Introduction to Computer Basics

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of a computer?

Low speed

High speed (correct)

Inaccuracy

Limited communication

What is the main function of the Central Processing Unit (CPU)?

To output information to devices

To input data from users

To process all calculations (correct)

To store data permanently

Which of the following is considered a temporary memory?

Floppy Disks

Storage Drives

ROM

RAM (correct)

Which of the following is a type of input device?

Mouse Signup and view all the answers

What does ROM stand for, and how is it characterized?

Read Only Memory; permanent storage Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly pairs a type of software with its function?

Operating System software; interfaces with computer components Signup and view all the answers

Which unit is used to measure memory size in computers?

Bytes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is not a component of a computer?

User interface Signup and view all the answers

Which example is NOT an operating system software?

Ms Word Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of a Local Area Network (LAN)?

Connects computers in a single, local area. Signup and view all the answers

Which health issue is associated with prolonged computer use?

Obesity Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods is used to ensure data is not lost?

Have multiple copies of data as a backup. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'access rights' refer to in information security?

Restricting access to certain types of information based on user permissions. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes ergonomics?

The study of physical relationships between humans and computers. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a Wide Area Network (WAN)?

Connects computers and devices that are geographically remote. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding copyright of software?

Computer software is protected by the law and cannot be copied without permission. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Definition of a Computer

A computer is an electronic device that processes data to deliver information.

General Operations of a Computer

Input: receiving data or instructions from the user.
Process: performing operations on the data.
Output: presenting the results to the user.
Storage: saving data for future use.

Computer Characteristics

High speed: computers process data very quickly.
Accuracy: computers minimize errors in data processing.
Reliability: computers are designed to operate consistently.
Mass storage of information: computers can store large amounts of information.
Communication with other computers through networks: computers can connect and share information through networks such as the internet.

Components of a Computer

Input devices: devices that allow the user to input data into the computer.
Central Processing Unit (CPU): the brain of the computer, it performs all calculations.
Memory: stores data and instructions for the CPU.
Output devices: devices that display or present the processed information.
Storage devices: devices used to save data for future retrieval.

Input Devices

Mouse
Keyboard
Touch pad
Pointing stick
Scanner

Central Processing Unit (CPU)

Performs all calculations within the computer.
CPU speed is measured in megahertz (MHz).

Memory

RAM (Random Access Memory):
- Temporary memory.
- Information stored in RAM is lost when the computer is turned off.
- Measured in megabytes (MB).
ROM (Read Only Memory):
- Permanent memory.
- Data stored in ROM cannot be changed by the user.

Unit of Information

A single character takes up about one byte.
One byte is equal to eight bits.
A bit is a binary digit (0 or 1).

Output Devices

Computer screen (monitor)
Printer
Speaker

Storage Devices

Floppy Disks
Compact Disks (CD)
Hard Disk
Digital Versatile Disk (DVD)
Flash Disk

Comparing Memory Storage Devices

Storage devices often involve a trade-off between speed, capacity, price, and reliability.

Hardware

Physical components of the computer that can be touched and seen.

Software

Programs and applications that run on the computer.

Types of Software

Operating system software
Application software

Operating System Software

Enables the user to interact with computer components.
Manages and allocates resources for programs and applications.

Examples of Operating System Software

Windows XP
Windows Vista

Application Software

Programs designed for specific tasks or functions.

Examples of Application Software

Ms Word
Ms Excel
Ms PowerPoint
Gmail

LAN (Local Area Network)

A network that connects computers and devices located in a single physical area or location.
Devices are connected using cables.

WAN (Wide Area Network)

Networks that connect computers and devices over long distances.
Uses telephone lines, fiber-optic links, and satellites to connect devices.

Health, Safety, and Environment

Ergonomics: the study of the interaction between humans and computers, focusing on physical comfort and safety.
Good working environments:
- Well-ventilated workspace to prevent overheating
- Securely connected and organized cables to avoid hazards.

Eyestrain
Headache
Backache
Neck pain
Repetitive Strain Injury
Obesity

Information Security

The protection of sensitive or confidential information from unauthorized access, use, disclosure, disruption, modification, or destruction.

IT and Society

Information Society: a society characterized by easy access and widespread use of information and technology.
Access rights: controls that limit access to certain information based on the user's privileges.

Data Backup

Making copies of data to protect information from loss or corruption.
Backup copies safeguard data in case of hardware failure or other unforeseen events.

Copyright

Legal protection for original works of authorship, including software.
Unauthorized copying or distribution of copyrighted software is illegal.

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Description

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of computers including their definition, general operations, characteristics, and components. Test your understanding of how computers process data and communicate within networks.