Understanding Computer Functions and Ubiquitous Computing

Recognizing Computers

• Data combined with processing equals information.
• Ubiquitous computing (ubicomp) refers to the concept of computing being present everywhere.
• Smart homes exemplify ubiquitous computing.
• Embedded computers are specialized systems within devices.
• Convergence is the merging of technologies.
  • Mobile payment systems are an example of convergence.
• Green computing focuses on environmentally sustainable technology practices.
  • Smart appliances and smart grids align with green computing.

Computer Functions

• A computer takes input, processes it, and produces output, while storage holds data.
• Input involves providing raw data, like viewers voting in a talent show.
• Processing transforms collected data to derive results, such as determining contest winners.
• Output presents the processed data as information, like announcing winners during a live show.
• Storage temporarily holds raw data in memory for processing and saves processed information on a disk for later use.

Data Representation Using Binary Codes

• A binary code using bits operates with switches, and 8 bits allow for 256 combinations.
• 1 bit provides 2 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 1.
• 2 bits provide 4 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 2.
• 3 bits provide 8 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 3.
• 4 bits provide 16 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 4.
• 5 bits provide 32 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 5.
• 6 bits provide 64 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 6.
• 7 bits provide 128 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 7.
• 8 bits provide 256 possibilities, expressed as 2 to the power of 8.
• A bit is equivalent to 1/8 of a byte.
• A byte consists of 1 byte.
• A kilobyte (KB) is 1,000 bytes.
• A megabyte (MB) is 1 million bytes.
• A gigabyte (GB) is 1 billion bytes.
• A terabyte (TB) is 1 trillion bytes.
• A petabyte (PB) is 1,000 TB.
• An exabyte (EB) is 1,000 PB.
• A zettabyte (ZB) is 1,000 EB.
• A yottabyte (YB) is 1,000 ZB.

Evolution of Computer Systems

• The Analytical Engine was developed in the 19th century.
• Turing machines came about in 1936.
• The Turing test was introduced in 1950.
• The first generation of computers included the ENIAC from 1943-1946.
• The second generation used transistors in the 1950s.
• The third generation used integrated circuits in the 1960s.
• The fourth generation used microprocessors in the 1970s.

Types and Characteristics of Personal Computers

• Personal computers are computing devices for individual use.
• Desktop computers include workstations and all-in-one computers.
• Notebooks include netbooks and subnotebooks.
• Laptops are portable computers.
• Tablet computers are mobile devices with a touchscreen.
• Macs offer easy setup, extensive multimedia capabilities, and a secure, stable operating system.
• PCs are less expensive, can run many versions of Windows, and often preferred in business.
• Chromebooks/Chromeboxes are inexpensive, rely on web apps and cloud storage, and secure for everyday tasks.

Other Personal Computing Devices

• Smartphones, E-readers, and GPS devices are considered mobile devices.
• Video game systems include game consoles and game controllers.
• Video game simulation offers an immersive gaming experience.

Types and Characteristics of Multiuser Computers

• Multiuser computers feature centralized resources and security and are more powerful.
• Midrange computers serve multiple users with substantial processing power needs.
• Mainframes handle high-volume data processing for large organizations.
• Enterprise servers support the operations of a business or organization.
• Supercomputers are designed for complex calculations and simulations.

Safe and Efficient Technology Use

• Position yourself with lumbar support for your lower back.
• Adjust the seat height to 26-30 inches, corresponding to 65-75 cm.
• Ensure your feet are flat on the floor, with a footrest if needed for shorter people.
• Maintain seat depth between 15-21 inches, or 38-53 cm.
• Keep the distance from eyes to screen at roughly 20 inches, or 50 cm.