ICT 141: Basics of IT Concepts

Learning Objectives

• Understand the definition, functions, and components of a computer.
• Explore storage and peripheral devices.
• Identify different types of computers, including servers.

Definition of a Computer

• A machine designed to accept input, process that data, and produce outputs.
• Comprises hardware (physical components) and software (programs that run on the hardware).

Benefits of Computers

• Speed: Capable of performing millions of operations per second.
• Accuracy: Outputs are highly reliable when the system is programmed correctly.
• Storage: Ability to store vast amounts of data in compact formats.
• Endurance: Can execute tasks continuously without fatigue.

Uses of Computers

• Education: Enhancements in interactive and individualized learning through online platforms.
• Healthcare: Telemedicine enables remote diagnosis and treatment; health websites offer medical information.
• Government Services: Online voting and improved information dissemination services.
• Employment: Essential for job searches, business ventures, and necessary for skill development.

Basic Functions of a Computer

• Input: Data entered into the system.
• Processing: Transformation of data into meaningful information.
• Storage: Temporary (RAM) and permanent (hard disks, CDs) storage.
• Output: Results displayed on screens, printed, or produced through sound.
• Communications: Data exchange between systems via networks.

Computer Devices

• Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, touch screens.
• Processing: Done by the CPU within the system unit; involves arithmetic and logic operations.
• Output Devices: Monitors, printers, speakers to display results.
• Storage Devices: Hard disks, memory sticks; may serve multiple functions (e.g., scanner/printer combos).

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

• Manages all computer operations; consists of:
  • Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and logical operations.
  • Control Unit: Manages instruction execution and hardware coordination.
  • Main Memory: Works closely with the CPU to store data and instructions temporarily.

Memory Types

• Read-Only Memory (ROM): Permanent data storage, non-volatile.
• Random Access Memory (RAM): Temporary storage for data in use, volatile.

Secondary Storage

• Permanent data storage, retains information without power supply.
• Generally slower and more cost-effective than primary storage.
• Examples: Hard disks, CD/DVDs, flash drives, magnetic tapes for back-up.

Peripheral Devices

• Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone.
• Output Devices: Monitor, printer, speakers.
• Devices can perform both input and output functions, such as touch screens or external hard drives.

Types of Computers

• Supercomputers: Extremely fast, high-capacity computers used in specialized fields; cost from millions to tens of millions.
• Mainframe Computers: Serve large organizations, supporting hundreds of concurrent users; process billions of instructions in a second; cost between 5,000and5,000 and 5,000and5 million.
• Workstations: High-performance personal computers tailored for technical applications; typically used in scientific and engineering tasks.
• Microcomputers: Commonly used by individuals and businesses, these include desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile devices.
• Microcontrollers: Small, specialized processors embedded in various devices like appliances and vehicles.

Servers

• Designed to manage network resources, they are computers that can be mainframes, workstations, or PCs depending on their function and environment.

Windows Desktop

• Main screen interface upon logging into Windows, serving as the primary workspace.
• Provides access to all open programs or folders via the Taskbar.
• Users can customize desktop arrangement of files and folders freely.

Desktop Icons

• Represent files, folders, or programs, with the Recycle Bin as a default icon.
• Opening an item is done through double-clicking the icon.
• Shortcuts are indicated by an arrow on the icon, linking to original items rather than containing the items themselves.

Notification Area

• Located at the far right of the Taskbar; displays a clock and various icons.
• Hovering over an icon reveals specific information about it.

Managing Desktop Icons

• Icons can be added or removed based on user preference for organization.
• Tips for maintaining an uncluttered desktop include creating shortcuts for frequently used items.
• Right-click options allow for adding, deleting, and customizing desktop icons.

The Recycle Bin

• Temporary storage for deleted files or folders, allowing recovery before permanent deletion.
• Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently deletes items, reclaiming disk space.

Window Functionality

• Includes a Title Bar, Control Buttons (Minimize, Maximize, Restore, Close), Scroll Bars, Menu Bar, and Toolbar for navigation and management.

File Basics

• A file is a resource for storing information, usually on durable storage, allowing accessibility after a program's execution.
• Files are identified by their names, which consist of a name part and an extension.

File Name Extensions

• Indicate the type of content stored within the file. Common extensions include:
  • .doc/.docx (Word documents)
  • .ppt/.pptx (PowerPoint presentations)
  • .xls/.xlsx (Excel spreadsheets)
  • .htm (HTML files)
  • .exe (executables)

File Attributes

• Define how files can be accessed or modified, including:
  • Read: file can only be read.
  • Archive: denotes files for backup.
  • System: exclusively for the operating system.
  • Hidden: not visible under normal conditions.
  • Compressed: reduces file size.

File Management

• Involves organizing files through a File Manager like My Computer or Windows Explorer for navigation.
• Basic operations include creating, copying, moving, deleting, and renaming files.

File Management Tips

• Use meaningful file names, indicate revisions with dates, group related files, and sort them for easy access.
• Always keep backups of important files.

Backup Practices

• Essential for data with significant value; involves creating duplicates in separate locations to ensure recovery options.

Folders/Directories

• Serve as organizational containers for files and other folders, usually without extensions.
• Can be created through right-click options on the desktop, named, and managed similarly to files.

Pathnames

• Describes the route taken within the file system to access files, categorized into:
  • Absolute pathname: specifies location from root (e.g., C:\Documents\file.doc).
  • Relative pathname: specifies location based on the current directory (e.g., Documents\file.doc).

Finding Files

• Utilize search boxes on the Start menu or within folders to locate files based on attributes like name, date, type, and size.
• Wildcards enhance search capabilities by substituting for unknown characters in filenames (e.g., * for multiple characters, ? for a single character).

File Properties

• Accessed by right-clicking a file or folder, providing information such as name, location, size, and modification dates.

Windows Desktop Overview

• Primary screen area visible after logging into Windows.
• Acts as the main working surface where resources can be accessed.
• Opened programs and folders appear on the desktop and Taskbar.
• Desktop items can be arranged freely.

Desktop Icons

• Small images representing files, folders, programs, and other items on the desktop.
• The Recycle Bin is a default icon upon starting Windows.
• Double-clicking an icon opens the associated item.

Notification Area

• Located at the far right of the Taskbar, includes a clock and several icons.
• Hovering over an icon displays specific information related to that icon.

Managing Desktop Icons

• Users can add or remove icons based on preference.
• A clean desktop is preferred by many for organization, while others prefer quick access with multiple icons.
• Shortcuts can be created for easy access; shortcuts are identified by an arrow on the icon.

Creating Shortcuts

• To add a shortcut, right-click the desired item, select "Send to," and then "Desktop (create shortcut)."
• Removing an icon is done by right-clicking, selecting "Delete," and confirming the action.

Adding and Removing Common Icons

• Common desktop icons include Computer, Recycle Bin, and personal folders.
• Access the "Change desktop icons" option through the Personalize menu to add or remove icons.

Icon Arrangement and Selection

• Icons can be moved freely; default arrangement is on an invisible grid.
• Automatic arrangement is available by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting "Auto arrange icons."
• To select multiple icons, drag a rectangle around them and release to either move or delete.

Hiding and Showing Desktop Icons

• Right-click on the desktop, select "View," and toggle the "Show desktop icons" option to hide or display icons.

Recycle Bin Functionality

• Deleted items initially go to the Recycle Bin, allowing for recovery.
• Emptying the Recycle Bin permanently deletes items, freeing up disk space.

Window Functionality

• Key components include the Title Bar, Minimize, Maximize, Restore, Close buttons, Scroll Bars, Menu Bar, and Toolbar.

File Basics

• Files store information and are essential for data organization in computers.
• Files remain accessible even after the programs that created them finish executing.

File Naming and Types

• Each file has a name and extension (e.g., lecture2.pptx).
• Different file types serve various functions, like data files, text files, and program files.

File Extensions

• Identify file types and their contents; examples include:
  • .doc/.docx for Word documents
  • .ppt/.pptx for PowerPoint presentations
  • .xls/.xlsx for Excel spreadsheets
  • .htm for HTML files
  • .exe for executable files

File Attributes

• Determine permissions and access rights for files.
• Common attributes include Read, Archive, System, Hidden, Directory, and Compressed.

Detailed File Attributes

• Read: File can be viewed, but not modified.
• Archive: Marks a file for backup during system processes.
• System: Exclusive to the operating system; should not be altered.
• Hidden: Not visible under normal conditions.
• Directory: Indicates folders or subfolders.
• Compressed: Reduces file size for storage efficiency.

Desktop Overview

• Main screen area visible after logging into Windows.
• Acts as a working surface, similar to a physical desk.
• Access files, folders, and programs directly from the desktop.

Desktop Icons

• Represent files, folders, and applications.
• Common icons include Recycle Bin, Computer, and personal folders.
• Creating shortcuts allows quick access to frequently used items.

Adding and Removing Icons

• Right-click an empty area, select "Personalize" to manage icons.
• Check or uncheck boxes for icons to add or remove them from the desktop.
• Right-click an icon to delete it; if it’s a shortcut, only the shortcut is removed.

Moving Icons

• Icons are arranged on an invisible grid but can be freely moved.
• To enable automatic arrangements, right-click and click "View," then select "Auto arrange icons."

Selecting Multiple Icons

• Click and drag around icons to create a selection rectangle.
• Selected icons can be moved or deleted in bulk.

Hiding/Showing Desktop Icons

• Right-click an empty area, navigate to "View" to toggle icon visibility.
• A check mark indicates that icons are visible; removing the tick hides them.

Recycle Bin Functionality

• Deleted files are moved to the Recycle Bin, allowing recovery.
• Contents can be permanently deleted by emptying the Recycle Bin if no longer needed.

Windows Desktop Features

• Windows 7 and Windows 10 have similar desktop layouts, with taskbars featuring a Start button and notification area.
• The notification area displays a clock and icons providing information.

Shortcuts

• An icon linking to another item, indicated by an arrow on its icon.
• Double-clicking opens the linked item rather than the shortcut itself.

Window Functionality

• Comprised of Title Bar, control buttons (Minimize, Maximize, Restore, Close), scroll bars, menu bar, and toolbar.

Basic File Concepts

• Files are resources for storing information, akin to paper documents in libraries.
• Files are stored durably, remaining accessible after use, ensuring multi-program access.

File Names and Extensions

• Structure consists of a name part and an extension part (e.g., lecture2.pptx).
• Different files types: data, text, program files, etc. Each serves specific data types.

File Attributes

• Settings that control user access to files, such as read-only or hidden statuses.
• Attributes include Read, Archive, System, Hidden, Compressed, and Directory.

File Attributes Explained

• Read: File can only be read, not modified.
• Archive: Signals backup needs for the file.
• System: Critical files for OS operations that should not be altered.
• Hidden: Files not visible under normal circumstances.
• Directory: Designates folders to distinguish them from regular files.

File Management and Windows Overview

• A file is defined as a collection of related data stored as a single entity.
• Files serve to organize and manage data effectively.

File Names and Extensions

• A file name consists of two parts: the name itself followed by an extension, e.g., ict121-lecture-2.pptx.
• The extension indicates the type of content within the file.
  • .doc / .docx: Microsoft Word documents
  • .exe: Executable files
  • .gif: Graphics Interchange Format image
  • .htm: Hypertext Markup Language file
  • .ppt / .pptx: PowerPoint presentations
  • .xls / .xlsx: Excel spreadsheets

Folders and Directories

• Folders, also known as directories, are used to organize files within the file system.
• They facilitate easy navigation and management of multiple files.

File System

• A file system provides the structure for how files are named, stored, and managed within the operating system.
• It includes elements such as folders and the hierarchy of file organization.

Pathnames

• Pathnames specify the location of a file within the filesystem.
• They consist of the folder structure leading to the file, making it easier to locate files.

Booting

• Booting refers to the process of starting a computer and loading the operating system.
• It involves initializing system functions and preparing the environment for use.

Desktop

• The desktop is the primary interface of the Windows operating system, providing access to files, applications, and system functions.
• It serves as the starting point for user interactions within the OS.

File Management and Windows Overview

• A file is defined as a collection of related data stored as a single entity.
• Files serve to organize and manage data effectively.

File Names and Extensions

• A file name consists of two parts: the name itself followed by an extension, e.g., ict121-lecture-2.pptx.
• The extension indicates the type of content within the file.
  • .doc / .docx: Microsoft Word documents
  • .exe: Executable files
  • .gif: Graphics Interchange Format image
  • .htm: Hypertext Markup Language file
  • .ppt / .pptx: PowerPoint presentations
  • .xls / .xlsx: Excel spreadsheets

Folders and Directories

• Folders, also known as directories, are used to organize files within the file system.
• They facilitate easy navigation and management of multiple files.

File System

• A file system provides the structure for how files are named, stored, and managed within the operating system.
• It includes elements such as folders and the hierarchy of file organization.

Pathnames

• Pathnames specify the location of a file within the filesystem.
• They consist of the folder structure leading to the file, making it easier to locate files.

Booting

• Booting refers to the process of starting a computer and loading the operating system.
• It involves initializing system functions and preparing the environment for use.

Desktop

• The desktop is the primary interface of the Windows operating system, providing access to files, applications, and system functions.
• It serves as the starting point for user interactions within the OS.

File Management and Windows Overview

• A file is defined as a collection of related data stored as a single entity.
• Files serve to organize and manage data effectively.

File Names and Extensions

• A file name consists of two parts: the name itself followed by an extension, e.g., ict121-lecture-2.pptx.
• The extension indicates the type of content within the file.
  • .doc / .docx: Microsoft Word documents
  • .exe: Executable files
  • .gif: Graphics Interchange Format image
  • .htm: Hypertext Markup Language file
  • .ppt / .pptx: PowerPoint presentations
  • .xls / .xlsx: Excel spreadsheets

Folders and Directories

• Folders, also known as directories, are used to organize files within the file system.
• They facilitate easy navigation and management of multiple files.

File System

• A file system provides the structure for how files are named, stored, and managed within the operating system.
• It includes elements such as folders and the hierarchy of file organization.

Pathnames

• Pathnames specify the location of a file within the filesystem.
• They consist of the folder structure leading to the file, making it easier to locate files.

Booting

• Booting refers to the process of starting a computer and loading the operating system.
• It involves initializing system functions and preparing the environment for use.

Desktop

• The desktop is the primary interface of the Windows operating system, providing access to files, applications, and system functions.
• It serves as the starting point for user interactions within the OS.

In this quiz, you'll explore the foundational concepts of IT covered in Lecture 1 of Computing Skills Fundamentals I. Topics include the definition of a computer, its basic functions, components, storage devices, and different types of computers. Test your understanding of how these elements work together to perform tasks.