1. Introduction to Computing Lecture 1

1.1 Grading Structure

• Total Percentage: 100%

  • 30%: Section / Lab Work (Weeks 1 – 7)

    • Quizzes (5)

    • 7th Exam

  • 20%: Section / Lab Work/ Quizzes (Weeks 8 – 12)

    • 12th Exam

  • 10%: Section / Lab Work (Week 14)

  • 40%: Final Exam (Week 16)

1.2 Textbook Information

• Title: Understanding Computers – Today and Tomorrow (16th Edition)

  • Authors: Deborah Morley, Charles S. Parker

  • Access: Available through Kortext using student portal.

1.3 Course Outline by Week

1. Week 1: Introduction to Computing

2. Week 2: Inside Computers

3. Week 3: System Software

4. Week 4: Flowcharts (1)

5. Week 5: Flowcharts (2)

6. Week 6: 7th Week Exam

7. Week 7: Binary System

8. Week 8: Binary Arithmetic

9. Week 9: Octal and Hexadecimal

10. Week 10: Introduction to Logic Gates (1)

11. Week 11: 12th Week Exam

12. Week 12: Introduction to Logic Gates (2)

13. Week 13: Boolean Expressions (1)

14. Week 14: Boolean Expressions (2)

15. Week 15: Revision

16. Week 16: Final Exam

2. Key Concepts

2.1 What is a Computer?

• Definition: A programmable electronic device that accepts data, performs operations on that data, and stores the results as needed.

• Functionality: Computers follow instructions called programs that dictate their operations.

2.2 Main Computer System Layers

1. Hardware

   • Internal Hardware: Located inside the system unit

   • External Hardware: Connects via wired or wireless connections

2. System Software

   • Operating System: Manages computer activities

   • Utilities: Example programs for optimization and diagnostics

3. Application Software

   • Programs for specific tasks (e.g., word processing, gaming)

2.3 Basic Computer Operations

• 1. Input: Entering data into the computer.

• 2. Processing: Performing operations on the data.

• 3. Output: Presenting the processed information.

• 4. Storage: Saving data for future use.

• 5. Communications: Sending and receiving data.

3. Data vs. Information

• Data: Raw and unorganized facts, which can be text, graphics, audio, or video.

• Information: Data processed into a meaningful form.

• Information Processing: The mechanism of converting data into information.

4. Categories of Computers

4.1 Embedded Computers

• Definition: Embedded within products for specific tasks (e.g., household appliances, thermostats).

• Characteristics: Generally not general-purpose computers.

4.2 Mobile Devices

• Description: Small devices with computing capabilities, typically based on mobile phones.

• Examples: Smartphones, handheld gaming devices, portable media players.

4.3 Personal Computers (PCs)

• Definition: Small computers designed for individual use.

• Types:

  • Desktop PCs: Not portable, designed to fit on desks.

  • Notebook (Laptop) Computers: Portable with a clamshell design.

  • Tablet Computers: Touchscreen-only or convertible designs.

4.4 Midrange Servers

• Definition: Medium-sized computers hosting programs/data for small networks.

• Client Types: Users connect via computers, thin clients, or dumb terminals.

4.5 Mainframe Computers

• Role: Manage large amounts of data for several organizations.

• Characteristics: Large, high-capacity, and expensive.

4.6 Supercomputers

• Definition: The fastest type of computers, optimized for high-speed calculations.

• Applications: Used in complex scientific research, simulations, and decision support systems.

5. Computer Technologies

5.1 Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Definition: Machines simulating human intelligence processes.

• Applications: Expert systems, natural language processing, machine vision.

5.2 Virtual Reality (VR)

• Description: Simulated experiences possibly different from reality.

• Applications: Video games, training, virtual meetings.

5.3 Big Data

• Definition: Extremely large or complex data sets unsuitable for traditional processing.

• Growth Factors: Increased storage capacity, processing power, and varied data availability.

• Areas of Impact: Finance, healthcare, manufacturing, traffic control.

5.4 Internet of Things (IoT)

• Definition: Networked devices that communicate and exchange data.

• Applications: Smart cities, home automation, environmental monitoring.

5.5 Cloud Computing

• Definition: Online storage, infrastructure, and applications.

• Advantages: Collaboration, cost reduction, universal access.

• Challenges: Dependency on Internet connection, security concerns.

5.6 Cyber Security

• Definition: Protection of systems from digital attacks targeting information.

• Focus: Securing networks from intrusions and malware.