Introduction to Computer Basics

Computer Definition

• A computer is an electronic device receiving data to process it.
• It performs arithmetic and logical operations based on stored instructions (programs).
• The processed data is outputted to various units based on user requests.

Computer Types

• Desktop Computer: A computer with a separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
• Laptop Computer (PC Portable): A portable computer with an integrated screen, keyboard, and mouse.

Computer Operations

• Input Operations: Entering data into the computer.
• Output Operations: Displaying processed data.
• Logical Operations: Using comparisons and other logical tests.
• Arithmetic Operations: Performing mathematical calculations.
• Storage Operations: Saving and retrieving data.
• Recoveries: Restoring data lost during operations.

Computer Definitions

• Data: A collection of facts entered into the computer for processing.
• Processing: Operations performed on data, such as arranging, organizing, and manipulating it.
• Information: Results obtained after processing data; also known as processed data.

How a Computer Works

• Data is inputted.
• Data is processed.
• Processed data (information) is outputted.

Computer Measurement Units and Storage Capacity

• Bit: The smallest unit of computer data; either 0 or 1.
• Byte: 8 bits; used to store a single character.
• Kilobyte (KB): 1024 bytes
• Megabyte (MB): 1024 KB
• Gigabyte (GB): 1024 MB
• Terabyte (TB): 1024 GB
• Petabyte (PB): 1024 TB
• Exabyte (EB): 1024 PB

Computer Components

• Hardware: Physical components like the monitor, keyboard, mouse, CPU, etc.
• Software: Operating systems and applications that control the hardware.

Control Processing Unit (CPU)

• The CPU is the brain of the computer.
• It performs three main functions:
  • Fetch: Reading instructions from memory to process them.
  • Decode: Deconstructing instructions to understand what to do.
  • Execute: Carrying out the decoded instructions.

RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read-Only Memory)

• RAM: Temporary storage; used in computer operations. Volatile memory.
• ROM: Permanent storage; instructions needed for startup. Non-volatile memory.

Cache Memory

• Special memory that holds frequently used instructions or data for quick access, enhancing computer speed.

Cloud Storage

• A storage model employing virtual servers.
• Data is stored on servers managed by hosting companies.
• Users buy or rent storage capacity from these companies.

Operating Systems

• Operating Systems: Software controlling computer hardware, enabling operations and application execution.
  • Examples: Disk Operating System (DOS), Microsoft Windows, Mac OS, Linux, and UNIX.

Smart Device Operating Systems

• iPhone Operating System (iOS):
• Android:
• CPU speed: A measurement of computer processing capacity.
• Random memory size: A measurement of temporary storage capacity.
• Hard disk capacity: A measurement of permanent storage capacity.

Computer Performance Measurement

• Computer performance is measured by processing speed, memory capacity and hard drive storage.

Questions (From Slides)

• Input Devices: Examples of input devices include keyboards, mice, and scanners.
• Cloud Storage Process: Cloud storage uses the internet.
• Megabyte Size: Megabyte (MB) size is 1024 kilobytes.
• Cloud Storage Examples: Examples like OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive.
• Computer Performance Measurement: Measured by the Central Processing Unit (CPU) speed, memory size and hard disk capacity.