The basic operation of compouters - A typical computer system consists of a central processing unit (CPU), input devices, storage devices, and output devices. The CPU consists of an arithmetic/logic unit, registers, control section, and internal bus. The arithmetic/logic unit carries out arithmetical and logical operations. The registers store data and keep track of operations. The control unit regulates and controls various operations. The internal bus connects the units of the CPU with each other and with external components of the system. For most computers, the principal input devices are a keyboard and a mouse. Storage devices include hard disks, CD-ROM drives, and random access memory (RAM) chips. Output devices that display data include monitors and printers.