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1_1 ComputersEverydayLives

Computers in Our Everyday Lives

Overview

  • Introduction to the role of computers in daily life, focusing on their impact and integration.

  • Module 1.1 is a study resource tailored for Grade 12 Computer Applications Technology.

Why We Use Computers

Efficiency, Accuracy, and Reliability

  • Efficiency: Computers save significant time, labor, and resources.

  • Accuracy: High precision ensured by quality programming and data, particularly evident in mass production contexts.

  • Reliability: Computers perform consistently without fatigue or boredom, making them dependable for repetitive tasks.

Communication

  • The combination of efficiency, accuracy, and reliability allows computers to:

    • Eliminate time and distance as constraints in business and communication.

    • Enable global sharing of information in diverse manners.

    • Reduce costs associated with communication.

    • Facilitate social interactions on a global scale.

Types of Computer Systems

Key Features

  • Factors to consider when comparing computer systems:

    • Power: Measured by CPU speed and RAM capacity.

    • Purpose: Different systems serve different functions, such as servers or basic office applications.

    • Size and Mobility: Ranges from enormous mainframes to portable devices.

    • Software: Refers to the operating systems or 'platforms' (e.g., Linux, Windows).

Nonportable Computers

  • Characteristics:

    • Large size, designed for stationary use.

    • Typically more powerful than portable devices.

    • Include standard components such as a system unit, monitor, mouse, and keyboard.

    • All-in-one Units: More portable but harder to repair or upgrade.

Types of Nonportable Computers

  • Desktop Computers: General-use systems requiring stationary setups.

  • Servers: Designed to manage network resources and services.

  • Entry-Level Computers: Affordable and suited for basic tasks, equipped with 'Home editions' of software.

Portable Computers

  • Types and Features:

    • Laptop/Notebook: Compact design for convenience and mobility.

    • Tablet: Touchscreen devices with varying functionality.

    • Hybrid Computers: Combine features of tablets and laptops.

    • Smartphone: Multi-functional mobile devices for communication and applications.

    • Phablet: Devices bridging smartphones and tablets, often larger than typical smartphones.

Categories of Users

Personal Users

  • Tasks:

    • Limited office work, internet banking, email, browsing.

    • Engage in social networking, entertainment (gaming, music, movies, etc.), and sharing photos.

SOHO Users (Small Office Home Office)

  • User Needs:

    • General-purpose computing for administrative tasks such as accounting, document archiving, and scheduling.

Power Users

  • Characteristics:

    • Inhabitants of a high-performance computing realm (e.g., hardcore gamers, scientists, architects, video editing professionals, and engineers).

Mobile Users

  • User Behavior:

    • Require technology access on the go, utilizing smartphones or tablets for browsing, gaming, reading, GPS navigation, notes, photos, and video recording.

Convergence

  • Definition:

    • The trend of integrating multiple technologies into single devices, exemplified by smartphones and tablets.

Activities

Test and Improve

  • Engage in activities designed to reinforce learning and understanding of the topics discussed.

Written Module Activity

  • Tasks for students to demonstrate knowledge through practical assignments.