Introduction to Computers

Basic Computer Functions

• Inputting: Accepting data or instructions.
• Processing: Performing operations on the data.
• Outputting: Presenting the results.
• Storing: Saving data and programs.
• Controlling: Directing the manner and sequence of operations

Computer Components

• Hardware: Physical parts of a computer system.
• Software: Set of instructions or programs that tell the hardware what to do.

Computer Hardware

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions.
• Memory (RAM): Stores data and instructions temporarily.

Storage Devices:

- Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Stores large amounts of data persistently.
- Solid State Drive (SSD): Faster, more durable storage.
- USB Flash Drive: Portable storage device.

Input Devices:

- Keyboard: Enters text and commands.
- Mouse: Controls the cursor on the screen.
- Scanner: Converts physical documents to digital images.
- Microphone: Captures audio.
- Webcam: Captures video.

Output Devices:

- Monitor: Displays visual output.
- Printer: Produces hard copy output.
- Speakers: Produce audio output.

Computer Software

• System Software: Manages and controls computer hardware.
• Operating System (OS): Type of system software that manages computer resources. Examples include Windows, macOS, Linux.
• Utility Software: Type of system software that performs specific tasks. Example: Antivirus, disk defragmenter.
• Application Software: Performs specific tasks for the user.
  • Word processors.
  • Web browsers.
  • Games.

Data Representation

• Binary System: Computers use binary digits (bits) to represent data (0 and 1).
• Byte: 8 bits.
• Kilobyte (KB): 1024 bytes.
• Megabyte (MB): 1024 kilobytes.
• Gigabyte (GB): 1024 megabytes.
• Terabyte (TB): 1024 gigabytes.

Types of Computers

• Personal Computer (PC): Designed for individual use.
  • Desktop: Intended for stationary use.
  • Laptop: Portable computer.
• Server: Provides resources to other computers on a network.
• Mainframe: Large, powerful computer used by organizations for critical applications.
• Supercomputer: Extremely powerful computer used for complex calculations.
• Embedded Computer: Computer integrated into a device, e.g. cars and appliances.

Computer Networks

• Local Area Network (LAN): Connects computers in a limited area.
• Wide Area Network (WAN): Connects computers over a large geographical area; The Internet is the biggest WAN.

Internet

• Global network of interconnected computer networks.
• Uses the Internet Protocol Suite (TCP/IP) for communication.
• World Wide Web (WWW): Collection of web pages accessed via the Internet.

Computer Security

• Antivirus Software: Protects against malware.
• Firewall: Blocks unauthorized access to a network or computer.
• Passwords: Protect user accounts.
• Encryption: Encodes data to prevent unauthorized access.
• Phishing: Deceptive attempt to obtain sensitive information.
• Malware: Includes viruses, worms, trojans, etc.

Basic Computer Operations

• Booting: Starting the computer.
  • Cold Boot: Starting from power off.
  • Warm Boot: Restarting while powered on.
• User Interface (UI): Allows users to interact with the computer.
  • Graphical User Interface (GUI): Uses visual elements.
  • Command Line Interface (CLI): Uses text commands.
• File Management: Organizing and managing computer files.
• Multitasking: Running multiple programs simultaneously.

Programming Languages

• High-Level Languages: Closer to human language, examples include Python, Java, C++.
• Low-Level Languages: Closer to machine language, examples include Assembly language.
• Compiler: Translates high-level code into machine code.
• Interpreter: Executes high-level code line by line.

Databases

• Database: Organized collection of data.
• Database Management System (DBMS): Software for managing databases.
• Relational Database: Organizes data into tables with rows and columns, examples: MySQL, PostgreSQL.
• Structured Query Language (SQL): Used to manage and query relational databases.

Emerging Technologies

• Cloud Computing: Delivering computing services over the Internet.
• Artificial Intelligence (AI): Development of computer systems that can perform tasks that typically require human intelligence.
• Machine Learning (ML): Type of AI that allows systems to learn from data.
• Internet of Things (IoT): Network of interconnected devices.
• Blockchain: Distributed, decentralized, public ledger.

Computer Ethics

• Intellectual Property: Copyright, patents, trademarks.
• Privacy: Protecting personal information.
• Digital Divide: Inequality in access to technology.
• Cyberbullying: Online harassment.
• Software Piracy: Unauthorized copying or distribution of software.

Basic Troubleshooting

• Restarting the computer: Often resolves minor issues.
• Checking cable connections: Ensures proper connectivity.
• Updating software: Fixes bugs.
• Running antivirus scan: Detects and removes malware.
• Checking error messages: Provides clues about the problem.

Computer Maintenance

• Regularly backing up data: Protects against data loss.
• Keeping software updated: Ensures security and performance.
• Defragmenting hard drives: Improves performance.
• Cleaning hardware: Prevents overheating and malfunctions.
• Using surge protectors: Protects against power surges.

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. There are primary functions and components, including hardware and software, input and output devices.