The document discusses the three fundamental elements of a computer system: the system unit, input devices, and output devices. It focuses on the components that make up the system unit, including the motherboard, CPU, and different types of memory (RAM, ROM, CMOS). The motherboard contains the CPU and controllers to connect peripheral devices. RAM is the main memory that stores active programs and data, while ROM contains the BIOS code. Secondary memory like hard disks is used for long-term storage and interacts with the processor less frequently.

1. 3 FUNDAMENTAL ELEMENTS
OF COMPUTER
 SYSTEM UNIT
 INPUT DEVICES
 OUTPUT DEVICES
Czak Kizer A. Pastelero

2. SYSTEM UNIT
The core of a computer is responsible
for processing and storing data and
controls all computer functions. It is in
the system unit that raw data is
processed into information. The system
unit works with the computer’s
peripheral devices.

3. SYSTEM UNIT

4. The System Case
- Is a plastic and metal box that houses
components such as the
motherboard, disk drives and power
supply unit.
Types of System Case
Desktop case Full-tower case Mini-tower case
Tower case Midi-tower case

5. MOTHER BOARD
The motherboard is the most
important component of your
computer. At one point or another,
every other component connects to
the motherboard. Motherboard is the
largest board of the computer system.

6.  Typically, the motherboard contains the
CPU, BIOS, memory, mass storage
interfaces, serial and parallel ports,
expansion slots, and all the controllers
required to control standard peripheral
devices, such as the display screen,
keyboard, and disk drive.

7. CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT (CPU)
 CPU is the chip that functions as the “Brain of a
Computer”

8. MEMORY
 The memory in a computer system is of two fundamental types:
 The Main memory
 Secondary Memory
Main Memory:
- Very closely connected to the processor
- The contents are quickly and easily changed
- Holds the programs and data that the processor is actively
working with.
- Interacts with the processor millions of times per second

9. MAIN MEMORY
 Random Access Memory (RAM)
The RAM is just like our normal memory which means
the computer can store, retrieve, alter or delete any items
held in the RAM at random.
A computer’s RAM or main memory is build from small
circuit boards call “Memory Modules”

10. CMOS RAM
 The CMOS RAM stores the configuration of the PC (example: password, disk
types current time and date.) This prevents the need for reconfiguration
when powering on a PC.

11. MAIN MEMORY
 ROM BIOS
 The BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is a ROM (Read Only
Memory)
 The Power-On Self-Test (POST) diagnostic tests for the PC.
 BIOS code is manufacturer-specific; therefore BIOS chips cannot be
swapped between different motherboards.

12. SECONDARY MEMORY
 Connected to main memory through the bus and a controller
 Used for long-term storage of programs and data
 The processor only occasionally interacts with secondary memory
Examples of Secondary Memory
 Hard disk
 Flash drive
 CD
 DVD

13. Secondary Memory