Theory Notes 2013 14
Introduction to Computers
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science or Computer Studies is the study of how a computer works from inside, how it connects with other computers and how information is spread from one place to another through technology.
HARDWARE REQUIRED IN A COMPUTER SYSTEM
What is a computer?
A computer is a hardware machine which under the control of software performs instructions to do an action. The computer main function is to process data.
What is hardware?
Hardware are all the devices which one can physically touch ex: monitor, mouse, keyboard.
Types of Computers:
Super Computers: Very large computers which allow over 5000 users to work at the same time. These computers are used by very large companies.
Main Frames: Similar to super computers but are smaller in size. They allow a smaller number of users to work at the same time.
1
Imm Con School Tarxien - Computer Studies
This picture is showing a medium size main frame computer
Mini Computers: A smaller main frame which allows about 500 users to work at the same time.
Work stations: A powerful desktop which is often used for scientific purposes and research or by large companies to store information. These computers are Single Users (one user only)
Micro computers: The most common type of computers used by us at home or at work.
These include: o Desktops o Laptops o Notebooks o PDAs
Micro controllers: (Also known as Special Purpose Computers) The smallest type of computers which are often installed in domestic appliances such as: o Fridges o Televisions o Microwaves o Air conditioners o Washing Machines
2
Imm Con School Tarxien - Computer Studies
SOFTWARE REQUIRED IN A COMPUTER SYSTEM
What is a program?
A program is a set of instructions which command the computer to do a particular task. These instructions form up the software which runs the machine. What is software?
Software are all the data and programs found in every computer to manage and control all the tasks in a system.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science or Computer Studies is the study of how a computer works from inside, how it connects with other computers and how information is spread from one place to another through technology.
HARDWARE REQUIRED IN A COMPUTER SYSTEM
What is a computer?
A computer is a hardware machine which under the control of software performs instructions to do an action. The computer main function is to process data.
What is hardware?
Hardware are all the devices which one can physically touch ex: monitor, mouse, keyboard.
Types of Computers:
Super Computers: Very large computers which allow over 5000 users to work at the same time. These computers are used by very large companies.
Main Frames: Similar to super computers but are smaller in size. They allow a smaller number of users to work at the same time.
1
Imm Con School Tarxien - Computer Studies
This picture is showing a medium size main frame computer
Mini Computers: A smaller main frame which allows about 500 users to work at the same time.
Work stations: A powerful desktop which is often used for scientific purposes and research or by large companies to store information. These computers are Single Users (one user only)
Micro computers: The most common type of computers used by us at home or at work.
These include: o Desktops o Laptops o Notebooks o PDAs
Micro controllers: (Also known as Special Purpose Computers) The smallest type of computers which are often installed in domestic appliances such as: o Fridges o Televisions o Microwaves o Air conditioners o Washing Machines
2
Imm Con School Tarxien - Computer Studies
SOFTWARE REQUIRED IN A COMPUTER SYSTEM
What is a program?
A program is a set of instructions which command the computer to do a particular task. These instructions form up the software which runs the machine. What is software?
Software are all the data and programs found in every computer to manage and control all the tasks in a system.