Introduction - First day

What is a computer?

A machine that can perform very simple tasks according to specific instructions.

A computer is an electronic machine, operating under the control of instructions stored in its memory. That can accept data, manipulate the data according to specified rules, procedure results, and store the results for future use.

What causes the computer work?

1. Hardware is the electric, electronic, mechanical equipment

• Input - any hardware that allows user to enter data ad instructions into a computer (i.e. keyboard, mouse, scanner, touch screen, touch pad, microphone)
• Output - any hardware that convey information to a user (i.e. monitor [flat panel, flat screen], printer [laser, inkjet], speaker)
• Storage Device - any hardware that holds data, instructions, and information for future use (i.e. floppy disk, CD, hard disk, DVD, USB Flash Drive)
• Processor - (CPU) the electronic device that interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate the computer (measuring unit: GHtz)
• Memory - is a temporary holding place for data and instructions (measuring unit in bytes)

2. Software (program) is the series of instructions that tells the hardware what to do.

• System Software - controls the operations of the computer and its devices.
  • Operating system is a set of programs containing instructions that coordinate all the activities among computer hardware devices (Windows family, Unix, Linux, IMB os/2, MAC OS)
  • Utility program performs a specific task usually related to managing a computer, its devices or its programs (anti-virus programs, uninstaller, firewall)
• Application Software - Programs that performs specific tasks for the user.
  • Word processing software allows users to create and manipulate documents that contains text and graphics (i.e. Microsoft Word, Corel WordPerfect, Lotus Word Pro)
  • Spreadsheet software can organize data in rows and columns and perform calculations on the data. (i.e. Microsoft Excel, Corel Quattro Pro, Lotus 1-2-3)
  • Database software allows user to create, access, and manage a database [a collection of data organized in a manner that allows access, retrieval, and use of that data](i.e. Microsoft Access, Corel Paradox, Lotus Approach, Oracle)
  • Browser - allows user to access and view Web pages on the Internet (i.e. Netscape Navigator, Microsoft Internet Explorer, Mosaic, Opera)
• User is someone that uses the computer.