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Where did the term 'computer' come from?
It was initially referred to as 'one who calculates' in 1640.
What is a computer?
A programmable electronic machine designed to take input, perform prescribed arithmetic and logical operations, and provide output.
What does the acronym COMPUTER stand for?
Common Operating Machine Purposely Used for Technological and Educational Research.
Who is known as the Father of Computers?
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Which of the following is NOT a function of a computer?
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Match the following categories with their appropriate features:
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What are the advantages of computers?
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What are the disadvantages of computers?
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Information Technology focuses solely on hardware.
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What does ICT stand for?
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Data represents ______ elements or unprocessed facts.
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Where did the term 'computer' come from?
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What is a computer?
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Who is known as the Father of Computers?
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Which of the following is NOT an advantage of computers?
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Which of the following describes hardware?
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What does the acronym ICT stand for?
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What are the basic functions of a computer?
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What does data represent?
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Study Notes
The History of the Term "Computer"
- The term "computer" originally referred to a person who performed calculations in 1640
- In 1897, the term "Calculating Machine" was used to describe a machine that performed calculations beyond those achievable with adding machines or calculators.
- In 1945, the term "programmable digital electronic computer" became synonymous with the term "computer" as we know it today.
Computer Definition
- A computer is an electronic device that can be programmed to receive input, process information through mathematical and logical operations at high speeds, and provide output as a result.
- The word "computer" is an acronym for "Common Operating Machine Purposely Used for Technological and Educational Research."
- It is derived from the Latin word "computare," meaning "to calculate," "to count," or "to sum up."
Charles Babbage - The Father of Computers
- Charles Babbage is credited with designing the first mechanical computer in 1837.
- His invention, known as the "Analytical Engine," was a general-purpose computing machine.
Basic Functions of a Computer
- Input: Data is entered into the computer.
- Processing: The computer performs operations on the input data.
- Output: The results of processing are displayed or presented to the user.
Uses of Computers
- Storing important data.
- Facilitating communication with individuals across the globe.
- Supporting education and learning.
- Assisting with office tasks like data entry, document creation and management.
- Supporting banking, finance, and marketing operations.
- Applications in government sectors.
- Use in sports for data analysis and training.
- Serving the press and publishing industry.
- Providing entertainment options.
Classification of Computers
- Personal Computers (PCs)
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Smartphones
- Mainframe Computers
- Supercomputers
Advantages and Disadvantages of Computers
Advantages
- Amazing Speed: Computers perform calculations and tasks at lightning speed.
- Accuracy: Computers are highly precise and minimize errors in calculations.
- Huge Storage: Computers can store vast amounts of data.
- Multitasking Support: Computers can handle multiple tasks concurrently.
- Data Security: Measures can be implemented to protect stored information from unauthorized access.
- Automation: Computers can automate repetitive tasks and processes.
- Reduced Cost: Computers can reduce operational costs in various industries.
Disadvantages
- Unemployment: Automation can displace human workers in certain roles.
- Health Issues: Prolonged computer use can lead to health issues like eye strain, repetitive strain injuries, and back problems.
- Cyber Crimes: The vast interconnectedness of computers and networks increases the risk of cybercrime.
- Virus and Hacking Attacks: Computers are susceptible to viruses and hacking attempts.
- Improper Use: The misuse of computers can have negative consequences.
- Spread of False or Inappropriate Content: The internet enables the dissemination of false or inappropriate information.
- Negative Impact on the Environment: The manufacturing and disposal of electronic devices can impact the environment.
Computer Hardware and Software
- Hardware: This refers to the physical components of a computer system, including the parts that make up its physical body. Examples include the keyboard, monitor, mouse, and internal components like the motherboard, processor, and RAM.
- Software: This consists of programs that instruct the computer on how to perform specific tasks. It is essentially the brain of the computer, dictating how hardware works.
Computer Science and Information Technology
- Computer Science: This is the systematic study of the underlying concepts, foundations, and applications of software, hardware, and intelligent systems.
- Information Technology (IT): This field focuses on the use of computers to develop, manage, transform, share, and store information in various formats.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- This encompasses technologies that facilitate access to information through telecommunications. The primary focus is on communication technologies like the internet, mobile phones, and wireless networks.
Data and Information
- Data: Represents raw elements or unprocessed facts, including numbers, symbols, text, and images. It is the raw material for information.
- Information: Data becomes information when it is processed, organized, interpreted, and structured to become meaningful and comprehensible. Information provides insights and can be used to inform decisions, strategies, and actions.
The Term 'Computer'
- The term "computer" originally referred to a person who performed calculations.
- In 1897, the term was applied to "calculating machines," which were devices for complex arithmetic.
- The term "programmable digital electronic computer" emerged in 1945, eventually shortened to "computer."
What is a Computer?
- A computer is a programmable electronic machine that takes input, performs calculations and logical operations at high speed, and produces output.
- The acronym "COMPUTER" stands for "Common Operating Machine Purposely Used for Technological and Educational Research."
- The word "computer" derives from the Latin word "computare," meaning "to calculate," "to count," or "to sum up."
- Essentially, a computer is a device designed for computation.
Charles Babbage
- Charles Babbage, known as the "Father of Computers," designed the first mechanical computer in 1837.
- This machine was called the "Analytical Engine" and was the first general-purpose computer.
Basic Functions of a Computer
- Input: Receiving data from users or other devices.
- Processing: Performing operations on data, such as calculations and comparisons.
- Output: Presenting results or information to users or other devices.
- Storage: Saving data and instructions for future use.
Uses of Computers
- Data Storage: Saving important data.
- Communication: Connecting people around the world.
- Education: Used in educational systems for teaching and learning.
- Office Work: Data entry, support, and development.
- Banking and Finance: Financial transactions and management.
- Marketing: Promoting products and services, tracking results.
- Government: Public services, administrative processes, and information management.
- Sports: Training, analysis, and performance tracking.
- Press and Publishing: Writing, editing, and publishing media.
- Entertainment: Games, movies, music, and other forms of entertainment.
Classification of Computers
- Personal Computers (PCs): Desktop and laptop computers for personal use.
- Servers: Powerful computers designed to manage network resources.
- Mainframes: Large, high-capacity computers used by businesses and organizations.
- Supercomputers: High-performance systems for complex scientific and engineering computations.
Advantages of Computers
- Amazing Speed: Fast processing and execution of tasks.
- Accuracy: Precise results with minimal errors.
- Huge Storage: Storing vast amounts of data.
- Multitasking Support: Performing multiple tasks simultaneously.
- Data Security: Protecting information from unauthorized access.
- Automation: Automating repetitive tasks.
- Reduced Cost: Cost-effective compared to manual processes.
Disadvantages of Computers
- Unemployment: Automation can lead to job displacement.
- Health Issues: Prolonged use can lead to eye strain, back pain, and other issues.
- Cyber Crimes: Security threats like hacking and phishing.
- Virus and Hacking Attacks: Malware can damage systems and steal information.
- Improper Use: Misuse can lead to negative consequences.
- Spread of False or Inappropriate Content: Potential for misinformation and harmful content.
- Negative Impact on the Environment: E-waste disposal and energy consumption.
Computer Hardware and Software
- Hardware: Physical components of a computer system, installed internally or externally.
- Software: Instructions that tell the computer how to perform specific tasks. Software is necessary for hardware to function.
Computer Science vs. Information Technology
- Computer Science: The systematic study of software, hardware, and intelligent systems.
- Information Technology (IT): The use of computing components to develop, manage, transform, share, and store information.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Technologies that provide access to information through telecommunications.
- Focuses on communication technologies.
Data vs. Information
- Data: Raw, unprocessed facts and elements.
- Information: Processed, organized, interpreted, and structured data.
- Information is valuable because it helps inform decisions, strategies, and actions.
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Description
Explore the evolution of the term 'computer' from its origins in the 17th century to modern definitions. Learn about the pivotal figures like Charles Babbage and the changes in technology that shaped the devices we use today. This quiz will enhance your understanding of computing history and its definitions.
