1. Introduction to Computer Hardware and System Software Concepts

• Overview of Topics:

  • Introduction, applications, functionality, and memory systems of a computer system.

  • Various Input and Output devices.

  • Concepts of Bus technology.

  • Overview of Application, System, and Operating System Software.

  • The functionalities of Assemblers, Linkers, Loaders, Compilers, and Interpreters.

  • Introduction to number systems in computers.

2. Introduction to Hardware

2.1 Basic Concepts and Applications

• A computer operates under the control of instructions (software) stored in its memory.

• It accepts data (Input), processes it, and produces information (Output).

• Generally, a computer is a collection of devices working together.

2.2 Types of Computers

• Microcomputers: Desktop PCs or Personal Computers.

• Laptops: Portable personal computers.

• Minicomputers, Mainframes, and Supercomputers: Larger systems with varying capabilities.

2.3 Characteristics of Computers

• Speed: Fast processing capabilities.

• Accuracy: High precision in calculations and data handling.

• Diligence: Consistent performance without fatigue.

• Storage Capability: Ability to store vast amounts of data.

• Versatility: Can perform various tasks across different fields.

2.4 Applications of Computers

• Computers are utilized in numerous fields, including finance, education, healthcare, science, and engineering.

3. Memory Systems

3.1 Types of Memory

• Main Memory (Primary Memory):

  • Temporary storage (e.g., RAM, ROM).

  • Volatile data, erased when the power is off.

  • Measured in bytes, kilobytes, megabytes.

• Secondary Storage:

  • Permanent storage (e.g., hard drives, SSDs).

  • Non-volatile, retains data after shutdown.

3.2 RAM and ROM

• RAM (Random Access Memory):

  • Read and write memory, volatile.

  • Contents are lost when power is shut down.

• ROM (Read-Only Memory):

  • Permanent storage, non-volatile.

  • Contains critical boot and system instructions.

3.3 Memory Hierarchy

• Cache Memory:

  • High-speed memory located between CPU and Main Memory.

  • Temporary storage for active data.

4. Input and Output Devices

4.1 Input Devices

• Include: keyboards, mice, scanners, and voice input systems.

4.2 Output Devices

• Include: monitors, printers, and audio speakers.

4.3 Auxiliary Devices

• Include: disk drives, USB devices, and external storage systems.

5. System Software and Operating Systems

5.1 Types of Software

• System Software:

  • Manages hardware components and provides a platform for running application software.

• Application Software:

  • Specific to user tasks (e.g., word processors, spreadsheets).

• Operating Systems:

  • Controls and manages hardware/software resources (e.g., Windows, Linux).

5.2 Functionalities of Assemblers, Linkers, Loaders, Compilers, and Interpreters

• Assembler: Translates assembly language to machine language.

• Linker: Combines multiple code modules into a single executable.

• Loader: Loads programs into memory for execution.

• Compiler: Translates high-level code to machine code.

• Interpreter: Executes high-level code line by line.

6. Algorithms and Problem Solving Techniques

6.1 Introduction to Algorithms

• Defined as step-by-step procedures for solving problems.

• Involves representation and analysis of computational tasks.

6.2 Problem-Solving Life Cycle

• Steps include identifying the problem, exploring information, generating ideas, testing solutions, and evaluating results.

7. C++ Programming Basics

7.1 History and Basics of C++

• Developed by Bjarne Stroustrup in 1983 as an extension of C with object-oriented capabilities.

• Widely used for system software, operating systems, and application development.

7.2 Key Concepts

• Character Set: Includes letters, digits, special symbols, and whitespace.

• Tokens: The smallest elements in a program.

• Identifiers and Variables: Rules for naming in C++ and how variables are used for data storage.

7.3 Data Types in C++

• Built-in, user-defined, and derived data types.

• Common types: int, float, char, double.

7.4 Input and Output Operations

• C++ uses cin and cout for data input and output.

7.5 Constants and Symbolic Constants

• Constants represent unchangeable values in a program.

• Symbolic constants are defined for easier code readability.

8. Operators in C++

8.1 Operator Types

• Arithmetic Operators: Perform calculations (e.g., +, -, *, /).

• Relational Operators: Compare values (e.g., <, >, ==).

• Logical Operators: Combine multiple conditions (e.g., &&, ||).

• Assignment Operators: Assign values to variables (e.g., =, +=).

• Increment and Decrement Operators: Adjust variable values by one.

8.2 Summary

• This course covers essential concepts of computer hardware, software, and basic programming techniques, focusing on C++. Each segment integrates practical examples to reinforce learning.