A computer system is a entire apparatus that is integrated together to accomplish tasks, resolve issues, and manage information. A computer system is not just a computer — i.e. a laptop or desktop — but rather a plethora of systems that all must combine together to work effectively. Computer systems are developed in different hardware and software.

• Everything that is an object that you can physically touch and feel on a computer are hardware. Examples of hardware are a keyboard, mouse, monitor, and the internal parts of the computer case, such as the CPU, RAM and hard drive.

• The software is the instructions or program that the hardware will follow, such as playing a video, opening a website or typing a document.

These two components intermingle so the computer system may accomplish everything from basic math to complex endeavors such as gaming, video editing, and running an operating system.

Whenever and wherever you use a computer or smart device (i.e., smartphone), you are using a computer system. That could be going through all the steps of a keyboard (input), processing the computer (thinking), outputting, or displaying the result on a screen, or storing somewhere (saving a file), you are taking advantage of multiple parts of the same system at once.

You could think of it in the same way as the human body:

• The hardware is like your body — such as your hands, eyes, ears, and brain.

• The software is like your thoughts and decisions — instructing your body to act.

Without both working together, the system would not operate. This is why it´s important to know ALL the parts...and how they fit together!

A computer system comprises a number of different components, each of which is critical to the operation of the system. All of them work together in the computer to receive input, process that input, present output, and save data. Let's examine them in parts:

1. Input Devices – "How information enters into the system"

Input devices are the devices we use to input data and commands into a computer. Without them, we could not communicate with the system.

Examples:

• Keyboard – to type text and commands.

• Mouse – to point, click on, and select.

• Microphone – for voice input.

• Scanner – to change paper documents into digital form.

• Touchscreen – input and output on many devices.

📝 Fun Fact: Some modern input devices such as webcams and fingerprint scanners, use automated input to bring in information, which requires no manual input.

2. Central Processing Unit (CPU) – "The brain of the computer"

The CPU is the most important element of any computer system as it does all of the thinking, calculating, and decision-making.

Main functions are to:

• Process instructions received by input.

• Perform calculations and logical operations.

• Send commands to other components of the system.

• Often referred to as the "processor", it is typically located within the main computer unit. 

🧠 Tip: Faster CPUs will be more efficient in handling multiple tasks simultaneously, which will improve performance of your computer.

3. Output Devices - "How your computer speaks to you"

After the CPU creates the information and processes the data, output devices deliver the results to the user. Output devices display what the computer is doing so you can see, hear and feel it. 

Examples of output devices are:

•  Monitor - Shows images, texts, and videos. 

• Printer - makes a physical copy of your digital documents.

•  Speaker - produces music, sounds, and voice. 

• Projector - displays images to a larger screen for group viewing.

 🔊 Note: Some devices functions as both input and output devices, for example a touchscreen or VR headset.

4. Storage Devices – "Where things are saved"

Storage is the area where information is stored or saved by the computer either short-term or long-term.

Different types of storage:

• RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for when tasks are running. All data in RAM disappear when the computer shuts down.

• Hard Drive / Solid State Drive (SSD): Permanent storage where files, programs, and the operating system are stored for all intents and purposes.

• USB Flash Drives / SD Card: Portable storage that is easy for quickly transfer.

💾 Analogy: RAM is like a notepad where you write information quickly, while your hard drive is like a filing cabinet that you use to save documents for a longer time.

5. Software– "Instructions you can't see that make it happen"

Software is the name given to the programs and applications that tell hardware what to do. You can't touch it, but it controls every command that a computer performs.

Types of software:

• System Software: the software that runs the basic operating procedure on the computer (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).

• Application Software: the software that works on a computer enabling you the performance of tasks (e.g., web browsers, games, word processers).

• Utility Software: the software that runs common maintenance procedures like looking for viruses or cleaning up disk space.

💡Without software the hardware would just be sitting there doing nothing.

💬 Were you aware? 

A smartphone functions as a type of computer system. A smartphone incorporates input components like touchscreens and microphones alongside task-managing processors (CPUs) while featuring output mechanisms such as screens and speakers and storage systems for messages, apps, and pictures similar to desktops and laptops. 

Video game consoles, smartwatches, smart TVs, and automated teller machines all contain hidden computer systems. All these entities share identical foundational architecture despite their varied appearances and specialized functions: input → processing → output → storage. 

The operation of these gadgets relies on hardware components such as processors, sensors, and screens while they execute software including operating systems, apps, or games. 

The next instance you engage in gaming activities or operate your smartphone.