Computer Basics Study Notes

Computer Basics

Learning Objectives

  • Define a computer
  • The criteria for a device to be considered a computer
  • The four primary operations of a computer
  • Learn about hardware and software
  • The different categories of hardware
  • The different categories of software
  • Learn about the different types/categories of computers
  • Benefits of a computer-oriented society

Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria

  • Describe an Information System
  • Define an information system
  • Outline the elements of an information system
  • Explain hardware and software as two key components of an information system
  • Differentiate between computer hardware and software
  • Distinguish between the various types and categories of computers
  • Differentiate between different hardware components
  • Describe types of software and their respective roles
  • Evaluate the role of computers in organisations and society
  • Using relevant examples, describe the role computers play in society and business
  • Citing examples, evaluate the potential risks posed due to computer abuse and/or misuse
  • Propose relevant remedies to combat computer abuse/misuse

What is an Information System?

  • Definitions of an Information System:
      1. A set of interrelated components that collect, process, store, and distribute information to support decision making and control in an organization.
      2. Combinations of hardware, software, and telecommunications networks that people build and use to collect, create, and distribute useful data, typically in organizational settings.
      3. Interrelated components working together to collect, process, store, and disseminate information to support decision making, coordination, control, analysis, and visualization in an organization.

Components of an Information System

  • Categories:
      - Hardware
      - Software
      - Data
      - People
      - Non-Technical Processes

The 6th Component of Information Systems

  • Networking:
      - A combination of hardware and software that enables communication between devices.

The Computer as a Digital Device

Defining a Computer

  • Definition: A computer is a programmable digital or electronic device that:
      1. Uses instructions from its own memory.
      2. Allows data to be captured into it.
      3. Manipulates/processes data according to specific rules/algorithms.
      4. Produces and displays processing outcomes to the user (output).
      5. Stores the results for future use (storage).
1.1. Programmable Device
  • Programming can be loosely defined as teaching someone or something how to perform a task.
  • Computers are taught how to perform tasks through a set of written instructions, known as programs or code.
  • Instructions to a human can be communicated in languages such as English, IsiXhosa, and Afrikaans, whereas instructions to a computer can be written in programming languages such as:
      - C#
      - C++
      - JAVA
      - Python
1.2. Using Instructions from Memory
  • Computers have the unique ability to store instructions (code/programs) that are executed when needed.
  • For example, a computer can load and display the desktop using stored instructions each time it starts up.
  • All software comprises a set of instructions (programs), with software for performing specific tasks known as Application Software or Apps.
1.3. Accepting Input
  • Input includes both instructions and data. Data can be defined as raw facts.
  • A computer enables users to insert and store data in its storage device (hard drive), manipulates data using installed software, and produces information, which is processed data structured to be understood by the user.
  • The computer must produce output, making the information useful.

The Four Primary Operations of a Computer

  1. Input - Entering data into a computer.
  2. Processing - Performing operations on data.
  3. Output - Presenting results.
  4. Storage - Saving data, programs, or output for future use.

The Main Components of a Computer

  • Hardware requires instructions from software to function. The main components are hardware and software.

2.1. Hardware

  • Definition: Physical components of a computer.
  • Categories:
      1. Input devices (e.g., Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner)
      2. Processing devices (e.g., CPU, RAM)
      3. Output devices (e.g., Monitor, Printer)
      4. Storage devices (e.g., Hard Disc Drive (HDD), USB Flash Drive)

2.2. The Motherboard

  • The motherboard is the main circuit inside the system unit, connecting all devices either directly or via a cable.
  • Devices inside the unit connect directly to the motherboard (e.g., RAM and CPU), while external devices connect through ports.

2.3. Peripheral Devices

  • Peripheral devices are outside the system unit and connect to the motherboard through its ports. Some are input devices and others output devices.

Software

3. Software

  • All computers require software to operate and perform tasks.
  • Software is stored programs that provide instructions to perform tasks. It is typically installed on a computer's hard disk drive and is divided into two main categories:
      - System software
      - Application software

3.1. System Software

  • System software runs in the background at all times and enables hardware to operate.
  • It consists of:
      - Operating system: This is critical software that manages all activities within the computer. It is the first program loaded during the boot process and allows user interaction.
      - Utility programs: These perform specific tasks related to managing and troubleshooting a computer system. Examples include antivirus software and file recovery programs.

Functions of the Operating System

  • Provides a user interface (menus, icons, etc.) for interaction
  • Manages computer resources
  • Performs file management (tracking and retrieving files)
  • Configures devices connected to a computer (using device drivers)

3.2. Application Software

  • Application software allows users to perform specific tasks. Examples include:
      - Writing a letter with Microsoft Word
      - Preparing a budget with Microsoft Excel
      - Browsing the web with Google Chrome
      - Playing music with VLC Media Player
      - Designing models using CAD software.

Types of Computers

  • Computers can be classified based on size, capability, and price into several categories:
      1. Embedded Computers: Tiny computers embedded in products to perform specific functions (e.g., monitoring ink levels in printers).
      2. Mobile Devices: Small communication devices (e.g., smartphones) that have computing capability.
      3. Personal Computers: Designed for individual use; includes desktops and laptops.
      4. Midrange Servers: Medium-sized servers for hosting data and programs in small networks.
      5. Mainframe Computers: Large and powerful machines for managing vast amounts of data, typically found in large organizations.
      6. Supercomputers: Extremely powerful computers used for complex tasks requiring speed and accuracy (e.g., weather forecasting).

3.1. Embedded Computers

  • Definition: Embedded computers are designed to perform specific functions within larger systems, such as monitoring components of household appliances.

3.2. Mobile Devices

  • Definition: Devices with built-in computing power and internet capability, used for communication and browsing (e.g., smartphones).

3.3. Personal Computers

  • Definition: Small computers for individual use; includes desktops, laptops, netbooks, and tablets.

3.4. Midrange Servers

  • Definition: Used in small to medium organizations; more powerful than desktop computers and host programs/data.

3.5. Mainframe Computers

  • Definition: Manage large amounts of data in organizations and perform multiple tasks simultaneously.

3.6. Supercomputers

  • Definition: The most powerful and expensive computers, designed for complex and high-speed tasks (e.g., simulations, weather forecasting).

Role of Computers in Society

Benefits of a Computer-Oriented Society

  • Capability to design, build, and test virtually before actual construction (e.g., buildings).
  • Early diagnosis and effective treatment in medical technology, enabling robotic and remote surgeries.
  • Online capabilities such as shopping, bill payments, and education available 24/7.
  • Instant communication via email for documents and photographs.

Computers in Business

  • Enable businesses that couldn’t exist otherwise (e.g., Uber, Google).
  • Facilitate systems such as Point of Sale (POS) and online shopping.

Business Success Examples

  • Amazon’s revenue in 2020 reached $570 billion, and its worth reached $1.49 trillion compared to South Africa’s budget of R1.95 trillion.

Computers in Various Fields

Computers in Medicine (Telemedicine)

  • Facilitate remote surgeries and interpret hand movements to human languages.

Computers in Sports

  • Use of technology to enhance athletic performance through biomechanics, high-speed cameras, and data processing about energy output.

Computers in Law Enforcement

  • Enhance crime prevention through surveillance and DNA analysis to identify suspects.

Risks of a Computer-Oriented Society

  • Security Concerns: Identity theft, hacking, and harmful software.
  • Business Data Risks: Potential misuse of personal medical records by corporations.
  • Mental Health: Issues from online bullying and body shaming.
  • Job Losses: Increased automation resulting in reduced job opportunities; notably affecting low-skill jobs like bank tellers.

Discussion Question

  • Will computers create jobs or eliminate them?

END
Steve Jobs Grad Speech: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YhfOwBFtvY