CE

MP UTER ESSENTIALS

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

  • Understand the importance of ICT.

  • Understand various components of ICT.

  • Understand computers, their devices, and how they work.

  • Understand software and its different types.

  • Work with desktop and icons.

  • Understand file management.

  • Understand communication among computers.

  • Understand security and well-being while working with computers.

ICT (Information and Communication Technology)

  • Definition: Set of tools used to store, transmit, and utilize information.

  • Examples of ICT Services: Internet service, mobile technology, office productivity applications.

Uses of ICT

  • Enables businesses, governments, and educational institutions to perform functions more efficiently and accurately.

  • Assists individuals in job performance and management of organizations.

Hardware and Software

Hardware

  • Physical components of a computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse, monitor, CPU).

  • CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer, processing and storing data.

Software

  • Programs that run on a computer (e.g., word processors, operating system).

  • Types of Software:

    • Operating System Software: Controls the basic functions of a computer.

    • Application Software: Programs for specific tasks like database management, word processing, etc.

Components of a Computer

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

  • Processes, stores, and communicates information. Functions like human memory with data stored on disks.

Monitor

  • Visual display for user information; similar to a television.

Printer

  • Outputs text and images on paper.

    • Types: Dot matrix, Inkjet, Laser.

Keyboard

  • Primary input device; consists of alphanumeric, punctuation, and special keys.

    • QWERTY layout: Standard keyboard layout designed to reduce jamming in mechanical typewriters.

Random Access Memory (RAM)

  • Temporarily holds data while a computer is on; all data lost when powered off. Affects speed of operation.

Read-Only Memory (ROM)

  • Retains data even when powered off; non-volatile, whereas RAM is volatile.

Storage Devices

  • Include hard disk, CD, DVD, USB flash drives, online storage.

  • Data must be saved before shutting down.

File Management

Objectives

  • Understand how an OS organizes drives, folders, and files hierarchically.

  • Navigate between drives, folders, subfolders, and files.

File System/Directory Structure

  • Organized system of folders on a hard disk, resembling a tree structure.

  • Folder (Directory): Could contain files within, hierarchical in nature.

Folder Management Tasks

  • Create: Right-click > New > Folder.

  • Rename: Right-click > Rename > Enter new name.

  • View: Click folder to view contents in right-hand window.

  • Search: Use properties like file name, content, and date modified.

  • Organize: Select and highlight files (adjacent/non-adjacent) for various actions.

File Operations

  • Copy/Move: Right-click > Copy or Cut > right-click in target folder > Paste.

  • Delete: Right-click > Delete; recover from Recycle Bin if needed.

  • Storage and Compression: Use various media to store data; compress files to save space.

Network Concepts

Definition

  • A network is a collection of computers connected via wired or wireless means.

Purpose

  • Facilitates data exchange and secure access to data and devices.

Types of Networks

  • Local Area Network (LAN), Wireless LAN (WLAN), Wide Area Network (WAN).

Internet Explained

  • The Internet connects computers globally; the World Wide Web (WWW) allows information access via browsers.

Internet Usage

  • Main uses: WWW, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), Email, Instant Messaging.

Internet Connection Types

  • Dial-up, ISDN, Mobile, Cable, Wi-Fi, Satellite, ADSL, Optic Fiber: various connection options with different speeds and characteristics.

Security and Well-Being

Protecting Data and Devices

  • Develop strong passwords, use firewalls, back up data, and update antivirus software regularly.

Malware Types

  • Virus, Trojan horse, Worm, Spyware: different forms of malicious software.

Protection Measures

  • Antivirus software for scanning and removing malware, resident scanners, quarantine for infected files.

Ergonomics

  • Study of people's interaction with equipment; essential for maintaining health and comfort during computer use.

  • Tips for a good working posture and environment adjustments to promote well-being.

General Precautions

  • Ensure comfortable work environment, good lighting, and organize workspace to reduce strain.

Energy Saving Practices

  • Use features in Windows for energy efficiency by turning off monitors or entering sleep mode after inactivity.

Accessibility Options

  • Features that allow customization of software to meet individual needs; examples include voice recognition, screen magnifiers, etc.

Environmental Impact

  • Proper recycling of electronic waste to reduce pollution from non-biodegradable materials.