Computer jobs: follow the information

A computer is a team

A computer has parts with different jobs. We will follow a clap through a pretend recording booth. Think about where information enters, what works with it and how a result comes out. This is a job map, not a plan for opening or wiring a computer.

Bring information in

A microphone captures the clap as input. A keyboard lets us enter a title for the recording. Both bring information into the computer, even though they collect different things. The microphone does not type the title, and the keyboard does not need to shout at the microphone.

Follow the instructions

The central processing unit, or CPU, follows program instructions to work with information. It does not choose what your recording ought to mean. In our simple model, input supplies information and processing works on it. Other parts help too; this picture deliberately leaves out many details.

Let the result come out

The ordinary screen displays the sound pattern. Speakers play the recording. Those are output jobs: information comes out to the user. Hearing the sound does not prove there is a saved file. Keeping a saved copy on storage is another job, separate from showing or playing it.

Pause: a different studio

Try a new studio. A camera captures a picture, the CPU follows image-editing instructions and an ordinary monitor displays the result. Pause and name the input part, the processing part and the output part. Match each job before continuing to the explanation.

Check the camera studio

The camera provides input, the CPU carries out processing and the monitor provides output. The direction is relative to the computer. A monitor being connected by a cable does not make it an input device for this task. Its stated job here is to display the result.

One device, two jobs

Fun fact: a touchscreen can do two jobs. Its touch sensor receives input, while its display shows output. Calling the whole device only input or only output can miss part of its work. When classifying equipment, read which function the question asks about.

Put the team to work

Continue to the worksheet below. Trace the sound booth and explain why output does not guarantee a saved file. Then try Computer Crew on the games page. These activities use pictures and descriptions only. You do not need to open equipment or change any device settings.