Computers & Computer Systems, Exams of Computer Science

Download Computers & Computer Systems and more Exams Computer Science in PDF only on Docsity!

Computers &

Computer

Systems

Lesson 1

Computing Fundamentals

A World of Computers

• Computer Literacy - Knowledge and understanding of computers and their uses

Components of a Computer

• Input Devices
• System Unit

(Processor and

Memory)

• Output

Devices

• Storage

Devices

Input Devices

• Input Device – any hardware component that allows you to enter data and instructions into a computer
• Examples:
  • Keyboard
  • Mouse
  • Audio Input
  • Web Cam
  • Scanner
  • Camera

Processor

• Processor – Interprets and carries out the

basic instructions that operate a

computer; Central Processing Unit (CPU)

or the brains of the computer

• Control Unit – directs and coordinates

most of the operations in the computer;

the boss

• Arithmetic/Logic Unit (ALU) – performs

arithmetic, comparison, and other

operations

Units of Speed

Unit Characters

Hertz Approx. 1 character

Kilohertz Approx. 1,000 characters

Megahertz Approx. 1,000,000 characters

Gigahertz Approx. 1,000,000,000 characters

Terahertz Approx. 1,000,000,000,000 characters

Units of Memory

Unit Character

Byte Approx. 1 character

Kilobyte Approx. 1,000 characters

Megabyte Approx. 1,000,000 characters

Gigabyte Approx. 1,000,000,000 characters

Terabyte Approx. 1,000,000,000,000 characters

Output Devices

• Output Devices – Hardware components that convey info to one or more people
• Examples:
  • Monitors
    • CRT
    • LCD panel
    • Gas plasma display
  • Printers (dpi/ppm)
    • Laser
    • Inkjet
  • Speakers

Identifying Types of Storage Devices

Storage Device Description Examples

Magnetic Discs Use magnetic particles to store items on a disk’s surface

Hard disks, magnetic tape, 3½ inch & ZIP disks

Optical Storage Devices

Use laser technology to read and write data on silver platters

CDs and DVDs

Solid-State Storage Media

Removable medium that uses integrated circuits to process

Miniature mobile storage media, USB flash drive

Network Drives Drive located on a computer other than the user’s local system

Components of a Computer

Classifying Computers

Types Definition Examples

Mobile Devices

Generally fit in the palm of your hand

Calculators, smart phones, cell phones, handheld games, electronic organizers, & PDAs

Classifying Computers

Types Definition Examples

Tablet PC A personal computer similar in size and thickness to a notepad

Tablet Devices

Use an embedded operating system, but do not support full feature operating systems like Tablet PCs

Classifying Computers

Types Definition Examples

Embedded Computers

Found in devices to perform specific tasks

Digital watch, MP3 player, appliances, etc.

Portable music/ media players

Store and play back music and videos

MP3 players and portable DVD players

Classifying Computers

Types Definition Examples

Computer game systems

Specialized computers used to play games

Electronic book readers

Displays an electronic version of a traditional print book