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Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer, such as the central processing unit (CPU), random access memory (RAM), motherboard, computer data storage, graphics card, sound card, and computer case. It includes external devices such as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and speakers. [ 1][ 2]
Software can be defined more narrowly as the instructions executed by the computer hardware, or more broadly including other concepts, tools, and methods needed to make an executable system on computer hardware, such as design documents, specifications, and testing suites.
There are three broad classifications: Application software is the general designation of computer programs for performing tasks. Application software may be general-purpose ( word processing, web browsers, etc.) or have a specific purpose (accounting, truck scheduling, etc.). Application software contrasts with system software.
System software was usually supplied by the manufacturer of the computer hardware and was intended to be used by most or all users of that system. Many operating systems come pre-packaged with basic application software. Such software is not considered system software when it can be uninstalled without affecting the functioning of other software.
v. t. e. An operating system ( OS) is system software that manages computer hardware and software resources, and provides common services for computer programs . Time-sharing operating systems schedule tasks for efficient use of the system and may also include accounting software for cost allocation of processor time, mass storage, peripherals ...
v. t. e. A computer program is a sequence or set [ a] of instructions in a programming language for a computer to execute. It is one component of software, which also includes documentation and other intangible components. [ 1] A computer program in its human-readable form is called source code.
Free or open-source. Advanced Simulation Library - open-source hardware accelerated multiphysics simulation software. ASCEND - open-source equation-based modelling environment. Cantera - chemical kinetics package. Celestia - a 3D astronomy program. CP2K - Open-source ab-initio molecular dynamics program.
Firmware. Firmware is commonly stored in an EEPROM, which makes use of an I/O protocol such as SPI. In computing, firmware is software that provides low-level control of computing device hardware. For a relatively simple device, firmware may perform all control, monitoring and data manipulation functionality. For a more complex device, firmware ...