Introduction to Computers

Introduction to Computers

• Computers are used for a variety of tasks in society
• Components of computers are detailed in other sections.
• Different types of computers each with a specific use, are discussed in other sections.

Table of Contents

• 01 Introduction: Brief overview of computers and their use in society
• 02 Number Systems: Covers numbering systems and conversions between them.
• 03 Hardware: Details about computer hardware.
• 04 Software: Comprehensive information on computer software.
• 05 Networks: Explains computer networks and the internet.
• 06 Security: Discussion about computer security practices.

Hardware

• Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, other input devices.
• CPU (Central Processing Unit): Processes data.
• Memory: Stores data.
• Output Devices: Monitor, printer, speaker, other output devices.

Data, Program, and Information

• Data: A collection of facts or statistics, can be numerical or descriptive; unorganized and without context. Examples include website visitors, survey responses, or prices.
• Processing: Transforms data into information using programs. These programs are permanently stored while running temporarily in RAM.
• Information: Processed data presented in a structured format with context. Example includes website traffic, customer sentiment, or price comparison.
• Algorithm: A sequence of instructions to solve a problem.

Computer Generations

• First Generation (1940s-1950s): Used vacuum tubes for processing and magnetic drums for storage. Large, expensive, and unreliable.
• Second Generation (1950s-1960s): Replaced vacuum tubes with transistors, making them smaller, faster, and more reliable. Used magnetic core memory, which was faster than magnetic drums.
• Third Generation (1960s-1970s): Utilized integrated circuits, leading to even smaller and faster computers. Introduced magnetic disk storage and operating systems.
• Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s): Saw the introduction of microprocessors, enabling personal computers. Also included graphical user interfaces and networking.
• Fifth Generation (1980s-Present): Ongoing generation focused on artificial intelligence, parallel processing, mobile computing, and the internet.

Components of Computers

• Internal Hardware: Located inside the computer's system unit.
• External Hardware: Located outside the system unit, connect with a wired or wireless connection. Examples: Mouse, keyboard, monitor, printers.
• Input Devices: Used to provide data to the computer.
• Processing Devices: (e.g., CPU) Perform calculations and manage computer operations.
• Output Devices: Display information produced by the computer. Examples include the monitor, printer, speakers.
• Storage Devices: Store data electronically, Examples include hard drives or USB flash drives.
• Communication Devices: Enable communication between computers. Modems, network adapters, and routers are examples.

Software

• System Software: Manages computer hardware and application software, examples are operating systems (OS) like Windows, macOS or Linux, BIOS, device drivers, assembler, compiler, and loader.
• Application Software: Programs that users interact with, used in different tasks, such as word processing, spreadsheets, multimedia programs.

Types of Computers

• Microcomputer: Small computers like personal computers (PCs).
• Minicomputer: Middle-sized computers.
• Supercomputer: Most powerful computers used for complex tasks such as scientific research and weather forecasting.
• Mainframe Computers: Large, powerful computers, often used by organizations that need to process large amounts of data. Users connect to the mainframe from terminals.
• Servers: Host programs and data for a network.
• Embedded Computers: Special-purpose computers built into other devices. (e.g., washing machines, cars)
• Mobile Devices: Handheld computers like smartphones or tablets.
• Desktops: Designed for use in a single location because of their size.
• Workstations: Designed for technical applications/high-performance processing.
• Laptops: Portable computers that can be powered from internal batteries or external power sources.
• Tablets: Portable computers using touch screens, often used for reading e-books.
• eReaders: Primarily for reading electronic books, and typically use e-ink displays.
• Smartphones: A highly advanced version of a cell phone, often used for communication and accessing the Internet.