Computer Concepts

Computer Concepts – Illustrated 8th edition Objectives * Define computers *Explore how computers work *Categorize computers *Examine personal computers *Introduce software *Introduce the Internet and the Web *Understand email basics Defining Computers Computer * An electronic device that: * Accepts input * Processes data * Stores data * Produces output * Uses instructions in stored programs Personal computer (PC) Computer system includes: * Hardware Electronic and mechanical parts of the computer * Peripheral devices Hardware that can be added to a computer system to expand what a computer can do * Software Computer program that tells the computer how to perform tasks Input devices: keyboard, mouse, etc. Output devices: monitor, printer, speakers, etc. Digitization: Converting text, numbers, sound, photos, and video into data that can be processed by digital devices Digital convergence: Blending several technologies into a single product Exploring How Computers Work Turning on a computer: May need to enter user ID and password Computer program or program: Instructions that tell a computer how to carry out processing tasks

Central processing unit (CPU): Main processor in a computer Memory: temporarily holds data Storage: holds data on a permanent basis File: named collection of data that exists on a storage medium Storage medium: hard disk, CD, DVD, flash drive, etc. Turning off a computer: * Microsoft Windows computer: use Start button * Apple Macintosh computer: use Apple icon

Categorizing Computers
Personal computers include: * Desktop computers * Portable computers * Notebook computers (sometimes called laptop computers) * Netbooks * Tablet computers
Handheld computer
A personal digital assistant (PDA) with enhanced features

Workstations