Chapter 1

Introduction to the World of Computers

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Learning Objectives

Explain why it's essential to learn about computers today. Discuss several ways computers are integrated into our business and personal lives. Define a computer and describe its four primary operations. List some important milestones in computer evolution.

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Learning Objectives, Contd.

Identify the major parts of a computer system, including input, processing, output, storage, and communications hardware. Describe the purpose of a network and what the Internet is. List the five basic types of computers, giving at least one example of each type of computer and stating what that computer might be used for. Discuss the societal impact of computers, including some benefits and risks related to their prominence in our society.
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Overview

This chapter covers:

What computers do and how they work Computer terminology Different categories of computers

Societal impacts of computers

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Computers in Your Life

Computers are prevalent in the home, in the school, in the workplace, and on the go. Most professional jobs and skilled trades heavily depend on the creation, collection, evaluation and dissemination of information. Uses of computers include word processing, e-mail exchange, shopping, research, investments management, playing games and many other applications. Knowledge of computers assists the consumer to purchase the right computer, save money on repairs and use the computer to maximum benefit.
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What Is a Computer and What Does It Do?

A computer is a programmable electronic device that accepts data and performs operations on that data.

Inputentering data into the computer. Processingperforming operations on the data. Outputpresenting the results. Storagesaving data, programs, or output for future use.

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Computers Then and Now

The computer as we know it is a fairly recent invention. The history of computers is often referred to as generations, from pre-computers and early computers (before 1945) to fifth generation computers (now and the future).

Each new generation is characterized by a major technological development.

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Hardware

The physical parts of a computer are collectively known as hardware. Internal hardware is located within the main box (system unit) of the computer. External hardware is located outside the system unit and plug into connectors called ports located on the exterior of the system unit.

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Hardware, Contd.

An input device is used to input data into the computer. A processing device performs calculations and comparisons necessary for processing. The main processing device is the central processing unit (CPU). An output device presents the results to the user. Storage devices are used to save data, programs or output. Communication devices allow the user to communicate with others and access remote information.
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Software

The programs or instructions used to tell the computer hardware what to do. System software allows a computer to operate and run application software. Application software performs specific tasks or applications.

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Data and Information

Data = raw, unorganized facts. Can be in the form of text, graphics, audio, or video.

Information = data that has been processed into a useful form.

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Computer Users and Professionals

Computer users, or end users, are the people who use a computer to obtain information. Programmers are computer professionals whose job it is to write the programs that computers use.

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Computer Networks and the Internet

A computer network links computers together so that users can share hardware, software, and data, as well as electronically communicate with each other. Network servers manage resources on a network. Clients are computers on the network that access resources via the network server. Computer networks are commonly found in businesses, schools, and homes.
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The Internet

The Internet is the largest and most well-known computer network in the world. Individuals connect to the Internet using an Internet service provider (ISP). E-mail and accessing Web pages are two of the most common Internet activities.

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Accessing a Network

Need a modem or network adapter to connect to the network. Software (often built into the operating system) allows you to log on to the network and access resources. Need an ISP and Web browser to access Internet resources. Many networks and Internet connections require a user ID and password to log on to the network.
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Computers to Fit Every Need

Five basic categories

Mobile devices Personal computers Midrange servers Mainframe computers Supercomputers

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Mobile Devices

Very small computing devices. Usually based on a wireless phone or pager. Many can be used to access e-mail and Web pages.

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Personal Computers

Microprocessors allow for the creation of computers small enough to fit on a desk or lap. PC compatiblebased on the original IBM PC; typically run the Windows operating system. Macintosha type of personal computer manufactured by Apple.

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Personal Computers, Contd.

Desktop computerssmall enough to fit on or next to a desk. Can use:

Desktop case Tower case All-in-one case

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Personal Computers, Contd.

Portable PCsdesigned to be carried around.

Notebook computers

Tablet PCs (either slate or convertible)

Handheld computers (pocket computers)

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Personal Computers, Contd.

PCs designed for just network use are referred to as network computers (NCs) or thin clients. Devices designed just for Internet access are called Internet appliances.

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Midrange Servers

Medium-sized computers, also called minicomputers or midrange computers. Fall between microcomputers and mainframes in processing power.

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Mainframe Computers

Standard choice for most large organizations. Specialize in high-volume processing of business transactions.

Also called high-end servers or enterpriseclass servers.

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Supercomputers

Used for applications that have extraordinary demands for processing power. Offer very fast speeds and extreme degrees of accuracy. Commonly created today by connecting hundreds of smaller computers to form a supercomputing cluster.
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Computers and Society

The information age = the prominence of information technology. There are many benefits of a computer-oriented society, including making many tasks in our lives go much faster. Risks include health, security, ethical, and privacy concerns.

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Summary Slide

Computers in your life

What is a computer and what does it do? Computers networks and the Internet Computers to fit every need Computers and society
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