ISA 113-1: Basic Computer Concepts

• Bulacan Polytechnic College offers the Integrated Software Application course (ISA 113) as part of the Bachelor of Science in Office Management program.
• The course is worth 3 units and has 54 contact hours, which is 3 hours per week.
• The Basic Computer Concepts and Terminologies module (ISA-113-1) is part of the Integrated Software Application course.
• The nominal duration of this module is 9 hours.
• By the end of this module, students should understand the basics of computers, components, and usage and be aware of data security, privacy challenges, and the importance of the Internet.
• Topics in the module include data vs. information, types of computers, computer parts, storage devices, how computers work (users, application software, operating systems, hardware), computer ergonomics, netiquettes, and data security.
• Assessment for the module includes a 20-point seatwork activity.

Data & Information

• Raw data can be numerical or string-based and needs processing and interpretation.
• Unprocessed information is considered to be "yet to be interpreted" data.
• Information refers to knowledge derived through investigation, study, or instruction.
• Data transforms into information once it has been processed and interpreted.

Examples of Data

• 10-digit numbers, 2-digit numbers, and random characters are examples of uninterpreted data
• This includes items like dates where the specific meaning in a given context is unknown.

Example of Information

• Vehicle registration details, including known categories like "Engine No.", "Color," "License Plate," provide pre-defined information.
• Color of a vehicle is Obsidian Black.
• The vehicle's license plate is RRR 888.
• The vehicle was last registered on August 21st, 2019.

Types of Computers (Based on Capability and Size)

• Supercomputers have a high level of performance and are utilized for research and exploration, often occupying an entire room.
• NASA uses supercomputers for launching and controlling space shuttles, as well as for space exploration purposes.
• Mainframe computers are used by large corporations for critical applications like transaction processing and are about the size of a cabinet.
• Minicomputers are primarily used by large corporations for critical applications such as transaction processing, are similar in size to cabinets, or occupy a full room.
• Microcomputers include desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones for individual and general use.

Storage Devices

• Magnetic storage media: Stores data on a magnetized medium, including Hard Disk Drives (HDD), recording tapes, and floppy disks.
• Optical storage media: Stores data using light, and includes Hard Disk Drives (HDD), recording tapes, and floppy disks.

Optical Storage Comparison

• CD-R/RW 700 MB (0.7 GB) (15% of DVD-R and 2.8% of Blu-Ray capacity)
• DVD-R/RW 4.7 GB (Capacity of 6 CDs and 18.8% of Blu-Ray capacity)
• Blu-Ray 25 GB (Capacity of 5 DVDs and 35 CDs)

Computer Data Storage

• Volatile memory requires continuous power to store data (e.g., RAM, SDRAM).
• Non-volatile memory retains stored data even after power is cycled off (e.g., ROM, EPROM).

How Computers Work

• Users interact with application software, which in turn interfaces with the operating system and hardware.
• A "user" is anyone who uses a computer, network, or service.

Application Software

• Applications are programs designed for end-users.
• Application software is divided into Word Processors, Database Software, Spreadsheets, Multimedia Software, Presentation Software, Educational Software, Simulators, Graphics Software, and Software Engineering & Production Development Software.

Operating Systems

• System software manages computer hardware and software and provides common services for computer programs.
• Operating Systems serve as a bridge between applications and hardware.
• Examples are MacOS, Linux, Ubuntu

Computer Hardware

• This refers to the computer's physical components.
• The hardware is controlled by software (device drivers)
• It executes commands and instructions

Computer Ergonomics

• Proper sitting posture involves hips as far back as possible, feet flat, the chair reclined at 100°-110°, and relaxed shoulders.
• Keyboard should be in front of the body, wrists straight, and the mouse as close as possible.
• The screen should be directly in front, with the top at eye level (75% of the monitor height).
• Take 1-2 minute breaks every 20-30 minutes and rest eyes by covering them with hands for 10-15 seconds during pauses.

Computer Security & Netiquette

• Etiquette represents the code of polite behavior in society.
• Netiquette involves respect and courtesy when posting views in online discussions.
• Malware (malicious software) poses computer security threats.

Security Threat

• Viruses modify other programs by inserting their own code, corrupt existing files, and spread through networks or storage devices.
• Worms spread, increase network traffic, but don't damage files.
• Trojan Horses appear legitimate but allow hackers access once installed.
• Spyware runs in the background, monitoring user activity.
• Keyloggers record keystrokes and send them to a third party.
• Adware is designed to send you advertisements, mostly, pop-ups.
• Spam is unwanted email often used to spread malware.
• Phishing acquires sensitive personal information like credit card details by sending you an email that will direct to a link that asks the user will be asked to updated their information.