All CS101 Articles

When we think about how computers calculate and make decisions, one crucial component often goes unnoticed — the ALU. So, what is an ALU? The Arithmetic Logic Unit is a core part of the CPU responsible for performing arithmetic and logic operations. It processes numbers, compares data, and executes fundamental tasks that make all computing possible. Without it, computers couldn’t perform calculations or logical reasoning essential for running programs and systems.

Computers drive everything from smartphones to industrial machines, but what gives them their power? At the core of every device lie complex switching systems that process instructions, store data, and execute calculations automatically. These complex switching systems are the true foundation of computing. In this article, I’ll explain how they function, how their components interact, and how simple electrical switches evolve into the advanced systems that define modern technology.

When working with computers, we constantly handle data—but how is it actually processed? The answer lies in what is an operand in computer science. An operand is the data or value on which an operation acts, whether in programming, arithmetic, or hardware execution. In this article, I’ll explain what is an operand in computer science, how it works in various contexts, and why it’s crucial for understanding how computers perform calculations and execute instructions.