GRAP 3175Computer Applications for

Drafting

Unit II

Introduction of Application Software

Types of Application Software Programs

• Word processors

• Databases

• Electronic spreadsheets

• Graphics

• Communications

• CAD

Components of a Computer Using Application Software

• Microcomputer /w sufficient RAM• Monitor and video card• Secondary storage devices• Input devices (i.e., mouse, graphics tablet)• Printer or Plotter• Cables and interfaces• Operating system• Application software• Modem and/or LAN hardware and software

Evolution

• Features and power of a program

• Number of programs that can run concurrently

• Ability to share data

• Ease of use

• Number of simultaneous users

Types of Integrated Software

• Integrated family of programs

• All-in-one integrated package

• Integrated operating environment

• Background integration

How Can Application Software Be Acquired

• Prewritten Software (canned)– Proprietary– Shareware– Freeware– Public Domain

• Custom-Developed Software

Getting Started Using an Application Program

• Backup program disk

• Read instructions on installation– Readme.txt

• Install program– Install.exe / Setup.exe

• Load application program

• Learn how to use program

• Customize program to your requirements

Interface Features• Command lines• Menus• Keyboard and/or mouse control• Scrolling• Status lines• Dialog boxes, Message windows, List boxes• Buttons and Toolbars• WYSIWYG• Windows

File-Handling Features

• Copy

• Rename

• Delete

• Move

• Backup files

Other Features

• Help

• DOS shell

• File transfer

• File conversion– Save as

• Undo

• Macros