Computer Fundamentals
Computer Fundamentals Computer is an electronic device that manipulates data according to set of instructions and produce a meaningful result. • Computers are not very intelligent devices, but they handle instructions flawlessly and fast. • They must follow explicit directions from both user and computer programmer. • Computers are really nothing more than a very powerful calculator with some great accessories. • Applications like word processing and games are just a very complex math problem. A computer is an electronic device that stores, retrieves, and processes data, and can be programmed with instructions. A computer is composed of hardware and software, and can exist in a variety of sizes and configurations.
Capabilities of a Computer 1. The computer has the ability to perform arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc. 2. The computer also performed logical operations. 3. The computer has the ability to store and retrieve information because it has a storage device. 4. The computer has the ability to process information at a very high speed (1 millisecond) 5. The computer can direct itself in a predetermined manner without human intervention.
Limitations of Computer 1. The computer does not think for you. 2. The computer cannot correct inaccurate data 3. The computer is subject to breakdown.
Hardware and Software The term hardware refers to the physical components of your computer such as the system unit, mouse, keyboard, monitor, etc. The software is the instruction that makes the computer work. Software is held either on your computer hard disk, CD-ROM, DVD or on a diskette (floppy disk) and is loaded from the disk into the computers RAM (Random Access Memory), as and when required.
Two Types of Computer 1. Mini and Mainframe Computers Very powerful, used by large organizations such as banks to control the entire business operation.
Capabilities of a Computer 1. The computer has the ability to perform arithmetic operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, etc. 2. The computer also performed logical operations. 3. The computer has the ability to store and retrieve information because it has a storage device. 4. The computer has the ability to process information at a very high speed (1 millisecond) 5. The computer can direct itself in a predetermined manner without human intervention.
Limitations of Computer 1. The computer does not think for you. 2. The computer cannot correct inaccurate data 3. The computer is subject to breakdown.
Hardware and Software The term hardware refers to the physical components of your computer such as the system unit, mouse, keyboard, monitor, etc. The software is the instruction that makes the computer work. Software is held either on your computer hard disk, CD-ROM, DVD or on a diskette (floppy disk) and is loaded from the disk into the computers RAM (Random Access Memory), as and when required.
Two Types of Computer 1. Mini and Mainframe Computers Very powerful, used by large organizations such as banks to control the entire business operation.