Chapter 12. Computer Hardware

Table of Contents

12.. Why Learn about Hardware?
12.. Central Processing Unit
12.. Non-volatile Auxiliary Storage: Disk, Tape and Flash
12.. Electronic Memory
RAM and ROM
Memory Structure
The Memory Hierarchy
12.. Computer Word Size
12.. Practice

Why Learn about Hardware?

A basic understanding of computer hardware is essential to understand what computer programs actually do, and how to make them efficient and correct.

The sections below will provide some understanding of each of the major components of a computer, to help you make better decisions as a programmer.