What Is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic device that takes in information, works with it, and produces a result. This lesson introduces the basic model behind everything a computer does.
What You'll Learn
- What a computer is
- The difference between input and output
- How computers process information
Input, Processing, and Output
Every computer, no matter how simple or powerful, follows the same basic pattern: it receives information (input), works with that information (processing), and produces a result (output). A keyboard, mouse, or microphone are common ways to give a computer input. The CPU processes that input. The result appears as output, such as text on a screen or sound from a speaker.
Example
You press a key on the keyboard, the CPU processes that input, and the result appears as a letter on the screen.
Computers Are Everywhere
Laptops and desktops are the most obvious computers, but the same input-processing-output model runs inside phones, ATMs, smart TVs, and even modern cars. Learning this pattern gives you a foundation for understanding almost any digital device you'll encounter.
Key Concepts
Key Takeaways
- Computers receive information through input
- Computers process that information
- Computers produce a result through output
Knowledge Check
Which stage comes right after a computer receives input?