Introduction to Computers

Study Notes

A computer is a device that processes information, including data, instructions, and data structures. It can execute various operations and tasks when programmed.

Input: Involves receiving data and instructions from the outside world, allowing the computer to acquire information.
Processing: Transforming the input data into meaningful output. It involves calculations, comparisons, and manipulations.
Output: Presenting the processed information in a way that can be understood by humans or other machines.
Storage: Storing data and instructions for future use, allowing access and retrieval when needed.

The input operation is the process of entering data and instructions into the computer.
Input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, cameras, and microphones.

Auxiliary memory is the secondary storage or external memory that is used to store data persistently.
Examples of auxiliary memory include hard drives, solid-state drives (SSDs), and magnetic tapes.

Charles Babbage designed the Analytical Engine, a mechanical general-purpose computer.
It was designed to perform calculations and store data.

The invention of the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC) in 1946, a general-purpose electronic computer, marked the beginning of the first generation of computers.

First-generation computers were primarily used for scientific and military applications.
They were large, expensive, and consumed a lot of power, and they were not capable of multitasking.

The Universal Automatic Computer (UNIVAC) I was the first commercial computer introduced to the public.
It was used for data processing, census analysis, and business applications.

The third generation of computers (1964-1971) used integrated circuits
Integrated circuits enabled smaller, more efficient, and less expensive computers.

IBM introduced the IBM Personal Computer (PC) in 1981.
It became the standard for personal computing and popularized the use of computers in homes and offices.