ICT FST ASSINGNMENT PDF

**Definition of a Computer** A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs tasks according to a set of instructions (called a program). It can store, retrieve, and process information and is capable of carrying out a wide range of tasks, from simple calculations to complex ope...

**Definition of a Computer** A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs tasks according to a set of instructions (called a program). It can store, retrieve, and process information and is capable of carrying out a wide range of tasks, from simple calculations to complex operations. **First Electronic Computers:** - In the 20th century, the first electronic computers were developed. - **Alan Turing**, often called the \"Father of Modern Computing,\" developed the concept of the **Turing Machine** in 1936, which laid the groundwork for modern computers. - The first general-purpose programmable electronic computer, **ENIAC** (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer), was developed in 1945 by **John Presper Eckert** and **John Mauchly.** **Key Points:** - **Inventors:** Charles Babbage (mechanical computer), Alan Turing (modern computing theory), Eckert & Mauchly (ENIAC), Intel (microprocessor). - **First Computers:** Analytical Engine (1837), ENIAC (1945), IBM PC (1981). - **Significant Innovations:** Transistor (1947), Microprocessor (1971). **EXAMPLES OF COMPUTER** **Desktop Computers:** - Designed for regular use at a fixed location, such as homes or offices. - Example: Dell XPS, HP Pavilion. **Laptop Computers:** - Portable computers with an integrated screen, keyboard, and battery, ideal for mobility. - Example: MacBook Air, Lenovo ThinkPad. **Palmtop Computers (Handheld Computers):** - Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, used for tasks like note-taking or basic computing. - Example: Palm Pilot, early PDAs. **Tablets:** - Touchscreen devices that blend features of laptops and smartphones, used for browsing, media, and productivity. - Example: iPad, Samsung Galaxy Tab. **Smartphones:** - Highly portable devices that combine communication features with computing power. - Example: iPhone, Samsung Galaxy. **Servers:** - Powerful computers that store data and provide services to other computers on a network. - Example: IBM Power Systems, Dell PowerEdge. **Supercomputers:** - Extremely fast computers used for scientific research, weather modelling, and complex simulations. **Mainframe Computers:** - Large computers used by enterprises for bulk data processing and critical applications. - Example: IBM zSeries, Fujitsu GS21. **Wearable Computers:** - Small, portable devices worn on the body, often used for fitness tracking and notifications. - Example: Apple Watch, Fitbit. 2. **TYPES OF COMPUTER** **Personal Computer (PC):** A personal computer is designed for individual use. It is used for tasks such as word processing, internet browsing, gaming, and multimedia. Personal computers can be desktops, laptops, or even tablets, depending on the user's needs. **Desktop Computer:** A desktop computer is a stationary computer designed to be used at a desk. It consists of separate components such as a monitor, CPU, keyboard, and mouse. Desktop computers are commonly used in homes and offices for tasks like document creation, gaming, and multimedia production. **Laptop Computer:** A laptop computer is a portable computer with all components integrated into a single unit, including a screen, keyboard, and battery. It is designed for mobility, allowing users to work on the go. Laptops are widely used for both personal and professional tasks. **Palmtop Computer (Handheld Computer):** A palmtop computer is a small, portable computer that fits in the palm of your hand. It is used for simple tasks such as note-taking, scheduling, and basic data entry. These computers were common in the early days of mobile computing but have largely been replaced by smartphones. **Workstation:** A workstation is a high-performance computer designed for technical or scientific applications. It is more powerful than a personal computer and is typically used by engineers, designers, and scientists for tasks that require significant computing power, such as 3D modeling and data analysis. **Server:** A server is a computer that provides services, resources, or data to other computers on a network. Servers are used in businesses and organizations to manage data, host websites, and support multiple users simultaneously. **Mainframe Computer:** A mainframe computer is a large and powerful computer used by large organizations to process vast amounts of data. It is commonly used in industries like banking, insurance, and government for tasks such as bulk data processing and transaction management. **Supercomputer:** A supercomputer is the most powerful type of computer, capable of performing billions of calculations per second. It is used for complex tasks such as weather forecasting, scientific simulations, and space exploration. Supercomputers are essential for tasks that require massive computational power. **Wearable Computer:** A wearable computer is a small device worn on the body, designed for specific tasks such as health monitoring, fitness tracking, and communication. These devices are often used in healthcare, sports, and personal fitness. Examples include smartwatches and fitness trackers.