What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic device or machine that processes information. It takes in raw data (input), stores it, processes it, and then outputs the results. It is essentially an information processor.
The Four Main Functions (By Analogy)
Imagine a very skilled friend who is great at math. This friend is like a computer:
- Input: The math problems she receives in her letterbox are the input.
- Memory/Storage: The pile of letters on her desk, waiting to be solved, is the memory.
- Processing: Her brain, which solves the problems, is the processor (CPU).
- Output: The finished solutions she puts in her out-tray are the output.
Examples of Components for Each Function
- Input Devices: Keyboard, mouse, microphone. These are used to enter data and instructions.
- Memory/Storage Devices: Hard drives, flash memory cards.
- Processing Unit: The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the heart or "brain" of the computer.
- Output Devices: Monitors, speakers, printers. These are used to display the results.
Computer Fundamentals
Memory Types
- Temporary Memory (RAM): Used to store data temporarily *during* processing.
- Permanent Memory (ROM): Used to store basic instructions for the computer that it needs to start up.
Types of Computers
- Microcomputer: A small, low-cost computer designed for a single user (e.g., a desktop PC).
- Minicomputer: Used as a server, serving multiple users.
- Supercomputer: The most powerful computers, used for large and complex calculations (e.g., weather forecasting).
Generations of Computers
- First Generation: Used vacuum tubes. They were large and consumed a lot of power.
- Second Generation: Used transistors, which were smaller, faster, and more reliable than vacuum tubes.
- Third Generation: Used integrated circuits (ICs), placing many transistors on a single chip.
- Fourth Generation: Introduced microprocessors, where the entire CPU is on a single chip, leading to personal computers.
IT Terminology (Unit 1)
- Application (App)
- A software program that allows a user to perform specific tasks such as word processing, email, or database management.
- Hardware
- The physical items that make up a computer, such as components or peripherals.
- Software
- Any program designed to run on a computer.
- Component
- Any internal device in a computer like the main hard disk or the motherboard.
- Peripheral
- An external accessory to the computer, such as a printer or a scanner.
- Computer
- A digital electronic device that stores and processes information.
- Data
- Raw information of any kind.
- Database
- An organized electronic collection of information, consisting of rows, columns, indexes, and keys.
- Internet
- The largest known public network in the world, connecting millions of computers globally.
- Network
- A group of interconnected computers that share resources.
Software Vocabulary (Unit 2)
- Abort
- To terminate a program or process before it completes.
- Bug
- An error or flaw in a computer program caused by a programming mistake.
- Crash
- A computer failure that stops an application or freezes the operating system.
- Error
- An incorrect action resulting from bad judgment, ignorance, or inattention.
- Execute
- To start a program on a computer.
- Open Source
- Software that distributes its source code, allowing programmers to modify and change the original software.
- Closed Source
- Software whose licenses restrict users from seeing, modifying, or redistributing the source code.
- Compatible
- Able to be used without modification.
- End User
- The person who uses a product or service on a computer.
- Programmer
- The person who writes or modifies software.
- Feature
- Something a computer program is supposed to do; often a reason to buy or upgrade software.
- Restriction
- A rule or law that limits access to something.
How to Install a Computer
It is cheaper to install a computer by yourself than to purchase one that is already built. Installing it yourself is also advantageous as you will learn how the computer works and can repair it if you have problems.
- Step 1: Before beginning, make sure that all the computer parts that you have are compatible with each other.
- Step 2: Get your motherboard. Be careful in handling the motherboard so as not to damage it. Connect the CPU's pins to the motherboard.
- Step 3: Install the CPU fan on your motherboard. This device cools the computer down to avoid overheating. Don't install the motherboard yet.
- Step 4: After installing the fan, install the RAM in its place on the motherboard. The RAM is the memory. Secure the RAM chip in place by using the clips.
- Step 5: Now you have installed the major components. After installing the major components of the computer, install the motherboard inside the computer case. Secure the motherboard in place by using the screws and the screwdriver.
- Step 6: After you have secured the motherboard in place, you can install the power source. Connect a wire to the motherboard and to other devices inside the case.
- Step 7: Install the hard drive. There is a slot on the computer case designed to hold the hard drive. You cannot install the hard drive until you have secured the motherboard.
- Step 8: Finally, install the CD-ROM drive. Slide the CD-ROM drive on its slot and connect the power source cable to the CD-ROM drive.
Technical English Quiz (94 Questions)
Test your knowledge with 94 questions covering all the definitions, concepts, and readings from your course material.