Why Is A Computer So Powerful?

Why Is A Computer So Powerful?
A computer derives its power from its capability of performing the information
processing cycle operations (input, process, output, and storage) with amazing
speed, reliability, and accuracy; storing huge amounts of data and information; and
communicating with other computers.
 

Speed
In the system unit, operations occur through electronic circuits. When data,
instructions, and information flow along these circuits, they travel at clo se to the
speed of light. This allows billions of operations to be carried out in a single second.
 

Reliability
The electronic components in modern computers are dependable because they have
a low failure rate. The high reliability of the components enables the computer to pro
duce consistent results.

Accuracy
Computers can process large amounts of data and generate error- free results,
provided the data is entered correctly and the program works properly. If data is
inaccurate, the resulting output will be incorrect. A computing phrase — known as
garbage in, garbage out (GIGO) points out that the accuracy of a computer’s output
depends on the accuracy of the input.
 

Storage
Many computers can store enormous amounts of data and make this data available
for pro cessing anytime it is needed. Using current storage devices, the computer can
transfer data quickly from storage to memory, process it, and then store it again for
future use.
 

Communications
Most computers today have the capability of communicating with other computers.
Computers with this capability can share any of the four information processing cycle
operations — input, process, output, and storage — with another computer. For
example, two computers connected by a communications device such as a modem
can share stored data, instructions, and information.
When two or more computers are connected together via communications media and
devices, they form a network. The most widely known net work is the Internet.