Computer - Hardware

Hardware represents the physical and tangible components of a computer, i.e. the components that can be seen and touched.

Examples of Hardware are the following −

Input devices − keyboard, mouse, etc.


Output devices − printer, monitor, etc.


Secondary storage devices − Hard disk, CD, DVD, etc.


Internal components − CPU, motherboard, RAM, etc.


 

Relationship between Hardware and Software

Hardware and software are mutually dependent on each other. Both of them must work together to make a computer produce a useful output.


Software cannot be utilized without supporting hardware.


Hardware without a set of programs to operate upon cannot be utilized and is useless.


To get a particular job done on the computer, relevant software should be loaded into the hardware.


Hardware is a one-time expense.


Software development is very expensive and is a continuing expense.


Different software applications can be loaded on a hardware to run different jobs.


A software acts as an interface between the user and the hardware.


If the hardware is the 'heart' of a computer system, then the software is its 'soul'. Both are complementary to each other.