Introduction to Computers - COS/CSC 101/111
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Questions and Answers

What is the fundamental operation sequence of a computer?

  • Input, Storage, Process
  • Process, Input, Output
  • Input, Output, Storage
  • Input, Process, Output (correct)
  • Data is the same as information.

    False (B)

    What is a computer?

    A computer is a programmable electronic device that performs activities involving mathematical, logical, and graphical manipulations.

    Computers were originally operated by ______, who calculated mathematical expressions.

    <p>humans</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their definitions:

    <p>Data = Collection of raw facts and figures Information = Processed data presented in an organized manner Program = Set of instructions for performing tasks Computer Science = Study of computers and computing</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a type of computer hardware?

    <p>Operating System (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Computer science includes only the study of hardware.

    <p>False (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What year was the word 'computer' first recorded?

    <p>1613 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one application area of computers.

    <p>Possible answers include education, healthcare, finance, entertainment, etc.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Tally sticks were used as a memory aid to record numbers and messages.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who invented Napier's Bones and in what year?

    <p>John Napier, 1614</p> Signup and view all the answers

    An ______ is a mechanical device used to aid in performing mathematical calculations.

    <p>abacus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following advantages of computers with their descriptions:

    <p>High speed = Ability to perform tasks quickly Accuracy = Ensuring correct results in tasks Storage = Keeping large amounts of information Versatility = Flexibility in performing various tasks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a limitation of computers?

    <p>Computers require clear instructions to operate (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Computers can perform millions of calculations instantly.

    <p>True (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary use of a Difference Engine?

    <p>To compute polynomial functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    What is a Computer?

    A programmable electronic device that performs mathematical, logical, and graphical operations under the control of instructions stored in its memory.

    What is Data?

    The raw facts, figures, and symbols that need to be processed.

    What is Information?

    Data that has been processed and presented in an organized and meaningful way.

    What is a Program?

    A set of instructions that tell a computer what to do.

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    What is Computer Science?

    The study of computers and computing, including their theoretical foundations, hardware, software, and how they process information.

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    What is an Input Device?

    A device that receives input from the user, such as the keyboard or mouse.

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    What is a Storage Device?

    A device that stores information for the computer, such as a hard drive or memory stick.

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    What is an Output Device?

    A device that displays the output of the computer, such as a monitor or printer.

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    Tally Sticks

    An ancient memory aid device used to record and document numbers, quantities, or even messages.

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    Abacus

    A mechanical device used to aid individuals in performing mathematical calculations.

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    Napier's Bones

    Invented in 1614 by John Napier, this device allowed multiplication, division, and square root calculations by moving rods around on specially constructed boards.

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    Slide Rule

    A device with a sliding ruler used to perform calculations, particularly multiplication and division.

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    Pascaline

    An early mechanical calculator invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642, capable of adding and subtracting numbers.

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    Stepped Reckoner

    A mechanical calculator invented by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz in 1673, capable of performing addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.

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    Jacquard Loom

    A loom invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard in 1801 that used punched cards to control the pattern of the fabric being woven.

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    Difference Engine

    An early mechanical computer designed by Charles Babbage in the 19th century, intended to calculate mathematical tables.

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    Study Notes

    Introduction to Computers

    • Lecture 1, COS/CSC 101/111, Lagos State University
    • Dr. Zubair Adam, Department of Computer Science
    • Course focuses on introducing and discussing the history of computers
    • Course outline includes: overview, computer and computer science, data, information, and instructions, history of computers, and advantages/limitations

    Overview

    • Introduction to & History of Computer
    • Basic Computer Configuration
    • Hardware (Input, Storage, Output Devices)
    • Software (Operating System, Application Software)
    • Internet
    • Using personal computers for problem-solving
    • Computer application areas and technological trends

    Computer and Computer Science

    • What is a Computer? A programmable electronic device for mathematical, logical, and graphical manipulations, operating under instructions stored in its memory
    • Computer: Any electronic device aiding humans in computations and calculations.
    • Fundamental Operations: Receives data & instructions from input devices, processes data according to instructions; provides results (output) in a desired form.
    • Computer Science: The study of computers and computing, including their theoretical and algorithmic foundations, hardware, software, and their uses for processing information.

    Data, Information, and Instructions

    • Data: Raw facts, figures, and symbols (e.g., student names and marks)
    • Information: Processed and organized data (e.g., student names ordered alphabetically, calculated total marks and averages)
    • Program: A set of instructions enabling a computer to perform tasks.

    History of Computers

    • Originally, calculations were done by humans.
    • "Computer" as a person, 1613.
    • Specialized and costly calculations, years of training
    • Early Calculating Devices:
      • Tally Sticks: An ancient memory aid device to record and document numbers, quantities, or even messages.
      • Abacus: A mechanical device aiding in mathematical calculations.
      • Napier's Bones: A device to multiply, divide and calculate square and cube roots by moving rods around specially constructed boards by John Napier in 1614.

    History of Computer Generations

    • First Generation (1946-1954): Vacuum tubes
    • Second Generation (1955-1965): Transistors
    • Third Generation (1968-1975): Integrated Circuits (IC)
    • Fourth Generation (1976-1980): Very Large Scale Integrated Circuits (VLSI)
    • Fifth Generation (1980-Today): Ultra Scale Integrated Circuits (ULSI), Microprocessor (Silicon Chip)

    Assignment

    • Short note on each device including year of invention and uses:
      • Slide Rule
      • Pascaline
      • Stepped Reckoner
      • Jacquard Loom
      • Arithmometer
      • Difference Engine
      • Analytical Engine

    Advantages of Computers

    • High speed: Perform tasks faster than humans
    • Accuracy: Ensure accuracy in calculations
    • Storage: Store large amounts of information reliably.
    • Automation: Perform complex tasks automatically.
    • Diligence: Repeat tasks without fatigue.
    • Versatility: Perform simple and complex tasks.
    • Cost-effectiveness: Reduce paperwork and human effort

    Limitations of Computers

    • Requires clear & complete instructions. Incorrect instructions yield incorrect results.
    • Cannot think.
    • Cannot learn from experience.

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    Related Documents

    CSC 111 Lecture 1 PDF

    Description

    This quiz covers the foundational concepts of computers as introduced in the COS/CSC 101/111 course at Lagos State University. Explore the history, configuration, and basic operations of computers, as well as the relationship between hardware and software. It's designed to enhance your understanding of computer science fundamentals.

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