Introduction to Information Technology Systems and Components

Algorithm: Defined as a step-by-step solution to a problem or a set of instructions to follow.
Bug: A term used to describe a problem, error, or glitch within a computer system or program.
Debugging: The specific process of identifying and fixing a bug or problem.
Instruction: A direction or order given to the computer to perform a specific task.
Computer: A device that accepts data, processes that data, stores it, and produces useful information.
Output: The resulting information produced by a computer after processing.
Pagsasalita / Pangungusap: Terms appearing in the notes related to speech or sentences in the context of computer interaction or programming logic.

The fundamental operation of a computer system follows the IPOS Cycle, which stands for:
- Input: Entering raw data into the system (e.g., entering an ATM).
- Process: The system performing operations on the data.
- Storage: Keeping data or information for future use.
- Output: Presenting the processed data in a useful format.
Real-world Metaphor: The process can be compared to a restaurant workflow:
- Cashier: Acts as the input.
- Chef: Acts as the processor.
- Storage: The pantry or fridge where ingredients are kept.
- Food: The final output.

Data: A collection of raw facts that have not yet been processed. Examples include:
- Name: King
- Age: $20$
- Course: BSIT
- Role: Escort
- Shopping Record Details: Name (Juan), Product (Pacit canton), Price/Value ( $15,000$ ).
Information: Data that has been organized, processed, and given context to make it useful.
- Conversion Example 1: "King is $20$ years old, etc."
- Conversion Example 2 (Shopping Record): "My name is Juan and my product is pacit canton worth $15,000$ in total."
Process Formula: $Data \rightarrow Process \rightarrow Information$

Supercomputer: The most powerful type of computer. They are used by large-scale organizations requiring massive computational power, such as Cisco or NASA.
Mainframe: A large, powerful computer with the primary goal of carrying vast amounts of data simultaneously. Its capacity and throughput are compared to the speed and volume of a cargo train.
Minicomputer: A medium-sized computer that possesses the capability to transfer data with significant speed (noted as $2071$ in specific reference contexts).
Microcomputers / Personal Computers: Computers designed for individual use. Common forms include:
- Laptops
- Desktops
Mobile Devices: Highly portable computing units, including:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Smartwatches

Hardware: The physical, tangible components of the computer system.
Software: A collection of programs and sets of instructions that tell the hardware how to behave.
Peopleware: The human element; the people who are using or operating the computer system.

System Software: Programs that control the operation of the computer and its hardware.
- Examples: Windows, Android.
Application Software: Often referred to as "apps," these are programs designed for specific user tasks.
Programming Software: Tools and languages used by developers to create other software.
Operating System (OS): A critical component of system software responsible for managing the computer's memory and overall coordination.
Computer Care: Refers to the maintenance and protection of the hardware (e.g., caring for a laptop).

Motherboard: The central printed circuit board that connects every component of the computer. It serves as the communication hub; without it, components cannot communicate with one another.
Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as "the brain" of the computer, responsible for executing instructions.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Used for temporary data storage while the computer is running.
SSD (Solid State Drive): Used for permanent data storage.
Power Supply (PSU): The component that provides electrical power to the computer system.
GPU (Graphic Processing Unit): The component dedicated to rendering images, video, and animations for the output device.