Introduction to Programming and IT (HUM 131)

Study Notes

IT is "information technology"
Relates to computing technology
Includes networking, hardware, software, maintenance, internet, and people who work with these technologies.
IT is used to organize, store, share, and process information.
IT is a field of computer science focused on how computers communicate information.
Daily activities like internet use, email, and printing utilize IT.
Many companies have IT departments to manage computers, networks, and other technical aspects of their businesses.
IT jobs include programming, network administration, computer engineering, web development, and technical support.
It involves using computers and the internet to store, retrieve, transmit, and manipulate data.
Office automation, multimedia, and telecommunications are also part of IT.

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information (data).
It can store, retrieve, and process data.
A computer works by taking input data, processing it based on instructions, and producing output.
Input: Data given to the computers
Processing: Translating input and instructions for output. Data (like images, music, videos, or documents) is converted to binary form (1s and 0s) called bits; the smallest storage unit of a computer.
Memory: Holds temporary or permanent information.
Output: Information produced by the computer

Data: Raw, unorganized facts, figures, text, images, or sounds that can be processed by a computer; can be meaningless without interpretation.
Information: The meaning given to data by the way it's processed. Processed data becomes information.

"Ahmed, 4500, 10" are examples of data.
Interpret as "Ahmed", his salary of "4500 EP", and his "10%" commission rate. Now, this is information.

Data validation: Checks if data values fall within an acceptable range, e.g., checking if an email address is valid.
Data verification: Ensures data is accurate and consistent, e.g., ensuring email address formatting is correct.

Classification is based on size:
- Supercomputers: Fastest, most expensive, used for complex mathematical computations; many trillions of instructions per second. Used for projects like weather forecasting, scientific research, and Hollywood.
- Mainframe computers: Slower and less expensive than supercomputers, which allows many users to simultaneously access the same computer using Time Sharing techniques. Used in large organizations, governments, and banks. Users access using dumb or intelligent terminals.
- Minicomputers: Mid-sized; can support 4 to 200 users at once; have largely merged with servers. Accessed using dumb or intelligent terminals.
- Personal computers (Microcomputers): Smallest, cheapest, and most common; used by one user at a time; use microprocessors to process data and instructions; Includes desktop computers, laptops, and tablets.
Other types of computers include game consoles, which are designed specifically for gaming and often feature powerful graphics processors, and embedded computers, which are specialized systems integrated into devices such as smart washing machines, dental milling machines, and embroidery machines, enhancing their functionality and intelligence.

Computer: Hardware and Software
- Hardware: Physical parts (e.g., Input units, output units, CPU)
  - Input Units: Send data to the computer (e.g., mouse, keyboard, scanner)
  - Output Units: Receive data from the computer (e.g., monitor, speakers)
  - CPU (Central Processing Unit): Executes instructions; the "brain" of the computer. Has an ALU and CU. The speed measure is Hertz, MegaHertz, Giga Hertz.
  - Main Memory/System Memory (RAM/ROM): Holds data and instructions the computer is currently using; RAM is volatile; ROM is non-volatile and pre-programmed.
  - Storage Units (user memory): Hold data permanently, e.g., hard disk drive (HDD), flash memory, solid-state drive (SSD), floppy disks, Zip disks, memory cards, CDs/DVDs
Software: set of instructions that tell the computer what to do.
- Application Software
- Programming Languages
- System Software.