CB

IA-PPS

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.