applications in a computer system are run by a component known as the central processing unit.
It is impossible for a computer to execute any tasks without the central processing unit (Miller 67). A computer can only boot to the operating system courtesy of the central processing unit.
A computer system can not be complete without the storage media. The Random Access Memory commonly referred to as RAM is another fundamental component in a computer system that is responsible for storing files and information temporarily when the computer is running.
The size of the Random Access Memory determines how fast the computer responds to commands. A computer with a low Random Access Memory will run slowly even if it has a powerful central processing unit.
The other storage component in a computer system is the hard disk drive. Compared to the Random Access Memory, the hard disk drive stores data for a long time. The hard disk is able to retain the stored data and information with or without power.
The data in the Random Access Memory disappears the moment the computer goes off. Because of its reliability, the hard disk is used to store very important files like system files and other program files.
The other components include the power supply unit that is responsible for powering the computer system and the video card that is essential in displaying images. The graphics card makes the images and pictures appearing on the computer monitor to look clear and detailed (Pearsons 53).
There are various ways in which the computer interacts with users on a daily basis. The user interacts with the computer system through the input and output devices. A combination of software and hardware form what is normally referred to as the user interface.
The software enables the monitor to display the output on the computer monitor (Pearsons 53). The computer system receives input from users through hardware devices like the mouse, keyboard, joystick, game controller, touch screen and other peripherals. These input devices are referred to as peripherals because they are externally attached to the computer system.
After processing the input in relation to the specified command, the user receives output from the computer system via output devices. Some of the output hardware includes the monitor and the printer.
Human-computer interaction requires the user to be well equipped with the relevant computing skills and knowledge to be able to navigate the computer system effectively.
The user is required to have some basic knowledge in computer operating systems, computer graphics, programming, database management and computer hardware technology. The computer is very useful in the sense that it helps human beings to process and store their data in a much simpler way.
Computer applications such as the internet and computer games have enhanced human- computer interactions by necessitating information retrieval, electronic commerce and entertainment.
Works Cited
Miller, Michael. Absolute Beginner’s Guide to Computer Basics. New York: Que Publishing, 2007. Print.
Pearsons, June & Oja Dan. New Perspectives on Computer Concepts2012: Brief. New York: Cengage Learning, 2011. Print.