Unit 1—Computer Basics Lesson 1 Understanding Computers and Computer Literacy

Unit 1—Computer Basics

Lesson 1Understanding Computers and Computer Literacy

Computer Concepts BASICS - 2

Objectives

Discuss the history of computers.Define the term computer and describe a

computer system.Describe the five computer classification

categories.


Objectives (cont.)

Describe the two types of computer software.Describe communications and networks. Identify how we use computers and

technology in our daily lives


Introducing Computers

Computers are considered one of the most important conventions of the 20th century.

Their widespread use affects us individually and as a society.


A Brief History of the Computer

•The first computers were developed in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

•In 1971, Dr. Ted Hoff developed the microprocessor.

•Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak built the first Apple computer in 1976.

The IBM PC wasintroduced in 1981.


What Is a Computer?

A computer is an electronic device that Receives data (input) Processes the data it receives Stores the data in memory or on some

storage device, such as a disk or CD Outputs information on a device, such as a

monitor or printer


What Is a Computer System?

A computer system includes hardware, software, data, information, and people. Hardware: The machine including the wires,

transistors, and so on Software: Instructions or programs that

control the computer Data: Text, numbers, sound, images, video Information: Output People: Users of the computer


The Processing Cycle of a Computer

This figure shows the typical processing cycle of a computer.

Once it receives a set of data, the computer processes it and produces a result at the end of the cycle.


Are Computers Intelligent?

As complex as some computers may be, they all essentially perform two operations: Arithmetic operations such as addition,

subtraction, multiplication, and division Logical operations, such as comparing two

values and taking some action based on the result of the comparison

Greater than, less than, or equal to


What Makes a Computer So Powerful?

Although computers perform only basic operations, they Perform those functions very quickly Produce accurate and reliable results Store large amounts of data Provide versatility through various

applications Share resources with other computers Are becoming more powerful and easier to

use


Classifying Computers

Two categories of computers: Special purpose

Used to control devices, such as radar detection or a microwave oven

General purposeFive categories based on size, function, cost,

and performance


General-Purpose Computers

Desktop: Personal computer in which all components fit on or under a desk

Mobile: Personal computers, such as notebook computers and tablet PCs

Mid-range server: Used by medium-sized companies; generally supports hundreds of users


General-Purpose Computers (cont.)

Mainframes: Large, very expensive machines that can support thousands of users; used by large corporations

Supercomputers: Used for specialized operations requiring mathematical operations


Types of Personal Computers

Desktop Computer Notebook Handheld


Computer Software

Two basic types Application: Performs specific tasks for

users (example: word processing) System: Software that controls the

computer’s operating system (example: Microsoft Windows)


Electronic Communications

Electronic communication is the technology that allows computers to talk to each other and to other devices.


Electronic Communications (cont.)

The four components of electronic communication are Sender: The computer sending a message Receiver: The computer receiving the

message Channel: The media that carries the

message Protocol: The rules that govern the

processing of a message between computers


Electronic Communication Components

Computer A sends a message to Computer B.

The message travels via the channel, following the rules defined by the protocol being used so that each computer can understand the message.


Network Systems

A network consists of multiple computers connected to each other to share data and resources.

Data and software programs usually are stored on a central computer called a server.

When network computers are located in the same general area, such as the same building or a department, it is called a local area network.


A Typical Network Layout

In a typical network layout, the client or user computers are connected to a hub, which also is connected to the server.

Client or user computers

Data and programs are stored on the server. All clients can access data and pro-grams through the server and can access the printer attached to the server.

Hub


Other Types of Networks

Some other types of networks in common use today are as follows: Intranet: This is a network that may be set

up for employees of a business or students at a university that is not accessible to users outside of those institutions.

Extranet: This typically is an intranet that allows certain users, such as suppliers or customers, to access the internal network.


The Internet

The Internet evolved from a government research project that enabled the military and scientists around the world to share information. Today, it is the largest network in the world. Millions of people use it daily. It is a critical and valuable business tool

used by businesses of all sizes.


Technology for Everyday Life

Examples of the ways in which our lives are affected by computers daily: Electronic security systems Games Government research operations Computerized appliances


Computers in Our Future

Computers of the future will be Less expensive More powerful More people will work from home. Wireless devices will be commonplace.


Summary

Computers have been around for more than 60 years.

A computer is an electronic device that receives data, processes data, and produces information.

A computer derives its power from its speed, reliability, accuracy, storage, and communications capability.


Summary (cont.)

Computer classifications include personal computers (desktop and notebook), mobile devices, mid-range servers, mainframes, and supercomputers.

The two basic types of software are application software and system software.

Electronic communications enable computers to communicate with each other and other devices.


Summary (cont.)

A network is a group of two or more connected computers, an intranet is a closed network within an organization, and an extranet is a closed network for an organization and its customers and suppliers.

The Internet is the world’s largest network.


Summary (cont.)

Computers and technology affect almost every facet of our daily lives.

Computers in our future will be more powerful and less expensive.

Computer literacy is the ability to use a computer and its software to accomplish practical tasks.

Documents

Unit 1—Computer Basics Lesson 1 Understanding Computers and Computer Literacy