Computer Basics PDF

# Computer Basics ## Hardware - **Netzteil:** - Provides power to all of the computer's components. - Crucial for stability and quality. - **Mainboard:** - Central hub connecting all components. - Provides connections (USB, audio) and a platform for the CPU and RAM. - Different...

# Computer Basics ## Hardware - **Netzteil:** - Provides power to all of the computer's components. - Crucial for stability and quality. - **Mainboard:** - Central hub connecting all components. - Provides connections (USB, audio) and a platform for the CPU and RAM. - Different form factors (ITX, Micro-ATX, ATX) determine the size of the case and power supply. - **Processor:** - Also known as the CPU (Central Processing Unit), it performs all calculations. - Key factor in computer speed. - Choose from AMD and Intel, with the choice dependent on the motherboard platform. - Typically cooled by a heat sink to dissipate heat. - **RAM:** - Also known as Random Access Memory, it is the main memory of the CPU. - Stores temporary data for programs and calculations. - Located near the CPU socket on the motherboard for faster access. - **Graphics Card** - Also known as GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), it is crucial for gamers. - Responsible for displaying images on the screen. - The speed and memory size of the graphics card are important for gaming performance. - Some newer PCs have the GPU integrated directly into the CPU. - **Hard Disk Drive (HDD)** - Traditional storage medium for computers. - Stores data. - Mechanical, meaning it has moving parts, which can make it slower and louder than SSDs. - **Solid State Drive (SSD)** - Newer storage medium. - Faster and quieter than HDDs. - **Optical Drive** (CD/DVD/BluRay) - Allows computers to read and write data to optical discs like CDs, DVDs, and BluRay discs. ## Software ### Artificial Intelligence - **Are AI Programs Objective?** - No, AI programs are not inherently objective. - Their decisions are based on the training data and algorithms used. - These can contain human biases. - Example: A recruitment AI could discriminate against women if it's trained on historical data that favors men. ### Types of AI - **Artificial Intelligence (AI)** - Mimics human intelligence to perform tasks. -**Machine Learning (ML)** - Uses statistical methods to learn from data without explicit programming. - **Deep Learning (DL)** - Utilizes neural networks to allow the algorithm to evolve independently. ### Search Engines and AI - **Search Engines:** - Can operate without AI but often use it to personalize results. - AI helps filter results based on user preferences. - AI uses click rates to determine the quality of search results. - AI uses data analysis to understand user preferences and tailor search results. ### The EVA Principle - **The EVA principle (Input, Processing, Output)** is a foundation of computer processing: - **Input:** Information is entered into the computer (e.g., typing, clicking). - **Processing:** The computer processes the information. - **Output:** The result of the processing is displayed (e.g., on the screen, printed, or sent to a file). ### Common AI Features - AI-powered programs often have these features: - Automate complex tasks. - Process natural language. - Analyze images and videos. - Analyze large amounts of data to identify patterns and predict outcomes. - Simulate and make decisions. ### Strong AI - **Strong AI:** Hypothetical artificial intelligence that mimics human thought processes entirely. - General problem-solving abilities. - Able to acquire new knowledge and adapt to new information. - Potential for self-awareness. - Currently, strong AI exists only in science fiction (e.g., HAL 9000 from 2001: A Space Odyssey). - Aim is to achieve human-level intelligence and awareness. ### Milestones in computing * 1940s: First computers * 1956: Birth of Artificial Intelligence as a field of study * 1969: The Internet * 1970s: Touch screens * 1981: The personal computer (PC) * 1983: Mobile phones * 1991: World Wide Web and Web pages * 1993: Web browsers (Mosaic) * 1998: Google search engine * 1999: The "Internet of Things" (IoT) * 2006: Cloud Computing * 2007: The iPhone * 2009 Bitcoin