Components of a CAD System
[COM, TL, CF, CM, CW]

Any computerized system, consists of four main components:

• Hardware - Hardware consists of equipment, or the parts of the computer that can be seen. Hardware is used to input the data into the computer system. Once inside the computer the data is processed by the hardware into information. Output equipment is then used either to place the information on storage devices or to present the information in human readable form such as on a display screen or printed onto paper.

• Software - Software programs are specific sequences of instructions needed to run computers. Without specific instructions provided by software, a computer-based system could not function. Software not only processes the information needed by users, but also provides the instructions needed just to get the computer running.

• Data - Data must be collected and changed into a form on which the computer can operate. Although collection methods vary widely, the most common data input methods are using a keyboard or mouse.

• People - People are an essential part of an information system. They put together and coordinate all activities within the system.

In the following sections, we will focus on the major hardware components and the software that makes computer aided drafting such an effective design technique.

Last Updated June 5/2001