1_1 Introduction to computers

Systems Technologies Introduction to Computers

Table of Contents

How a Computer Works

  • Overview of the basics of computer operation.

Types of Computing Devices

  • Laptop/Notebook

  • Smartphone

  • Tablet

  • Desktop Computer

Using a Computer

  • Process of Interaction:

    • Input: You type using the keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen.

    • Processing: The computer does work using the input provided.

    • Output: Results displayed on the screen.

Information Processing Cycle

  • Basic Process Every Computer Follows:

    • Input: Data and instructions are provided to the computer.

    • Processing: Data is processed based on the input given.

    • Output: Results are presented to the user.

    • Storage: Ability to save data for later use.

    • Communication: Interaction with other computers.

Adding a Contact to Your Smartphone

  • Input: Type contact details.

  • Processing: Smartphone checks existing contacts.

  • Output: Displays message confirming addition or existence of contact.

  • Storage: Contact is saved if necessary.

Hardware vs Software

  • Hardware: Physical components of a computer that are tangible.

  • Software: Programs and applications that instruct the computer to perform tasks.

Computer Device Functionality

Input Devices

  • Function: Allow for user input.

  • Examples: Keyboard, mouse, touchpad.

Output Devices

  • Function: Present information to the user.

  • Examples: Monitor (soft copy), printer (hard copy), speakers/headphones.

Storage Devices

  • Purpose: Retain information permanently.

  • Examples: Hard drives (HDD), Solid State Drives (SSD).

Communication Devices

  • Purpose: Facilitate communication between computers or users.

Other Input and Output Devices

  • Digital Camera: Input device for capturing videos/photos.

  • Joystick/Game Controller: Primarily an input device for gaming but can provide output feedback (e.g., vibration).

  • Scanner: Converts physical documents into digital format (input).

  • Microphone: Captures live sound (input).

  • Data Projector: Projects images onto a larger screen (output).

Codes That Are Scanned

  • Barcodes: Visual machine-readable representations of data.

  • QR Codes: Quick Response codes for easy access to information.

Activity 1

  1. List different types of computers used or seen.

  2. Identify the three main parts of the information processing cycle in order.

  3. Provide an example of a device that serves both input and output functions.

  4. Identify the most commonly used input device.

  5. Classify laptop devices as Input or Output (e.g., Screen, Keyboard, Touchpad, Camera, Microphone, Speaker).

Storage Information

  • Storage Capacity:

    • 1 TB can approximately hold 250 movies.

    • Storage is essential for keeping data/software permanently.

    • Common uses include saving contacts/messages.

    • Capacity measured in GB and TB (1 TB = 1000 GB).

Types of Storage Devices

  • Hard Drive (HDD): Moving parts, slower, cheaper.

  • Solid State Drive (SSD): No moving parts, faster, more expensive.

  • Portable Storage: USB drives, memory cards for backups.

  • Optical Drives: Reads DVDs and CDs, considered older technology.

Communication Devices

  • Framework for connecting computers to networks.

  • Internet: Global computer network.

Ways to Connect Computers

Cellular Technology

  • Used by mobile devices like smartphones/tablets for calls and internet.

WiFi Technology

  • Wireless communication among connected devices on the same network.

Router Functionality

  • Devices that connect individual networks to the internet, providing WiFi.

The Processor and Computer Memory

Processor (CPU)

  • Processes data and executes instructions.

  • Acts as the "brain" of the computer.

Computer Memory (RAM)

  • Temporary storage area for data and programs in use.

  • Data must be loaded from storage into RAM for processing.

Storage vs Memory

  • Storage: Permanent data retention, preserves information post power-off (e.g., HDD).

  • Memory (RAM): Temporary storage, data is lost when power is off.

Activity 2

  • Related to wizard activity on Page 8.

Software

  • Instructions for computers in the form of programs/apps.

  • Operating Systems (OS): Control computer operations (e.g., Windows, macOS, Android, iOS).

Specific Software Needs

  • Various applications exist for specific tasks (e.g., image editing, word processing, spreadsheets).

Basic Computer Use

Switching On

  • All computers have a power button; it takes moments for startup.

Login Screen

  • User must enter credentials to access the system.

Desktop

  • Displayed after successful login; access to apps through the Start menu.

Working with Windows

  • Apps operate in a designated area (window) on the screen.

Window Functionality

  • Options: Minimize, Maximize, Close options.

  • Title bar denotes the document being worked on, menu bar/ribbon provides commands.

Switching Off

  • Always use the 'Shut down' option instead of the power button to prevent data loss.

File Explorer

  • Program for managing stored files.

  • Divided into navigation and contents panes.