Hardware is: Definition, Function and Examples
Hardware is the part you can see and touch. Starting from the screen, keyboards, to components inside the device such as the processor and graphics card.
For those of you who are curious, this article will explain the function of each component, examples of common hardware that you encounter, and how it differs from software.
Come on, learn more so you know how to care for your device and maximize its use!
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What is Hardware?
Hardware is a term used to refer to all the physical components that you can see and hold in a computer device. If you look at a computer, laptop, or smartphone.
Hardware is the parts such as the screen, keyboard, mouse, and also the components inside the device such as the processor, RAM, and hard disk. Simply put, hardware is the “real stuff” that makes up an electronic device.
Without this one, a computer or other electronic device will not function. These components are what allow the device to work according to the commands we give it.
This term is different from "software" which is more in the form of a program or application. If we compare it to the human body, hardware is the physical parts such as muscles and bones, while software It is the brain that gives orders to the body.
Hardware Function
Each part of this technology has its own function, but in general, its function is to help electronic devices perform tasks as needed. Some of the main functions of hardware in a computer or electronic device are:
Processing Data
Hardware such as processors (CPUs) work to process data provided by software. The processor is responsible for executing various commands, from opening applications to running complex calculations.
Saving Data
Its function is also to store data. Components such as hard disks or SSDs (Solid State Drives) function as storage, where we store files, programs, and operating systems.
Displaying Output
Some of its functions are also tasked with displaying the results of data that has been processed, for example the screen (monitors) which shows images and text from the computer.
Connecting Devices
Other functions, such as USB ports and cables, serve to connect additional devices such as printers, mice, or flash drives so they can be used with the computer.
Hardware Examples
Here are some examples that you may often encounter:
Processor (CPU)
This is the brain of the computer that processes various information and commands given. The faster the processor, the better the computer's performance.
RAM (Random Access Memory)
RAM is a temporary memory that helps the computer run multiple applications simultaneously. With a large RAM capacity, the computer's performance during multitasking is also better.
Hard Disk or SSD
It is a storage device that functions to store data permanently. SSDs are generally faster than conventional hard disks.
Graphics Card (GPU)
If you like playing games or working with applications that require high visual display, the GPU is the component that processes graphics to make images look smoother and sharper.
Motherboard
The motherboard is the main circuit board that connects all other components to work together.
The difference with Software
One thing that is often confusing is the difference between hardware and software. To make it easier to understand, here are some differences between the two:
Form
Hardware is a physical component, meaning you can see and touch it. Software, on the other hand, is a program or application that you can't touch because it's digital.
Function
Hardware is responsible for executing commands given by software. Software is responsible for giving commands to it so that it functions properly. For example, the game you play is software, and this game can only run if the hardware devices such as the processor and graphics card support it.
Example
Examples of hardware include monitors, keyboards, and CPUs. Meanwhile, examples of software are operating systems (such as Windows or macOS), game applications, or word processing programs such as Microsoft Word.
Dependency
This technology and software are interdependent. Without hardware, software will not be able to run. Conversely, without software, hardware will not function because there is no program to give commands.
Knowing the basics of hardware is very important, especially if you often use a computer, laptop, or smartphone. By understanding the functions and components of hardware, you can be wiser in maintaining your device. For example, if you often play games, choosing a device with a capable GPU will provide a better gaming experience.
In addition, this understanding is also useful if you ever want to upgrade your device. By choosing the right hardware, your device's performance can be improved so that it is faster and can run heavier applications.
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