Information Technology - GE1131Lec1 PDF

Information Technology is the Information Technology use of any computer, storage, networking and other physical device to create, process, store, secure and exchange all fo...

Information Technology is the Information Technology use of any computer, storage, networking and other physical device to create, process, store, secure and exchange all forms of electronic data. IT focuses on the information processing from the collection, to the processing, and the sharing of information. IT deals with the methods and tools used in the information processing. Digital Literacy An individual’s ability to find, evaluate, and compose clear information through writing and other media on various digital platforms. Also known as Computer Literacy. An individual must keep up with the changes in technology and become computer literate. Why do we need to study information technology? We use these technologies in our everyday lives, and we need to further understand how these hardware and software are working. Computer skills are needed regardless of setting and field, whether at home, work, school or play. By understanding computers, you become self- sufficient whether you use it for research, communications or time management. Some computer roles in our lives: 1. Tiny embedded computers control alarm clocks, entertainment centers and home appliances 2. Today’s automobiles cannot run efficiently without embedded computer systems 3. An estimated 10 mil people work from home instead of commuting to work because of PCs and networking technologies 4. People use social media for communications nearly 10 times as often as snail mail and 5 times more than a telephone. 5. Routine daily tasks such as banking, buying groceries are affected by computer technologies. Some computer roles in our lives: Why do we need to study information technology? In a world that being defined by technology and digital trends, the demand for digital literacy has increased exponentially. We need to expand our knowledge to avoid unfamiliar situations and modernize our skills to stay relevant in a dynamic work environment. What is a computer? A computer is defined by Peter Norton as “An electronic device that processes data according to a predetermined set of instructions that convert data information useful to people. They perform specific tasks based on the instructions provided by a software or hardware program”. What is a computer? According to Gary Shelly, a computer is defined as “An electronic device operating under the control of instructions stored in its memory that can accept data, process the data, produce and store results for future use”. Computers can also store data for future use with the appropriate storage devices. What is a computer? A computer is a programmable device that can automatically perform a sequence of calculations or other operations on data once programmed for the task. It can store, retrieve, and process data according to internal instructions. Computer Types and Varieties Computers can be categorized in many ways: by size and capacity, by data handling and operating system capabilities, based on the number of microprocessors, and based on the number of users. In this module, we’re going to classify computers according to the size and capacity. Computer Types and Varieties SUPERCOMPUTERS Before cloud computing and the use of digital systems, large companies use supercomputers because they required a big amount of computing power. A supercomputer has an incredibly high level of performance. These are usually used on a large-scale operation like industrial function, space exploration, weather forecasting, and nuclear testing. Computer Types and Varieties SUPERCOMPUTERS A supercomputer is a computer at the leading edge of data processing capability, with respect to calculation speed. Supercomputers are used for scientific and engineering problems (high- performance computing) which crunch numbers and data, while mainframes focus on transaction processing. Computer Types and Varieties Mainframe computers are like big MAINFRAME COMPUTER centralized machines that contains the large memory, huge storage space, multiple high-grade processors, so it has ultra-processing power compare to standard computer systems. The use of the primary memory and having multiple processors are done by mainframe computers. These are used in moderate data processing, banking, and insurance. It handles bulk data processing, statistics, and analyses them. Computer Types and Varieties MAINFRAME COMPUTER The term originally referred to the large cabinets called “main frames” that housed the central processing unit and main memory of early computers. Later, the term was used to distinguish high-end commercial machines from less powerful units. Most large-scale computer system architectures were established in the 1960s, but continue to evolve. Mainframe computers are often used as servers. Computer Types and Varieties MINICOMPUTERS Minicomputers were introduced in the mid-1960s. It has the most of the features and capabilities of a large computer but more compact in size. This is also called a mid-range computer. Minicomputers were primarily used for process control and performing financial and administrative tasks, such as word processing and accounting. Some machines were designed for medical laboratory and teaching aids. Computer Types and Varieties MINICOMPUTERS a mid-range computer that is intermediate in size, power, speed, storage capacity, etc., between a mainframe and a microcomputer. Minicomputers are used by small organizations. “Minicomputer” is a term that is no longer used much. Computer Types and Varieties MICROCOMPUTER A microcomputer has a central processing unit (CPU) as a microprocessor. These are also known as personal computers (PC). Microcomputers are primarily used for word processing, managing databases or spreadsheets, graphics and general office applications. Computer Types and Varieties MICROCOMPUTER A microcomputer is a small and relatively inexpensive computer that has a microprocessor as its central processing unit. It includes memory, a microprocessor, and minimal input/output circuitry built on a single printed circuit board. Computer Types and Varieties Micro-computers are classified into MICROCOMPUTER workstations – Also known as desktop machines, workstations are mostly used for intensive graphical applications, personal computers – more affordable and easier to use than workstations and are self- sufficient computers intended for one user, laptop computers and Mini PCs – Mini PCs are tiny computers that can fit in the palm of your hand. Computer Types and Varieties An embedded computer, which is an EMBEDDED COMPUTER integral component of most embedded systems, is a combination of hardware and software that is designated to perform a highly specific function. For example, the type of embedded computer in a washing machine will not be the same as the embedded computer in a Nikon camera. Because the software in embedded computers is designed to only execute certain tasks, the computer’s software in one device can be totally distinct from that of another. Computer Types and Varieties EMBEDDED COMPUTER The hardware of an embedded computer is also specially designed to withstand stresses in its intended environment. For instance, an embedded computer installed under the hood of a car is designed to withstand high temperatures. Embedded computers are everywhere. They are in phones, microwaves, airplanes, automobiles, and calculators. Components of a Computer System COMPUTER SYSTEM A computer system is a collection of parts, a computer combined with hardware and software used to perform desired tasks. No matter the size and capability of a computer system, it consists of four (04) parts: hardware, software, data, and the user. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Refers to the tangible, physical computer equipment and devices which provide support for the major functions of the computer system. Mainly the mechanical aspects of the computer. The hardware controls the input of data into the computer system and the output of information from the computer system. All these devices are interconnected with each other. Example: mouse, keyboard, monitor Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Input Devices - Used to enter data or instructions into a computer system. Input devices fall into two categories: ▪ manual input devices (needs to be operated by a human to input data) and ▪ automatic input devices (can input data on their own.) Each input device is concerned with a specific type of data: Scanner – documents or images, Digital Camera – still and moving images Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Common Manual Input Devices Common Automatic Input Devices Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Output Devices - Used to convey information from the computer system to one or more people. When raw data has been processed it becomes usable information. Output devices are pieces of hardware that send this usable information out of the computer. ▪ temporary output device (monitors) ▪ permanent output devices (printers which output information onto paper as hard copy). Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Common Output Devices Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Almost all input and output devices are known as ‘Peripheral Devices’. These are non-essential hardware components that usually connect to the system externally. Peripherals are called non-essential because the system can operate without them. Common Peripheral Devices Components of a Computer System HARDWARE System Unit - houses the electronic components to process data ▪ Motherboard – This is the main circuit board of the system unit. The motherboard is central to any computer system. All components are plugged into the motherboard either directly (straight into the circuit board) or indirectly (vis USB ports) Components of a Computer System HARDWARE Motherboard Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Processor – The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer. Electronic component that interprets and carries out basic instructions. The CPU 'controls' what the computer does and is responsible for performing calculations and data processing. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Memory – Electronic component that store instructions waiting to be executed and data needed by those instructions. There are two types of internal memory. These two memories are used to store computer data and this can be directly accessed by the CPU. RAM and ROM are sometimes referred to as ‘primary storage’. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ ROM (Read Only Memory) – ROM is used to permanently store instructions that tell the computer how to boot (start-up). It also loads the operating system (e.g. Windows). - These instructions are known as the BIOS (Basic input/output system) or the boot program. - Information stored in ROM is known as READ ONLY. This means that the contents of ROM cannot be altered or added to by the user. - ROM is fast memory. Data stored in ROM can be accessed and read very quickly. - ROM is Non-Volatile memory. This means that stored information is not lost when the computer loses power. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ ROM (Read Only Memory) Other examples of ROM include: - DVD/CD ROMS bought in stores containing pre-recorded music and movie files. These are played back at home but cannot be altered. - ROM in printers which is used to store different font types. Example of a Read-only Memory Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ RAM (Random Access Memory) – RAM is used to temporarily store information that is currently in use by the computer. This can include anything from word documents to videos. - RAM can be read from and written to and so the information stored in RAM can change all the time (it depends what tasks you are using the computer for). - RAM is a fast memory. Data can be written to and read from RAM very quickly. RAM is generally measured in GB (Gigabytes). - RAM is Volatile Memory and stores date ‘non-permanently’. This means that information stored in RAM is deleted as soon as the computer is turned off. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ RAM (Random Access Memory) - The more RAM you have installed in your computer -- the faster it can perform. You can open and use more programs at the same time without slowing the computer down. Example of a Random-Access Memory Components of a Computer System HARDWARE RAM ROM Contents are lost when the computer is turned off. ✓ Contents are not lost when the computer is turned off. ✓ Stores instructions that tell the computer how to start up. ✓ Stores data and programs currently in use. ✓ Your computer will perform faster with more of this. ✓ This cannot be written to (altered)... only read. ✓ Stands for Random Access Memory. ✓ Stands for Read Only Memory. ✓ Differences between RAM and ROM Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Storage Devices – Holds data, instructions and information permanently for future use. It records (writes) and/or retrieves (reads) items to and from storage media. Secondary storage devices are used to store data that is not instantly needed by the computer. Secondary storage devices permanently store data and programs for as long as we need. These devices are also used to back-up data in case original copies are lost or damaged. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Storage Devices – There are two categories of storage devices: internal storage (internal hard disk drives) and external storage (external hard disk drive, memory sticks, etc.) Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Example of Storage Devices Magnetic Storage Device – one of the most popular types of storage used. o Hard drive – An internal hard drive is the main storage device in a computer. An external hard drive is also known as removable hard drive. It is used to store portable data and backups. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Example of Storage Devices Optical Storage Device – uses lasers and lights as its mode of saving and retrieving data. o Blu-ray disc – A digital optical storage device which was intended to replace the DVD format. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Example of Storage Devices Optical Storage Device – o CD-ROM disc – An optical storage device that is read-only or cannot be modified nor deleted. o CD-R and CD-RW disc – CD-R is a recordable disc that can be written to once, while CD-RW is a rewritable disc that can be written to multiple times. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Example of Storage Devices Optical Storage Device – o DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW disc – DVD-R and DVD+R are recordable discs that can be written to once, while DVD-RW and DVD+RW are rewritable discs that can be written to multiple times. The difference between the + and – is in the formatting and compatibility. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Example of Storage Devices Flash Memory Device – is now replacing magnetic storage device as it is economical, more functional and dependable. o Memory card – An electronic flash memory device used to store digital information and commonly used in mobile electronic devices. o Memory stick – A memory card that is removable. o SSD – Solid State Drive – A flash memory device that uses integrated circuit assemblies to save data steadily. o USB flash drive, jump drive or thumb drive – A small, portable storage device connected through the USB port. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Example of Storage Devices Online and Cloud – is now becoming widespread as people access data from different devices. o Cloud storage – Data is managed remotely and made available over a network. Basic features are free to use but upgraded version is paid monthly as a per consumption rate. o Network media – Audio, Video, Images or Text that are used on a computer network. A community of people create and use the content shared over the internet. Components of a Computer System HARDWARE ▪ Communication Devices – Enables a computer to send and receive data, instructions, and information to and from one or more computers. A hardware device capable of transmitting an analog or digital signal over the telephone, other communication wire, or wirelessly. Examples: Bluetooth devices, Infrared devices, Modem (over phone line), Network card (using Ethernet), Smartphone, Wi-Fi devices (using a Wi-Fi router) Components of a Computer System SOFTWARE Software is known as the series of related instructions that make the computer perform tasks. In other words, software tells the computer what to do. The term ‘program’ or ‘application’ refers to any piece of software. Some software exists to help the computer perform tasks and manage resources; some software performs tasks that are more specific. The types of software are systems software and application software. Components of a Computer System SOFTWARE Systems Software – Systems software includes the programs that are dedicated to managing the computer itself, such as the operating system, file management utilities, and disk operating system (or DOS). Without systems software installed in your computers, no instructions would be executed for the tasks needed to be done. Examples: Utility software (antivirus, disk tools), system servers, device drivers, operating systems, windows/graphical user interface (GUI) systems Components of a Computer System SOFTWARE Application Software – Simply referred to as ‘applications’, these are end-user programs that execute specific tasks like report generation, spreadsheet management, running games, sending emails, and online research among other functions. They can be as simple as a calculator or as complex as a video editing software. Examples: MS Office Word, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Edge, Calculator, Minesweeper, Steam Components of a Computer System DATA Consists of individual facts or pieces of information that are used by the computer system to produce information. Data by themselves may not make much sense to a person. The computer’s primary job is to process data in various ways, making them useful. Without data, the computer wouldn’t be able to function properly. Example: The grades of fifty students in one class, all different pieces of data which doesn’t make much sense yet, but when a chart is created from the data, and frequencies are developed. This now makes sense at a glance. Components of a Computer System USERS The operator of a computer is known as ‘peopleware’, other books call them liveware, or human ware. The user commands the computer system to execute on instructions. Some computer systems are complete without a person’s involvement, but not all computers are totally autonomous. Basically, anyone who communicates with a computer system or uses the information it generates. Example: Programmer, Developer, Teacher using Excel, Student using Word Knowing the parts of a computer system allows us, users, to understand better each function of the computer system and our make the experience of using the computer system more efficient.