Computer Lab Policies and Schedule

Class Schedule and Exams

• Prelim exams are scheduled for September 18-20.
• Midterm exams will occur from October 16-21.
• Semi-finals are set for November 20 and 22.
• Final exams take place from December 11-16.

Grading System

• Quizzes and assignments account for 40% of the final grade.
• Activities and term exams also constitute 40% of the assessment.
• Attendance contributes to the remaining 20%.

Milestones in Computing History

• 3000 BC: The abacus, an early computing device, is invented for arithmetic calculations.
• 1642 AD: Blaise Pascal invents the Pascaline, a mechanical calculator for addition and subtraction.
• 1801: The Jacquard Loom uses punched cards, representing early programmable machinery.
• 1822: Charles Babbage designs the Difference Engine, an early mechanical computer for polynomial functions.
• 1837: Ada Lovelace writes the first algorithm for Babbage’s Analytical Engine.
• Late 1800s: Herman Hollerith develops punched card tabulating machines for the 1890 U.S. Census.
• 1936: Alan Turing introduces the Turing Machine, a theoretical model for algorithmic processes.
• 1937: First electronic digital computer designed by Claude Shannon at MIT using switches and relays.
• 1941: Konrad Zuse builds Z3, the first programmable digital computer with electromechanical relays.
• 1943-1945: Development of Colossus and ENIAC during WWII, foundational computers for code-breaking and general purposes.
• 1947: Transistors are invented, enhancing reliability and efficiency in computers.
• 1951: UNIVAC I becomes the first commercially available computer.
• 1953: IBM introduces IBM 701, its first successful general-purpose computer.
• 1954: FORTRAN emerges as the first high-level programming language.
• 1958: Integrated circuits are independently invented, leading to smaller computers.
• 1964: IBM System/360 sets new standards for compatibility in mainframes.
• 1969: Creation of ARPANET, the precursor to the internet.
• 1971: Intel releases the first microprocessor, leading to personal computers.
• 1973: Ethernet technology is developed, forming the backbone of local area networks.

Evolution of the World Wide Web

• 1991: The first web server and website created by Tim Berners-Lee.
• 1993: CERN publicly releases web technology, initiating rapid growth.
• 1993: Mosaic web browser is launched, increasing public accessibility to the Web.
• Late 1990s: Commercialization and dot-com boom spur development of online businesses.
• 1994: Foundation of World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to standardize web technologies.
• 2000s: Web 2.0 emphasizes user-generated content and social networking; platforms like Facebook and YouTube rise.
• Mobile Revolution: Increased smartphone usage leads to mobile-optimized websites and applications.
• Today: Ongoing advancements in AI, virtual reality, and IoT continue to shape the Web.

Computer Components

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): Acts as the computer's brain for calculations and executing instructions.
• Motherboard: Main circuit board connecting all components and facilitating data transfer.
• Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporary memory for fast access while the computer operates.
• Storage Devices: HDDs use spinning disks, while SSDs use flash memory for permanent data storage.
• Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts wall electricity to power the computer’s components.
• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): Renders graphics and is crucial for gaming and visual tasks.
• Cooling System: Prevents overheating using fans and heat sinks.
• Computer Case: Protects and organizes internal components; allows for connection of peripherals.
• Optical Drive: Reads/writes optical discs, though usage is declining in favor of digital downloads.
• Network Interface Card (NIC): Connects to networks for internet access.
• Sound Card: Enhances audio quality for applications like gaming.
• Input and Output Ports: Facilitate connections with external devices (USB, HDMI, etc.).
• Peripherals: External devices like keyboards and monitors, essential for user interaction.

Computer Software

• System Software: Manages hardware components, includes operating systems, device drivers, and utilities.
  • Operating Systems (OS): Core software for user interface and hardware resource management.
  • Device Drivers: Facilitate communication between OS and hardware.
  • Utilities: Tools for system management and optimization.
• Application Software: Designed to perform specific tasks or functions for user interaction.

This quiz covers the computer lab policies, class schedules, and grading systems used in the computer science courses at LDCU. It is essential for students to understand the key dates for prelim, midterm, semi, and final examinations, as well as the components contributing to their overall grades.