The 20th century saw the birth of one of the most important tools widely in use today called a computer. Today, computers are used for communication, management, research, drawing and design as well as entertainment.
This 21st century is being referred to as the digital age .
A computer is an electronic device that accepts user input (data) and processes it under the influence of a set of instructions referred to as programs to produce the desired output generally referred to as information.
• Data are the raw facts may not make much meaning to the user.
• Programs are set of instructions that instruct a computer what to do.
• Information is result after data has been processed.
1.1 - Computer Parts
Input – Process - Output
1.2 Computers and their Functions Computer
- An electronic device that receives data and computes high-speed mathematical or logical operations or that assembles, stores, correlates, or otherwise processes and presents information.
A computer has four functions:
1.3 System Software
Does fundamental tasks such as computer boot up and system control.
System software are further classified into:
1. Operating system
2. Utility software
3. Network software
4. Firmware
Operating System
An operating system is a program that manages the computer hardware resources and controls the execution of application programs. Examples are: 1. Microsoft Windows 98/2000/Me/2003/Vista 2. UNIX 3. Linux 4. MacOS
Utility Software
Utility software also called service programs are special programs used to enhance perform both at system and user levels. System level utilities optimizes system performance while application level utilities help in smooth running of application programs. Examples are 1. Norton utility 2. McAfee suites
Network Software
Networking software enables computers and other peripheral devices connected on a network to communicate and share resources. Examples are: 1. Novell Netware 2. UNIX 3. Windows NT based operating systems
Firmware
Firmware, also referred to as stored logic is an integration of both hardware and software on a single silicon chip. These are mostly packaged as ROM chips.
1.4 Advantages of computers
Large storage of data in small amount of space.
Quick and accurate calculations than humans.
Continuously work with repetitive work( contusive environment)
Simulation of dangerous situations.
1.5 Disadvantages
Expensive to introduce.
Health hazards.
Downtime-.
Redundancy in the work place.
It can lead to misuse of information.
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