Computer Components and Networking Concepts

Phase 2: Tech Titans and Computer Components

Introduction to Tech Titans

• Mark One, Colossus, and ENIAC: Early computers that revolutionized technology.
• Binary Language: The fundamental language of computers consisting of ones (1) and zeros (0).

External Components of a Computer

• Basic External Components Include:
  • Tower Case
  • Monitor
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
• These components act as the wardrobe of the computer, facilitating user interaction.

Understanding Data

• Bits: The smallest units of data used by computers.
  • Storage Units:
  • Bit
  • Byte
  • Kilobyte (KB)
  • Megabyte (MB)
  • Gigabyte (GB)
  • Terabyte (TB)

Internal Components of a PC

• Reside within the Tower Case:
  • CPU (Central Processing Unit): Main processor performing calculations and task management.
  • RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary storage for active processes and data.
  • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent storage that holds firmware.
  • Motherboard: The main circuit board connecting all hardware components.
  • Disk Drives:
  • Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Reliable mechanical storage.
  • Solid-State Drive (SSD): Faster storage with no moving parts.
  • CD/DVD Combo Drive: Optical media storage.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU): Essential for powering the computer.
• Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS): Acts as a backup during power outages.

Software Overview

• Software: The translator between users and hardware.
  • Machine Language: Native language of CPUs.
  • Programming Languages: Facilitate easier communication for users.
• Types of Software:
  • System Software: Operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS) that provide a GUI for user interaction.
  • Application Software: Programs for specific tasks (e.g., music production, word processing).
• IPOS Cycle: Input, Processing, Output, Storage; fundamental workflow.

Basic Network Components

• Computers/Clients: Devices accessing shared resources.
• Servers: Provide information to clients.
• Network Operating System (NOS): Manages network connections.
• Network Interface Card (NIC): Enables communication over networks.
• Hub: Central device connecting multiple computers.

Creating a New User Account (In Windows)

1. Click the Windows icon.
2. Navigate to Settings.
3. Select Accounts.
4. Click on Family and other users.
5. Choose Add someone else to this PC.
6. Opt for I don’t have this person’s sign-in information.
7. Select Add a user without a Microsoft account.
8. Enter username, password, and security questions.
9. Click Next.

• Choose Account Type: Limited local user vs. full administrator.

Understanding the Desktop

• Desktop Elements:
  • Files: Saved documents and projects.
  • Shortcuts: Quick access links to applications.
  • Containers: Folders for organization.
  • Recycling Bin: Holds deleted files (except from flash/network drives).

User Interface Components

• Title Bar: Program name display.
• Menu Bar: Access to tools via drop-down menus.
• Toolbar: Shortcuts for commands.
• Control Buttons: Manage window operations (close, minimize, maximize).
• Aero Peek: Allows window switching.

File Management

• File Extensions: 3-4 character identifiers categorizing files.
• When saving a file:
  • Save In: New file location.
  • File Name: Title of your document.
  • File Type: Format of the document.

Email Management

• Webmail vs. Email Client:
  • Webmail: Accessed via browsers (e.g., Gmail, Yahoo Mail).
  • Email Clients: Installed applications (e.g., Microsoft Outlook).

Features of Microsoft Outlook

• Notes: Reminder tool.
• Mail: Central hub for emails.
• Calendar: Event planner.
• Contacts: Digital address book.

Internet Connectivity

• Internet Service Provider (ISP): Provides internet access and modems.
• Extranet: Allows business connectivity over the internet.
• Local Area Network (LAN): Local network ideal for file sharing, also termed intranet.

Web Browser Fundamentals

• Homepage: Starting point of navigation.
• Links: Navigate between pages.
• Search Facility: Find information online.
• URLs: Unique addresses for online resources.
  • Structure: Protocol://DomainName (e.g., http://www.myaddressname.co.za).
• Protocols: Guidelines for data transmission (e.g., HTTP, FTP).
• Search Engines: (e.g., Google, Yahoo) retrieve information per user requests.

Cloud Computing Overview

• IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service): On-demand resource rental.
• SaaS (Software as a Service): Applications managed by third parties.