Podcast
Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson
Download our mobile app to listen on the go
Get App
Questions and Answers
What is the primary job of computers?
What is the primary job of computers?
- To communicate with the user
- To store and manipulate numbers, letters, and characters
- To process information (correct)
- To perform mathematical and/or logical operations
What enables computers to do what we want?
What enables computers to do what we want?
- Performing arithmetic operations
- Magnetizing or demagnetizing tiny metal cores
- Inputting signals that turn certain switches on and off (correct)
- Storing and manipulating numbers, letters, and characters
What is stored inside the computer?
What is stored inside the computer?
- The instructions and results
- The program and data (correct)
- The electronic circuit network
- The arithmetic operations and communication means
What are the three basic capabilities of computers?
What are the three basic capabilities of computers?
Signup and view all the answers
What is the purpose of the program in a computer?
What is the purpose of the program in a computer?
Signup and view all the answers
What do computers use to input information?
What do computers use to input information?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a limitation of a computer's decision-making ability?
What is a limitation of a computer's decision-making ability?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a benefit of using a computer to solve a problem?
What is a benefit of using a computer to solve a problem?
Signup and view all the answers
What is a limitation of a computer's originality?
What is a limitation of a computer's originality?
Signup and view all the answers
How do computers process information?
How do computers process information?
Signup and view all the answers
Flashcards are hidden until you start studying
Study Notes
Computer Basics
- A computer is a machine that operates using an intricate electronic circuit network, with switches and magnetized cores that can be in one of two states: on or off, or magnetized or demagnetized.
- Computers can store, manipulate, and process numbers, letters, and characters.
Computer Functions
- Computers accept information in the form of instructions (programs) and characters (data), perform mathematical and/or logical operations, and supply the results.
- Computers have three basic capabilities:
- Performing arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, division, multiplication, and exponentiation)
- Communicating with the user through input/output devices
- Making decisions based on logical operations (comparing numbers, equality, etc.)
Input and Output
- Common methods of inputting information include punched cards, magnetic tape, disks, and terminals.
- Input devices (card reader, tape drive, disk drive) read information into the computer.
- Standard output devices include printers and CRT display screens.
Decision-Making and Processing
- Computer circuits can make decisions based on logical operations (e.g., comparing numbers).
- Computers can solve series of problems and make hundreds of logical decisions without fatigue.
- Computers can perform arithmetic-logical operations almost instantaneously due to electric pulses moving at the speed of light.
Limitations and Human Involvement
- Computers cannot exercise value judgments or originality, working solely according to instructions.
- Computers require human input and information to operate effectively.
- Humans can perform tasks a computer can, but may take much longer due to the speed of computers.
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
