First, let me discuss the definition of microcomputer:
![](https://www.millermicro.com/trs80l.jpg)
The microcomputer is a processor-level computer containing memory and input/output (I/O) facilities. It also includes a microprocessor (a central processing unit on a microchip), memory in the form of read-only memory and random-access memory, I/O ports, and a bus or system of interconnecting wires housed in a unit that is usually called a motherboard.
The early microcomputer, also is known as a personal computer:
Flashback
The KIM-1 Microcomputer:
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KIM-1 Microcomputer |
KIM-1 is for Keyboard Input Monitor, developed by MOS technology in 1976. It was a single board circuit board in which components were placed. The processor was 6502 made by MOS. It has memory storage, ram, keyboard, output display, input pins, etc.
This earlier machine provides a hexadecimal calculation. As we see, it contains 23 keys, which are 1- F (Hexadecimal) and others function. It needs a 5-volt power supply. This computer can be a program by a programming card provided by KIM-1. 6502 processor was the base of today's computer. Apple2 series was also based on this processor model.
6502 made by MOS |
KIM-1 Details:
Input / Output, ALU, CU, and Memory
I/O can be broken down into Input devices and Output devices
Input Devices include keyboards, joysticks, mice, light pens, touch-sensitive screens, scanners, graphics tablets, speech-recognition devices, and vision systems.
Output Devices include Any device for displaying the results of the processing carried out by a computer in a form intelligible to the user. This can consist of monitors, printers, LEDs, traffic lights, motors, and many other devices.
The Arithmetic Logic Unit. In a computer, the central processing unit (CPU) performs the basic arithmetic and logic operations on data.
The Control Unit is the central processing unit that decodes, synchronizes, and executes program instructions. Memory is like a page in a workbook. It is where everything happens. Other than the CPU is probably the most important part of your computer.
Inside the computer in today's computers, there are 7 essential components they are:
- The Motherboard
- The CPU
- The Power Supply
- Ram
- The Video boards
- The Hard Disk
- Optical
Drive Internal components slot of modern microcomputer:
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Modern Microcomputer |
Description
Nowadays, computers are getting complex, and they can do any task. The component or device is increasing day by day.
We use multi-processor, RAM, ROM, cache memory, buses motherboard, etc., as I/O devices, monitors, keyboards, and other devices for input and output may be integrated or separate. Computer memory in the form of RAM and at least one less volatile storage device is usually combined with the CPU on a system bus in one unit. Other devices that make up a complete microcomputer system include batteries, a power supply unit, a keyboard, and various input/output devices used to convey information to and from a human operator. The motherboard contains all the components of a Microcomputer. Microcomputers are designed to serve only one user at a time, although they can often be modified with software or hardware to concurrently serve more than one user. Microcomputers fit well on or under desks or tables to be within easy access of users. More giant computers like minicomputers, mainframes, and supercomputers take up large cabinets or even dedicated rooms.
Sample component set of a complete microcomputer:
DELL OptiPlex 7020MT - Core i5
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Typically brand pc is a little costly because their hardware is comfortable with each other. So, the component lives long times and gives better service. Again, clone pc is cheap, but the hardware is from different brands. So, they can't perform better than brand pc.
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