Introduction to Technology and Computers

Introduction to Technology

• Technology is revolutionizing the way people think, interact, and consume products.

What is a Computer?

• A computer is a programmable, multi-purpose machine that processes data into usable information.

• The word "computer" comes from "compute," meaning to calculate.

History Timeline

• Abacus: First mechanical device for calculations, performing arithmetic.

• Pascaline (1642): The first mechanical calculator, invented by French mathematician Blaise Pascal.

• Analytical Engine (1833): Designed by British mathematician Charles Babbage, "Father of Computing.

• Tabulating Machine (Herman Hollerith): Capable of reading, processing, and outputting data.

The Evolution of Computers

First Generation (1941-1956)

• Used vacuum tubes and magnetic drums.
• Examples: ENIAC and UNIVAC.

Second Generation (1956-1963)

• Introduced transistors, replacing bulky vacuum tubes.

Third Generation (1964-1971)

• Utilized integrated circuits (ICs) for smaller and faster processing.
• Examples: IBM 1130 and UNIVAC 1107.

Fourth Generation (1971-present)

• Characterized by the development of microprocessors and the rise of personal computers (PCs).
• Development of mouse and joysticks.
• Ability to network computers.

Fifth Generation (1980s - Present)

• Focus on artificial intelligence (AI), parallel processing, and user-friendly interfaces.
• This generation is still evolving.
• Characteristics:
• Development of GUI (Graphical User Interface).
• Increasing computing power and miniaturization.

Operating Systems

• Real-Time OS (RTOS): Performs specific tasks in precise time.
• Multiuser Operating System (Network OS): Allows multiple users to access the computer simultaneously.

Functions of the Operating System

• Hardware Coordination: Manages communication between the OS and input/output devices.
• Memory and Storage Management: Manages RAM and virtual memory.
• Software Application Coordination: Provides blocks of code for specific procedures (APIs).

Starting Your Computer - The Boot Process

1. Activating BIOS: Basic Input/Output System manages communication between the OS and peripherals.
2. Self Test: Ensures key devices are operational.
3. Loading the OS: System files and kernel are loaded into RAM.
4. Checking Configurations: The registry stores settings for the OS and applications.

Windows Interface

• Desktop: Primary working area.
• Taskbar: Displays open and favorite applications.
• Start Menu: Provides access to all installed applications.

User Interfaces for Other OSs

• macOS and Windows have similar interfaces.
• Linux interfaces often resemble the Windows and macOS paradigm.

Organizing Your Files

• Directory: Hierarchical structure of computer content (drives, folders, files).
• File: Collection of data or program instructions treated as a single unit.
• Folder: Collection of files.

Data Transmission

• Data is transferred as electrical signals, converted to binary form for processing.

Binary Number System

• A base-2 system with values of 0 or 1.

Bits and Bytes

• Bit: Binary digit, a 0 or 1.
• Byte: Group of 8 bits representing a character or value.

Types of Switches in Computers

• Transistors: Electrical switches made from semiconductor material.
• Integrated Circuits (Chips): Tiny regions of semiconductor material with multiple transistors.

Types of Computers

• Portable:
  • Cellphones
  • Tablets
  • Laptops
• Stationary:
  • Desktop computers

Cellphones

• Components: Processor, memory, input/output devices.
• Require their own OS and applications.

Features of Smartphones

• Internet access
• PIM (Personal Information Management) features
• Voice recording
• Music file management
• GPS services
• Image and video capture
• Computing for programs (word processors).

Tablets

• Similar to smartphones in features and OSs (iOS, Android, Windows).
• Touchscreen interfaces and longer battery life.

Laptops

• Portable computers with a keyboard, monitor, and other devices in one case.
  • Considerations: Power, screen size, battery life, weight, and device count.

Variations of Laptops

• 2-in-1 PCs: Convert between laptop and tablet modes.

This quiz covers the fundamental concepts of technology and the historical evolution of computers. It highlights key inventions from the abacus to modern computers, detailing significant milestones and figures in computing history. Test your knowledge on the advancements that have shaped the technology we use today.