Software Paper and Computer Hardware

A computer must have a well-designed software and hardware system in order to function properly.

Hardware devices are the physical components of a computer, such as the keyboard, mouse, screen, and monitor (Shelly & Vermaat, 2008).

Computer software is the logic that a computer utilizes to deal with its numerous users. The computer software is the computer’s brain, and it can be transported from one computer to another, unlike the hardware, which may be difficult to find depending on the computer model (Shelly & Vermaat, 2008).

The computer software uses a series of command from the hardware thus using the same to process necessary information within the computer.

This essay will describe the computer software and hardware with a view of defining the importance of each component in the operation of a computer. The essay will also evaluate the parts of a computer that are vital for a student and which thus should be considered while purchasing a computer.

Role of hardware components and operating system

Hardware

Computer hardware is the observable and tangible parts of a computer (Shelly & Vermaat, 2008).

Without the computer hardware, communication would be hard between two computer users hence they must be in place and also properly installed.

The hardware allows the user to input data into the computer which is then processed by the operating system (Shelly & Vermaat, 2008).

Computer hardware sizes and proportions depends on the kind and make of a computer, for instance a laptop has an inbuilt hardware system while a desktop has separate parts which makes up one unit.

Screen

The screen allows the computer users to make various commands within the computer.

Mouse

The mouse makes it easy for the user to use various commands while entering data.

Keyboard

The key board is one of the most important components because it ensures that the user have typed in the right words which when well processed is presented as information on the computer screen.

Operating system

The operating system is an application that manages the computer’s software and hardware by enhancing communication between the two.

The computer cannot hence function without an operating system because it is the basic functioning unit. The system hence ensures that there is a smooth flow of information between the two.

Further, the operating system makes it easy for the user to multitask in the computer. When one is operating the computer system in various tasks for instance, they eat up the processor’s time, memory and even the disc input and the operating system provides a balance to ensure that none is weighed down during the process.

The operating systems also facilitate privacy and file sharing within the computer. In this case, it is hence impossible to access files without having the right command and the passwords for the same. The operating system also safeguards the files installed on the computer by fighting any malware that could be present in the system.

Hardware components that must be considered when purchasing a school computer

Keyboard

The keyboard is one of the most important components of a computer. The key board facilitates the entry of data into the computer system for various processing. Without the keyboard, the computer user would not be able to run the computer since the drivers would not have any data that they can work with. The keyboard also enhances a student’s writing skills which is important when handling term papers, exams or general essays.

Printer

Printer is an output unit that is very vital for a student. The printer receives information from the computer and then turns it into a hard copy. The printer enables the student to hand over assignments that the professor would need in hard copy and even for discussion purposes. It is also important to have some back up storage system and having hard copy of the information in the computer would also be convenient for the student.

Computer software

Computer software is the tool that allows the computer user to effectively communicate using the hardware. Computer software is the programming code that is carried out on a computer the software receives date from the hardware and later changes it to data. Without the software, the computer would not function properly since the data needs to go through some programming before it becomes an output. The software hence sends instructions to the computer on how to run smoothly. The software contains the essential programs that a computer needs to effectively function. Computer software is grouped into various categories including the operating system, device drivers and the windows system. Examples of computer software include the internet browser, movie player, operating system, and the photo program. Computer software performs a unique set of activities that makes the computer run effectively.

Hard drive

Hard drive is a group of files that enhances communication between the hardware devices and the operating system. The hard drive does not further need to check the exact information based on the input but rather focuses on the exchange of files between the two. For instance, the hard drive facilitates the transfer of information from the computer to the printer.

Utility programs

Antivirus

This program would protect the computer from any malware or virus that would eat up information and potentially crash the computer (Andrews, 2010). The antivirus software is installed on the computer at the point of purchase.

Disc cleaners

The disc cleaner is a utility chooses the information that the computer should delete when the memory is full (Andrews, 2010). In this case, the user does not have to constantly delete his information since the cleaner effectively ensures that there is enough space.

Backup software

The backup software is also necessary because it would allow the student to access information that had been accidentally deleted (Andrews, 2010). In this case, the software stores information that is not permanently deleted and sends control to the operating system when there is need to retrieve the data.

Conclusion

It is thus important that a student ensures that the computer has all the components necessary for his studies before purchasing one. The keyboard is essential as an input device because it ensures that the student can add and store the necessary information that is needed for his studies. Having a printer would also allow the student to have a hard copy of his work. Computer software is also an important component because it contains the programs that enable the computer to run well. Lastly, utility programs within an operating system allow instructions to be transmitted from one program to another and maintain the computer in a good condition.

Appendix

Make-Dell

Model- LATiTUDE WINDOWS 10 CORE 2 DUO 4GB RAM WIN DVD WIFI PC HD COMPUTER

References

Andrews, J. (2010). A+ guide to managing and maintaining your PC. Boston, Mass: Course Technology/Cengage Learning.

Anita, G. (2010). Computer Fundamentals. Place of publication not identified: Pearson Education India.

Shelly, G. B., & Vermaat, M. (2008). Discovering computers: Fundamentals. Boston, Mass: Course Technology, Cengage Learning