Module 3 Hardware

Module 3 - Objectives 

 Hardware refers to the tangible parts of a computer or digital device and typically includes support for processing, storage, input, and output.

From huge servers that support the needs of thousands of users, to slim laptops, to tiny smartwatches, computing devices share certain characteristics. They all manipulate digital data and share the same

fundamental processes. By learning about these underlying processes and their components, you can develop a better understanding of what computing devices are capable of and how you can benefit from those capabilities. You can become empowered to competently use digital devices whether they are old or the latest rage. Understanding hardware will also allow you to be a wise consumer, purchasing

computers and digital devices that best suit your needs.

Required Readings

Module-3.pdf

Computers were, prior to the invention of electricity, and its subsequent application to programmed mathematical and logical calculations, any mechanical device or person that performed these same calculations.

Mathematics and formal logic are disciplines that have been studied and practiced by humans throughout recorded history. Unlike more subjective disciplines, such as art, music, and literature, math and logic follow strict, unambiguous rules that solve specific problems with regular, reproducible procedures, a fact that did not escape the notice of mechanical engineers and inventors.

 Processing carries out the instructions provided by software, using specially designed circuitry and awell-ˇdefined routine to transform data into useful outputs.

Processing is at the core of computing. Understanding how processors function can help users appreciate the abilities and limitations of computers and can be of great value when shopping for computers.

 In computing and digital technologies, storage  refers to the ability to maintain data within the system temporarily or permanently.

Breakthroughs in storage technologies have empowered individuals to access information anywhere and anytime, easily share information with others, and maintain huge libraries of documents, music, photographs, movies, and other digital information—sometimes in a device no larger than a fingernail. Storage technologies allow us to carry billions of bytes of data in our pockets to access anywhere,anytime.

I/O refers to  input and output —the manner in which data is received into a computer system, and the manner in which information and the results of processing are provided to the user.

Users interact with computers through input and output (I/O) devices. Of all the computer hardware components, I/O devices have the most direct impact on a user’s computing experience. To accommodate a wide variety of data and the many environments in which data is processed, there are literally hundreds of different input devices on the market. By learning about input devices, you also

learn what computers are capable of. Output devices connect directly with our senses. Although most output from a computer is visual, much is auditory, and some more exotic devices even affect our other senses.

Online Discussion Forum

1. Submit one or two sentances identifying the main points of this module  
2. Respond to at least 3 of your colleagues, see what you have in common.

This work, “Module 3 - Hardware", is a derivative of "Introduction to Computing Reading & Learning Objectives” by OpenNow from Cengage, used under   CC BY. "Module 3 – Hardware" is licensed under CC BY by Carlos Julien.