Core Elements of the

Computer System
Hardware, Software, and Peopleware
Specific Learning Outcomes

Present conclusions effectively, orally, and in writing regarding the

following:
• Evaluation the roles of the elements of a computer system as they work
as a team.
• Differentiate the components and how each of them interact within the
computer system
• Classify the core components based on its function.
Software is a set of programs, which is designed to perform a well-defined function. A
program is a sequence of instructions written to solve a particular problem.
Classifications of Software
1. System Software
2. Application Software

System Software
The system software is a collection of programs designed to operate, control, and extend
the processing capabilities of the computer itself. System software is generally prepared
by the computer manufacturers. These software products comprise of programs written
in low-level languages, which interact with the hardware at a very basic level. System
software serves as the interface between the hardware and the end users.
System Software
 OPERATING SYSTEM (OS). Software that serves as the interface between
the hardware and the user. Activates the computer system and provide
common platform to operate the computer system by the user.

Some of the main function of OS are file access, memory management, and
file processes. Examples: MS DOS, Linux, Windows, iOS, Android.

 Device Drivers help to activate and recognize the computer hardware

devices.
 Language translator is a computer program that converts the programming
instructions written in human readable form into machine codes.

 Utility Software are used to increase the performance of the computer.

Examples: Virus Scanners, Disk Fragmentation, Back-up Programs, File
Compressors, Disk Space Analyzer, Disk Repairs, etc.
Application Software
Application software products are designed to satisfy a particular need of a particular
environment.

 Packaged Software (canned programs) is a ready-made, error free, standard software for
general works.

Wordprocessor: MS Word, Word Perfect, Word Star, etc.

Spreadsheet: MS Excel, Lotus 123, Quattro, etc.
Database Management: FoxPro, SQL, Oracle, Ingress, dBase-IV, etc.
Graphics and Presentation: MS Paint, MS Powerpoint, CorelDraw, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe
Illustrator, etc.
Animation: Macromedia Director, Adobe Premiere
Web Designing: Adobe Dreamweaver, MS Frontpage Express
Tailored Software is a software developed using a high level language for
specific process of specific needs of an organization.

References:
https://www.tutorialspoint.com/computer_fundamentals/computer_software.htm
https://kullabs.com/class-9/computer-1/computer-software-1/application-software
Hardware represents the physical and tangible components of a computer, i.e. the
components that can be seen and touched.

Seq. Operation Description

Number
1 Take Input The process of entering data and instructions into the computer
system.
2 Store Data Saving data and instructions so that they are available for
processing as and when required.
3 Processing Data Performing arithmetic, and logical operations on data in order
to convert them into useful information.
4 Output Information The process of producing useful information or results for the
user, such as a printed report or visual display.
5 Control the workflow Directs the manner and sequence in which all of the above
operations are performed.
An input device is any hardware device that
sends data to a computer.

• Keyboard
• Mouse
• Microphone, Voice Recognition Device
• Code reader
• Graphics Tablet with Light Pen
• Punch Card Reader
• Joystick
• Scanner
• Monitor (Touch Screen types)
An output device is any peripheral that receives data from a computer, usually for
display, projection, or physical reproduction.