Every computer relies on a range of hardware working together to get things done. From sending instructions to handling data, each part has a specific role to play.

This section will break down the main parts of a computer system, helping you understand how everything connects and works under the surface.

Input and Output Devices – How data gets in and results come out.

Backing Storage – Where files, games, apps and more are saved long-term.

Random Access Memory – Temporary memory used while tasks are running.

Central Processing Unit – The ‘brain’ of the computer that processes everything.

• ALU – does all the calculations.
• Control Unit – directs what happens and when.
• Registers – hold tiny bits of data while the CPU works.

Data Bus – Carries data between different parts of the computer.

Address Bus – Helps the CPU find where data is stored.

Translators – Turn human-friendly code into machine instructions.

There’s loads to explore in this part of Computer Systems — and that’s a good thing! These topics are super important and count for more than half the marks in the whole unit. So take it one section at a time, stay curious, and you’ll be flying through in no time.