Course Progress
Part of 2 Chapters
Chapter 1
Foundations of Computer Systems & Digital World
#Hardware#Software#Binary#Algorithm#OS#CPU
Chapter 1: Computer Systems & Algorithms
Computer Science is not just about learning to code; it is a discipline that studies how to solve complex problems efficiently through logical thinking.
1. Interaction between Hardware and Software
A computer consists of hardware and software, and their harmonious operation creates the digital world.
| Component | Main Role | Analogy |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Calculation & Control (Central Processing Unit) | The ‘Brain’ of the computer |
| Memory (RAM) | Temporary data storage and processing | The ‘Desktop’ for working |
| Storage (SSD/HDD) | Permanent data storage | The ‘Warehouse’ |
| Operating System (OS) | Resource management (Windows, macOS, etc.) | The ‘Manager’ of the building |
2. Digital Data and Binary
Computers understand all information as a combination of 0s and 1s, known as ==Binary==.
- Bit: The smallest unit of information (0 or 1).
- Byte: A group of 8 bits ().
- Abstraction: Complex data like numbers, text, images, and videos are all abstracted into binary data for processing.
3. Basics of Algorithms and Efficiency
An Algorithm is a step-by-step procedure for solving a specific problem. A good algorithm uses minimal time and space.
- Time Complexity (): A measure of how execution time increases as the amount of data grows.
- Examples: (Constant), (Linear), (Efficient Sorting).
Key Checklist
- Which component is responsible for temporary storage and fast processing, often compared to a ‘working desktop’? (Answer: Memory, RAM)
- What is the name of the numeral system used by computers, consisting of 0s and 1s? (Answer: Binary)
- What is the term for a step-by-step procedure to resolve a problem? (Answer: Algorithm)