BTT 101

Unit 1 - Notes on IT and Computer Components

Information Technology in Business

What’s “IT”?• IT is short for Information Technology

• all aspects of managing and processing information

• Because computers are central to information management, computer departments within companies and universities are often called IT departments.

So what is a Computer?• Computer - A programmable machine.

• The two principal characteristics of a computer are:

-It responds to a specific set of instructions in a well-defined manner.

-It can execute a prerecorded list of instructions (a program).

The actual machinery – Processor, Monitor, Keyboard, wires,... -- are called hardware

The instructions and data are called software

Components of a ComputerAll general-purpose computers require

the following hardware components:• memory : Enables a computer to store,

at least temporarily, data and programs.

• mass storage device : Allows a computer to permanently retain large amounts of data. Common mass storage devices include disk drives and tape drives.

Components of a Computer• input device : Usually a keyboard and mouse,

the input device is the conduit through which data and instructions enter a computer.

• output device : A display screen, printer, or other device that lets you see what the computer has accomplished.

• central processing unit (CPU): The heart of the computer, this is the component that actually executes instructions.

Types of Computers:

Computers can be generally classified by size and power as follows, though there is considerable overlap:

Supercomputer • The fastest type of computer. • very expensive and are employed

for specialized applications that require immense amounts of mathematical calculations.

• For example, weather forecasting

• Other uses of supercomputers include animated graphics, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, and petroleum exploration.

Mainframe A very large and expensive

computer capable of supporting hundreds, or even thousands, of users simultaneously.

In some ways, mainframes are more powerful than supercomputers because they support more simultaneous programs.

Note: The chief difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe is that a supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few programs as fast as possible, whereas a mainframe uses its power to execute many programs concurrently.

Minicomputer

A midsized computer. In size and power,

minicomputers lie between workstations and mainframes.

a multiprocessing system capable of supporting from 4 to about 200 users simultaneously.

A small, relatively inexpensive computer designed for an individual user.

Businesses use personal computers for word processing, accounting, desktop publishing, and for running spreadsheet and database management applications.

At home, the most popular use for personal computers is for playing games.

Microcomputers (Personal Computers)

Types of Microcomputers:

Desktop - often called a PC

Laptop - also called a Notebook

Palmtops - Personal Digital Assistants (PDA)

Computer Hardware - any part of the computer you can touch. Processor Memory Wires Transistors Input/Output Devices Storage Devices Etc.

Software - electronic instructions to the computer. Also referred to as a “program.”

Two types: System Software Application Software

Operating Systems Windows XP, Vista, 7 Linux Mac OS Etc.

System Software:

Application Software:• Word Processing – MS Word, WordPerfect ..• Spreadsheets – MS Excel, Quattro Pro, .. • Databases – Ms Access, MS Works Database,..• Publishing/Graphic Design – MS Publisher,

Corel Paint, .. • Presentation – MS PowerPoint, WP

Presentations, ..• Digital Applications – Adobe, Corel Photo-

Paint,..

Review/Discussion Questions:

1. List three (3) pros (good reasons) for using computers in a business.

2. List three (3) cons (negative reasons) for using computers in a business.

Seatwork/Homework/Discussion

Write one to two paragraph’s on the following topic:

• Imagine that it is now the year 2025, describe the world in terms of Computer Advancement and Information Technology.

Be sure to mention areas such as: Home, Office/Work, Leisure Time, The

Internet..