Chapter 7
Why Is A Computer So Powerful?
A computer derives its power from its capability of performing the information processing cycle
operations (input, process, output, and storage) with amazing speed, reliability, and accuracy; storing
huge amounts of data and information; and communicating with other computers.
Speed
In the system unit, operations occur through electronic circuits. When data, instructions, and
information flow along these circuits, they travel at close to the speed of light. This allows billions of
operations to be carried out in a single second.
Reliability
The electronic components in modern computers are dependable because they have a low failure
rate. The high reliability of the components enables the computer to produce consistent results.
Accuracy
Computers can process large amounts of data and generate error- free results, provided the data
is entered correctly and the program works properly. If data is inaccurate, the resulting output will be
incorrect. A computing phrase — known as garbage in, garbage out (GIGO) points out that the
accuracy
of a computer’s output depends on the accuracy of the input.
Storage
Many computers can store enormous amounts of data and make this data available for
processing anytime it is needed. Using current storage devices, the computer can transfer data quickly
from storage to memory, process it, and then store it again for future use.
Communications
Most computers today have the capability of communicating with other computers. Computers
with this capability can share any of the four information processing cycle operations — input, process,
output, and storage — with another computer.
For example, two computers connected by a communications device such as a modem can share
stored data, instructions, and information. When two or more computers are connected together via
communications media and devices, they form a network. The most widely known net work is the
Internet.
Communications
Most computers today have the capability of communicating with other computers. Computers
with this capability can share any of the four information processing cycle operations — input, process,
output, and storage — with another computer.
For example, two computers connected by a communications device such as a modem can share
stored data, instructions, and information. When two or more computers are connected together via
communications media and devices, they form a network. The most widely known net work is the
Internet.
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