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An operating system ( OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs . Time-sharing operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting software for cost allocation of processor time, mass storage, peripherals, and ...
Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer, such as the central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), motherboard, computer data storage, graphics card, sound card, and computer case. It includes external devices such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and speakers. [ 1][ 2]
In computer science and computer engineering, computer architecture is a description of the structure of a computer system made from component parts. [ 1] It can sometimes be a high-level description that ignores details of the implementation. [ 2] At a more detailed level, the description may include the instruction set architecture design ...
A computer lab with desktop PCs with flat-panel monitors. A desktop computer (often abbreviated desktop[ 1]) is a personal computer designed for regular use at a stationary location on or near a desk (as opposed to a portable computer) due to its size and power requirements. The most common configuration has a case that houses the power supply ...
Typing on a laptop keyboard. A computer keyboard is a peripheral input device modeled after the typewriter keyboard [ 1][ 2] which uses an arrangement of buttons or keys to act as mechanical levers or electronic switches. Replacing early punched cards and paper tape technology, interaction via teleprinter -style keyboards have been the main ...
A computer is a machine that can be programmed to automatically carry out sequences of arithmetic or logical operations ( computation ). Modern digital electronic computers can perform generic sets of operations known as programs. These programs enable computers to perform a wide range of tasks. The term computer system may refer to a nominally ...
Computer memory stores information, such as data and programs, for immediate use in the computer. [ 2] The term memory is often synonymous with the terms RAM, main memory, or primary storage. Archaic synonyms for main memory include core (for magnetic core memory) and store. [ 3]
System bus. A system bus is a single computer bus that connects the major components of a computer system, combining the functions of a data bus to carry information, an address bus to determine where it should be sent or read from, and a control bus to determine its operation. The technique was developed to reduce costs and improve modularity ...