Computer Basics Revision Notes

Computer Basics Revision Notes

• Computer (Definition 1): An electrical device that operates under the control of stored instructions in its memory.

• Computer (Definition 2): A machine that changes information from one form to another by performing basic actions.

• Basic Computer Actions:

  • Input
  • Processing
  • Storage
  • Output

• Computer Components (Refer to): Common (C), Operating (O), Machine (M), Purpose (P), Used for (U), Technology (T), Education (E), Research (R)

• This is a common operating machine, purposely used for technology, education, and research.

• Computer Generations:

  • First Generation: Used vacuum tubes as electronic technology.
  • Second Generation: Used transistors as electronic technology.
  • Third Generation: Used integrated circuits as electronic technology.
  • Fourth Generation: Used microprocessors as electronic technology.
  • Fifth Generation: Used logic programming and parallel computing.
  • Sixth Generation: AI-powered technologies are integrated into various aspects of our lives.

• Fourth Generation Highlights: PCs emerged, Microsoft launched.

• Fifth Generation Highlights: Internet existed, AI was introduced.

• Basic Computer Elements:

  • User
  • Software
  • Hardware
  • Electricity

• Software: Programs that run the computer.

• Hardware Basics:

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • Monitors
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • Printer
  • Speakers

• Computer Case Components:

  • Central Processing Unit (CPU)
  • Motherboard
  • Random Access Memory (RAM)
  • Hard Drive

• CPU Function: Receives and executes instructions from software activated by the user.

• RAM Function: Allows data items to be read and written in the same amount of time regardless of the order.

• Hardware Memory Types:

  • Read-Only Memory (ROM)
  • Random Access Memory (RAM)

• Computing System: Used to solve problems and interact with its environment.

• Computing System Components:

  • Input
  • Processing
  • Output

• Computing System Layers: Each layer plays a specific role in the overall design of the system.

• Innermost Computing Layer: Information

• Information Layer Function: Reflects the way information is represented in the computer system.

• Information Representation: Binary digit system.

• Hardware Architecture: Von Neumann Architecture

• Von Neumann Architecture Components:

  • Input
  • CPU and main memory
  • Output

• Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) Function:

  • Performs arithmetic operations
  • Performs logic operations

• Random Access Memory (RAM) Function: Determines how fast the computer performs the task.

• Input Device Function: Any device that enters data and programs from outside into the computer.

• Output Device Function: Any device that makes stored computer memory data available to the outside world.

• System Software Layer:

  • Operating System
  • Development Software
  • Application Software

• Operating System: Programs that control the execution of hardware components.

• Operating System Examples: Windows, Mac OS, Linux

• Operating System Function:

  • Allows application software to access system resources
  • Manages computer resources

• Internet Browser Example: Microsoft Edge (from Windows).

• Development/Programming Software: Tools used for developing and programming other programs.

• Development/Programming Software Examples: Microsoft .NET, JAVA.

• Application Software: All other software performing a wide variety of tasks.

• Application Software Examples: Web browser, games.

• Operating System Example: Windows (manages hardware and software tasks).

• Virtual Assistant Example: Cortana (Windows virtual assistant).

• Microsoft Office 365 Applications:

  • Word
  • Excel
  • PowerPoint

• Word Program Function: Used for creating and printing text documents.

• Word Program Page Name: Page

• Word File Extension: .doc & .docx

• Online Word Source: Google Docs

• PowerPoint Function: Organizes and displays information visually.

• PowerPoint Page Name: Slide

• PowerPoint File Extension: .ppt & .pptx

• Online PowerPoint Source: Google Slides

• Excel Program Function: Used to process information in tables.

• Excel Page Name: Worksheet

• Online Excel Source: Google Sheets

• Excel File Extension: .xls & .xlsx

• Excel Function: Formula built-in for performing calculations

• Microsoft Office Shortcuts:

  • Copy (Ctrl+C)
  • Cut (Ctrl+X)
  • Paste (Ctrl+V)
  • Save (Ctrl+S)
  • Print (Ctrl+P)

• Study Hard!