Lesson 2 - Ubiquitous Computer PDF

Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer LESSON 2 – UBIQUITOUS COMPUTERS OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to: differentiate the varieties of computers in terms of processing power discuss how the computer operates discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using...

Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer LESSON 2 – UBIQUITOUS COMPUTERS OBJECTIVES: At the end of the lesson, you should be able to: differentiate the varieties of computers in terms of processing power discuss how the computer operates discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using computers identify the benefits of being a tech-smart. Introduction Did you know that microwave ovens, coffee maker, TV remotes, and electronic toothbrushes are computers? Those items are some familiar appliances on tiny "computers on chips" called microprocessors. They are considered computers. However, we don't call them a computer because the name "computer" may be inadequate. According to John von Neumann, a computer pioneer, the computer should not be called so but rather the "all-purpose machine". It is not, after all, simply a machine for doing calculations. It can be put to any number of uses. In this lesson, we will distinguish between various types of computers based on their processing power, explore the inner workings of a computer by understanding its operational concept, and evaluate the advantages and disadvantages associated with different computer systems. Additionally, we will highlight the advantages of being technologically literate. Types of Computers So, what are the various types of computers? Computers come in different shapes and sizes, which can be generally classified according to their processing power: supercomputers, mainframes, workstations, microcomputers, and microcontrollers. Supercomputers are used in highly specialized situations. These are high-capacity machines with thousands of processors performing more than several quadrillion calculations per second. Super as they are called, have been used for tasks C. F. Salazar 8  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer requiring the processing of enormous volumes of data, such as forecasting weather and modeling molecules. Supercomputers are the most expensive and fastest computers available, and Japan's Fugako is the newly crowned world's fastest supercomputer today. Mainframes, or midsize computers, are used in many large businesses (such as banks and insurance companies) to host the commercial databases, transaction servers, and applications that require a greater degree of security and availability than is commonly found on smaller-scale machines. Despite their predominance in business, these machines are largely invisible to the public. When a business application is accessed through a Web browser, a mainframe computer often performs crucial functions behind the scenes. Workstations are expensive, powerful personal computers that can handle any applications you throw at them. They are valuable tools for designers, engineers, financial analysts, and researchers running demanding applications such as rendering graphics, financial analysis and computations, and digital content creations. They are also usually connected to a network. Apple Mac Pro (2019) and Corsair One Pro i180 are the best workstations of 2020 for Techradar.com. Microcomputers or personal computers are used by individuals and businesses, too. These computers can fit next to a desk or on a desktop or can be carried around. They are either stand-alone machines or connected to a computer network, such as a local area network (LAN). The local area network is composed of PCs and other devices such as printers, connected by a special cable or can be wireless in an office or a building. There are several types of microcomputers: desktop PCs, tower PCs, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, and e-readers. Embedded systems are computers embedded in something other than readily identified computers. These include any systems with microprocessors such as C. F. Salazar 9  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer smart objects like digital washing machines, digital music players, blood pressure monitors, and sensors. How Computers Work: Three Key Concepts All users should understand the three basic principles of computer: 1. Purpose of a computer is to process data into information. Data are raw facts and figures that are processed into information – for example, examinees' scores during board exam Information is data that has been summarized or otherwise transformed for use in decision-making – for example, the average score is used to determine the examinees' performance. 2. Hardware and Software are two different entities. Software, or programs, is a collection of code that drives a computer to perform a related group of tasks. There are two types of software: system software and application software. ▪ System software – are software run by the computer to manage or c control the hardware. Examples: operating system (OS), Basic Input Output System (BIOS), device driver, compilers and associated programs ▪ Application software – are software that are related to a specific real-life situation in accomplishing a specific task. We encounter this type of software daily, and the smartphone industry calls it "apps." Examples: office software, database software, communication software, entertainment software, customized software C. F. Salazar 10  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer 3. There are five basic operations of a computer. All computers use the same five basic operations: (1) input, (2) processing, (3) storage, (4) output, and (5) communications. ▪ Input operation – input is whatever is put in ("input") to a computer system. Input can be nearly any kind of data – letters, numbers, symbols, colors, temperatures, sounds, or whatever raw material needs processing. Input devices are used in this operation, such as a keyboard, mouse, scanner, and microphone. ▪ Processing operation: Processing is the manipulation a computer does to transform data into information. The processing is done by the central processing unit or CPU – a chip device consisting of electronic circuitry that executes instructions to process data. ▪ Storage operation: Storage is a mechanism that enables a computer to retain data, either temporarily or permanently. It's of two types: primary storage and secondary storage. Primary storage, or memory, is the internal computer circuitry (chips) that temporarily holds data waiting to be processed. Secondary storage or simply storage refers to the devices and media that store data or information permanently. Examples: flash drive, hard disk, and compact disk. ▪ Output operation: Output is the result of processing. These are whatever is put out of the computer system. Output has two types: softcopy and hardcopy. Softcopy is displayed on the screen while hardcopy is printed usually on paper. ▪ Communication operation: Most computers have communication ability which extends the power of a computer. With wired or C. F. Salazar 11  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer wireless connections, data may be input from afar, processed in a remote area, stored in several different locations, and output in yet other places. Advantages and Disadvantages of Computers Technology can either be a gift or a curse to humans. Technology is a gift when it provides convenience and is used ethically. However, it can be considered a curse if it threatens humans and is used inappropriately. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of computer technology. Advantages Computers provide numerous benefits, such as: 1. Computers can retain even more data and information than human brains. With a higher capacity for more data, more information can be incorporated into the decision-making algorithm of the computer, leading to better results. 2. Computer can process information much faster than a human brain, so decision-making can be made faster too. More than that, computers provide more accurate results. 3. Since computers are designed to provide information fast, people can have greater productivity and save time. 4. A well-tuned computer can do repetitive tasks without growing bored or tired. 5. Computers are sources of entertainment in many forms. Disadvantages Unfortunately, computers have disadvantages, too. 1. Computers are expensive. The more data and information it can store, the more expensive it is. The licenses of software installed come at a high price, too. 2. Using a poses health hazards. Research studies have shown that excessive computer use can result in several medical problems, such as back pain, eye C. F. Salazar 12  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer strain, carpal tunnel syndrome, and repetitive strain injury (RSI). With good ergonomics practices, these health risks could be avoided or reduced. 3. Using computers can put security in jeopardy. The presence of malware can destroy essential files, steal data, or allow a hacker to access your computer without your knowledge. 4. Because the computer has high entertainment value, it is easy for it to distract people and stop them from being productive. 5. Computers have an impact on the environment. They consume a lot of electricity. Moreover, its components are composed of non-biodegradable materials. So proper disposal must be strictly observed. Being a Tech Smart Knowing the basics of information technology is beneficial nowadays. In other words, it makes you a practical techie (a short form for tech-savvy) somehow. According to Williams and Stacey (2015), these benefits are: Make better buying decisions ▪ No matter how much prices on computers and portable devices go down, you will always have to make a sound judgment about quality and usefulness when buying services, equipment, and software, including "apps" (short for applications). Fix ordinary computer problems ▪ Being knowledgeable about computers can give you the confidence to deal with the continual challenges that arise with computers such as replacing a printer's cartridge or installing a software upgrade. Upgrade your equipment and integrate new technology ▪ Technology changes so fast, and new technologies are being developed constantly. A knowledgeable user learns under what conditions to upgrade, how to do so, and when to buy new ones. Use the Internet effectively ▪ There is a plethora of data on the Internet and other online sources, so finding the correct information can be time-consuming. If you know the right approach to this concern, you can easily access information. C. F. Salazar 13  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer Protect yourself against online dangers ▪ Understanding online world threats and risks can help you avoid being a victim of scammers, hackers, and identity thieves. Know what kind of technological uses can advance your career ▪ Being informed about different devices and applications gives you an edge in accomplishing tasks effectively in whatever field you will be enjoined. ACTIVITY 2.1 - REFLECTION Write on your blog. In not less than 50 words, explain if computer technology is a gift or a curse. Activity 2.2 Discuss the diagram below in not less than 50 words. __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________ C. F. Salazar 14  Lesson 2 – Ubiquitous Computer REFERENCES Japanese supercomputer, crowned world's fastest, is fighting coronavirus. (June 23, 2020). Retrieved from https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-53147684 What is a mainframe? It's a style of computing. (n.d.) Retrieved from https://www.ibm.com/support/knowledgecenter/en/zosbasics/com.ibm.zos.zmainframe/zc onc_whatismainframe.htm Best workstations of 2020: Powerful PCs for professionals.(2020). Retrieved from https://www.techradar.com/best/best-workstations-of-2020-powerful-pcs-for- professionals Storage. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.techopedia.com/definition/1115/storage Williams, B.K. and Sawyer, S.C. (2015). Using Information Technology: A practical Introduction to Computers and Communications (11th Edition). McGraw-Hill Education. C. F. Salazar 15