ETS120BC2: Basics of ICT - Chapter 1

Chapter 1: Introduction to ICT

• ICT stands for Information Communication and Technology; it encompasses methods, systems, and devices enabled by scientific knowledge for practical use.
• Information represents meaningful data, processed by various technologies for communication such as radio, TV, and newspapers.
• ICT allows for global communication at any time by anyone, enabling digitization, storage, processing, transmission, and retrieval of digital data.
• Digitization involves converting text, images, or audio into a format manageable by computers.
• Key components of ICT include information systems for various sectors:
  • E-government services facilitate citizens' access to government information.
  • Education services utilize web-based platforms for learning materials and online courses, supported by Learning Management Systems.
  • The health sector employs advanced machinery like CAT and MRI machines for diagnostics, and telemedicine for remote healthcare.
  • Agriculture benefits from ICT devices like automated insect control and weather monitoring systems.
  • Industries leverage automation, e-banking, and online shopping platforms.
  • Transport utilizes ICT for traffic monitoring and intelligent systems.
• Drawbacks of ICT include addiction to gaming, physical ailments, negative social interactions, and mental health issues.

Chapter 2: Introduction to Computer

• A computer is an electronic device that processes data, stores it, and generates user-output; it consists of hardware and software.
• Hardware refers to the physical components, while software consists of instructions that direct the hardware.
• Characteristics of computers include speed, reliability, accuracy, and storage capacity, but they lack intelligence and emotions.
• Computer classifications include:
  • Supercomputers for intensive computations.
  • Mainframe computers for large data processing.
  • Minicomputers for laboratory uses.
  • Microcomputers for everyday tasks.
• Historic generations of computers:
  • First Generation (1940-1956): Utilized vacuum tubes, large size, and high power consumption.
  • Second Generation (1956-1963): Used transistors, smaller size, and more efficient power usage.
  • Third Generation (1964-1975): Features integrated circuits and the birth of operating systems.
  • Fourth Generation (1975-1989): Introduced microprocessors and personal computers with graphics user interfaces.
  • Fifth Generation (1989-present): Focus on artificial intelligence and advanced processing capabilities.

Parts of Computers

• Hardware components include:
  • CPU (Central Processing Unit): Executes programs, measured in MHz.
  • ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit): Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
  • Memory: Divided into volatile (temporary) and non-volatile (permanent).
• Input devices enable instructions and data entry, including keyboards, mice, scanners, and microphones.
• Output devices produce data output in various forms:
  • Display devices (CRT, LCD, LED), printers (impact and non-impact), and speakers.
• The motherboard and computer ports define connectivity and communication:
  • Types of ports include Parallel, Serial, PS/2, USB, and SCSI, each serving different peripheral connections and data transmission speeds.
• Processor manufacturers include Apple, Intel, and AMD; processor types range from single-core to multi-core architectures.

Explore the fundamentals of Information Communication and Technology in this introductory quiz. Discover what ICT entails, the role of technology, and the significance of information in communication. This quiz offers a foundational understanding essential for your studies in ICT.