Computer Structure&

Architecture

Lesson 1 – Introduction to CS & A

LI: Describe what a computer is and identify the different types of computer.

What are Computers?A computer is a machine that carries out instructions given to it by a human. Without instructions, computers wouldn’t be able to do anything.

What makes them special?

• work faster than humans• are more accurate than humans• can store huge amounts of information that they never “forget”

Some other important things to remember:

• Computers don’t have brains; they are not cleverer than humans

• Computers don’t have feelings or “common sense”

Types of ComputersComputers come in many shapes and sizes. Computers that most people might recognise include:

• Desktops• Laptops• Tablets• Smart phones• Mainframes• Servers• Games Consoles• Embedded computers

Rapid advancements in technology has meant that computers have become much more powerful, much smaller and much cheaper than ever before.

Lesson 2 – The Structure of a Computer System

LI: Describe the main components of a computer system and re-create the IPO diagram.

IPOA computer is a machine that:

• takes in information• stores this information• processes this information• and gives this processed information back out.

This can be represented as:

This is known as the Input, Process, OutputDiagram (or IPO) for short.

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

STORAGEData Flow