A. Computer A. Computer BasicsBasics

Unit Objectives:1.01-1.04

1.00 Examine the Role of Hardware and Software.

Updated 08/2009 - BHUpdated 08/2009 - BH

What Is A Computer?What Is A Computer?

An electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data, and produces a result (output).

A collection of electronic circuits, which can be on or off (open or closed).

These two states of the circuit are represented by two digits, 0 and 1.

o Called the binary system.

o Combining bits (0 and 1), you can represent any character or number.

Benefits of Using ComputersBenefits of Using Computers

Error-free calculationsError-free calculationsSpeedSpeedFlexibilityFlexibilityStorageStorageConsistency and repetitionConsistency and repetition

What Is AWhat Is AComputer System?Computer System?

• Hardware: the tangible, physical equipment that can be seen and touched such as:

•Computer Case•Monitor•Keyboard and Mouse•Disk Drive•Speakers

oSoftware: the intangible set of instructions that tells the computer what to do; know as programs or software programs.

oTwo types of softwareApplicationSystem Software

Types of ComputersTypes of Computers• Supercomputer: most powerful -

Used to do things like predict hurricanes and navigate satellites

• Mainframes and Minicomputers: Used by business and government to

process large amounts of information

• Personal computers: smaller and less powerful than the other types of computers

•Desktop•Notebook or Tablet•Laptop

Personal ComputersPersonal Computers• Desktop computer: designed to be

used on a desktop.• Notebook/Tablet computer: designed

to be used on a desktop but still small enough to be portable.

• Laptop computer: designed to be small enough and light enough to be used on your lap.

• Web TVWeb TV: provides easy access to the Internet without having to have a traditional computer.–Enables you to connect to the

Internet and usually includes a keyboard or other device for entering and selecting data.

Additional Types of ComputersAdditional Types of Computers

• PDAs PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants) a handheld device that is often used in conjunction with a desktop or other PC.–May have a special keyboard, some use a pen or stylus for entering data

- Data can be transferred to a desktop or laptop computer

Data CommunicationsData Communications• The technology that enables

computers to communicate.• The transmission of text, numeric,

voice or video data from one machine to another.

• Popular examples: Internet, electronic messages (e-mail), faxes, and electronic or online banking

• Four components:– Sender: the computer that is

sending the message.– Receiver: the computer receiving

the message.– Channel: the media that carries or

transports the message. (telephone wire, coaxial cable, microwave signal, or fiber optic)

– Protocol: the rules that govern the orderly transfer of the data sent.

• When computers are connected to other computers

• They can share information and sometimes hardware (printers)

• Two Types: Local-Area and Wide-Area

NetworkNetwork

Local Area Networks (LAN):Local Area Networks (LAN): Computers connected together in a relatively close location such as in the same building or department.The data and software for these computers are stored on a central computer called the file server.

Wide Area Networks (WAN):Wide Area Networks (WAN):

When local area networks are expanded to include several local area networks within a city, state, region, territory, country, continent, or the world.

The microprocessor, the brains of the computer. Referred to a CPU or processor

Housed on a tiny silicon chip

Chip contains millions of switches and pathways that help your computer make important decisions.

Central Processing UnitCentral Processing Unit

CPU knows which switches to turn on and which to turn off because it receives its instructions from computer programs (software).

CPU has two primary sections:Arithmetic/logic unitControl unit

Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU):Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU): - Performs arithmetic computations and logical operations; by combining these two operations the ALU can execute complex tasks.

- Arithmetic operations include addition, subtractions, multiplication, and division.- Logical operations involve comparisons.

Control UnitControl Unit: is the “boss” and coordinates all of the CPU’s activities.

Uses programming instructions, it controls the flow of information through the processor by controlling what happens inside the processor.

We communicate with the computer through programming languages.

Examples: COBOL, C++, HTML, Java Script or VisualBasic.net

MemoryMemoryFound on the motherboard

Short term

Random Access Memory (RAM)Random Access Memory (RAM) Long term

Read Only Memory (ROM)Read Only Memory (ROM)

Random Access Memory Random Access Memory (RAM)(RAM)Memory on the motherboard that is short term; where data, information, and program instructions are stored temporarily on a RAM chip or a set of RAM chips. Known as the main memory.This memory is considered volatile.

The computer can read from and write to RAM.

When the computer is turned off or if there is loss of power, what ever is stored in RAM disappears.

“Temporary Memory” – Short Term

Read-Only Memory Read-Only Memory (ROM)(ROM)Memory on the motherboard that is long term; where the specific instructions that are needed for the computer to operate are stored.

This memory is nonvolatile and your computer can only read from a ROM chip.

The instructions remain on the chip regardless if the power is turned on or off.Most common is the BIOS ROM; where the computer uses instructions contained on this chip to boot or start the system when you turn on your computer.

“Permanent Memory” – Long Term

Basic Controllers:Basic Controllers:

On the motherboard, a device that controls the transfer of data from the computer to a peripheral device and vice versa.Generally stored on one single chip.Examples: keyboards, mouse, monitors, and printers

Serial and Parallel PortsSerial and Parallel PortsUsed to connect our peripheral devices to the computer; usually one serial and one parallel port on a computer.

Serial devicesSerial devices transmit data one bit at a time. A modem may be connected to this port.

Parallel devicesParallel devices transfer several bits at a time. A printer may be connected to this port.

Universal Serial Bus (USB)Universal Serial Bus (USB)A new standard that supports data transfer rates of up to 12 million bits per second.A single USB port can be used to connect up to 127 peripheral devicesExpected to replace serial and parallel ports in the near future.

Expansion SlotsExpansion Slots An opening on the motherboard where a circuit board or expansion board can be inserted.

Examples: Additional Memory, video cards, modem cards, and sound cards.

How Does A Computer How Does A Computer Process Data?Process Data?

PC system case – the metal and plastic case that houses the main system components of the computer.

Central to all of this is the motherboard or system board that mounts into the case.

MotherboardMotherboardIs a circuit board (a thin plate or board that contains electronic components) that contains many integral components.

Data RepresentationData Representation

ASCII (American Standard Code for Information Interchange)

The most popular and widely used standardized coding system

ByteByteEight bits or combinations of ones and zeros represent a character.Example: 00000001 =1 or 00001010 - 10KB-Kilobyte roughly 1 thousand bytes

MB-Megabyte roughly 1 million bytesGB-Gigabyte roughly 1 billion bytesTB-Terabyte roughly 1 trillion bytes

Input, Output, & Storage Input, Output, & Storage DevicesDevices

Input deviceInput device: hardware that allows you to communicate with your computer.

Output device:Output device: hardware that allows your computer to communicate with the user

Input/Output - Storage deviceInput/Output - Storage device: hardware that allows you to store or retrieve information

Computer Input Computer Input DevicesDevices

• Keyboard• Mouse/Trackball• Joystick• Light pen• Pointing Stick• Touchpad

• Touch screen• Bar code reader• Scanner• Microphone• Graphics Tablet• Digital Cameras

Computer Output Computer Output DevicesDevices

MonitorMonitor: screen that display information such as text, numbers, and pictures-softcopy.

PrinterPrinter: gives you information from the computer in printed form – hardcopy.

SpeakersSpeakers: allow you to hear voice, music, and other sounds from your computer.

ModemModem: allows you to use your computer to communicate with other computers.

Three Types of PrintersThree Types of PrintersDot MatrixDot Matrix

– Gives a printed image in a pattern (matrix) of tiny ink dots.•Less expensive and not as clear

Inkjet PrinterInkjet Printer– Better quality of printed document

•Machine uses an ink cartridge and a printing element to print a finer image on the paper.

LaserBest quality of printed documents

•Laser beam and an ink toner cartridge are used to produce the images.

•More expensive•Quick

Storage DevicesStorage DevicesMagnetic storage devices use oxide-

coated plastic storage media called mylar.

As the disk rotates in the computer, an electromagnetic read/write head stores or retrieves data in circles called tracks.

Tracks are numbered from the outside to the inside and as data is stored on the disk it is stored on one of these numbered track.

Each track is labeled and the location is stored in a log on the disk known as a file allocation table (FAT).

Types of Storage DevicesTypes of Storage Devices

Hard Disk DriveHard Disk Drive Used to store data inside of the computer

Magnetic platter that holds a large amount of information in a form the computer can understand.

Accessing data is faster

Amount of data that can be stored is much more than what can be stored on a floppy disk.

Size of Hard drive is measured in megabytes or gigabytes.

Floppy DiskFloppy Disk

Flat circles of iron oxide-coated plastic enclosed in a hard plastic case.

Most are 3 ½ inches and have a capacity to hold 1.44 MB or more of data.

Zip DiskZip DiskCapable of storing tremendous amounts of informationThey are only the size of a 3 inch disk but can hold as much as 1 gigabyte of data

Types of Storage DevicesTypes of Storage DevicesMagnetic Tape DrivesMagnetic Tape Drives

Used for making backup copies of large volumes of data.

Very slowCan be used to replace data that may have been lost on the hard driveLook similar to audio tapes.Holds more than Floppy

Optical DiscsOptical DiscsUse laser technology to read and write data on silver platters

Compact Disk (CD)Compact Disk (CD) can store 650MB to 800MB of information and data. CD-ROM (Read Only Memory) can only read data from a CD-ROM.You can store data on a CD only if you have a CD Burner and CD-R (writable) or CD-RW (rewritable) CD.

DVDDVD (Digital Versatile Disk) (Digital Versatile Disk) is the size of a regular CD and can be played in a regular CD or in a DVD movie player.DVDDVD can store 4.8GB to 8.0GB of information and data. DVD-ROM is readable only (a movie DVD).

You can store data on a DVDDVD only if you have a DVD BurnerDVD Burner and

DVD+R/DVD-R (writable) or DVD-RW (rewritable) DVD.

Systems SoftwareSystems SoftwareA group of programs that coordinate

and control the resources and operations of a computer system.

Enables all components of the computer system to communicate.

Operating System, Utility Programs, and Graphic User Interface (GUI).

Systems SoftwareSystems SoftwareOperating System (OS):Operating System (OS):

Provide an interface between the user or application program and the computer hardware.

– Win 95/98/2000/XP/Vista– Mac System 6/7/8/9

Utility ProgramsUtility ProgramsHelp you perform housekeeping chores;

complete specialized tasks related to managing the computer’s resources, file management, and so on.

GUI (Graphical User Interface)GUI (Graphical User Interface)Interface between the operating system

and the user. Graphical symbols (icons) represent files, disks, programs, and other objects.

Application SoftwareApplication SoftwarePrograms that work with the

operating system software to help you use your computer to do specific types of work.

Application Software Application Software CategoriesCategories

BusinessCommunications

Graphics and MultimediaEducation and Reference

Entertainment and LeisureIntegrated Programs

Business SoftwareBusiness SoftwareSpreadsheetSpreadsheet

Manipulate Numeric Data

Intersection of row and column is a cell

Grade Book, Financial Report

DatabaseDatabaseLets you set up an

electronic filing systems

Sort and SearchAddress book,

Card CatalogWord ProcessingWord Processing Create, edit, and print text documents Report, flyer, memo

CommunicationsCommunicationsWorks with your modems or network

hardware and allows your computer to communicate with other computers.

Exchange computer files and email

Graphics SoftwareGraphics SoftwareUses pictures or images to help

communicate messages.

MultimediaMultimediaCombines text, graphics, animation, video, and audio.

Clip artClip art

Graphical images to be added to documents

Desktop PublishingDesktop Publishing Uses both pictures and words to give you the ability to create documents.

Newsletters and brochures

Education & Education & ReferenceReferenceAvailable on

many topicsEasierQuickerAR, CCC, &

Encyclopedia

Entertainment Entertainment & Leisure& LeisureFunGames and simulationsTests your skillsInteractive

Integrated SoftwareIntegrated SoftwareCombine several software applications

into one program.Include: Work Processing,

Spreadsheet, Database, & Communication

Examples: MS Works, MS OFFICE, & Lotus SmartSuite

Proper Computer CareProper Computer CareKeep food and drinks away from the

computer and keyboard.Avoid dusty locations.Use a surge protector.Keep magnets Away.

Do not block vents on the CPU.Avoid bright sunny locations.Do not move the computer while it is

in use.Always exit programs properly.Use a virus check program on a

regular basis.

Proper Diskette CareProper Diskette CareDo not remove from drives while

drive in running or light is on.Avoid contact with magnets and

electromagnetic fields.Keep disks stored in a clean, cool

and dry place with a protective cover.

Keep protective metal slider in place.

Use a virus check program on a regular basis.

Avoid hot and cold locations.Make a back-up copy of your

programs and files.

Proper CD or DVD CareProper CD or DVD CareKeep CDs or DVDs stored in a clean,

cool and dry place with a protective cover.

Avoid touching the back side of the CD or DVD; to avoid scratches.

Avoid hot and cold locations.

Make a back-up copy of your programs and files on CD or DVD.

Insert into CD or DVD Drive properly; label facing up.

Only write on CD’s or DVD;s with a proper marking Pen on a label or the correct side of the CD or DVD.

Proper Care of PrintersProper Care of PrintersAvoid cold, hot, and dusty locations.Always use the correct ink or toner

replacement.Always have the proper printer cable

connected to your computer.

Never pull paper out of a printer in motion.

Do not turn off the printer while printing.

Read the instruction manual before operating a printer.

Always use the proper type of paper in your printer.

How to Maintain your How to Maintain your Computer SystemComputer System

Start a notebook of information on your system.

Serial numbers Vendor support telephone numbers User IDs Date and vendor for each equipment and software purchase. Trouble log

Periodically review disk directories & delete unneeded files.

Make sure all plug-ins are secure at all times.

Turn off the power and disconnect the equipment form the power source before you open the inside of you computer.

Keep surrounding area dirt and dust free.

Back up files and data regularly.Periodically defragment your hard

disk.Protect your system from computer

virusesLearn to use system diagnostic

programs

ErgonomicsErgonomicsThe science of designing equipment for a

comfortable and safe working environment.

Proper Computer ErgonomicsProper Computer ErgonomicsSit up straight and lean forward slightly

from the waist.Keep your feet flat on the floor.Your body should be about a hand’s length

from the front of the keyboard and centered with the keyboard.

Place all materials you will type on the Place all materials you will type on the right side of the computer and supplies right side of the computer and supplies on the left side.on the left side.

Keep any items you are not using off your Keep any items you are not using off your desk.desk.

Occasionally rest your eyes and take short Occasionally rest your eyes and take short breaks.breaks.

Avoid lights that cause glare on the Avoid lights that cause glare on the monitor.monitor.

Keep your fingers on the home row keys and curved.

Keep your wrists up, not touching the keyboard or desk.

Focus your eyes on the book, copy or screen.

Questions of the DayQuestions of the Day

1. Definition of Hardware1. Definition of Hardware

2. Definition Of Software2. Definition Of Software

3. Definition of CPU3. Definition of CPU

4. Definition of RAM4. Definition of RAM

5. Information Processing Cycle5. Information Processing Cycle(Draw the Cycle)(Draw the Cycle)