Fundamental of Computer

Functionalities of a computer

Any digital computer carries out five functions.
1. Takes data as input. (Input)
2. Stores the data/instructions in its memory and use them when required. ( Memory Unit )
3. Processes the data and converts it into useful information. ( ALU )
4. Generates the output (Output)
5. Controls all the above four steps (Control Unit)
› Input :
This is the process of entering data and programs into the computer system.
› Memory Unit :
Computer is used to store data and instructions.
› Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):
The major operations performed by the ALU are addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, logic and comparison.
› Output :
This is the process of producing results from the data for getting useful information.

› Control Unit :
The process of input, output, processing and storage is performed under the supervision of a unit called 'Control Unit'. It decides when to start receiving data, when to stop it, where to store data, etc. It takes care of step -by-step processing of all operations in side the computer.