Intro to Information Technology

Introduction to Information Technology

• Information Technology (IT) utilizes computer systems/devices to access information.
• IT is vital in global workforce, business operations, and personal information access.

What is a Computer?

• "Computer" derives from the Latin "computare", meaning to calculate.
• A computer is a programmable electronic device that can retrieve, store, and process data.
• It comprises hardware (processor, memory, etc.) and software (applications, operating systems, etc.).

Data vs. Information

• Data: Unorganized facts and figures lacking context or pattern; unstructured.
• Information: Organized, meaningful, and processed data.
• Computers process raw data and convert it to structured information.

Functions of a Computer System

• Input: Receiving information through input devices (keyboard, mouse, etc.).
• Processing: The CPU processes information from input and memory using programmed instructions.
• Output: Displaying processed information through output devices (monitors, speakers, etc.).
• Storage: Storing information for later use, either temporarily or permanently.

Temporary vs. Permanent Storage

• Temporary Storage: Data is erased when the system shuts down; RAM is a primary example.
• Permanent Storage: Data remains even after shutdown; hard disks, USB drives, and CDs/DVDs serve as permanent storage.

Characteristics of Computers

• Speed: Executes calculations faster/more accurately than humans.
• Diligence: Operates for hours without tiring
• Accuracy: Low chance of errors during computations.
• Reliability: Stable output, unless the input data is inconsistent.
• Versatility: Handles different tasks with similar accuracy and efficiency.
• Memory: Stores millions of precisely accessible records. Storage capacity is measured in Bytes, KB, MB, GB, and TB.
• Automation: Performs programmed tasks automatically, enabled by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

How Computers Process Data

• Transforms raw input into meaningful information.
• Utilizes four key phases: Input, Processing, Output, and Storage.

Four Phases of Computing Process

• Phase 1: Input involves entering data using keyboards, mice, cameras, or touchscreens.
• Phase 2: Processing occurs as the CPU, the computer's "brain," handles input data.
• Phase 3: Output presents final processed information via screens, videos, audio devices, or printers.
• Phase 4: Storage preserves data on the computer or portable devices for future use via RAM or Hard Drives.

Elements of a Computer System

• Hardware: Physical components like keyboards, monitors, and printers.
• Software: Programs/instructions that enable users to perform tasks.
• People: Users interacting with the computer system.
• Procedures: Instructions in code that guide the computer.
• Data: Raw facts and figures inputted into the computer.
• Connectivity: Linking computers to networks for sharing information via LAN, Wi-Fi, etc.

Computing Definition

• Computing involves a device accepting data/ input and processing to produce a resultant output.

First Generation Computers (1940-1956): Vacuum Tubes

• Utilized vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory.
• Were large, slow, consumed high electricity, and used machine language.
• Solved problems one at a time with input via punched cards/paper tapes, output via printouts. Limitations encompassed slow operating speed, high power consumption, the need of large installation spaces, and low programming capability.

Second Generation Computers (1957-1963): Transistors

• Employs COBOL and FORTRAN for assembly/programming languages.
• Transistors replaced vacuum tubes which were smaller, faster, and more energy-efficient.
• Advanced from binary to assembly languages using IBM 1620, IBM 7094, CDC 1604, CDC 3600.
• Instructions were stored in their memory, and the concept of CPU and input/output units was developed.
• Transistors replaced bulky electric tubes in the first-generation computers since they were smaller, had higher operating speeds, needed no heating, and had a low manufacturing cost.

Third Generation Computers (1964-1971): Integrated Circuits

• Introduced in 1964, used Integrated Circuits (ICs), also known as chips.
• Transistors were miniaturized and placed on silicon chips (semiconductors).
• Interacted via keyboards/monitors with an operating system to allow different applications with central memory management.
• They became smaller, cheaper, and accessible to a mass audience.

Fourth Generation Computers(1970s-Present) : Microprocessors

• Started around 1975, with Large Scale Integrated Circuits (LSIC) on single silicon chips (microprocessors).
• Enabled placing computers' CPU on a single chip (microcomputers).
• Led to smaller, more powerful computers, linked to form networks, and the birth of the Internet. Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs), mice, and handheld devices were developed.

Fifth Generation (1980–Present): Artificial Intelligence

• Utilized since 1980 and are currently used.
• Defines Artificial intelligence.
• Uses parallel processing and superconductors.
• Employs ULSI technology.
• Uses programming languages like C, C++, Java, .NET; examples include IBM, Pentium, Desktop, Laptop, Notebook, and Ultrabook computers.

Computer-Based vs. Paper-Based Databases

• Computer-based: Data collection stored, organized, and managed using computer software.
• Paper-based: Data storage traditional method using tangible documents including paper records and files.

Computers in Business and Industries

• Computers are integral as business tool.
• They are utilized for product creation, marketing, accounting, and administration.
• Communications: Improves business communications.
• Research: Enables quick access to vast information and complex analysis.
• Sales and Marketing: Aids CRM, sales tracking, and marketing.
• Data Management & Storage: Allows secure storage and efficient data handling.
• Product Development: Enhances every stage of product development.

Computers in Education

• Use computer systems and technology to facilitate teaching and learning.
• Used for access, data management, and sharing.
• Encourages interaction, efficiency, and personalized learning. access to online information, interactive learning, distant learning, student assessment and skill development.
• Promote collaborative learning, give personalized learning , Increase student engagement with tools, and promote learning to remote learners. Challenges for education included limited access, distractions, and costs.

Computers in Medicine

• Essential for healthcare innovation, accessibility, and effectiveness.
• Aid in medical imaging (X-rays, CT scans), robotic surgery, and telemedicine (remote consultations).
• Make easy access to patient info, manage hospital ,and tailor treatment to patients.
• They also help study using Data analysis large groups and improve training.

Computers in Art and Design

• Graphic Design: Enable creation and editing of visual content.
• Digital Art: Facilitate painting and sculpture.
• Video Editing: Assist in post-production and effects.

Computers in Entertainment, Sports, and Leisure

• Entertainment: Used for streaming, gaming, animation, and editing.
• Music: Revolutionize the economics of music.
• Sports: Help analyze data for data such as physical fitness tests.
• Sports: Are utilized to power scoreboards and simulations for viewing.
• Leisure: Enable social media connections.

Computers in Theater, Lighting, Music and Dance

• In design the theater utilizing CAD software.
• Stage lighting is synced with performances.
• Music creation: help create musical pieces.
• Dance : Capture motion create choreography

Flaws and Flaws on Efficiency

• Hardware issues such as crashes, Bugs cause issues, Cyber security increases risk.
• Over reliance requires constant updates.

Ethical Problems

• Electronic surveillance affects privacy.
• Identity theft is the stealing of social security, credit card etc.
• Cookies track for information.

malware

• Spyware can still data, and Trojan horses spread through downloads.
• Viruses, Direct action , polymorphic code all attack computer code.
• Ransom ware steals until payed the user needs to defend themselves.

Computer Hardware.

• This is the hardware, the physical part of the computer.
• That the system unite needs secondary storage, input out put and communication.
• It also contains the motherboard and CPU
• And stores using RAM and ROM.
• Ports and expansion slot.

Secondary Storage

• Permanently stored data and programms.
• can also use floppy disc,hard drives.
• magnetic discs, opticak disc etc

I/O Devices

• Are translated into understandable commands for the devices , as well as humnas.

Communication Devices

• They allow sending via modem and cards to networks
• There has been and evolution through First, Second, Third, Fours and fifth evolution
• Devices can be classified as input, processing oputput etc
• You also need CPU that executes instructions on the motherboard.

Memory Devices

• Random access such as Ram and HHDs.

Different Types of computers.

• Here are descriptions of main components.

Data, Algorithms and flowcharts.

What is a Program

• Is the piece of code with set of instructions to execute
• There are 6 steps : analyze, design the program, code it ,debugg it,fromalise the program and maintain the flow.

What is Algorithm

• Algorithm set of directions in way to get expected resuilts.
• Finiteness, definite, effectivesness and at least one outpit.

What is Flowchart

• In the most simple , A visual algorithm with graphical
• Flowchart uses symbols.
• Help resolve specific problems
• Come in many shapes, and they facilitate solving the issue on hand

Components

• Flowchart help break decision into smaller tasks.
• This visual are great for new users.

Classifications of flowcharts

• Process chart is visual .Swimlane flow chart is for team.
• There are also descriptions , flowcharts ,work flow and data.

What is a Register

• Small memory to change instructions.
• Data resisters, data,instruction,memory
• There can be problems with shifting numbers, storage and shift loading. Solution use registers and Rom and Ram

Also described is the function of CPU , devices Also describe devices and flow for analysis

Internet and protocols

• Essential tool connecting many million of devices .
• Requires TCP/Ip
• Requires Url for address.
• Use key phrases for engines like google for research.
• FPT protocols, cloud. Storing files streaming services are used.
• Easy, compatible access is used on all kinds of systems
• Make sure to use antivirus and safety measures.