Hardware Classification – Types of Hardware
Hardware classification: Hardware is the collection of physical components that are combined to functionalize a computer system. Computer hardware is the physical parts or components of a computer. For example: monitor, microphones, video camera, keyboard, graphics card, sound card, motherboard, etc.
Without hardware, the computer could not exist and the software could not be used at all. Hardware upgrade can be done to improve the performance of new hardware in a computer.
Interesting: What is Hardware? What is hardware for? Definition. Types
Hardware Classification
Hardware devices can be classified into four different types:
- Input Devices: For raw data input.
- Processing Devices: To process raw data instructions into information.
- Output devices: to spread data and information.
- Storage devices: for data and information retention.
Input devices
Hardware classification: They are the components that are used to enter raw data. These help feed data such as text, images, and audiovisual recordings. They even help in transferring files between computers. The keyboard is probably the most used input device.
Hardware classification: processing devices
Hardware classification: They are the components that manipulate data into information. Processing is the central function of a computer. It is the stage where raw data is transformed into information. Once the data has been processed, it can be used for useful purposes. The microprocessor is the main device in this category.
Output devices
Computer hardware classification: They are the hardware components that broadcast and display data and information. The output is the culmination of a cycle that begins with raw data input and processing. The monitor is the most popular example in this category of hardware.
Hardware classification: Memory/storage devices
They are the components that retain and store data. Storage is subdivided into primary and secondary memory and is either volatile or non-volatile.
Primary memory generally refers to random access memory (RAM) but can also refer to all memory that works in conjunction with the processor. RAM is volatile, meaning it only retains data when the computer is turned on. Secondary memory is labeled as such because data stored on secondary storage media (usually disk drives) does not communicate directly with the microprocessor.
