UNIVERSITY OF DAR ES SALAAM

COLLEGE OF INFORMATION AND TECHNOLOGY (COICT)

COURSE CODE: IS 158.

SEMINAR PRESENTATION.

S/N STUDENT’S NAME REGISTRATION NO.

5 STEVEN ERNEST NYANGI 2022-04-10694

Marks:_____________________ Approved:___________________ Date:__________

Remarks:_________________________________________________________________
Task 1. Required to define a computer in terms of evolution, performance, design, capacity.
Computer hardware has evolved significantly since the first electronic computers were invented
in the 1940s. The following is a detailed description of a modern computer system in terms of its
evolution, performance, design, and capacity.
Evolution: Computers have undergone a significant transformation over the years, from the first
electronic computers that used vacuum tubes and punch cards to modern-day computers that use
microchips and solid-state storage. In the 1970s, the introduction of microprocessors led to the
creation of the first personal computers, which were significantly smaller and more affordable than
earlier computers. In the 1980s and 1990s, advancements in technology led to the creation of faster
processors and larger memory capacity, which made computers more powerful and versatile.
Today, computers continue to evolve, with advancements in artificial intelligence, cloud
computing, and quantum computing leading to even more powerful and efficient computer
systems.
Performance: The performance of a computer is determined by its processing power, memory
capacity, storage capacity, and graphics capabilities. Modern computers are equipped with multi-
core processors that can perform several tasks simultaneously, resulting in faster processing times.
Memory capacity has also increased significantly, with modern computers having several
gigabytes of RAM that can handle multiple applications and programs at once. Storage capacity
has also increased significantly, with solid-state drives (SSDs) replacing traditional hard disk
drives (HDDs), resulting in faster read and write speeds. Graphics capabilities have also improved,
with dedicated graphics cards that can handle complex tasks such as gaming and video editing.
Design: Modern computer systems are designed to be compact, energy-efficient, and aesthetically
pleasing. The design of a computer includes the physical components such as the motherboard,
CPU, memory, storage, power supply, and peripherals such as the monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
The motherboard is the central hub of the computer system, providing a platform for all the other
components to connect to. The CPU is the brain of the computer, responsible for executing
instructions and processing data. Memory stores data that is currently being used by the computer
system, while storage devices such as SSDs and HDDs store data that is not currently in use. The
power supply provides electricity to the computer system, while peripherals such as the monitor,
keyboard, and mouse allow users to interact with the system.
Capacity: The capacity of a computer refers to its ability to store and process data. Modern
computers have significantly increased capacity compared to earlier computer systems. Memory
capacity has increased from kilobytes to gigabytes, allowing users to run multiple applications and
programs simultaneously. Storage capacity has also increased significantly, with modern
computers having terabytes of storage space, enabling users to store large amounts of data,
including media files, documents, and software programs. The capacity of a computer system is
also dependent on its processing power, with multi-core processors and dedicated graphics cards
allowing computers to handle complex tasks and process large amounts of data quickly and
efficiently.
In summary, a modern computer system has evolved significantly since its inception, with
advancements in technology leading to increased performance, improved design, and expanded
capacity. Today's computers are compact, energy-efficient, and capable of handling a wide range
of tasks, from basic word processing to complex gaming and video editing.

Task 2. Required to differentiate between computer architecture and computer organization.

Computer architecture refers to the overall design of a computer system, including its instruction
set architecture, memory hierarchy, and input/output mechanisms. It is concerned with the design
of the computer hardware and the principles that govern its operation. Computer architecture is
often described in terms of the components of a computer system, such as the central processing
unit (CPU), memory, and input/output devices.
Computer organization, on the other hand, refers to the implementation of the computer
architecture. It is concerned with the way in which the components of a computer system are
interconnected and how they interact with each other. Computer organization is often described in
terms of the details of how a particular computer system is constructed, including the specific
hardware components used, the bus structure, and the interconnection of components.
To put it simply, computer architecture is concerned with the design of a computer system, while
computer organization is concerned with how that design is implemented.
Computer architecture provides the high-level view of a computer system, focusing on the design
principles that determine how it works. It defines the instructions that a CPU can execute, the types
of memory used, the way data is transferred between the CPU and memory, and the input/output
mechanisms. In contrast, computer organization is concerned with the low-level implementation
details of the computer system, such as the specific hardware used, the interconnectivity between
components, and the detailed operation of the CPU and memory subsystems.
Generally , while computer architecture defines the design principles and components of a
computer system, computer organization deals with the actual implementation of those design
principles and components. Both concepts are important in computer science and engineering and
are essential for understanding how computer systems work.

Task 3. Required to illustrate a basic computer system.

A computer system is a programmable electronic device that can accept input, store data, and
retrieve, process and provide required output.
 A basic computer system consists of four main components: the central processing unit (CPU),
memory, input/output devices, and storage devices. These components are interconnected
through a bus, which enables them to communicate with each other and exchange data.

Here is a detailed illustration of a basic computer system:

1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the brain of the computer system. It is
responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations. The CPU consists of
the arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and the control unit (CU).
2. Memory: Memory is used to store data and instructions that are currently being executed
by the CPU. There are several levels of memory hierarchy, including CPU registers, cache,
main memory, and secondary storage. The CPU registers are the fastest form of memory
and are used to store data that is being actively used by the CPU. Cache is a smaller, faster
memory that is used to store frequently accessed data and instructions. Main memory, also
known as RAM, is a larger, slower form of memory that is used to store data and
instructions that are not currently being used by the CPU. Secondary storage devices, such
as hard drives and solid-state drives, are used for long-term storage of data and instructions.
3. Input/Output (I/O) Devices: Input/output devices are used to interact with the computer
system. Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, and touchscreens, while
examples of output devices include displays, printers, and speakers.
4. Storage Devices: Storage devices are used for long-term storage of data and instructions.
Examples of storage devices include hard drives, solid-state drives, and optical discs.
5. Bus: The bus is a communication pathway that connects the different components of the
computer system. It enables the CPU to communicate with memory, input/output devices,
and storage devices.
Overall, this basic computer system is capable of executing instructions, performing calculations,
storing and retrieving data, and interacting with users through input/output devices. More
advanced computer systems may include additional components and features, but the basic
components of the CPU, memory, input/output devices, storage devices, and bus are present in all
computer systems.

Task 2. Required to provide function of each of the following hardware components.

1. The Motherboard.
The motherboard is a crucial component in a computer system, and its main function is to act as a
central hub that connects and communicates with all of the other hardware components in the
system. The motherboard provides a physical platform for the CPU, memory, storage devices,
input/output (I/O) devices, and other components to be mounted onto and interconnected with one
another. The motherboard also contains the basic input/output system (BIOS) which initializes the
hardware during boot-up and manages the system's configuration settings.
Overall, the motherboard plays a critical role in the operation and performance of a computer
system, and without it, the other hardware components would not be able to function together as a
cohesive unit.

2. Hard Disk Drives.

The primary function of a hard disk drive (HDD) in a computer system is to provide non-volatile
storage for data and software programs. In other words, it allows the computer to save and access
data and programs even when the computer is turned off.
Overall, hard disk drives are a vital component in a computer system, providing long-term storage
for data and software programs, enabling the computer to operate and function efficiently.

3. CPU.
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the "brain" of a computer system, and its primary function
is to process and execute instructions that are stored in memory. It performs the arithmetic, logic,
and control operations required to execute these instructions and manage the flow of data in the
computer system. The CPU is responsible for executing instructions for all software programs
running on the computer, from the operating system to user applications
Overall, the CPU plays a critical role in the performance and functionality of a computer system,
as it performs the calculations and operations necessary to run software applications and manage
system resources.
 4. Clock.
In computer hardware, the clock refers to an electronic oscillator that generates a series of electrical
pulses at a steady rate, which is typically measured in hertz (Hz). The clock's primary function is
to synchronize the various operations and processes within a computer system and ensure that they
occur at the correct time.
Generally, The clock acts like a timer that regulates the flow of data and instructions within the
computer system. The clock signal is used to synchronize the operations of the CPU, memory,
input/output devices, and other hardware components.

5. Memory.
In computer hardware, memory refers to the electronic components that store data and instructions
that the computer system needs to operate. The primary function of memory is to provide fast,
temporary storage for data and software programs that the CPU needs to access quickly.

6. I/O Expansion.
The function of I/O expansion in computer hardware is to enhance the capabilities of a computer
system by adding support for additional input/output devices and expansion cards. This can help
increase productivity, enable new functionality, and enhance the overall user experience.

7. Speaker.
The function of the speaker in computer hardware is to provide audio output, allowing users to
hear sound from their computer system. The speaker is an essential component of a computer
system's audio subsystem and can be integrated into the system's chassis or connected externally
via a cable.

8. I/O ports and cables.

The function of I/O (Input/Output) ports and cables in computer hardware is to enable
communication between the computer system and external devices, such as printers, monitors,
keyboards, mice, and external storage devices. I/O ports are physical connectors on the computer
system, and cables are used to connect external devices to these ports.

9. PS/2 Ports.
PS/2 ports are a type of I/O (Input/Output) port that were commonly used for connecting computer
peripherals, such as keyboards and mice, before USB became the standard interface for these
devices. The function of PS/2 ports in computer hardware is to allow users to connect compatible
keyboards and mice to the computer system.

10. Parallel Ports..

A parallel port is a type of computer hardware interface that was commonly used in earlier
computer systems to connect peripherals such as printers, scanners, and external hard drives. The
function of a parallel port is to allow for high-speed data transfer between the computer and the
peripheral. This is achieved by transmitting multiple bits of data simultaneously, in a parallel
manner. Parallel ports were typically equipped with a 25-pin connector that allowed for data
transfer rates of up to 2 megabytes per second.

11. Serial Ports.

A serial port is a type of computer hardware interface that is used to connect peripherals such as
modems, serial mice, and other specialized devices to a computer system. The function of a serial
port is to facilitate the serial transmission of data, in which data is sent one bit at a time at relatively
slow speeds over a single wire or set of wires.
In summary, the function of a serial port in computer hardware is to provide a simple and low-cost
way to transmit data between a computer and a peripheral device at relatively slow speeds.

12. USB Ports.

USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports are a common type of computer hardware interface used to
connect a wide range of peripheral devices to a computer system. The function of USB ports is to
provide a standardized and easy-to-use interface for connecting peripherals, such as keyboards,
mice, printers, external hard drives (Flash Drives), cameras, and many others.
In summary, USB ports provide a standardized and versatile interface for connecting a wide range
of peripheral devices to a computer system, while also providing high-speed data transfer, power
supply, and plug-and-play functionality.

13. SCSI.
SCSI (Small Computer System Interface) is a type of computer hardware interface used to connect
peripheral devices to a computer system. The function of SCSI is to provide a high-speed data
transfer connection for high-performance storage and other peripheral devices.

14. Network Ports.

Network ports, also known as Ethernet ports or LAN (Local Area Network) ports, are a type of
computer hardware interface used to connect a computer to a network. The function of network
ports is to provide a way for a computer to communicate with other devices on the same network,
such as other computers, servers, printers, and routers.

15. Audio Ports.

Audio ports, also known as audio jacks, are computer hardware interfaces used to connect audio
devices such as headphones, microphones, speakers, and other audio equipment to a computer.
The function of audio ports is to provide a way for users to input or output audio data from their
computer.

16. IrDA Ports.

Infrared Data Association (IrDA) ports are computer hardware interfaces that use infrared light to
wirelessly transfer data between devices. The function of IrDA ports is to provide a fast, simple
and secure method for exchanging data between devices without the need for cables or wireless
networks.
In summary, the function of IrDA ports in computer hardware is to provide a wireless method for
transferring data between devices using infrared light.
Joystick/MIDI Ports.
Joystick/MIDI ports are computer hardware interfaces that allow external devices to be connected
to a computer for input and output of music-related data. These ports are typically found on sound
cards or dedicated MIDI interface cards.
Joystick/MIDI ports can also be used for connecting joystick and gamepad controllers to a
computer for gaming or other applications that require analog input devices.
In summary, the function of Joystick/MIDI ports in computer hardware is to provide a way for
musicians and audio professionals to connect MIDI devices to their computer for recording and
playback. They can also be used for connecting analog input devices such as joystick and gamepad
controllers.

17. Interface Cards.

Interface cards, also known as expansion cards, are computer hardware components that are
inserted into expansion slots on the motherboard to provide additional functionality to the
computer.
In summary, the function of interface cards in computer hardware is to expand or enhance the
capabilities of the computer system beyond what is built into the motherboard. They provide
additional connectivity options, storage capabilities, video and audio processing, networking, and
other features.
 18. Storage Devices.
The function of storage devices in computer hardware is to store and retrieve digital data. These
devices provide long-term, non-volatile storage for a wide range of data types, including operating
system files, applications, documents, media files, and other user-generated content.
In short, the function of storage devices in computer hardware is to store and retrieve digital data.
An example of a storage device is an external hard disk.
 19. Floppy Drives.
Floppy drives are a type of storage device used in older computer hardware. They are used to read
and write data from floppy disks, which are small, portable storage media made of a thin, flexible
magnetic disk enclosed in a plastic casing.
The function of floppy drives is to provide a means of transferring and storing data on floppy disks.
They were commonly used in the past to install operating systems and software, transfer files
between computers, and backup important data.

20. Optical Disk Storage.

The function of optical disk storage in computer hardware is to provide a means of non-volatile
storage for digital data using optical technology. Optical disks are circular discs made of plastic or
glass and are coated with a reflective layer that reflects laser light.
 21. Power Supply Unit (PSU).
The power supply unit (PSU) in computer hardware is responsible for converting the AC
(alternating current) power from the wall outlet into the DC (direct current) power that the
computer's internal components require to operate.
The function of the PSU is to provide a stable and reliable source of power to the computer's
motherboard, processor, memory, and other components.

22. The Display Subsystem.

The display subsystem in computer hardware is responsible for generating the visual output of the
computer and displaying it on a screen. This subsystem consists of several components, including
the graphics card, monitor, and related software.
The function of the display subsystem is to convert digital signals from the computer's CPU into a
visual image that can be displayed on a screen.
 23. Modem Types.
Modems are devices that allow computers to communicate with each other over telephone lines or
other communication channels
Overall, modems play a critical role in allowing computers to connect to the internet and other
networks, providing access to a wide range of information and resources.