t a fundamental level, computers operate through these four functions: input, output, processing, and

storage. Input: the transfer of information into the system (e.g., through a keyboard). Output: the
presentation of information to the user (e.g., on a screen). Processing: the retrieval or manipulation of
information into a new form (e.g., results from a search engine). Storage: the storing or preservation
of information for later use (e.g., files stored on a hard drive).
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LYNNETTE WOFFORD| CERTIFIED EDUCATOR

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Although on the surface it seems that computers are very sophisticated devices, capable of
accomplishing complex tasks, in fact, computers can only do a limited number of very simple tasks on
a hardware level. Their apparent complexity is due to their ability to do basic tasks very quickly and
for...
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Although on the surface it seems that computers are very sophisticated devices, capable of
accomplishing complex tasks, in fact, computers can only do a limited number of very simple tasks on
a hardware level. Their apparent complexity is due to their ability to do basic tasks very quickly and
for programmers to create complex algorithms which break down complex tasks into the very simple
steps that can be accomplished by computers.
The first basic function a computer can accomplish is storing information, typically in binary form (as
either a one or a zero). Next, a computer can retrieve that information for processing. 
Most computer processors can do four possible logical or Boolean operations on binary digits, NAND
(not + and), OR, AND, and NOT. More complicated operations are build by combining these simple
operations.
Finally, a computer can communicate information by sending and receiving electrical pulses along
connectors known as buses. 
Further Reading
https://www.pctechguide.com/cpu-architecture/principles-o...
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ASTROCOURT| CERTIFIED EDUCATOR
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The four basic functions of a computer system are as follows:
input
output
processing
storage
Let's look at each individually:
Input
Transferring of information into the system. This may be through a user input device - i.e. keyboard,
mouse, scanner etc.. Or though previously loaded software/program, cd etc.
Output
Output is the exact opposite of input. Output is the function that allows a computer to display
information, from the system, for the user. This can be accomplished through the monitor (or other
graphical display), printer, speakers etc.
Processing
This is where the computer actually does the 'work' - manipulating and controlling data over the
entire system.
Storage
Most computers are able to store data both temporarily (in order to process), but also long-term (i.e.,
permanently).  Storage takes place on hard-drives or external storage devices.
Further Reading
https://www.mathbits.com/MathBits/CompSci/Introduction/fu...