Understanding Computer Systems

The IPO model consists of at least three, and sometimes four, distinct components. In contemporary Information Technology, it is almost always discussed as a four component model in which the fourth is a named optional.
The components of the IPO model are defined as:

• I: Input - The information, ideas, and resources used
• P: Processing - Actions taken upon/using input or stored material
• O: Output - Results of the processing that then exit the system
• S: Storage - Location(s) where material inside the system is/are placed for possible use at a later time

Input Devices

What good is a computer, unless you have a way to get information into it? Therefore, input devices are necessary to provide ways to communicate with the computer. Information and commands are issued to the computer by way of these devices.

Examples of input devices include the keyboard, mouse, modem, joystick, digitizing pen and tablet, microphone, touch screens, scanner, camera, I/O Architecture

Processing Devices

The main circuit board of a computer is called the motherboard. The main chip in the computer is the central processing unit CPU. It is called the CPU because its main function is to process instructions, manage the flow of information through the computer system, and perform calculations. It is the heart of the computer and communicates with the output, input and storage devices to perform tasks that are important to the functioning of the computer.

As much as three types of memory are located on the motherboard. Memory cache helps the main memory get information faster to the CPU. 

The power supply brings electricity from an outside current and transforms it into electricity that the computer can use. The bus is the electronic path that carries information to devices. The ports connect devices to the computer.

Computer Storage

Storage devices hold information. They operate just like a filing cabinet. The information is stored on these devices are used to perform tasks. The information can be as simple as data, or more complex application programs that will enhance your work.

Examples of the devices include the hard drives, floppy drives, tape drives, CD-ROM drives, and zip drives

 Ouput Devices

In order to communicate with the computer and get the results of the information you have put into the computer, output devices are needed. Outputed information can be displayed as screen information, printed on paper, or outputed as sound.

Examples of output devices include speakers, monitor, printers, and I/O Architecture