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Computers: Part of Your Life

Overview

  • This document serves as a textbook for Grade 11 students studying Computer Applications Technology.

  • The focus is on understanding the role of computers, including their memory and storage, processing capabilities, online storage options, and troubleshooting methods.

Module: Storage, Memory, and Processing

Key Concepts

  • Memorization and storage play critical roles in computer functionality, each serving unique purposes.

Memory and Storage

Definitions

Memory

  • Memory is the electronic component that holds data and instructions temporarily while the computer is operating.

  • Characteristics:

    • Fast access to data.

    • Volatile: requires power to retain information.

Storage

  • Storage refers to the method of storing data permanently.

  • Types of storage include:

    • Magnetic (Hard Drive)

    • Optical (CD, DVD)

    • Electronic (Flash Drives, SSD)

  • Characteristics:

    • Generally slower access speed due to mechanical operation.

    • Non-volatile: retains information even when powered off.

Distinctions Between Memory and Storage

  • RAM indicates memory whereas HDD, SSD, and DVD denote various forms of storage.

  • SSDs provide significantly faster data transfer rates compared to traditional hard drives, leading to improved computer performance.

Online Storage

Description

  • Online storage is disk space allocated on a server accessed via the internet.

  • Examples include Google Drive, OneDrive, and Dropbox, which allow users to store files remotely.

Functionality

  • Users can access files across multiple devices (laptop, desktop, tablet, smartphone) as long as there is an internet connection.

  • Changes to files are synchronized across all devices immediately.

Advantages of Online Storage

  • Files can be accessed from any location and device with internet.

  • Space savings on local devices.

  • Automated backup and security measures provided by storage services.

  • Files are retrievable even if the local device is compromised.

Disadvantages of Online Storage

  • Requires a continuous internet connection.

  • Large files may struggle to upload/download over slow connections.

  • Costs associated with bandwidth for uploading/downloading and additional storage space.

  • Risk of data loss if the storage provider goes out of business.

Online Storage vs. Cloud Computing

  • Online storage is strictly for file storage; cloud computing involves running programs on remote servers, accessed through a web browser.

Backing Up Data

Importance of Backups

  • Backups are essential for data restoration in case of hardware or software failure.

  • Methods of backing up include flash drives, portable hard drives, and online backup solutions.

Writing CDs and DVDs

  • Steps to burn data:

    1. Open Windows/File Explorer.

    2. Select files to write.

    3. Drag files to the CD/DVD drive icon.

    4. Right-click the drive and choose ‘Burn’ to write data.

  • Note: CDs and DVDs are not recommended for backups due to their slow speed and reliability issues.

Backups vs. Archives

  • Backups preserve files for quick access in emergencies, while archiving stores files for infrequent access, usually on external drives.

Basic Troubleshooting

  • Utilize specialist backup software for efficient data management.

    • Issues may arise during reading or writing to CDs/DVDs, requiring cleaning, sufficient space, or adjustments to burning speed.

Disk Maintenance

  • Formatting is required occasionally to prepare disks for data storage.

  • Disk scanning can find errors and optimize performance.

  • Disk defragmentation rearranges file fragments for efficiency.

Managing Disk Space

  • Regular cleanup involves removing unnecessary temporary files and unused applications to free up space.

Processing

Overview of Computer Processing

  • The motherboard is a critical component that houses major elements including the CPU, where processing occurs.

  • CPU characteristics:

    • Speed measured in GHz.

    • Number of cores indicates parallel processing capabilities (e.g., dual-core, quad-core).

  • RAM is crucial for running programs as it temporarily holds instructions and data.

  • ROM contains essential programs that control the computer's basic hardware functions.

Boot Process

  • The startup process is initiated by the ROM, which provides instructions to the CPU to load the operating system.