Introduction to Today's Technologies

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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is NOT considered an advantage of using computers?

  • Subjectivity (correct)
  • Reliability
  • Storage
  • Speed

Digital literacy refers to the knowledge and understanding of computers, mobile devices, the web, and related technologies.

True (A)

What is the primary function of a computer?

To process data into information.

Computers can be defined as _____ devices operating under the control of instructions stored in their own memory.

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

Match the advantages of using computers with their corresponding descriptions:

<p>Speed = Computers can perform calculations and tasks much faster than humans. Reliability = Computers consistently produce the same results when given the same inputs. Consistency = Computers can store vast amounts of data for easy retrieval. Storage = Computers can perform tasks with minimal errors or inconsistencies.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a category of computer users?

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

Computers can be used to share personal ideas, photos, and videos with friends and family.

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

What are two examples of how technology can be used to manage finances?

<p>Online banking and budgeting apps.</p> Signup and view all the answers

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

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

Graphic artists are considered power users of computers.

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

Name one example of a computer application in health care.

<p>Electronic health records</p> Signup and view all the answers

A typical need for a large business user includes _____ for managing employee salaries.

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

Match the types of users with their respective needs:

<p>Engineers = Fast processors Desktop publishers = Desktop publishing Scientists = Data analysis Graphic artists = Presentation graphics</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following software programs is designed for creating presentations?

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

Installing a program involves copying the program files from a storage device to the computer's hard disk.

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

What is the primary role of a programmer?

<p>A programmer develops software, writing instructions that tell the computer how to process data into information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

A ______ is a computer designed to be used by one individual at a time, typically placed on a desk.

<p>personal computer or desktop computer</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following computer categories with their descriptions:

<p>Personal Computers (Desktop) = Designed to be used by a single person, typically located on a desk. Mobile Computers and Mobile Devices = Portable computers designed for use on the go, including laptops, tablets, and smartphones. Servers = Powerful computers that provide resources and services to other computers on a network. Mainframes = Large, high-performance computers that are used by organizations for critical tasks, such as transaction processing and data storage. Supercomputers = Extremely powerful computers designed for highly complex calculations, often used in scientific research and simulations. Embedded Computers = Small, specialized computers integrated into other devices, such as cars, appliances, and industrial machinery.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tablet PCs are generally more expensive than desktop computers with equivalent capabilities.

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

Name the two most popular series of personal computers.

<p>The two most popular series of personal computers are Apple Macintosh and PCs (Personal Computers) and their compatibles.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of system software?

<p>To control or maintain computer operations (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A podcast can only be streamed and cannot be downloaded.

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

What is a blog?

<p>A blog consists of time-stamped articles in a journal format.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Software consists of a series of instructions that tell the computer what to do and how to do it, also called a ______.

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

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a web page?

<p>Includes only images (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the software types with their definitions:

<p>Operating System (OS) = Coordinates activities among hardware devices Utility Programs = Performs maintenance-related tasks Application Software = Facilitates specific user tasks Graphical User Interface (GUI) = Allows interaction using graphics and icons</p> Signup and view all the answers

A social networking site allows users to share information.

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

What is a graphical user interface (GUI)?

<p>A GUI allows interaction with software using graphics and visual images.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a USB flash drive?

<p>A portable storage device small enough to carry on a keychain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A hard disk has less storage capacity than a USB flash drive.

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

What is the primary function of a communications device in a computer?

<p>To enable sending and receiving data, instructions, and information.</p> Signup and view all the answers

The average USB flash drive can hold about _____ million characters.

<p>500</p> Signup and view all the answers

Match the following storage media with their descriptions:

<p>USB flash drive = Portable and lightweight storage device Hard disk = Greater storage capacity than USB flash drive Compact disc = Flat, round metal disc Communications device = Enables data transmission over networks</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a network?

<p>Collection of computers and devices connected together (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Internet is a local network connecting a few devices.

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

Name one reason users access the Internet.

<p>Communications, Information, Shopping or any other valid response.</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a handheld computer also referred to as?

<p>Ultra-Personal Computer (uPC) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A personal digital assistant (PDA) includes functions such as a calendar and appointment book.

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

What primary function does a server perform in a network?

<p>It controls access to network resources and provides centralized storage.</p> Signup and view all the answers

A _____ is an Internet-enabled telephone that usually provides PDA capabilities.

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

Match the following computer types with their descriptions:

<p>Mainframe = Very powerful, expensive computer that supports thousands of connected users Supercomputer = The fastest, most powerful, most expensive computer used for complex calculations Game Console = Mobile computing device designed for video games Embedded Computer = A special-purpose computer that functions as a component in a larger product</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of a PDA?

<p>Gaming (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Smartphones do not have PDA capabilities.

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

What type of software is recommended for a small office/home office (SOHO) user?

<p>Productivity software, specialty software, web usage, and e-mail.</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following correctly describes a USB flash drive in terms of its storage capacity?

<p>It can hold about 500 million characters, which is less than a hard disk. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a reason why users access the Internet?

<p>To access and run computer programs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes a network in terms of its purpose?

<p>A collection of computers and devices connected to share data, hardware devices, software programs, and resources. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is TRUE about a CD-ROM?

<p>It is a portable metal disc that can only read data. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key function of a server in a network?

<p>To provide access to files and resources to other computers on the network. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the Internet?

<p>A collection of interconnected networks spanning multiple countries. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a valid advantage of using a network?

<p>It reduces the need for individual computer resources. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is most critical for a power user such as an engineer or graphic artist?

<p>Extremely fast processors (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common application area where computers are utilized?

<p>Data entry for payroll (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of user would most likely benefit from desktop publishing software?

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

What is a primary need for a large business user when implementing computer systems?

<p>E-commerce functionality (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which field does NOT represent an area where computer applications are commonly used?

<p>Pet care (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of computer is particularly well-suited for users who need to take notes digitally and resembles a letter-sized slate?

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

Which of the following is NOT a typical function found on a Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)?

<p>Playing a video game (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a key distinction between a smart phone and a PDA?

<p>Smart phones are capable of accessing the internet, while PDAs are not. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a category of server?

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

What type of computer is specifically designed to perform complex mathematical calculations, making it the fastest and most expensive type of computer?

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

Which of the following is NOT a type of software typically available for home users?

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

What is the primary purpose of an embedded computer?

<p>Serving as a component in a larger product (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a software application commonly used in a small office/home office (SOHO) setting?

<p>Specialty software (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a graphical user interface (GUI)?

<p>It allows interaction through graphics and visual images. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes system software?

<p>It controls and maintains the operation of computer hardware. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of utility programs within system software?

<p>To manage the computer’s maintenance tasks. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What defines a podcast as opposed to other audio formats?

<p>It is recorded audio stored on a website that can be downloaded. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a website allows users to share their thoughts in a chronological format?

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

What distinguishes application software from system software?

<p>It is designed for users to perform specific tasks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What best describes the content of a typical web page?

<p>A combination of text, graphics, audio, and links. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements correctly outlines the functionality of an operating system (OS)?

<p>It serves as a collection of programs coordinating computer activities. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which component of a computer is responsible for interpreting and carrying out instructions?

<p>Central Processing Unit (CPU) (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of an input device in computing?

<p>To enter data and instructions into the computer (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes storage media?

<p>Physical material used to hold data, instructions, and information (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following components would typically be found inside the system unit?

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

What is the function of a storage device?

<p>To record and retrieve items to and from a storage medium (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is an example of a storage medium?

<p>USB Flash Drive (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'output device' refer to in computing?

<p>Hardware that displays information to users (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of memory in a computer?

<p>To hold instructions and data temporarily until they are needed (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a greeting card program once installed on a computer?

<p>To enable the creation of custom greeting cards. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which personal computer series is specifically associated with the Macintosh operating system?

<p>Apple Macintosh. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a notebook computer from a desktop computer?

<p>Notebook computers are smaller and portable. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What role does a programmer perform?

<p>They write instructions that enable computers to process data. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which category of computers includes devices designed for multiple users and large-scale tasks?

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

What is generally true about tablet PCs compared to traditional desktop computers?

<p>Tablet PCs are generally more expensive with similar capabilities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a mainframe computer?

<p>It is used for large-scale processing for organizations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the design of a desktop computer?

<p>It is designed so components fit on or under a desk. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of system software in a computer?

<p>To control and manage the computer's hardware resources (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a key characteristic of a mobile device?

<p>typically has a larger display screen than a desktop computer (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

While desktop computers provide ample power and features, what is their main drawback?

<p>They are not as easily portable as mobile devices. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is a notebook computer typically more expensive than a desktop computer with similar capabilities?

<p>The integrated design requires more complex manufacturing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common category of computer users?

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

What is the key role of a programmer in the software development process?

<p>Building and testing the software code to ensure functionality (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a mainframe computer?

<p>They are typically more affordable than personal computers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes a supercomputer different from other types of computers?

<p>They have significantly higher processing power and speed than traditional computers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a potential disadvantage of using computers?

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

What is the primary differentiation between 'data' and 'information' in the context of computer processing?

<p>Data is raw and unorganized, while information is processed and meaningful. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the concept of 'digital literacy' in the context of today's technology?

<p>The knowledge of how to use a computer to access and process information effectively. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common category of computer users, based on their needs and usage patterns?

<p>Advanced users (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the core function of a computer in processing information?

<p>Computers convert data into meaningful information through defined processes. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following examples BEST demonstrates the concept of 'consistency' as an advantage of using computers?

<p>Computers are less prone to errors than humans when performing repetitive tasks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of 'software', as described in the provided text?

<p>Software provides instructions for hardware components, allowing them to function. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a processor (CPU) within a computer system?

<p>To translate and execute instructions, performing the core calculations and operations of the computer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a main component of the information processing cycle?

<p>Transmission (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a component of the system unit, housed within the case?

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

What is the primary function of a storage device, in relation to a storage medium?

<p>To read and write data to and from a storage medium (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following storage media is NOT typically considered a removable storage medium?

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

Which of the following describes a key function of a memory component within a computer system?

<p>To temporarily hold data and instructions being used by the processor (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between an input device and an output device, in terms of their functions?

<p>An input device translates data into a format understood by the computer, while an output device converts computer data into a human-readable format. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is TRUE about storage media and storage devices?

<p>A storage medium is a physical component that can be read by a storage device. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a graphical user interface (GUI)?

<p>To facilitate user interaction with the computer's hardware for data entry and output. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key difference between a Web site and a Web page?

<p>A Web site is a collection of related Web pages, while a Web page is a single document accessible via a URL. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements BEST describes the relationship between system software and application software?

<p>System software controls the overall operation of the computer, while application software is designed to perform specific tasks. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary difference between a podcast and a blog?

<p>A podcast is a collection of time-stamped audio recordings, while a blog is a collection of text-based articles. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a GUI?

<p>It provides a command-line interface for advanced users. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key function of utility programs in system software?

<p>To perform maintenance tasks, such as managing computer devices and programs. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary role of a server in a network?

<p>To provide shared resources, such as data storage, printers, and internet access, to other computers in the network. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes the difference between the Web and the Internet?

<p>The Web is a collection of websites and web pages, while the Internet is a physical network of cables and connections. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary difference between a handheld computer and a personal digital assistant (PDA)?

<p>A handheld computer typically has more powerful processing capabilities than a PDA, offering greater functionality beyond basic organization. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT typically considered a function of a personal digital assistant (PDA)?

<p>Allowing the user to play advanced, high-resolution video games with sophisticated graphics. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the provided information, what is the most significant difference between a mainframe computer and a supercomputer?

<p>A supercomputer excels in performing complex mathematical calculations at extremely high speeds, while a mainframe focuses on supporting a large number of users. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following computer types would be MOST suitable for a mobile user who requires access to a variety of productivity software, web browsing, and communication features?

<p>A handheld computer, offering a blend of portability and functionality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following software categories is MOST essential for a small office/home office (SOHO) user?

<p>Productivity software, including tools for word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Imagine you are a graphic designer who needs a computer for professional work. Which of the following computer types would you MOST likely choose and why?

<p>A desktop computer with specialized graphics hardware, providing the necessary computing power and display capabilities for graphic design tasks. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately describes a smart phone in relation to its functionalities?

<p>Smartphones combine the features of a traditional mobile phone with the functionality of a personal digital assistant (PDA). (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements BEST describes the primary function of an embedded computer?

<p>Embedded computers are designed to perform a specific task or function within a larger system or product. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following options BEST describes the purpose of a network in terms of its functionality?

<p>A network allows multiple computers to share resources such as hardware, software, data, and printers, while minimizing costs and increasing efficiency. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of a computer's components, what is the primary function of a communications device and how does it achieve this purpose?

<p>A communications device connects the computer to other devices and networks, enabling it to send and receive information. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the provided information, what is the most significant difference between a hard disk and a USB flash drive in terms of their storage capacity?

<p>While USB flash drives offer greater portability, hard disks are typically designed for high-capacity storage and manage larger amounts of data. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A user is considering options for storing and accessing large amounts of multimedia data like videos and high-resolution images. Which of the following storage media would be the MOST suitable choice for this purpose based on the provided information?

<p>The best option would be to utilize a hard disk, as it provides greater storage capacity and is generally considered more reliable than other options. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a business scenario where multiple employees need to access shared files, software applications, and printers. Which of the following technologies would be the most effective solution for this scenario?

<p>A network, with its ability to connect multiple devices and share resources, would be the ideal solution for businesses with shared resources. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most accurate description of the Internet based on the provided information?

<p>The Internet is a vast global network connecting various networks around the world, enabling businesses, individuals, and organizations to share information and interact. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the provided information, which of the following is NOT a primary reason why users access the Internet?

<p>Users often access the Internet to manage their finances, including online banking and bill payments, but rarely for online shopping. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST explains the advantages of using computers in terms of efficiency and productivity?

<p>Computers primarily contribute to efficiency by automating repetitive tasks, saving time and effort, and enabling faster data processing. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

USB flash drive

A portable storage device, small enough to fit on a keychain or in a pocket.

Hard disk

A storage device with greater capacity than a USB flash drive, usually found inside the system unit.

Compact disc

A flat, round portable metal disc, such as CD-ROM or DVD-ROM.

Communications device

Hardware allowing a computer to send and receive data over various transmission media.

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Network

A collection of computers and devices connected together to share resources.

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Internet

A worldwide collection of networks connecting millions of users and organizations.

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Accessing the Internet

Users utilize the Internet for communication, information, shopping, and more.

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Storage media

Devices like flash drives and hard disks used to store data permanently or temporarily.

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The Web

Millions of interconnected documents called Web pages, available online.

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Web page

A single document on the Web, containing text, graphics, audio, and links.

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Podcast

Recorded audio on a website that can be downloaded.

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Blog

A collection of articles in a journal format, usually timestamped.

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Software

A set of instructions telling the computer how to function; also called a program.

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GUI (Graphical User Interface)

Allows users to interact with software through visual images like icons.

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System Software

Programs that control and manage computer hardware and operations.

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Application Software

Programs designed for specific tasks, like word processing or gaming.

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Handheld Computer

A small computer designed to fit in one hand, sometimes called a uPC or UMPC.

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Personal Digital Assistant (PDA)

A device that helps manage personal tasks like calendars and notes.

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Smartphone

An internet-enabled phone that provides PDA capabilities.

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Game Consoles

Devices designed specifically for playing video games, solo or multiplayer.

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Types of Servers

Computers that manage network resources and centralized storage for users.

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Mainframe

A powerful, expensive computer that supports many connected users simultaneously.

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Supercomputer

The fastest and most powerful type of computer, used for complex calculations.

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Embedded Computer

A special-purpose computer embedded within a larger device to perform specific tasks.

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Notebook computers

Portable computers with a clamshell design for mobility.

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Power user

A user requiring high performance for complex tasks like engineering or graphics.

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Examples of computer applications

Various fields utilizing computers, including education, finance, and health care.

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Types of power users

Users such as engineers and graphic artists who require advanced computing.

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Business computer needs

Requirements for businesses, including payroll, inventory, and e-commerce.

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Productivity Software

Programs designed to enhance user efficiency.

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Installation of Programs

The process of transferring software from a disk to a computer's hard drive.

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Running Software

Executing a program after it has been installed on the computer.

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Programmer

A person who writes code to develop software applications or systems.

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Categories of Computers

Different types of computers including personal, mobile, game consoles, and supercomputers.

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Desktop Computer

A personal computer designed to fit on or under a desk or table.

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Tablet PC

A portable computer that uses a touchscreen interface and is generally more mobile than a notebook.

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Computer Literacy

Knowledge and understanding of computers and their uses.

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Types of Computers

Categories that classify computers based on functionality, such as desktops, laptops, tablets, and servers.

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Computer Components

The main parts of a computer including CPU, memory, storage, and peripherals.

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Computer Users

Different roles people have in using computers, such as end users, IT professionals, and developers.

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Digital Literacy

Current knowledge and understanding of computers, mobile devices, and the web.

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Computer Definition

An electronic device that operates under instructions stored in its memory to process data.

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Advantages of Computers

Benefits include speed, reliability, consistency, storage, and communication.

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Disadvantages of Computers

Drawbacks such as dependency, security risks, and potential for technical issues.

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Information Processing Cycle

The series of steps: Input, Process, Output, Storage, Communication that a computer follows to handle data.

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Input Device

Hardware used to enter data and instructions into a computer system.

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Output Device

Hardware that conveys information from a computer to one or more users.

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System Unit

The case that contains the electronic components of a computer, including CPU and memory, used for processing data.

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Processor (CPU)

The electronic component in a computer that interprets and executes instructions.

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Memory

Electronic components that store instructions and data that are currently needed by the CPU.

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Storage

Devices that hold data, instructions, and information for future use.

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Storage Device

Hardware that records and retrieves data from a storage medium.

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Software for Mobile Users

Includes apps for productivity, communication, and entertainment.

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Purpose of the Internet

Used for communications, information, and shopping.

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Collection of networks

What makes up the Internet, connecting millions.

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Computer Applications in Society

Various fields utilizing computers, including education, finance, and health care.

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Installing Programs

The process of transferring software from a disk to a computer's hard drive.

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Graphical User Interface (GUI)

Allows users to interact with software using visual elements like icons.

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Operating System (OS)

A set of programs coordinating activities among computer hardware devices.

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Web

A collection of billions of documents available online called Web pages.

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Personal Computers

Commonly used computers including desktops and laptops.

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Components of a Computer

Main parts like CPU, memory, storage, and peripherals that operate together.

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Types of Computer Users

Roles people have in using computers, from end users to IT professionals.

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USB flash drive capacity

The average USB flash drive can hold about 500 million characters.

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Network purpose

Connects computers and devices to share resources such as data and hardware.

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Sending and receiving data

Occurs over various transmission media like cables and satellites.

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Potential uses for the Internet

Includes communication, information access, shopping, and research.

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Study Notes

Introduction to Today's Technologies

  • Modern technology allows for efficient and effective information access and sharing, communication, financial management, entertainment, and organization.
  • It supports business activities as well.

Chapter 1 Objectives

  • Computer literacy is understanding computers and their applications.
  • Computers consist of various components working together.
  • The internet and the world wide web facilitate information sharing and access.
  • Computer users have different roles and needs: Home users, small office users, power users, large business users.
  • Diverse computer applications like those in society, entertainment, and education are covered. Examples include education, finance, government, health care, science, publishing, travel, and manufacturing.
  • Software controls how computers operate; software is classified as either system or application.

Today's Technology

  • Technology improves efficiency in many areas such as information access, communication, entertainment, and personal organization.

A World of Computers

  • Computer literacy involves understanding and applying the use of computers.
  • Computers are incorporated into various aspects of daily life.

What Is a Computer?

  • A computer is an electronic device that processes data under the control of internal instructions.
  • Data (raw facts) is processed to become information (organized and useful data).
  • Computers handle tasks including data entry (input) and production of results (output), processing, storage, communication.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Computers

  • Advantages include speed, reliability, consistency, storage, and communication capabilities.
  • Disadvantages include privacy violations, and issues regarding public safety, impact on labor, health risks, and environmental impact.

What is the information processing cycle?

  • Input, processing, output, storage, communication
  • Data is processed into information, which is organized, meaningful, and useful. An example provided in the supplementary notes was the computation of grade points for various courses.

The Components of a Computer

  • Input devices allow users to enter data and instructions into a computer, such as a keyboard and mouse.
  • Output devices convey information to users, such as a monitor and printer.
  • The system unit contains the computer's electronic components for processing data: The motherboard integrates essential components like the processor (CPU) and memory. The system unit physically houses the components.

What is storage?

  • Storage holds data, instructions, and information for later use.
  • Storage media is the physical material on which data is stored.
  • Storage devices record and retrieve data from storage media.

What is storage media?

  • Examples of storage media include hard disks, USB flash drives, memory cards, CDs, and DVDs.

What is a storage device?

  • Storage devices work to record data and instructions to storage media, and to retrieve items from it.

What is a USB flash drive?

  • A portable storage device.
  • These devices typically have the capacity to hold 500 million or more characters or more.

What is a hard disk?

  • Hard disks have greater storage capacity compared to USB flash drives; these components frequently are a part of a computer's systems unit.

What is a compact disc?

  • Flat, round, and portable.
  • Types include CD-ROM and DVD-ROM.

What is a communications device?

  • A communications device enables computers to send and receive data and instructions, or connects them to networks.
  • Examples include cables, telephone lines, cellular networks, satellites, and other transmission media.

Networks and the Internet

  • A network is a collection of interconnected computers; networks allow for resource sharing and cost savings.
  • The internet is a worldwide collection of networks connecting millions of businesses, institutions, and individuals.

Why do users access the Internet?

  • Users access the internet for various purposes, including communications, information gathering, shopping, banking/investing, educational opportunities, entertainment, downloading/sharing music, sharing information, and more.

What is the Web?

  • Billions of documents (web pages) are available to internet users.
  • Websites consist of linked web pages.
  • Web pages contain text, graphics, audio, video, and links to other web pages. Podcasts are recorded audio on websites, which can be downloaded.

Computer System

  • Computer systems consist of hardware and software.

Basic Hardware Component

  • Input devices (such as keyboard and mouse) send data to the computer.
  • Output devices (such as monitor and printer) display information.
  • The CPU (Central Processing Unit), along with Primary (RAM) and Auxiliary storage (hard disk) process data. The CPU interprets instructions and performs calculations.

Computer Software

  • Software contains instructions that direct the computer.
  • Software includes applications and system software.

What is software?

  • Software provides the instructions for a computer to operate consistently.

Types of Software

  • System software manages and regulates hardware and controls computer activities.
  • Application software is designed to achieve specific user tasks: examples include productivity applications (like word processing, spreadsheets), special software (for specific professions), web usage, and e-mail programs.

What is a graphical user interface (GUI)?

  • GUIs allow interaction with software using graphics and visual symbols, such as icons: examples of GUI are operating system interfaces and applications.
  • It controls how data is entered and displayed.

What is system software?

  • System software controls a computer and its components, such as the operating system (which coordinates computer hardware activities).

What is application software?

  • Application software aids users to become more productive and complete tasks, often via software packages (e.g. word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations).
  • Examples include word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and presentation/graphics software.

How do you install and run programs?

  • Software installation procedures are carried out by following user instructions.
  • Computer software transfers instructions to memory (RAM) for running applications.

What is a programmer?

  • Programmers create software and provide instructions for a computer to operate consistently.

Categories of Computers

  • Computers have various categories like personal(desktops, laptops), mobile(laptops, tablets, smartphones), game consoles, servers(mainframes, supercomputers), and embedded computers (specialized devices).

Personal Computers

  • PC systems often run on Windows operating systems, while Apple Macintosh systems usually run on Macintosh operating systems. PCs are often compatible with many applications.
  • Desktop computers have components that fit on or under a desk or table. Laptops are portable computers.

Mobile Computers and Mobile Devices

  • Notebook (laptops) computers are portable and fit on a lap.
  • Tablet PCs resemble a slate and allow users to write on screens using digital pens.
  • Smartphones are Internet/mobile devices.

What are smart phones?

  • Smart phones are Internet-enabled telephones providing personal digital assistant functions or capabilities.

Game Consoles

  • Game consoles are mobile devices designed for single or multiplayer games.

Servers

  • Servers control network resource access and provide centralized storage.
  • Mainframes are larger central computers, while supercomputers are fastest, most powerful machines for complex tasks like calculations.

Embedded Computers

  • Embedded computers are special computers integrated into larger devices. Examples include those in cars, appliances, etc

Examples of Computer Usage

  • Home users generally use software for financial management, web access, communications, and entertainment.
  • Small office users might use productivity, specialty software, internet usage, and often use email.
  • Mobile users may use word processing, spreadsheet, presentation/graphics software.
  • Power users might need extremely fast processors for technical or graphic applications.
  • Large businesses commonly use software for payroll, inventory management, e-commerce, and desktop publishing.

Computer Applications in Society

  • Computers are used in numerous applications such as education, finance, government, health care, science, publishing, travel, and manufacturing (e.g. car engine management systems, aircraft flight controls).

Summary of Introduction to Computers

  • The summary notes outline the fundamental concepts of computer devices and software highlighting their application and role in society.

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