Computer Science Part 1

Computer Science Part 1

• A computer is an electronic machine performing mathematical and non-mathematical operations.
• Computer operations include:
  • Input: Entering data into the computer.
  • Processing: Performing operations on the data.
  • Output: Presenting the results.
  • Storage: Saving data, programs, or output.
• Advantages of computers: Speed, reliability, consistency, storage, communication.
• Disadvantages of computers: Privacy violation, impact on the labor force, health risks, impact on the environment.

Computer History

• First Generation: Used vacuum tubes (1950s). Notable examples include ENIAC (developed during World War II) and UNIVAC (released in 1951).

• Second Generation: Used transistors, small semiconductor devices. Programming languages like FORTRAN and COBOL were developed during this time.

• Third Generation: Integrated circuits (ICs) were introduced. Keyboards and monitors as input/output were common, along with magnetic disks for storage. These computers were reasonably priced, fast, and reliable.

• Fourth Generation: The invention of the microprocessor. Components included keyboards, mice, monitors, printers, magnetic and optical disks. This generation saw the development of computer networks, wireless technologies, and the internet.

• Fifth Generation: Based on AI. Computers can learn, think, reason. Voice recognition and optical computers are features of this generation. Data is processed using light instead of electrons.

Main Components of a Computer

• Hardware: The physical parts of a computer (internal and external).
• Software: Programs or instructions to guide the hardware.
• Computer Hardware includes:
  • Input: Mouse, keyboard, microphone.
  • Output: Monitor, printer.
  • Storage: Hard drive, flash memory, USB.
  • Processing: CPU (Central Processing Unit).
    • CPU Components:
      • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
      • Memory (Register)
      • Control Unit
  • Storage Unit: Stores data and information. Types of Storage include:
    • Secondary Storage: Hard drives, USB, CDs, DVDs.
    • Primary Storage: RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read-Only Memory).

Categories of Computers

• Personal Computers: Designed for use on/under a desk/table.
• Mobile Computers:
  • Notebook: Portable, laptop, often more expensive than desktops.
  • Tablet PC: Resembles a letter-sized slate; digital pen input.
• Mobile Devices:
  • PDA (Personal Digital Assistant): Provides an organizer (calendar, appointment book, address book, calculator, notepad).
  • Smartphones: Internet-enabled telephones with PDA capabilities.

Other Computer Types

• Mainframe: Very powerful and expensive computers supporting many other computers.
• Supercomputer: The fastest and most powerful computers, typically used for complex mathematical calculations.

Computer Applications in Society

• Computers are used in many areas, including: Education, Finance, Government, Healthcare, Science, Publishing, Travel, and Manufacturing.

Explore the fundamentals of computer science including operations such as input, processing, output, and storage. Learn about the advantages and disadvantages of computers, as well as a brief history of their development from the first to third generation. Test your knowledge with this quiz covering essential concepts.