2. List the basic differences between hardware and software. 3. Ports are important parts of a computer. Explain why it is important for a computer to have ports. Y. You want to connect your cell phone to a computer screen, to show

## 2. Basic Differences between Hardware and Software - **Nature** - **Hardware:** Refers to the physical components of a computer that you can touch, such as the motherboard, CPU, memory, and hard drive. - **Software:** Refers to the programs and operating systems that run on the computer. These are intangible instructions executed by the hardware. - **Function** - **Hardware:** Responsible for performing the physical operations required to process and store data. For example, the CPU executes instructions and the memory holds data temporarily. - **Software:** Provides the logic and instructions that tell the hardware what operations to perform. This includes applications, operating systems, and utilities. - **Durability and Change** - **Hardware:** Generally durable and has a longer physical lifespan, but may become obsolete as newer technologies emerge. It is subject to wear and tear. - **Software:** Can be easily modified or updated through patches and new versions. However, it does not have a physical presence. - **Dependence** - **Hardware:** Requires software to perform meaningful tasks. Without software, hardware is largely inactive. - **Software:** Needs hardware to execute its code. Without the physical hardware, the software cannot operate. ## 3. Importance of Ports on a Computer - **Device Connectivity** Ports allow a computer to connect with external devices such as keyboards, mice, printers, and storage devices. This ensures that the computer can interact with a variety of peripherals. - **Data Transfer** They enable the transfer of data between devices. For instance, USB ports transfer data when connecting flash drives or external hard disks. - **Power Supply** Some ports, like USB, can supply power to connected devices, which is essential for charging or operating small peripherals. - **Expansion and Flexibility** Ports expand the functionality of a computer. For example, displaying content on an external monitor can be achieved through HDMI or DisplayPort connections. - **Communication Standards** They support various communication protocols (e.g., USB, Ethernet, Bluetooth via adapters), allowing for interoperability between different technologies. ## Y. Connecting a Cell Phone to a Computer Screen - **Identify the Available Ports** Check the ports on both your cell phone and the computer screen. Modern cell phones may support video output through: - **MHL (Mobile High-Definition Link)** - **SlimPort** - **USB-C (with video output capabilities)** The computer screen is likely to have an HDMI or DisplayPort input. - **Select the Appropriate Adapter or Cable** Based on the phone’s output and the screen’s input, you might need: - A USB-C to HDMI adapter if your phone supports video output via USB-C. - An MHL adapter if your phone is MHL-compatible. Ensure that the adapter or cable supports both the resolution and refresh rate of the screen. - **Connect and Configure** - Connect the adapter to your cell phone and then plug it into the computer screen’s input port (e.g., HDMI). - On your cell phone, you might need to enable the video output feature. - On the computer screen, select the corresponding source/input to display your cell phone’s content. - **Practical Considerations** Ensure that all cables are securely connected and that the phone is charged or connected to a power source if necessary. Adjust screen settings for optimal display quality. By following these steps, you can successfully connect your cell phone to a computer screen to display your desired content.