Section 2 Lesson 5

Page 1: Introduction to Computer Systems

• Learning Objectives

  • Define information system.

  • Differentiate between information and data.

  • Differentiate between input, output, and storage.

• Definition of Computer System

  • A computer system comprises both hardware and software components that collaborate to store, retrieve, and process data.

• Uses of Computers

  • Computers are utilized for various tasks including:

    • Typing documents

    • Sending emails

    • Gaming

    • Web browsing

    • Creating spreadsheets, presentations, and videos

    • Analyzing survey results and meteorological data

• Evolution of Computers

  • Computers were once identifiable by their large size but are now embedded in diverse devices, such as:

    • Digital cameras

    • Elevators

    • Home temperature control systems

Page 2: Functions of a Computer System

• Input-Process-Output (IPO) Model

  • The IPO and IPOS (Input-Process-Output-Storage) models illustrate the four main functions of a computer system:

    1. Input: Requirement from the environment

    2. Process: Computation based on the input

    3. Output: Provision for the environment

    4. Storage: Retains input/output elements and calculation results

Page 3: Understanding Information Systems

• Definition

  • An information system captures raw data from users or data sources (input), converts it into usable information (process), and delivers results (output).

• Components

  • Information systems keep records of data and results during transformations as storage.

  • Example: An embedded computer in an alarm clock uses:

    • Input: Waking time set by buttons

    • Process: Monitoring time to decide when to sound the alarm

    • Output: Alarm sounding when times match

• Role of Users

  • Users, referred to as liveware, are essential to computer systems:

    • System analysts design system operations

    • System programmers write code

    • End users operate systems for varied purposes

Page 4: Components of a Computer System

• Types of Devices

  • Input Devices: Mouse, Keyboard, Microphone

  • Processing Device: CPU

  • Storage Devices: RAM, Hard disk

  • Output Devices: Monitor, Speakers, Printer

• Functionality

  • Inputs bring data into the processor, which then processes, stores, and outputs information.

• Definition of Computer System

  • A combination of hardware, software, and middleware that transforms data into information based on specific user needs.

Page 5: Hardware and Software Components

• Hardware

  • Tangible components include:

    • Monitors, tablets, keyboards, mice, smartphones

    • Hardware supports IPO functions and provides the necessary environment for operations.

• Software

  • Specifies data transformation into information based on user specifications:

    • Software is instructions that allow users to perform tasks on a computer.

    • Examples include internet browsers, text editing tools, spreadsheets

    • In the IPO model, software defines operational methods in the process section.

• Middleware

  • Facilitates communication between hardware and software, enabling data exchange.

Page 6: Detailed Hardware Components

• Primary Components

  • Motherboard: Central component for managing the system

    • Houses CPU and allocates power

  • CPU: Processes data from programs

  • RAM: Stores data for quick access

  • Hard Drive: Stores data permanently or temporarily via paging system

  • Power Supply: Distributes power across components

Page 7: Software Overview

• System Software

  • Controls hardware and peripherals

  • Examples: Windows, Mac, Linux

• Application Software

  • Enabling specific user functionalities such as:

    • Word processing

    • Spreadsheet creation

    • Email communication

    • Web browsing

Page 8: Network Fundamentals

• Definition

  • Networks are systems combining hardware and software to connect multiple devices for data sharing.

• Types of Networks

  • Local Area Networks (LANs): Cover small geographic areas

  • Wide Area Networks (WANs): Span larger areas, including the internet.

• Network Designs

  • Client-Server: Centralized control by servers for users

  • Peer-to-Peer: Equal functionality among connected devices without a server.

Page 9: Network Topologies

• Physical Topology

  • Refers to physical connections of devices within a network, affecting data flow.

• Logical Topology

  • Reflects actual data flow, crucial for load balancing and network backups.

Page 10: Network Topologies and Protocols

• Common Topologies

  • Bus, Star, Ring, Mesh

• Protocols

  • Rules for data exchange between computers; most common: TCP/IP.

• Special-Purpose Systems

  • Components like network routers, switches, and media (fiber optic, Ethernet).

Page 11: Summary of Computer Systems

• Components Selection

  • Hardware, software, and middleware work together to process data into information based on user requirements.

• Role of Users

  • Users are vital in operating and interacting with computer systems.