Chapter 1: Introduction: technology at your service

computer

is a device that accepts input, processes data, and can output or store the result of its actions.

Input

refers to user entries or activities that tell the computer what to do.

Processing

is the ability of a computer to perform actions based on instructions from the user or a program.

Output

refers to the processed results that a computer sends out to you. Typically, the results appear on the computer's screen or on a printed piece of paper.

Storage

is the ability of a computer to hold or remember the information it processes.

information processing cycle

These four operations are part of a process called the

hardware

The physical devices that make up a computer system are called

software

refers to one or more programs that are packaged together for a unified purpose

computer program

-is a set of instructions that directs the computer to perform a variety of tasks.

•Operating Systems help the computer run and manage its resources.

•Applications (or apps) enable users to perform a variety of activities.

-Data & Information

Data

•consist of individual facts or pieces of information.

-They are the raw materials that we use in the creation of information.

network

allows users to communicate and share data, information and resources between computers

Wireless networks

allow communication to take place using radio waves.

Wi-Fi

is the current standard for wireless networks and Internet connectivity.

Internet

The largest network in the world is known as the -, which connects billions of people and organizations throughout the world.

World Wide Web (WWW).

Most individuals use the Internet to access web pages on the

email

Another popular use of the Internet is electronic mail, or - , which allows messages to be sent to electronic mailboxes in an instant.

Cloud computing

simply put, allows you to store your files and use various applications in an online account.

Social media

refers to a variety of websites and services that allow individuals to share photos, news, and thoughts on just about anything.

Personal computers (PCs)

or microcomputers, are meant to be used by only one person at a time.

desktop computer

The computer that has been traditionally found on the desks in many offices and homes is the

All-in-one computers

are similar to desktops, but they have all of the hardware integrated with the monitor.

Laptop computers

or notebook computers, are portable computers that contain all of the components of a desktop computer in a single, integrated unit.

Netbooks

are small and inexpensive laptops that have reduced processing power and lack a DVD drive.

Chromebooks

are lightweight and inexpensive laptops that run Google's Chrome operating system

Ultraportable computers

are thin, lightweight laptops that generally possess strong processing power.

Convertible laptops (2-in-1's)

are lightweight laptop computers that allow users to swivel or detach the touchscreen monitor.

Can provide a tablet experience

Multi-user computers

are large systems that manage a variety of services for businesses and organizations.

network server

is a computer with special software and equipment that enables it to function as the primary computer in a network.

Mainframe computers

are very large and powerful systems used in organizations where a heavy amount of processing and user requests need to be handled.

Supercomputers

are the largest and most powerful computers in the world and are ideal for handling large and highly complex problems

Embedded systems

are computers because they are placed inside devices that require specific computing functions.

E-book readers

-are lightweight and affordable devices that make it convenient for individuals to read and store their e-books.

Gaming consoles

are complete entertainment systems, offering Internet connectivity, movie rentals, photo storage, and many other services in addition to video games.

Smart TVs

can use your home's wireless network to connect to a variety of online services such as Netflix, Amazon, and Pandora.

home automation

many household activities are being automated or controlled from a distance because they contain wireless embedded systems

Internet of Things (IoT)

devices refer to embedded systems that are connected to the Internet.

Mobile devices

•are lightweight, handheld computers that offer a variety of software and communication services for mobile users. They generally have touchscreen interfaces as the primary form of input and use unique programs known as apps. Common features:

-Cameras for photos and video

-Microphone and speakers

-Wireless connectivity

-Internal sensors such as accelerometers and GPS

tablet computer

or tablet, is a mobile device that typically ranges from 7 to 10 inches in size.

smartphone

is a combination mobile phone and handheld computer. Permanent Internet connectivity is offered via data plans.

phablet

-a term given to the newer generation of large smartphones that generally require the use of two hands (much like a tablet).

Wearable technology

•refers to computing devices that are worn on various parts of the body. Examples:

-Eyeglasses which offer an augmented reality experience

-Smartwatches that work as a companion to your smartphone

hands-free computing

The ability to communicate with a device without using your hands is known as

Bluetooth

•Using a short-range wireless technology known as ----, calls could be made with a wireless headset worn on the ear or the hands-free systems in some cars.

•Benefits: Convenience and safety

Device damage

Use a protective case to prevent cracked phones.

Loss and theft

Ensure that your mobile device requires a PIN or other security measure on the lock screen. In addition, be prepared to use a remote wipe utility to erase all of your data in the event your device is stolen.

Wireless security

Always use the correct (and preferably secure) wireless network when connecting outside of your home.

Courtesy

•Always put your phone on silent mode when in class. Do not have your phone on your desk unless you are asked by your instructor for class purposes. Checking your phone during class is both impolite but more importantly disruptive for you and the class.

•Always put your phone on vibrate or silent mode when in public or in the company of other individuals.

•Be aware of the volume of your voice.

•Don't make the coffee shop your new office or study center unless you've been invited to do so.

•Avoid sending messages while mad.

•Avoid dividing attention between your device and those around you, unless it is typical behavior in your social group.

Location-based services (LBS)

•allow your mobile device to identify and report your location through the use of GPS, cell phone towers, and nearby wireless access points.

Real-time information

•refers to any information that is delivered to you immediately after it is created.

Crowdsourcing

•is the gathering of information from a large group of people.

NFC (near field communication)

•Mobile payments can be completed in many locations using a wireless technology known as ---

Mobile devices have also made it easier to send and receive money electronically.

Short Message Service (SMS)

allows you to send text messages of 160 characters to any other cell phone user.

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS)

•allows you to attach a variety of media such as photos and short videos.

examples: whatsapp and skype

Social networking

•services make it easy for friends and family to share updates and special events with each other. Examples:

-Full-featured: Facebook

-Photo and video sharing: Instagram

-Short-duration sharing: Snapchat

Streaming media

•refers to music and movies that are delivered on demand from an online source.

•You can listen to ad-supported streaming music in a variety of ways:

-Personalized radio stations: Pandora

-On-demand songs: Spotify

•Streaming video is offered in a variety of ways:

-Movies: Netflix

-TV: Hulu

-Video clips (social): YouTube

Fitness

•Whether you run, walk, or engage in any other type of exercise, fitness apps can help you keep track of your activity goals for each day.

-Often used in combination with wearable devices such as the Fitbit wristband

Health

•Health apps are often used to record and monitor information about your diet, vital signs, and medications.

-Some require a separate device that is worn on the body or can scan a part of it in order to take measurements.

Cloud storage

•services allow your files to be stored online and accessed from any Internet-connected device.

•Any user with a smartphone and an Internet connection can use the power of large computers to accomplish a variety of tasks, from gaming and object identification, to instant translation.

Cloud collaboration

•tools allow individuals to view, edit, and share documents online.

Cloud computing

•is the delivery of computing services—servers, storage, databases, networking, software, analytics, intelligence and more—over the Internet ("the cloud") to offer faster innovation, flexible resources and economies of scale. You typically pay only for cloud services you use, helping lower your operating costs, run your infrastructure more efficiently and scale as your business needs change. (Microsoft Azure)

•Translation apps, such as Google Translate, can convert typed or spoken words into almost any foreign language.