MISMod02

Module Overview

• Title: Computers and Their Business Applications

• Edition: MIS, 11th Edition, Bidgoli, © 2024 Cengage

Module Objectives

By the end of this module, you should be able to:

• 2.1 Define a computer system and its components.

• 2.2 Discuss the history of computer hardware and software.

• 2.3 Analyze the impact of the three factors distinguishing the computing power of computers.

• 2.4 Summarize the three basic computer operations.

• 2.5 Discuss the types of input, output, and memory devices.

• 2.6 Explain how computers are classified and their business applications.

• 2.7 Apply knowledge of two major types of software and their use in a business setting.

• 2.8 List the five generations of computer languages.

• 2.9 Define object-oriented programming.

Defining a Computer

Basic Definition

• A computer is a machine that:

  • Accepts data as input.

  • Processes data without human intervention using stored instructions.

  • Outputs information.

Instructions (Programs)

• Programs are step-by-step directions for performing tasks written in a language the computer can understand.

Writing a Computer Program

• Steps to write a program:

  • Identify what needs to be done.

  • Plan a method to achieve the goal.

  • Select the right programming language.

• A program consists of source code that must be translated into object code (binary 0s and 1s).

Components of a Computer System

Main Components

• Main Memory: Stores data and instructions.

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): The heart of a computer with:

  • Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs arithmetic and comparison operations.

  • Control Unit: Directs the computer's operations.

CPU Types

• Single Processor: One CPU in a computer.

• Multiprocessors: Two or more CPUs:

  • Dual-core: Two cores in one CPU.

  • Quad-core: Four cores in one CPU.

Bus

• A link between devices connected to the computer (can be parallel or serial).

• Types of Bus:

  • Internal (e.g., video card, memory)

  • External (e.g., USB devices)

Processor Size and Operating System

• 32-bit Processor: Runs only a 32-bit OS and uses 2^32 bytes (4 GB) of RAM.

• 64-bit Processor: Can run both 32-bit and 64-bit OS; uses 2^64 bytes (16 EB) of RAM.

Peripheral and Main Components

• Disk Drive: Device for writing and reading data.

• CPU Case: Enclosure for computer components.

• Motherboard: Main circuit board connecting CPU, memory, ports, etc.

The History of Computer Hardware and Software

• Major developments in hardware over 80 years include:

  • Five generations of technological breakthroughs.

  • Shift from silicon to gallium arsenide, offering higher speeds and temperatures.

  • IBM exploring carbon nanotubes, and rise of optical technologies.

Hardware Generations

The Power of Computers

Key Factors

• Speed: Measured by instructions performed per second.

• Accuracy: Humans might round numbers; computers do not.

• Storage and Retrieval: Data is saved in memory and accessed as required.

Storage Measurements

Computer Operations

Basic Tasks

1. Arithmetic Operations: Add, subtract, multiply, divide.

2. Logical Operations: Comparison of numbers.

3. Storage and Retrieval Operations: Management of vast data storage efficiently.

Input, Output, and Memory Devices

• Input Devices: Send data to computers (e.g., keyboard, mouse).

• Output Devices: Display processed data (e.g., monitors, printers).

• Memory Devices: Store data (divided into main memory and secondary memory).

Types of Memory Devices

• Main Memory: Volatile, loses data when power is off (e.g., RAM, Cache RAM).

• Secondary Memory: Non-volatile, retains data (e.g., hard disks, SSDs, cloud storage).

Types of Computers

• Classified by cost, memory, speed, and sophistication:

  • Personal Computers

  • Minicomputers

  • Mainframes

  • Supercomputers

Server Platforms

Common Types

• Application, Database, Disk, Fax, File, Mail, Print, Remote Access, and Web servers.

Software Overview

Types of Software

• System Software: Manages computer hardware (e.g., Windows).

• Application Software: Performs specialized tasks (e.g., Excel, PowerPoint).

Operating System Functions

• Control programs to manage hardware and resources.

Computer Languages

Generations

1. Machine Language: Series of 0s and 1s.

2. Assembly Language: Short codes for easier writing.

3. High-level Languages: Used for web development (e.g., Python, Java).

4. Fourth-Generation Languages (4GLs): Macro codes.

5. Fifth-Generation Languages (5GLs): AI technologies.

Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)

Principles

• Objects: Contain both data and procedures.

• Advantages: Modularity, code reuse, effective problem-solving.

Summary of Module Objectives

At the end of this module, students are expected to have a thorough understanding of:

1. Computer systems and components.

2. The historical context of computer hardware and software.

3. The factors that define the power of computers.

4. Computer operations.

5. Input, output, and memory device functionalities.

6. Classification of computers and their applications.

7. Understanding of major types of software and their business implications.

8. Knowledge of the five generations of programming languages.

9. The definition and significance of object-oriented programming.