Hardware
Contents
Hardware Definition
Hardware is a collective term for the physical parts of a computer system, this also includes peripheral devices, not just internal component. Hardware is the platform on which software is run and is much more invariable than software however the configuration of the hardware in the system can be changed by adding new adapters or cards to improve the systems capabilities.
For example:
- Mouse
- Keyboard
- Motherboard
- Video card
Hardware can be simply defined as components of a computer system that can be touched and altered physically.
Other Terms
Devices
You will need to cover the principles of operation for the following devices:
RFID
RFID or Radio Frequency Identification is where a small device emits a small radio wave with a specific ID on it so that it can be detected. These are most commonly used in shops in an effort to stop theft.
Barcode Reader
A barcode reader reads a barcode and translates it into text that a computer can understand and decode. These are most commonly used in industry and shops to identify products quickly and easily.
Laser Printer
A laser printer prints by fusing toner (powdered ink) onto paper by heat. This means that the image is sharper as it doesn't use ink that would soak into the paper.
Digital Camera
A digital camera is a camera which encodes digital images and stores them for later reproduction
