Block Diagram of the computer
Block diagram is the diagramatic representation that shows how a computer works. It provide basic understanding of how data flows through a computer system for processing and storage.
Block Diagram
Explanation: –
Let’s understand the working of computer.
Step-1: Firstly, User gives data to the input device. Because computer is nothing without data and we/users gives data to the computer. Therefore, we gives data to input device.
Step-2: In second step, Input device Sends data into primary memory. Because input device cannot store and process the data therefore it sends data to the primary memory.
Step 3: Primary memory Sends data into CU(Control Unit) which is in CPU. Primary memory(Generally RAM) is used to store currently running data. It stores only temporary data. It cannot process the data. Therefore, it sends that data to CU.
Step-4: CU is used to fetch, decode, and store the data(We will discuss about CU in next chapter). It Cannot process the data. Therefore, it sends data into ALU for processing or for mathematical & Logical task.
Step-5: ALU which is in the CPU, process the data. It is the component in the CPU which process the data/Perform mathematical and logical operation. After processing, It sends processed data/Information to the CU(Control Unit) because ALU cannot store data into memory.
Step-6: After received information from ALU, CU sends that information to primary memory because for storage and display the data into output device, the data must be in the primary memory.
Step-7: After received information from the CU, Primary memory sends that data to output device for display. After that, if user wants to save data permanently then user sends that information to the secondary memory because primary memory cannot store data permanently.
This is all about how the data is flow in the computer.
Important Questions
1. What is a block diagram of a computer, and why is it important?
A block diagram is a simple picture that shows how a computer works. It helps us understand how data moves inside a computer from input to output.
2. Explain the role of an input device in the working of a computer.
An input device is used to give data to the computer. Example: Keyboard, Mouse, Microphone. Without input devices, the computer cannot take data from the user.
3. Why does the input device send data to primary memory instead of processing it directly?
The input device cannot store or process data. It only collects data and sends it to primary memory (RAM), where it is stored temporarily before processing.
4. What is the function of the Control Unit (CU) in a CPU?
The Control Unit (CU) is like the manager of the computer. It fetches, understands, and moves data to the right place. But it does not process data.
5. Why is the Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) important in data processing?
The ALU is like a calculator inside the CPU. It does math and logic tasks (like adding numbers or comparing values). Without ALU, the computer cannot process data.
6. How does the CU interact with the ALU during data processing?
The CU sends data to the ALU for processing. The ALU processes the data (math and logic operations) and then sends it back to the CU.
7. Why does the ALU send the processed data back to the CU instead of storing it directly?
The ALU can only process data; it cannot store it. So, after processing, it sends the data to the CU, which then moves it to memory or an output device.
8. Why must processed data be sent to primary memory before being displayed on the output device?
The processed data is sent to primary memory because output devices cannot directly take data from the ALU. The data must first be stored in primary memory so that it can be properly sent to the output device for display.
9. How does secondary memory differ from primary memory in terms of data storage?
Primary Memory (RAM):Temporary storage, data is lost when power is off. Secondary Memory (HDD/SSD):Permanent storage, data stays even after power is off.
10. Describe the complete data flow from input to output with respect to the block diagram.
- User enters data (Input device)
- Data goes to primary memory (for storage)
- Primary memory sends it to CU
- CU sends it to ALU (for processing)
- ALU processes and sends it back to CU
- CU sends it to primary memory (for storage)
- Primary memory sends it to the output device (display)
- User can save it in secondary memory (for future use)