Computer Fundamentals Notes




Information Technology

  • IT is the equipment (hardware and software) that allows us to access, manipulate, store, organize, retrieve, and present data and information.

  • IT also refers to the use of equipment and programs to produce information.

Data vs. Information

  • as

  • Software: A set of instructions that tells the computer how to perform a specific task.

Uses of a Computer

  • Research information

  • Type documents

  • Entertainment

  • Communication (text messaging, email, social media)

Peripheral Devices

  • Devices located outside the CPU that are attached to the computer system.

Types of Computers

  • Supercomputer: Largest, fastest, most powerful, and expensive; used in scientific applications.

  • Mainframe: Large, powerful, and expensive; offers faster processing speeds and greater storage capacity than a minicomputer; handles more than a hundred users at a time.

  • Minicomputer: Cost, storage, and processing capabilities fall between a personal computer and a mainframe; used in small manufacturing plants, research labs, and businesses.

  • Microcomputer: Also known as a personal computer; designed to be used by one person at a time and fits on an office desk.

Mobile Devices

  • Computing devices that are small enough to hold and operate in one’s hand and are easily portable; includes laptops, notebooks, tablets, smartphones, and game consoles.

Advantages of Using a Computer

  • Processing Speed: Computers work very fast.

  • Processing Accuracy: Computers are very accurate, but GIGO (Garbage In Garbage Out) applies.

  • Storage Capacity: Computers can store large amounts of information in a small space.

  • Works Continuously: Computers work continuously for long periods.

The IPOS Cycle

  • The IPOS cycle happens every time you use a computer.

  • Input, Processing, Output, Storage.

Disadvantages of Using a Computer

  • Cause redundancy at the workplace.

  • Violation of privacy.

  • Introduction of computers can be expensive.

  • Health risks associated with excessive or improper use of computers.

  • Computers can malfunction and cause corruption and loss of data.

IPOS Cycle Details

  • Input: Entering data into the computer for processing using an input device.

  • Processing: Manipulation of data to produce information; takes place in the Central Processing Unit (CPU).

    • CPU: Control Unit (CU) and Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU).

    • CU: directs and coordinates all the activities of the CPU.

    • ALU: performs all the arithmetic and logic functions in the computer.

  • Output: Results of processed data presented in a user-understandable form using an output device.

  • Storage: Media and devices used by the computer to keep data and instructions for immediate and future use.