Computer hardware and software.
Basic hardware and software components of computers are described and related concepts are defined using examples related to the hospital pharmacy department. Hardware components described include the central processing unit, storage devices, and input and output devices. System software, application software, computer language, and computer characteristics for hospital pharmacy systems are identified. Trends toward computer miniaturization, increased processing capacity at reduced costs, and new software technologies will enable an accelerated pace of new system development and implementation. Applications that are now difficult to justify because of high development cost or low benefit to the hospital will become more easily cost justified.