The use of Information Technology (IT) is essential for the survival of modern businesses due to its growing importance. Computers, the main component of IT networks, have permeated every aspect of human life, from railway reservations to medical diagnoses, and from TV programming to satellite launching. This unit introduces the von Neumann Architecture, a fundamental computer system structure, and a simple model of instruction execution, which will be elaborated upon in later sections. It also covers key developments in computer history and the basic components and uses of microprocessors.

Objectives

After going through this unit you will be able to:

1. define the logical structure of the computer;
2. define the instruction cycle
3. define the concept or Interrupt;
4. discuss the basic features of computers; and
5. define the various components of a modern computer and their usage.