A basic computer consists of five main functional units:

Input Unit: This unit is responsible for accepting coded information from human operators or other
computers through input devices such as keyboards, mice, touchpads, or digital communication
lines. It translates input into binary code and sends it to the memory for processing.

Memory Unit: The memory unit stores programs and data. It is divided into primary memory (main
memory), which is fast but volatile, and secondary storage, which is slower but retains data even
when the power is off. Primary memory consists of semiconductor cells organized into words with
associated addresses. It is used for program execution and data storage during processing.

Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): The ALU is where most computational operations take place. It
performs arithmetic (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) and logic (comparison, boolean
operations) operations on data stored in registers, which are high-speed storage elements within the
processor.

Output Unit: The output unit is responsible for sending processed results to the outside world.
Common output devices include printers and graphic displays. Some units, like graphic displays, can
also function as input devices through touchscreens.

Control Unit: The control unit coordinates the activities of all other units. It sends control signals to
initiate operations, manages the timing of transfers between units, and ensures the proper execution
of program instructions. It can be thought of as the "brain" of the computer, directing the flow of
data and instructions.