BLCHardware Reference
How computers take information in, work on it, and give a result back.
The Input-Process-Output model
Data goes in
The CPU works on it
A result comes out
Labelling game
Click a label below, then click the matching part of the computer setup. Score out of 5.
Score: 0 / 5
Component reference table
| Component | Type | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Keyboard | Input | Lets you type letters, numbers and commands. |
| Mouse | Input | Lets you point, click and select things. |
| Microphone | Input | Captures sound as data. |
| CPU | Process | The "brain" of the computer — carries out instructions. |
| RAM | Process | Temporary memory used while programmes are running. |
| Monitor | Output | Displays images and text. |
| Speakers | Output | Produce sound. |
| Printer | Output | Produces a paper copy. |
Internal components
CPU
The Central Processing Unit — carries out the instructions of every programme you run. It's the "brain" of the computer.
RAM
Random Access Memory — short-term memory that holds what the computer is working on right now. It's cleared when the computer turns off.
HDD / SSD
Long-term storage that keeps your files even when the power is off. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are faster than older HDDs (Hard Disk Drives).
GPU
The Graphics Processing Unit — handles images, video and games, so the CPU doesn't have to do it all.
IPO drag-and-drop activity
Drag each scenario into the correct zone (or click a scenario, then click a zone). Then click Check answers.