Introduction to Computer Science CS 101

A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed, meaning it follows instructions called programs. It takes data as input, processes it, stores it, and produces an output, like calculations or information.

Computer Science is the study of how computers work, including their design, development, and applications. It covers everything from programming languages and algorithms to data structures and computer networks.

Data is raw, unprocessed facts or figures, like numbers, text, or symbols. Information is processed and organized data that gives context and meaning, turning raw facts into knowledge.

Computer science fields:

1. Software Engineering: Designing and building software applications.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI): Creating intelligent systems that can learn and solve problems.
3. Data Science: Analyzing and interpreting data to gain insights.

Informatics is the study of how information is processed and managed. It covers the use of computers in different domains and involves fields like computer science, information systems, and cognitive science.

Applied fields of informatics:

1. Healthcare Informatics: Using computers to improve healthcare systems.
2. Educational Informatics: Applying technology to education.
3. Business Informatics: Supporting business processes with information technology.
4. Bio-informatics: Using computers to analyze biological data.
5. Environmental Informatics: Using data and technology to understand environmental issues.

Supercomputers are the most powerful computers, used for complex tasks like climate research and scientific simulations. Mainframes handle massive amounts of data for large organizations, like banks. Minicomputers are smaller but still powerful, used by businesses or labs. Workstations are high-performance computers for specific tasks like design or engineering. Microcomputers are for everyday use, like browsing or gaming. Embedded computers are tiny, built into devices like cars or appliances for specific functions. Servers are specialized computers for managing data on networks, like web servers. Quantum computers are a new type of computer using quantum mechanics to solve complex problems.

The boot process:

1. BIOS (Basic Input Output System) is loaded, which controls basic hardware functions.
2. POST (Power-On Self-Test) checks the computer's hardware for issues.
3. The operating system is loaded, taking control of the computer.
4. System configuration sets up the computer with drivers for hardware.
5. System utilities are loaded for things like security or volume control.
6. User authentication, logging in with a username and password.

The CPU (Central Processing Unit) is like the brain of the computer, making calculations and controlling functions. It has three main parts:

1. ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit) performs calculations and logical operations.
2. CU (Control Unit) manages instructions and the flow of data within the CPU.
3. Interface Unit connects the CPU to other components.

Memory (also called RAM) is like the computer's short-term memory, temporarily holding instructions and data that the CPU is currently using. It's like a notepad for the CPU.

Storage is the computer's long-term memory, storing data even when the computer is off. It's like a file cabinet for information.

A file is a collection of data, like a document or image, that has a specific name and is stored on a storage device.

A program is a set of instructions that tells the computer what to do. It's like a recipe for how to solve a problem or create a specific task.

Software is the set of programs that tell a computer to perform specific tasks. It's like the brains behind the computer's functionality.

Hardware refers to the physical parts of a computer, like the keyboard, monitor, and hard drive. It's the tangible parts you can touch.

The power-on self-test (POST) is a series of checks the computer runs when you turn it on, making sure all the hardware is working properly. It's like a quick health check for the computer.

The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a set of instructions stored in the computer's ROM (Read Only Memory), controlling basic hardware functions and the boot process. It's like a fundamental operating manual for the computer.

The MBR (Master Boot Record) is a special part of the hard drive that tells the computer where to find the operating system to boot. It's like a directory for starting the computer's operating system.

Peripherals are devices that connect to the computer and add to its functionality, like a printer, mouse, or scanner. They expand the computer's abilities.

Drivers are small programs that make specific hardware devices work correctly with the computer. They act like translators between the hardware and the operating system.

The registry is a database that stores information about the computer's software and hardware settings. It's like a configuration manual for the computer.

Authentication is the process of verifying a user's identity before allowing access to the computer or a system. It's like a security checkpoint for the computer.

The user interface (UI) is the way users interact with the computer, like using menus, icons, and windows. It's like the face of the computer.

A quantum computer is a new type of computer using the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations much faster than traditional computers. It's like a superpowered computer using a different set of rules.