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Input-Process-Output Cycle
All computing work revolves around three interrelated parts i.e., input, process, and output.
• An input is accepted by the user through the input devices.
• It is then processed by CPU and sent to the user as an output using output devices.
• There can be a need to store the output for later use in the storage devices.
• Sometimes the result generated acts as an input for the next stage of data flow.
• This flow of information follows a cycle which is known as the Input-Processing-Output Cycle.
Data Information
Input Processing Output
Storage
Characteristics of a Computer
Following are some of the important characteristics of a computer:
• Speed: A computer can process data at a speed of millions of instructions per second. It is faster than human beings
in doing complex tasks which can otherwise take a few days to process manually. It uses its internal clock to measure
the processing speed for completing the job. The unit of computer speed is Hertz, which equals one cycle per
second.
• Accuracy: The information provided by the computer is very accurate. Sometimes we may feel that we are not getting
the desired result or maybe the output generated is not accurate. When we give the wrong input to the computer,
the system malfunctions or gives the wrong output. It works on the principle of GIGO (garbage in, garbage out).
• Reliability: Information received using a computer is highly reliable. During an online flight reservation, seat
allocated to one person cannot be reallocated to another, at any cost. So, we can totally depend on the availability
of information of seats during online booking, or the availability of stock during online shopping.
• Storage: Large volumes of data can be easily stored in a small space. Data can be preserved for a long time with the
least possibility of data tampering or data loss. There is no need to maintain a huge volume of manual registers and
separate store room allocation to it.
• Versatile: Computer doesn't mean a laptop or a personal computer. It can be a smartphone, tablet, online booking
counter machine, ATM machine, X-ray machine in hospitals, and GPS system in our cars. It is available in a variety of
forms. So, we can say that it is highly versatile and has been designed to do any kind of job.
Tick ( ) if you know this.
Process is a method to convert raw data into meaningful information.
Storage is the process of storing either raw data or processed information.
INPUT DEVICES
The devices which help to give data or instructions to the computer are called input devices. The most commonly used
are keyboard and mouse. Let us learn about some of the input devices.
ICT Skills-I 79

