Academic Computing Lecture 1 PDF

# Academic Computing ## Chapter One: Introduction ### 1-1 Computer A computer is a machine that performs tasks or calculations according to a set of instructions or programs. Computers work through an interaction of hardware and software. ### 1.2 Computer Hardware Hardware represents the phy...

# Academic Computing ## Chapter One: Introduction ### 1-1 Computer A computer is a machine that performs tasks or calculations according to a set of instructions or programs. Computers work through an interaction of hardware and software. ### 1.2 Computer Hardware Hardware represents the physical and tangible components of a computer - the components that can be seen and touched. Examples of hardware include: * Input devices - keyboard, mouse etc. * Output devices - printer, monitor etc. * Secondary storage devices - Hard disk, CD, DVD etc. * Internal components - CPU, motherboard, RAM etc. The image shows common hardware components organized in a diagram: * Top row: System Fan, Floppy, Heat Sink * Middle row: Power Supply, (Computer Case), Hard Drive, Optical Drive * Bottom Row: Motherboard, Processors(CPU), RAM Modules ### 1.3 Computer Software Software is a set of programs, which is designed to perform a well-defined function. A program is a sequence of instructions written to solve a particular problem. There are two types of software: 1. System Software 2. Application Software System Software is a collection of programs designed to operate, control, and extend the processing capabilities of the computer itself. System Software serves as the interface between hardware and the end users. Some examples of System Software include: Operating System, Compilers, Interpreters, and Assemblers. Application Software are products which are designed to satisfy a particular need of a particular environment. Microsoft Office is an example of application software. ### 1.4 Computer Functionalities Any digital computer carries out five functions in gross terms: 1. Takes data as input 2. Stores data/instructions in its memory and uses them when required. 3. Processes the data and converts it into useful information. 4. Generates the output 5. Controls all the above four steps. ### 1.5 Computer Advantages The advantages of computers include: 1. High speed. Computers are very fast devices. 2. Accuracy. Computers are very accurate devices. 3. Storage capability. Computers can store large amounts of data in any type, such as images, video, text, etc. 4. Diligence. Computers are free from tiredness and lack of concentration. 5. Versatility. Computers can be used to solve problems related to various fields. 6. Reliability and Automation. 7. Reduction in cost and paperwork. ### 1.6 Computer Disadvantages The disadvantages of computers include: 1. No I.Q. - Computers lack intelligence. They cannot perform any task on their own. 2. Dependency. Computers are fully dependent on humans. 3. Environment. Computers need a suitable environment to operate. 4. No Feeling. Computers lack feelings and emotions. ### 1.7 Computer Applications Computers have vast applications, including: * Business * Banking * Insurance * Education * Marketing * Healthcare * Engineering design * Military * Communication * Government