What Is A Computer?

Today Computer Systems are found everywhere. Computers have become as common as television. But here question arise WHAT IS A COMPUTER SYSTEM? A computer is a general-purpose computing device that can be programmed to carry out a set of arithmetic or logical operations automatically. Since a sequence of operations can be readily changed, the computer can solve more than one kind of problem. It is an electronic device which is capable of receiving and manipulating  information (data) in a particular form and of performing a sequence of operations in accordance with a predetermined but variable set of procedural instructions (program) to produce a result in the form of information or signals.It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You probably already know that you can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web. You can also use it to edit or create  spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.

                    A COMPUTER is a system made up of two major components Hardware and Software. The physical equipments of a computer system are known as HARDWARE and the collection of programs or instructions that allow the hardware to do its work or job is known as SOFTWARE. A computer is consists of at least one processing element, typically a central processing unit (CPU), and some form of memory. The processing element carries out arithmetic and logic operations, and a sequencing and control unit can change the order of operations in response to stored information. Peripheral devices allow information to be retrieved from an external source, and the result of operations saved and retrieved.

Mechanical analog computers started appearing in first century and were later used in the medieval era for astronomical calculations. In World War II, mechanical analog computers were used for specialized military applications. During this time the first electronic digital computers were developed. Originally they were the size of a large room, consuming as much power as several hundred modern personal computers (PCs). 

 

Modern computers are based on integrated circuits are millions to billions of times more capable than the early machines, and occupy a fraction of the space.  Simple computers are small enough to fit into mobile devices, and mobile computers can be powered by small batteries. Personal computers in their various forms are icons of the Information Age and are what most people consider as “computers.” However, the embedded computers found in many devices from MP3 players to fighter aircraft and from toys to industrial robots are the most numerous.