Chapter 1

An Overview of Using Computers

Computer Literacy

Knowing how to use a computer

Information Literacy

Knowing how to find, analyze, and use

information

Internet•WWW-World Wide Web•Global network of computers that houses information on millions of subjects

Computer

An electronic device, operating under the

control of instructions stored in its own memory

unit.

Basic Computer Parts

•Input Devices

•System Unit

•Output Devices

•Storage Devices

Input Devices• Keyboard• Mouse• Scanner• Joystick• Touch Screen• Light Pen• Digital Camera• Flash Drive

System Unit

• Box-like case that contains the electronic circuits

• contains:– Motherboard– CPU (central

processing unit)– RAM & ROM

(memory)

Central Processing UnitThe “Brain” of the Computer

• Contains two units:–control unit - executes the instructions that guide the computer through a task

–arithmetic/logic - performs math and logic ( Yes & No) operations

Motherboard

The main circuit board to which all processing

equipment is attached

The “BRAIN”

RAM•Random Access Memory

•Temporarily stores data and instructions when they are being used

ROM

Read Only MemoryAlways running in the computer to operate the system

Output Devices•Printer•Monitor •Speakers•Headphones•Projector

Storage Devices

•Hard disk drive or C:

•CD-ROM drive or D: (uses a low powered laser light to read data)

•Jump drive or E:

Communication Devices

•Modem (connects computers over telephone lines or cable)

•Network (group of computers connected together using a network interface card)

Information Processing Cycle

• Input - data (raw facts)

• Process

• Output

• Storage

Input Phase

Data (raw facts) are accepted into the

computer

Process Phase

Computer manipulates and organizes data to create

information

Computer SoftwareThe key to productive use of computers

Computer ProgramA series of instructions that tells

the computer what to do

•Application Software: tells computer how to produce information ( # 29)

•System Software: controls the actual operations of the computer equipment

User InterfaceDetermines how you will interact with

the computer

Graphical User InterfaceProvides visual clues like small

pictures or icons

Microsoft Windows is the most widely used GUI for personal

computers

Peripheral Devices

Any device connected to the system unit (hardware)

Multimedia

Combining text, graphics, video,

and sound

Category Description

Personal Computer 

 

Personal Assistant

 or a cell phone  

 

Laptop computer   

 

Desktop computer   

 

Network computers

   

 

Servers   

 

Mainframe Computers   

 

Supercomputers   

 

Calendar, address files, Internet access, pictures,

etc.

Weighs between 3-10 lbs. Can be carried

around.Most common type of PC

Low-cost computer designed to work directly to a network, or as a stand-alone computer.

Designed to support a computer network that allows you to share files, software,

and hardware.Can handle 100’s of users. Require special environment including ac, cooling, and power. Cost several thousands to millions of dollars.Most powerful. Used for weather forecasting, space explorations, military, etc. The most expensive

computer.