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GCSE Computer Science 04 — Computers

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Topics include Computer system basics: hardware vs software, CPU structure and the fetch–decode–execute cycle, Performance factors: clock speed, cores, cache and RAM, Memory and storage: RAM, ROM, cache, and secondary storage, Input and output devices, sensors and actuators, System software: operating systems, utilities and user interfaces, Translators and development tools: assembler, compiler, interpreter, IDE, and Logic gates and truth tables (digital logic basics).

ComputerScience EN
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Computer system basics: hardware vs software

A computer system combines physical components (hardware) with programs (software) to perform tasks.

Key points

  • Hardware includes CPU, memory, storage, input and output devices.
  • Software includes system software (OS, utilities) and applications.
  • Hardware and software depend on each other: hardware needs instructions; software needs hardware to run.
  • Different devices use different mixes (e.g., embedded systems vs PCs).

Worked example

Question

Give two examples of hardware and two examples of system software in a typical laptop.

Solution

Hardware: CPU, SSD, RAM, keyboard, screen.
System software: operating system, device drivers, utilities (e.g., backup/antivirus).

Common pitfalls

  • Calling an application (e.g., a browser) 'system software'.
  • Thinking hardware alone 'does the job' without software instructions.

Prerequisites

  • Basic computing vocabulary
  • Input/output idea
Further resources