CHP 1 FY - Basic Concepts of Computer Technology - PDF

CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY What is Computer Science? Computer Science focuses on the theoretical foundations of computing and the design and implementation of computer systems. Key areas within computer science include: 1. Algorithms and Data Structures: The...

CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY What is Computer Science? Computer Science focuses on the theoretical foundations of computing and the design and implementation of computer systems. Key areas within computer science include: 1. Algorithms and Data Structures: The study of efficient methods for organizing and processing data. 2. Software Engineering: The principles and practices for designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications. 3. AI & ML: The development of algorithms that allow computers to learn from data and make decisions. 4. Theoretical Computer Science: The exploration of abstract concepts such as computation theory, automata theory, and complexity theory. Others are: Human-Computer Interaction,Computer Graphics and Visualization, Networks and Security, Database Systems: By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY What is Information Technology? Information Technology is more applied and focuses on the use of computer systems and software to manage information. Key areas within IT include: 1. Systems Administration: 2. Network Administration: 3. Information Security: 4. Database Management etc By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Relationship Between Computer Science & Information Technology: While Computer Science is more focused on the creation and understanding of computing principles, Information Technology emphasizes the application of these principles to solve practical problems in business and other fields. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Speed: Computers process data Diligence: rapidly, executing Unlike humans, computers do not billions of instructions suffer from fatigue or boredom, per second, enabling maintaining consistent performance over prolonged swift task completion. periods, ideal for repetitive tasks. Characteristics of Computer Accuracy: Versatility: They perform calculations and Capable of performing diverse tasks with precision, with tasks, computers can run various errors typically arising from from word process software human input or programming applications, processors to flaws rather than inherent graphic design tools and processing errors. scientific simulations. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY No I.Q: It possess no intelligence of its own. Multitasking: Computers can run multiple applications simultaneously, managed by the operating system, which allocates Characteristics resources efficiently. of Computer No Feeling: Computers do not have emotions. They have no feelings because they are machines. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY What is Computer System? A computer system refers to a combination of hardware, software, and peripherals working together to perform various computational tasks. Parts of Computer System: 1. Hardware 2. Software 3. Data 4. Procedures 5. People By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY What is Peripheral Devices? Peripheral devices are external hardware components connected to a computer system that expand its functionality or provide additional input/output capabilities. Common examples of peripheral devices include: 1. Input 2. Output 3. Storage Devices By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Input Devices: Input devices are hardware components that allow users to enter data or commands into a computer system. They facilitate communication between the user and the computer by converting physical input into digital signals that the computer can process. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Kinds of Input Devices: 1. Keyboard Devices: Data is input to the Computer through keyboard. 2. Non-keyboard, or direct-entry, devices: allow users to input data directly into a computer system without keyboard By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Keyboard: Keyboards are essential input devices commonly used with computers and other electronic devices. They allow users to enter text, commands, and other inputs into the computer system. Keyboards typically have a QWERTY layout, named after the first six letters in the top row of keys. This layout is standard for most English-language keyboards and is designed to optimize typing speed and minimize typing errors. However, alternative layouts, such as Dvorak and Colemak, exist for different typing preferences and languages. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Groups in which keys is arranged in Keyboard: 1. Character keys 2. Function Keys 3. Special Purpose keys 4. Numeric Keys 5. Cursor-movement keys By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Terminals: Terminals are hardware devices or software interfaces that allow users to interact with a computer system. They serve as a medium for inputting commands and receiving outputs. Terminals can be physical devices like monitors and keyboards or software applications that simulate terminal functionality. Types of Terminals: 1. Dumb Terminals :They rely entirely on a central computer or server for processing tasks. These terminals are primarily used to send input to the central system and display output received from it. 2. Intelligent Terminals: Intelligent terminals, also known as smart terminals, have their own processing capabilities. Unlike dumb terminals, they can perform some computing tasks locally without relying entirely on a central system. 3. Internet Terminals: Internet terminals are specialized devices or software applications designed primarily for accessing the internet. These terminals provide users with web browsing capabilities and often include additional features like email, multimedia playback, and document viewing. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Non-Keyboard Input Devices: Non-keyboard input devices are peripheral hardware devices that allow users to interact with a computer without using a traditional keyboard. These devices are designed to provide alternative ways of inputting data, controlling applications, or navigating interfaces. Also known as Direct-entry Devices. Some common devices are: 1. Scanning Devices 2. Voice-input Devices 3. Pointing Devices By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Scanning Devices: Scanning devices are hardware devices used to capture data from physical objects and convert it into a digital format that a computer can process. These devices are commonly used for digitizing images, texts, barcodes, and other types of information. Types of Scanning Devices: Barcode Readers Mark and Character Readers Image Scanners Fax Machines And more By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Bar-Code Reader: A device that reads and decodes barcodes, typically using laser or imaging technology. A bar code is data represented in the parallel lines of a universe coding scheme. An example of such a coding scheme is the Universal Product Code(UPC). Two types of Barcodes Readers: 1. Handheld: Handheld barcode readers are portable devices used to scan and decode barcodes. They are designed to be held in the hand and manually aimed at barcode labels or tags for scanning. 2. Stationary: A stationary barcode reader, also known as a fixed-mount or fixed-position barcode reader, is a device designed to scan barcodes as they pass by a stationary point. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Mark and Character Recognition/Reader: Mark and character recognition are technologies used to interpret and process marks and characters on documents, enabling automated data capture from paper-based forms, surveys, questionnaires, and other printed materials. 1. OMR: Optical Mark Recognition (OMR) is a technology that detects and interprets marks made on predefined areas of a document, such as checkboxes, bubbles, or tick boxes. It relies on special optical marks or patterns that indicate responses to questions or selections made by respondents. 2. OCR: Optical Character Recognition (OCR) is a technology that converts printed or handwritten text into machine-readable text that can be processed and analyzed by computers. It involves scanning documents, identifying individual characters, and translating them into digital text format. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Mark and Character Recognition/Reader: 3. Magnetic-ink Character Recognition: Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is a technology used primarily in the banking industry for processing checks and other financial documents. It involves printing characters using magnetic ink, which can be easily read and processed by specialized MICR readers. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Image Scanner: An image scanner is a device used to convert physical documents, photographs, or other objects into digital images. It captures the visual information present on the surface of the document and converts it into a digital format that can be stored, manipulated, and transmitted electronically. Types of Scanner: 1. Flatbed: Flatbed scanners are the most common type of image scanner. They consist of a flat, glass surface on which documents are placed for scanning. 2. Sheet-fed: Sheet fed scanners are designed to process individual sheets of paper or documents automatically. Documents are fed into the scanner through a slot or feeder mechanism, and the scanner captures images as the documents pass through. 3. Hand-held: Handheld scanners are portable devices that can be moved manually across the surface of a document to capture images. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Fax Machine: A fax machine, short for facsimile machine, is a device used for transmitting documents electronically over telephone lines. It scans a physical document and converts it into a digital image, which is then transmitted to another fax machine where it is printed out as a hard copy. It is specialized scanner. Kind of Fax Machine: 1. Dedicated Fax Machine: A dedicated fax machine is a standalone device designed specifically for sending and receiving faxes over traditional telephone lines. It typically consists of a scanner for document input, a modem for fax communication, and a printer for document output 2. Computers with Fax modem: Computers with fax modems are PCs or laptops equipped with a fax modem card or an external fax modem device. The fax modem allows the computer to send and receive faxes over traditional telephone lines, similar to a dedicated fax machine. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Voice-Input Devices: also known as speech recognition devices or voice recognition devices, are technologies that enable users to interact with computers, devices, and systems using spoken commands or natural language. These devices capture and interpret spoken words or phrases, converting them into text or executing specific actions based on the user's voice commands. How Voice input works? Example of Voice-Input Devices: 1. Voice Assistants 2. Speech Recognition Software: 3. Voice-Controlled Devices: By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Pointing Devices: A pointing device is an input device that allows users to interact with a computer or electronic device by controlling the on-screen cursor or pointer. Pointing devices enable users to select, manipulate, and navigate objects or elements on a graphical user interface (GUI). Examples: 1. Mouse: 2. Trackball: 3. Touchpad or Track pad 4. Touch Screen 5. Digitizing Tablet 6. Pen-Based Computers 7. Joystick By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Pointing Devices Examples: Mouse Joystick Touch pad, Or Track pad Touch Screen Digitizing Tablet Pen-Based Computer TrackBall By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Central Processing Unit (CPU): The Central Processing Unit (CPU), often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, is the primary component that performs most of the processing inside a computer. It interprets and executes instructions from the computer's hardware and software. Main Components of CPU: 1. ALU: The ALU is responsible for performing arithmetic operations (such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division) and logic operations (such as AND, OR, NOT, and XOR). It is the part of the CPU where actual computation and decision-making occur. 2. CU: The control unit directs the operation of the processor. It tells the ALU, memory, and input/output devices how to respond to the instructions sent to the processor. The CU manages the flow of data within the CPU and coordinates the activities of the other components. 3. Registers: Registers are small, high-speed storage locations within the CPU that hold data and instructions temporarily during processing. They facilitate quick data access and manipulation. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Output Devices: Output devices are hardware components used to convey information from a computer to the user or another device. These devices receive data from the computer and convert it into a form that can be perceived by humans or used by other machines. Two kinds of Output: 1. Hardcopy Output: Hardcopy output refers to physical, tangible representations of data or information. It is permanent and typically produced on paper or other materials. 2. Softcopy Output: Softcopy output refers to digital, intangible representations of data or information. It is displayed on electronic devices and is not physically permanent unless printed. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Softcopy Output Devices: Softcopy output devices are hardware components that present data in a digital, non-physical form. These devices display or play back information that can be easily modified, shared, and stored electronically. Categories: 1. Monitors 2. Voice output devices 3. Sound output devices By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Softcopy Output Devices: 1. Monitors: Monitors are output devices used to display visual information from a computer. They have evolved significantly over time, offering various technologies that enhance image quality, energy efficiency, and user experience. Monitor Cathode-Ray Tube Flat Panel Monitor Monochrome Color LCD OLED LED By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Softcopy Output Devices: Common Terminologies: 1. Resolution: Resolution refers to the number of pixels displayed on a screen, typically represented as width × height (e.g., 1920 × 1080 pixels for Full HD). Higher resolutions generally result in sharper and more detailed images. Common resolutions include HD (1280 × 720 pixels), Full HD (1920 × 1080 pixels), 4K UHD (3840 × 2160 pixels), and 8K UHD (7680 × 4320 pixels). 2. Aspect Ratio: Aspect ratio is the ratio of the width to the height of a display. Determines the shape of the screen and how content is displayed. Common aspect ratios include 16:9 (widescreen), 4:3 (standard), and 21:9 (ultra wide). By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Softcopy Output Devices: Common Terminologies: 3. Refresh Rate: Refresh rate refers to the number of times per second a display refreshes its image. Higher refresh rates result in smoother motion and reduced motion blur, important for gaming and fast-paced content. Refresh rates are measured in Hertz (Hz), with common values including 60Hz, 120Hz, and 144Hz. 4. Monochrome/Color Screens: A monochrome screen is a display that uses only one color along with varying shades of that color (usually black and white or grayscale). Monochrome screens were prevalent in early computing devices, such as old computer monitors, terminals, and portable devices like calculators and digital watches. A color screen is a display that can produce images in full color, utilizing a combination of red, green, and blue (RGB) pixels to generate a wide spectrum of colors. Color screens are widely used in modern computing devices By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Softcopy Output Devices: Common Terminologies: 5. Color Depth: Color depth, also known as bit depth, refers to the number of bits used to represent the color of each pixel on a display. Higher color depths allow for more colors and greater color accuracy. Each pixel on a digital display or in a digital image is composed of three primary colors: red, green, and blue (RGB). Color depth specifies the number of bits allocated to each primary color channel. Common color depths include 8- bit (256 colors), 24-bit (true color), and 32-bit (true color with alpha channel for transparency). By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Homework Task #01: Research on these standards of monitors: XGA SXGA UXGA QXGA By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Cathode-Ray Tube Monitors: CRT monitors use cathode ray tube technology. They work by firing electron beams through a vacuum tube to create images on a phosphorescent screen. CRT monitors are bulky and heavy compared to modern displays. CRT monitors were widely used until the early 2000s, primarily for desktop computers and televisions.CRT monitors consume more power, emit more heat, and are physically cumbersome compared to newer display technologies. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Flat Panel Monitors: Flat panel monitors, also known as flat-panel displays, are a type of display technology characterized by their slim and lightweight design. Unlike traditional cathode ray tube (CRT) monitors, flat panel monitors have a flat, thin form factor and do not rely on bulky vacuum tubes for image production. Flat panel monitors typically offer high- resolution displays with crisp and clear images. Flat panel monitors consume less power compared to CRT monitors. Common types of Flat Panel Monitors: 1. LCD 2. LED 3. OLED 4. Plasma Monitors 5. QLED By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Liquid Crystal Display: Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitors replaced CRTs as the dominant display technology. These monitors work by using liquid crystals to modulate light from a backlight, creating images on the screen.They also consume less power compared to CRTs, contributing to energy efficiency. However, LCDs do have some drawbacks. One common issue is limited viewing angles, where colors and contrast may degrade when viewed from the side. Additionally, LCDs typically have slower response times compared to CRTs, which can result in motion blur during fast-paced activities like gaming or watching action movies. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Light-Emitting Diode Display: Light Emitting Diode (LED) monitors are essentially LCD monitors with LED backlighting instead of traditional CCFL (Cold Cathode Fluorescent Lamp) backlighting. LED monitors offer several advantages over their CCFL counterparts, including thinner profiles, better energy efficiency, and improved color accuracy and brightness.While LED monitors tend to be more expensive initially, their long-term energy savings and superior performance often justify the higher cost. LED monitors are widely used in various applications, from general computing to professional work and home entertainment. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Oraganic Light-Emitting Diode Display: Organic Light Emitting Diode (OLED) monitors represent the pinnacle of display technology in terms of picture quality. In OLED monitors, each individual pixel emits its own light, allowing for unparalleled contrast ratios, vibrant colors, and incredibly fast response times. OLED technology enables true blacks by completely turning off pixels when displaying dark scenes, resulting in superior image quality and immersive viewing experiences. OLED monitors are highly sought after for applications that demand the best possible picture quality, such as high-end gaming, professional photo and video editing, and home theater setups. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Voice-Output Devices: Voice output devices convert text into spoken words. They work by processing input text, synthesizing it into natural- sounding speech, and then outputting it through speakers or audio ports. These devices can be software applications, assistive technology tools for people with disabilities, smart speakers, navigation systems, or interactive phone systems. Types of Voice Output Devices: Software Applications: Users can input text into the application, and it will generate spoken output. Smart Speakers and Virtual Assistants : Users can interact with these devices using voice commands, and they respond with synthesized speech. Navigation Systems: GPS navigation systems in cars or mobile devices often include voice-guided direction. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Sound Output Device: Sound output devices are hardware components that produce audio or sound, allowing users to hear music, speech, or other audio content generated by computers, smartphones, TVs, gaming consoles, and other electronic devices. Types of Sound Output Devices: Speakers: Headphones: Built-in Speakers: By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Hardcopy Output Hardware: Hardcopy output devices are hardware components that produce physical copies of digital documents or images on paper or other tangible mediums. They are commonly used in offices, homes, and various industries for printing documents, photos, graphics, and other visual materials. Types of Hardcopy Output devices: 1. Printers 2. Plotters 3. Computer Output Microfilm/Microfiche By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 1. Printers: Printers are hardware devices that reproduce text and graphics from digital form to physical form on paper or other media. They work by transferring ink or toner onto a substrate in specific patterns to create images or text. Printers are commonly used for printing documents, photos, labels, and other visual materials. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Types of Printers: Printers Impact Printers Non-Impact Printers Character Character Line Printer Line Printer Printer Printer Dot-matrix Drum Printer Thermal Photo Daisy Wheel Chain Printer Inkjet Laser By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Impact Printers: Impact printers operate by physically striking a ribbon against the paper to form characters or images. This mechanical approach has been largely superseded by non-impact technologies, but impact printers are still valuable in certain applications due to their durability and ability to produce multiple copies simultaneously. Types of Impact Printers: 1. Dot-matrix Printer 2. Daisy Wheel Printer 3. Drum Printer 4. Chain Printer By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 1. Dot-Matrix Printer: Use a print head containing a matrix of pins. These pins strike an inked ribbon against the paper to form characters and graphics as a series of dots. Can print multipart forms (carbon copies), relatively low running costs, durable and robust for industrial environments. Noisy operation, lower print quality compared to modern printers, limited color printing capabilities. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 2. Daisy Wheel Printer: Similar to a typewriter, they have a wheel (daisy wheel) with pre-formed characters. The wheel spins to the correct character, and a hammer strikes it against the ribbon to print on the paper. High-quality text printing, ideal for documents requiring clear and crisp text. Slow printing speed, limited to text printing, noisy operation. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 3. Drum Printer,or Barrel Printer: Drum printers are a type of impact line printer that were commonly used in the past for high-speed, high-volume printing tasks. They are named for the cylindrical drum around which characters are embossed or printed. As the drum rotates, the characters are transferred to the paper, line by line. The drum in a drum printer is a cylindrical object that has raised characters embossed on its surface in multiple bands around the cylinder.As the drum rotates, the printer's control mechanism activates the hammers in synchronization with the drum's rotation.When a hammer strikes the ribbon and the paper against the appropriate character on the drum, the ink from the ribbon is transferred to the paper, creating the printed character. The process continues until the entire document is printed, one line at a time. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 4. Chain Printer: Chain printers are a type of high-speed impact line printer that were widely used in the past for large-volume printing tasks, particularly in business and data processing environments. They are named for their chain mechanism that carries the characters around in a continuous loop.The main component of a chain printer is a continuous loop of chain or steel band that has characters etched or embossed on it. This chain moves horizontally across the paper. Characters are arranged in multiple sets along the length of the chain, allowing for a full character set to be available as the chain moves.Chain printers print one line of text at a time. Because the characters on the chain repeat, the printer can quickly access any character needed for the line. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Non-impact Printers: Non-impact printers create images and text without physically striking the paper. Instead, they use various methods such as spraying ink, transferring toner, or applying heat and pressure to produce high-quality prints. These printers are quieter, faster, and capable of higher-resolution output compared to impact printers. Types of Non-impact printers: 1. Thermal Printer 2. Ink-jet printer 3. Laser Printer 4. Photo Printer By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 1. Thermal Printers: Thermal printers come in two types: direct thermal and thermal transfer. Direct thermal printers use heat- sensitive paper that darkens when heated, while thermal transfer printers use a ribbon coated with ink. Heat is applied to transfer the ink from the ribbon to the paper. These printers are often used for printing labels, receipts, and barcodes due to their quiet operation and low maintenance. However, thermal prints can fade over time, and these printers are generally limited to monochrome output. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 2. Inkjet printers Inkjet printers are one of the most popular types of printers, known for their versatility and high-quality output. They work by propelling tiny droplets of liquid ink onto paper to form text and images. This technology allows for vivid color reproduction and sharp details, making inkjet printers suitable for a wide range of applications from photo printing to document production. The core component of an inkjet printer is the print head, which contains a series of nozzles (or jets) that spray ink onto the paper. The print head moves horizontally back and forth across the paper, while the paper itself moves vertically to complete the image or text. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 3. Laser Printer: Laser printers are a type of non-impact printer known for their speed, precision, and efficiency. They use a laser beam to produce high-quality text and graphics by transferring toner onto paper. These printers are commonly used in office settings due to their ability to handle high-volume printing tasks with ease. The laser beam projects an image of the page to be printed onto a photosensitive drum, forming an electrostatic image. The printer uses toner, a fine powder composed of pigment and plastic particles. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 4. Photo Printer: Photo printers are specialized devices designed to produce high-quality photographic prints. Unlike standard printers, photo printers focus on color accuracy, detail, and print longevity, making them ideal for professional photographers, artists, and enthusiasts who require superior print quality. Photo printers use advanced inkjet technology to create high-quality prints. Most photo printers use inkjet technology. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Hometask #02: Research on photo printer more, how they works, difference between other printer and photo printer. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 2. Plotters: Plotters are specialized output devices used to produce high-quality, large-format prints of technical drawings, schematics, maps, and other graphical designs. Unlike regular printers, which are optimized for text and images, plotters are designed specifically for precision and accuracy in line drawings and vector graphics. Types of Plotters: Pen Plotter: Pen plotters use pens to draw lines directly onto paper. They are known for their precision and accuracy in producing detailed line drawings. Pen plotters are commonly used in engineering, architecture, and technical drawing applications where precise line drawings are required. Electrostatic Plotter: Electrostatic plotters use electrostatic charges to create images on paper. They are known for their speed and efficiency in producing large-format prints. Electrostatic plotters are used in CAD (computer-aided design) environments and for producing large-scale technical drawings and maps. Thermal Printer: Thermal plotters use heat to create images on special thermal paper. They are known for their simplicity and reliability.Thermal plotters use special paper coated with a heat-sensitive material. By Sir Tahir Ali CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Pen Plotter Electrostatic Plotter Thermal Plotter By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 3. COM: Computer Output Microfilm (COM) and Computer Output Microfiche are methods used to archive and store large volumes of data in a compact, durable, and easily accessible format. These technologies emerged as solutions for handling and preserving massive amounts of information before the advent of modern digital storage systems. Kinds of COM: Computer Output Microfilm Computer Output Microfiche By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Computer Output Microfilm: COM is a process by which digital data is converted into microfilm. Microfilm is a reel or roll of film containing miniaturized photographic records of printed documents. The process involves transferring computer-generated information onto film. This is typically done using a COM recorder, which prints data from a computer file onto film. The data is printed in a format that allows it to be read using a microfilm reader. COM was widely used for archiving purposes, especially for storing large amounts of data from financial records, legal documents, and government records. It was also used for creating backups of databases. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Computer Output Microfiche: Microfiche is similar to microfilm but comes in flat sheets rather than rolls. Each sheet of microfiche contains miniaturized photographic records of printed documents. Like COM, data is converted from digital files to a photographic format, but instead of rolls of film, the data is transferred onto flat sheets of film. Each sheet can contain multiple pages of documents, with each page appearing as a small image on the sheet. Microfiche is used for similar purposes as microfilm, including archiving and preserving large volumes of documents in a compact and durable format. It was commonly used in libraries, businesses, and government agencies for storing reference materials, manuals, and records. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Computer Output Microfilm: By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Computer Output Microfiche: By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY The System Unit of a Microcomputer: The system unit of a microcomputer, also known as the chassis, tower, or computer case, is the enclosure that houses and protects the critical hardware components required for the computer's functioning. 1. Motherboard: The motherboard is the main circuit board and acts as the backbone of the system. It holds and allows communication between many crucial electronic components. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 2. Power Supply Unit (PSU): The Power Supply Unit (PSU) is a critical component of a microcomputer, responsible for converting electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the computer’s internal components. Converts alternating current (AC) from the power outlet to direct current (DC) required by computer components. Provides various DC voltage outputs, typically including 3.3V, 5V, and 12V. The total power output capacity of the PSU, measured in watts (W). By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 3. Microprocessor: A microprocessor is a compact, integrated circuit that contains the functions of a central processing unit (CPU) of a computer. It is the brain of the computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations to carry out tasks. Here’s a detailed explanation of its features, components, and functions. Microprocessors, the heart of modern computing devices. Features of Microprocessor: 1. Clock Speed: Clock speed, measured in gigahertz (GHz), indicates how many cycles per second the processor can execute. Higher clock speeds generally mean the processor can perform more tasks in a given period, leading to faster performance. 2. Registers: Registers are small, high-speed storage locations within the central processing unit (CPU) of a computer. They hold data that the CPU is currently processing or will process shortly. Registers are the fastest type of memory available to the CPU. 3. Word Size: The word size refers to the number of bits that a CPU can process at a time. It determines the maximum size of data that the CPU can handle in one operation, such as arithmetic, logical, or data transfer operations. Common word sizes include 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit, and 64-bit. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER Features of Microprocessor: TECHNOLOGY 4. Bus: In computing, a bus refers to a communication system that transfers data between different components of a computer, such as the CPU, memory, and peripheral devices. Types of Buses: Address Bus: Transfers memory addresses from the CPU to memory or peripheral devices. Data Bus: Carries data between the CPU, memory, and peripherals. Control Bus: Controls the operation of various components and signals actions such as read, write, or interrupt requests. 5. Bus Width: Bus width refers to the number of parallel lines or bits that the bus can transfer simultaneously. A wider bus width allows for faster data transfer rates and enables the CPU to access memory and peripherals more quickly. Common bus widths include 8-bit, 16-bit, 32-bit, and 64-bit. 6. Coprocessors: A coprocessor is a specialized processing unit that works alongside the central processing unit (CPU) to handle specific types of tasks more efficiently. Coprocessors are designed to offload certain functions from the main CPU, thereby enhancing overall system performance and allowing the CPU to focus on general computing tasks. Coprocessors are designed to handle specific workloads more efficiently, consuming less power and generating less heat for those tasks compared to using the main CPU. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER 4. Main Memory: TECHNOLOGY Memory in a computer system is essential for storing data and instructions that the CPU needs to execute tasks. Memory can be broadly classified into primary memory (main memory) and secondary memory (storage).Primary memory is the main memory used by the CPU to store data temporarily while performing tasks. It is fast and volatile. Types of Primary Memory: 1. RAM (Random Access Memory) 1. DRAM (Dynamic RAM) SDRAM (Synchronous DRAM) DDR (Double Data Rate) SDRAM 2. SRAM (Static RAM): 2. ROM (Read-Only Memory) 1. PROM 2. EPROM 3. EEPROM 4. EAPROM By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 5. Expansion Cards and Slots: Expansion cards, also known as add-on cards, are printed circuit boards that can be inserted into expansion slots on a computer's motherboard. These cards add functionality or enhance the performance of a computer system. Expansion slots are connectors on a computer's motherboard that allow for the addition of expansion cards. These cards can add functionality or improve the performance of a computer by providing additional features not included in the standard motherboard design. Types of Expansion Cards: Graphics Card (GPU) Sound Card Network Interface Card (NIC) Modem Card M.2 Slots RAM slots By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Homework #03: Research on other forms of memory. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 6. Ports: Ports are external connectors on a computer that allow peripheral devices to connect to and communicate with the computer. They facilitate the transfer of data, power, and signals between the computer and external devices. Common Types of Ports: By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Storage Hardware: Storage hardware refers to the physical components of a computer system that store data persistently, allowing users to save and retrieve information even after the computer is powered off. These hardware components come in various forms, each with its own characteristics, advantages, and use cases. Types of Storage Devices: Magnetic Storage Optical Storage Flash Storage Cloud Storage By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 1. Magnetic Storage Devices: Magnetic storage devices use magnetized particles on a surface to store digital data. These devices are widely used for both personal and enterprise data storage due to their relatively low cost and high storage density. Type of Magnetic Storage Devices: Magnetic Tape Magnetic Disks HDD Floppy Disks By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 2. Optical Storage: Optical storage refers to the process of storing digital data using lasers and optical media, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs. Optical storage systems rely on the principle of using light to read and write data onto the surface of the optical media. Types of Optical Storage: 1. Compact Disc (CD): CD-ROM / CD-R / CD-RW, Disks 2. Digital Versatile Disc (DVD): DVD-ROM / DVD-R / DVD-RW / DVD-RAM / DVD +RW ,Disks 3. Blu-ray Disc (BD): BD-ROM / BD-RW / BD-RE By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 3. Flash Storage: Flash storage devices, utilize flash memory technology to store digital data. Unlike traditional magnetic or optical storage devices, which rely on moving parts or lasers, flash storage devices use semiconductor-based memory chips to store and retrieve data electronically. This technology offers several advantages, including faster access times, lower power consumption, and greater durability. Types of Flash Storage Devices: USB Flash Drives Solid-State Drives (SSDs) Memory Cards By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY 4. Cloud Storage: Cloud storage refers to the storage of digital data on remote servers accessed over the internet. It provides users with a convenient and scalable way to store, access, and manage their data without the need for local storage hardware. Cloud storage services are offered by various providers, allowing users to upload, download, and share files securely over the internet. Types of Cloud Storage: Public Cloud Storage: Managed by third-party providers, offering storage over the internet on a subscription or pay-as-you-go basis. Example: Google Drive – Provides scalable storage solutions with 15 GB free and options to purchase more. It allows file sharing, real-time collaboration, and integration with other Google services like Google Docs, Sheets, and Gmail. Private Cloud Storage: Exclusive storage environment operated for a single organization, offering enhanced security and control. Example: VMware vSAN – Allows organizations to manage their storage in a private cloud setup, ensuring higher levels of data security and compliance. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Types of Cloud Storage: Hybrid Cloud Storage: Combines public and private cloud features, allowing data to be shared between them. Example: AWS Storage Gateway – Integrates on-premises environments with AWS cloud storage, enabling hybrid storage solutions. Community Cloud Storage: Shared among several organizations with common concerns (e.g., security, compliance). Example: Government Clouds – Used by various government agencies to share resources and comply with regulatory requirements. By Sir Tahir Ali  CHP#1:BASIC CONCEPTS OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY Software: Software is a collection of data or computer instructions that tell the computer how to work. This is in contrast to hardware, which refers to the physical components of a computer. Software is generally categorized into several broad types, based on its purpose and the tasks it performs. Types of Software: 1. System Software: System software provides the basic functions for computer usage and helps run the computer hardware and system. It serves as a foundation for application software. System software includes: Operating Systems (OS), Device Drivers, Utility Programs etc. 2. Application Software: Application software helps users perform specific tasks.Includes Spreadsheets, Presentation Software etc. By Sir Tahir Ali