COMPUTER BASICS INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS CONTENTS: THE ROLE OF COMPUTERS PARTS OF A COMPUTER USING A COMPUTER USING A KEYBOARD USING

USING A MOUSE SORT GAME: INPUT, OUTPUT, AND STORAGE DEVICES INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS A computer is an electronic device used to store and process information. It plays a major role in our lives. You use computers in education and research. You also use them for broadcasting news, receiving and sending messages to family and friends, making presentations, maintaining official and personal records, making weather forecasts, and for various other business and recreation activities. By using computers, you save a lot of time, effort, and money. Lesson Objec !"es: After completing this lesson, you will be able to !escribe the importance of computers in today"s world. Identify the main parts of a computer. Identify the steps for starting a computer. Identify the different groups of keys on a keyboard. #erform different tasks by using a mouse. T#e Ro$e o% Co&'( e)s $omputers play a major role in our daily lives. %hey are used in industries, schools, government offices, and shops. You can use computers to communicate with your family and friends, create a household budget, book travel and movie tickets, or manage your business. In business and industry, you use computers to maintain accounts, create personnel records, track inventory, prepare presentations and reports, manage projects, and communicate by e&mail. You can use computers to design any type of publication ranging from simple newsletters to fashion maga'ines, marketing materials, books, or newspapers. In the field of education, trainers can use computers to deliver training through audio&visual learning aids, maintain student records to track performance, search for information on different topics, and create or submit assignments. In government organi'ations, you use computers to organi'e information by storing and updating records. $omputers are also used for providing services to citi'ens. (or e)ample, you can view information on current policies and government issues on a computer. In the field of medicine, doctors use computers to review medical records of patients. !octors also use computers to find information about the latest drugs available to treat a disease. !octors can also use computer technology to discuss and share information about various diseases. You can use computers to view the details of your bank account. %raders use computer technology to get instant information on stock markets, to trade stocks, and to manage investments.

*cientist use computers for scientific research, and to gather and analy'e information. (or e)ample, they use computers to view images from space and to publish information on their recent research. You can also use computers to create drawings and paintings. #hotographers use computers to edit and enhance pictures. +riters use computers to write content for their books and to also create illustrations. By using computers, writers can make changes in the content easily and save a lot of time. In the field of entertainment, you can use computers to listen to music, watch movies, store and print photographs, send greetings, and play games. P*) s o% * Co&'( e) A computer has various parts, and each part performs a specific function. P*) s *n+ Desc)!' !on Input !evices You use input devices to provide information to a computer, such as typing a letter or giving instructions to a computer to perform a task. *ome e)amples of input devices are described in the following list & ,ouse A device that you use to interact with items displayed on the computer screen. A standard mouse has a left and a right button. You use the left button to select items and provide instructions by clicking an active area on the screen. You use the right button to display commonly used menu items on the screen. & -eyboard A set of keys that resembles a typewriter keyboard. You use the keyboard to type te)t, such as letters or numbers into the computer. & ,icrophone A device that you can use to talk to people in different parts of the world. You can record sound into the computer by using a microphone. You can also use a microphone to record your speech and let the computer convert it into te)t. & *canner A device that is similar to a photocopy machine. You can use this device to transfer an e)act copy of a photograph or document into a computer. A scanner reads the page and translates it into a digital format, which a computer can read. (or e)ample, you can scan photographs of your family using a scanner. & +ebcam A device that is similar to a video camera. It allows you to capture and send the live pictures to the other user. (or e)ample, a webcam allows your friends and family to see you when communicating with them. .utput !evices You use output devices to get feedback from a computer after it performs a task. *ome e)amples of output devices are described in the following list. & ,onitor A device that is similar to a television. It is used to display information, such as te)t and graphics, on the computer. & #rinter A device that you use to transfer te)t and images from a computer to a paper or to another medium, such as transparency film. You can use a printer to create a paper copy of whatever you see on your monitor. & *peaker/0eadphone !evices that allow you to hear sounds. *peakers may either be e)ternal or built into the computer.

$entral #rocessing 1nit and ,emory %he central processing unit 2$#13 is a device that interprets and runs the commands that you give to the computer. It is the control unit of a computer. %he $#1 is also referred to as the processor. ,emory is where information is stored and retrieved by the $#1. %here are two main types of memory. & 4andom Access ,emory 24A,3 It is the main memory and allows you to temporarily store commands and data. %he $#1 reads data and commands from 4A, to perform specific tasks. 4A, is volatile, which means it is available only while the computer is turned on. %he contents of 4A, must be copied to a storage device if you want to save the data in the 4A,. & 4ead .nly ,emory 24.,3 It is the memory that retains its contents even after the computer is turned off. 4., is nonvolatile, or permanent, memory that is commonly used to store commands, such as the commands that check whether everything is working properly.

,other board %he motherboard is the main circuit board inside the computer. It has tiny electronic circuits and other components on it. A motherboard connects input, output, and processing devices together and tells the $#1 how to run. .ther components on the motherboard include the video card, the sound card, and the circuits that allow the computer to communicate with devices like the printer. %he motherboard is sometimes called a system board. 5)pansion $ards An e,'*ns!on c*)+ is a circuit board that can be attached to the motherboard to add features such as video display and audio capability to your computer. An e)pansion card either improves the performance of your computer or enhances its features. 5)pansion cards are also called e)pansion boards. *ome types of e)pansion cards are described in the following list. & V!+eo C*)+ It is connected to the computer monitor and is used to display information on the monitor. & Ne -o). In e)%*ce C*)+ /NIC0 It allows the computer to be connected to other computers so that information can be e)changed between them. & So(n+ C*)+ It converts audio signals from a microphone, audio tape, or some other source to digital signals, which can be stored as a computer audio file. *ound cards also convert computer audio files to electrical signals, which you can play through a speaker or a headphone. %he microphone and the speakers or the headphones connect to the sound card. *torage !evices You use storage devices to store computer information. *torage devices come in many forms. *ome e)amples are hard drive or disk, $!&4.,, floppy disk, and !6!& 4.,. *torage devices can be divided into two types, internal storage devices and e)ternal storage devices. *ome common storage devices are described in the following list. & 0ard !isk A magnetic disk that is usually the main storage device on most computers. It can be a e)ternal or an interval device.

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(loppy !isk A portable storage device that allows you to store a small amount of data. A disadvantage of this disk is that it can be easily damaged by heat, dust, or magnetic fields. $!&4., A portable storage medium that allows you to store 788 times more data than on a floppy disk. It is less prone to damage than a floppy disk. !6!&4., A portable storage medium that is similar to a $!&4.,9 however, it can store larger amounts of data than a floppy disk or a $!&4.,, A !6!& 4., is commonly used to store movies and videos.

#orts and $onnections A port is a channel through which data is transferred between input/output devices and the processor. %here are several types of ports that you can use to connect the computer to e)ternal devices and networks. *ome types of ports are described in the following list. & 1niversal *erial Bus 21*B3 #ort You use this to connect peripheral devices such as a mouse, a modem, a keyboard, or a printer to a computer. & (ire+ire You use this to connect devices such as a digital camera. It is faster than the 1*B. & :etwork #ort You use this to connect a computer to other computers to e)change information between the computers. & #arallel #ort and *erial #ort You use these ports to connect printers and other devices to a personal computer. 0owever, the 1*B is now the preferred method for connecting peripheral devices because it is faster and easier to use. & !isplay Adapter You connect a monitor to the display adapter on your computer. %he display adapter generates the video signal received from the computer, and sends it to a monitor through a cable. %he display adapter may be on the motherboard, or on an e)pansion card. & #ower %he motherboard and other components inside a computer use direct current 2!$3. A power supply takes the alternating current 2A$3 from the wall outlet and converts it into !$ power. Us!n1 * Co&'( e) %o turn on a computer, press the power button on the system unit. +hen you turn on the computer, lights on the keyboard may blink briefly and you may also hear a beep. %his is an indication that the power&on self test 2#.*%3 has started. %he computer performs a se;uence of ;uick te)ts to check whether the motherboard, memory, hard drive, and other components are working. If you hear a series of beeps, the monitor may display a message indicating that a component is not functioning. (or e)ample, if the keyboard cable is not attached, an error message may report that there is no keyboard detected. After #.*%, the computer starts the operating system, and then displays the logon screen. You now log on to the ,icrosoft +indows <# operating system. %he operating system allows you to instruct the computer what to do after you have turned it on.

%he operating system controls the computer"s hardware and also manages the computer"s operations and tasks, such as logging on, logging off, and shutting down. (or e)ample, to log on to +indows <#, you need to type your user name and password. %he settings for the user account are applied and you are now logged on to +indows <#. After you log on, you can perform various tasks, such a creating a new file or modifying an e)isting file. After performing the re;uired tasks, you need to save the changes you made to the file. You can then log off from +indows <#. %o log off, you need to click *tart, and then click =og .ff. %o securely turn off your computer, you must shut down +indow <#. %o do this, you need to click *tart, and then, at the bottom of the *tart menu, click *hut !own. You can end your +indows <# session by clicking .- in the *hut !own +indows dialog bo). If you encounter problems while using the compute, you can choose the 4estart option to restart the computer. %o do this, click 4estart in the *hut !own +indows dialog bo). .n most computer you should never use the actual power button on the front of the system unit to turn off the computer unless it stops responding. Us!n1 * Ke2bo*)+ %he keyboard is an input device you use for typing commands or te)t into a computer %he different types of keys on a standard keyboard are listed below & Alphanumeric -eys %hese keys are used for entering letters and numbers & *pecial -eys -eys such as $ontrol 2$%4=3, *0I(%, *#A$5BA4, A=%, $A#* =.$-, and %AB are special keys perform special functions depending on when and where they are used. & #unctuation -eys #unctuation keys include keys for punctuation marks, such as colon 2 3, semicolon 293, ;uestion mark 2>3, single ;uotation marks 2? "3, and double ;uotation marks 2@ A3. & $ommand -eys -eys such as I:*54% 2I:*3, !5=5%5 2!5=3, and BA$-*#A$5 are command keys. You use these keys to insert and delete te)t and objects. You can turn the I:*54% key either .: or .((. +hen turned .:, the I:*54% key helps you overwrite characters to the right of the insertion point. +hen turned .((, the I:*54% key helps you enter te)t or characters to the right of the insertion point, without overwriting this te)t or characters. An insertion point is the blinking vertical line that indicates the location at which the inserted te)t appears. %he !5=5%5 key is used to remove typed te)t, characters, and other objects on the right side of the insertion point. %he BA$-*#A$5 key is used to remove typed te)t, characters, and other objects on the left side of the insertion point. Note: The function of the DELETE and the BACKSPACE keys may vary dependin on the type of computer you are usin ! & 5:%54 or 45%14: -ey %he label on this key can be either 5:%54 or 45%14:, depending on the brand of computer that you are using. You use the 5:%54 or the 45%14: key to move the insertion point to the beginning of a new line. In some programs, it is used to send commands and to confirm a task on a computer. :avigation -eys -eys such as the arrow keys, 0.,5, 5:!, #AB5 1#, and #AB5 !.+:, are navigation keys. You use the arrow keys to move the

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insertion point up, down, right, and left. %he 0.,5 key is used to move the cursor to the left end of a line of te)t or the top of a document. %he 5:! key, in contrast, moves the cursor to the end of a line or a file, depending on the program. %he #AB5 1# key is used to move one page up and #AB5 !.+: key is used to move one page down while viewing a document. %he functions of #AB5 1# and #AB5 !.+: keys differ form program to program. (unction -eys -eys labeled from (C to (CD are function keys. You use them to perform specific functions. %heir functions differ from program to program. %he function of the (C key in most programs is to access the help file associated with a program. *ome keyboards may have fewer function keys. :umeric -eypad :ot all keyboards have a numeric keyboard. If available, this is a separate set of keys with numbers from 8 to E, the decimal point, special characters, and navigation symbols. %he :1, =.$- key on this keypad allows you to switch between the numeric and the navigation keys. +indows -ey %he key between the $%4= key and the A=% key is the +indows key. It has the ,icrosoft =ogo or the +indows flag. %his key is used to open the *tart ,enu, or is used in combination with a second key to perform common +indows tasks. %he e)act use of the +indows key may vary from program to program.

Note: Different key"oards have different key #ayouts! Therefore$ the features of the keys may differ! Us!n1 * Mo(se A mouse is a small device that you can use to move, select, and often times displayed on your monitor. %he mouse is usually kept on the desk ne)t to the keyboard. ,ost mouse devices have at least two buttons, left and right. ,ost of the actions are performed by clicking the left button. %he right button is used for specific functions. *ome advanced types of mouse devices provide additional buttons to speed up common tasks, such as scrolling te)t. As you move the mouse on your desk, a pointer moves correspondingly on your screen. %he mouse allows you to select an item on the screen. As you move the pointer over different areas of the screen, the items or the pointer change. %hese changes indicate that you can click an item to open it, or see more of its options. You can open an item by moving the pointer to it, and clicking the left mouse button twice. In a document, you can use the mouse to select a position to start typing. You need to position the pointer in the document, click where you want to insert te)t, and then use your keyboard to begin typing. %o move an item, you need to click it, and then holding the mouse button down, move the item to a different location. After you move the item to the new location, you release the mouse button. %he right button on the mouse is used to display a menu. %he options on the menu include the most common tasks, such as copying te)t from one location and pasting it to another location. %hese are called conte)t&sensitive menus. %hese menus help you complete tasks ;uickly. ,ost mouse devices also have a wheel that help you to scroll through documents or pages. %o scroll, place your finger on the wheel and roll it back and forth. %his moves the document up and down. %here are different types of mouse devices available in the market. A regular mouse has a rubber or a metal ball on the underside. %he

mechanical movement of the mouse device moves the ball. %his movement further moves the pointer on the screen. A trackball is like a regular mouse, but upside down, with the ball on the top. It allows you to have the same control as a mouse in a confined space. You can use the thumb or the finger to move the trackball to move the pointer. An optical mouse can be used in the same way as a regular mouse. 0owever, it does not have a ball. It uses a laser to detect movement. So) G*&e: In'( , O( '( , *n+ S o)*1e De"!ces *ort the types of devices as ;uickly as possible into their associated categories by clicking the appropriated bucket. You can also use keyboard shortcuts by pressing C for the left bucket, D for the middle bucket, and F for the right bucket. Input !evice ,ouse -eyboard *canner ,icrophone .utput !evice 0eadphone *peaker ,onitor #rinter *torage !evice !6!&4., $!&4., 0ard !isk (loppy

COMMON COMPUTER TERMINOLOGY CONTENTS: ABOUT HARD3ARE ABOUT OPERATING SYSTEMS ABOUT PROGRAMS ABOUT DATA ABOUT NET3ORKS ABOUT THE INTERNET COMMON COMPUTER TERMINOLOGY Lesson In )o+(c !on An automobile, such as a car or a van , is available in different models and colors, but it"s essential components remain the same. All automobiles have an engine, a body, and wheels. *imilarly, computers are available in various si'es and shapes, but they all have common components that work in the same manner. %he essential components of a computer are hardware and software. In this lesson, you will learn about common computer terminology, such as hardware, software, data, and network. Lesson Objec !"es After completing this lesson, you will be able toA Identify the primary hardware components of a computer. !efine an operating system and its role. !efine the term program. 5)plain what is meant by data. !efine the term network, and identify the benefits of networking. !efine the term Internet. Abo( H*)+-*)e 0ardware refers to all the physical components of a computer. It includes all input devices, processing devices, storage devices, and output devices. %he keyboard, mouse, motherboard, monitor, hard disk, cables, and printer are all e)amples of hardware. You use hardware to provide input to a computer and also to get the desired output. (or e)ample, when you play a musical instrument, such a piano, you provide input by pressing the keys and get the desired output in the form of music. *imilarly, computers also need input and output devices to perform tasks. You use a keyboard and a mouse to provide input and to select and run programs. You can view the output on a monitor that is similar to a television set, or use the printer to view the output on paper. Apart from input and output devices, a computer uses processing devices to work on the input data and generate the desired output. %he most important processing device is the $#1. %he $#1 is the brain of the computer. It processes the input to perform calculations and produce output.

A motherboard is a large circuit board that connects input, output, and processing devices. %he motherboard circuits provide pathways that allow data to pass through these various components. It also contains chips that determine how, when, and where data can flow through the computer. !epending on the task that you want your computer to perform, you can choose the appropriate hardware. (or e)ample, you can use a :I$ to connect your computer to other computers. You can also use e)pansion cards, such as video cards, to add new features or enhance the performance of your computer. All of these devices are plugged into the motherboard. Abo( O'e)* !n1 S2s e&s In addition to hardware, a computer needs software to function. *oftware sends instructions to the hardware to perform the necessary tasks. %he most important software on the computer is the operating system, which controls and manages the hardware connected to your computer. %he operating system provides an interface that helps you to interact with the computer. An e)ample of one of the latest operating systems is +indows <#. A user interface can be either te)t&based or graphics&based. ,ost operating systems provide a graphical user interface 2B1I3, which displays images and pictures that allow you to interact with a computer easily. An operating system with a B1I provides an easy&to&use interface to help you install hardware or software. (or e)ample, +indows <# provides a setup wi'ard, which guides the user through each step of a particular task, such installing hardware and software. An operating system ensures that your computer is functioning properly. You need to update you operating system regularly to ensure that it is compatible with any new hardware that you install. Abo( P)o1)*&s %he hardware and the operating system together are referred to as a platform. #rograms, also called applications, use this platform to perform tasks. %here are many types of programs. *ome programs allow you to perform tasks such as writing letters, doing calculations, or sending e&mail messages. (or e)ample, a word processor, such as ,icrosoft .ffice +ord D88F, is a program that helps you create a letter. .ther programs allow you to create illustrations, play games, watch movies, or communicate with other computer users. Abo( D* * !ata G is considered the raw materials to be processed by the computer in order to produce meaningful and useful information. #rograms process data that you provide as input to your computer. %his data can be in the form of te)t, graphics, audio, or video depending on the type of program. (or e)ample, $alculator is a program that re;uires input in the form of numbers. *imilarly, *ound 4ecorder is a program that re;uires input in the form of audio.

+hen the program receives the data, it processes the data and displays the output on the screen. You can save this output in a file. !epending on the type of data that a file contains, the file is classified as an audio file, a te)t file, a graphics file, or a video file. Abo( Ne -o).s $onsider a scenario where an organi'ation has C8 employees. %hese employees use computers to perform daily tasks. %hey also need print data fre;uently. Instead of giving each employee a printer, which would be e)pensive, all computers can be connected to a single printer. You can connect your computer to other computers to share information and hardware components. A group of computers and associated devices that are linked together to facilitate sharing information is called a network. :etworks can also be used to share data and devices such as printers. A network offers many advantages for the computer connected to it. In addition to sharing hardware and software, you can share files and communicate with other computer users on the network. A typical network has the following three components *erver %he main computer on a network that provides services to other computers on the network. A server decides which computers are allowed to access the hardware and software on the network. +orkstation A computer connected to a network. You use a workstation to access the hardware and software on a network. $ommunication channel A path or link that connects computers or peripheral devices, such as printers and disk drives, to transfer information. $ables are commonly used as communication channels in a network, but networks can also transfer information through wireless connections. A network e)pands as more workstations and servers are connected to it. !epending upon the area covered, a network can be categori'ed as local area network 2=A:3 or a wide area network 2+A:3. %ypes of :etwork and its (eature =A: A =A: connects devices within a limited area, such as home or small group of offices. It commonly includes computers and shared resources such as printers and scanners. +A: A +A: is a network that connects devices in geographically separated areas. You can use resources of a +A: to connect two or more =A:s by using long wires, optical cables, and satellites. ,any organi'ations use a +A: to connect their networks across different countries. %he Internet is an e)ample of +A:. Abo( #e In e)ne %he Internet is a worldwide collection of public networks that are linked to each other for information e)change. %he Internet started as a network to facilitate communication between government and educational departments in the 1nited

*tates. +hen other networks were connected to this network, it became a vast medium for e)changing information and ideas. %oday, the Internet connects many commercial, government, and educational networks, as well as individual computers, which share data. %he Internet offers a range of services to its users, such as file transfer between Internet users and electronic mail for sending messages. %he +orld +ide +eb 2www3, or the +eb, is another service that the Internet provides. %he +eb includes specially formatted documents that are interlinked and stored on servers around the world. You can use the Internet and its services to send messages to other Internet users, search and apply for jobs, watch movies, and buy and sell products. ,any organi'ations use a special type of network to communicate and share information within the organi'ation. *uch a network is called an intranet. An intranet is similar to the +eb but is accessible only to authori'ed users of the organi'ation. An intranet is much smaller than the Internet and can provide services such as document distribution, software distribution, access to database, and training. Se$% Tes !rag each action to the correct component. $lick *ubmit to check your answer. $lick *how Answer to view the correct answer. $lick 4eset to restart the activity. 0ardware & Includes computer devices & 0elps provide input to a computer & 0elps you view the output of a computer .perating *ystem & 0elps control the physical components & 5nsures reliable operation of the computer. #rograms & Allows you to play games or watch movies & 1ses the platform to perform a task

COMPUTER PERFORMANCE AND FEATURES CONTENTS: TYPES OF COMPUTERS THE ROLE OF MEMORY COMPUTER PERFORMANCE PRODUCTIVITY PROGRAMS COMMUNICATION PROGRAMS EDUCATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMS COMPUTER PERFORMANCE AND FEATURES Lesson In )o+(c !on $onsider a situation where you want to buy a television. %here are many brands and models available in the market. You need to make a decision based on the features that you want and the price of the product. *imilarly, there are different types of personal computers available in the market. %hey differ on the basis of features such as price, si'e, and speed. In addition, these factors affect the overall performance of the computer. After you buy a television, you need to choose from different kinds of channels that are available. %hese channels may offer entertainment, sports, or news. You can choose to view a channel based on your preferences. In the same way, after you start using a computer, there are different types of programs available that help you perform different tasks. You can use a word processor to create documents or a spreadsheet to perform mathematical calculations. $ommunications programs can help you talk to people at distant locations. +ith entertainment programs, you can watch movies, listen to music, or play games. Lesson Objec !"es After completing this lesson, you will be able to Identify and compare the features of different types of computers. 5)plain the role of memory. 5)plain the basics of computer performance and how it relates to productivity. !escribe the different types of productivity programs and their uses. !escribe the different types of communications programs and their uses. !escribe the uses of educational and entertainment programs. T2'es o% Co&'( e)s !ifferent types of computers are available in the market today. %he most common computer is the Persona# Computer %PC&, typically used by individuals and small businesses. A personal computer is a computer that is designed for use by one person at a time. A personal computer is used in the workplace to create documents manage business records and communicate with others. !epending on the si'e and the purpose of a personal computer, it can be categori'ed into four different types desktop, laptop, handheld, or tablet.

You select a computer depending on the tasks that you want it to perform. (or e)ample, if you want to use the computer to edit photos or play comple) games, you need a computer with a fast $#1 and good display adapter.

T2'e o% Co&'( e) -! # ! s Fe* ()es !esktop $omputers !esktop computers are made up of individual components, such as a monitor, a keyboard, a system unit, and a printer. !esktop computers are not portable and are generally placed on the surface of a desk or a table. %he components of desktop computers can easily be replaced or upgraded. !esktop computers usually have more memory, a larger hard drive more ports, and a bigger display than laptops and other portable computers. !esktop computers can run continuously for long periods of time. =aptop $omputers =aptop computers are lightweight personal computers. =aptop computers are smaller in si'e as compared to a desktop computer and are designed for travel. =aptop computers are also called notebook computers. %he main feature of laptop computers is that they are small and portable. As the name suggests, these can easily be placed on the lap of a user. !esktop computers run on electricity only, while laptop computers run on electricity or on batteries that can be recharged. 0owever, laptop computers consume more power than desktop computers, but laptop computers generally cost more than desktop computers. 0andheld $omputers 0andheld computer are devices used for specific everyday tasks, such as managing personal data. %hese are smaller than laptops and provide fewer features compared to desktop computers or laptops. %hese can also perform basic word&processing activities and help you access the Internet. *everal handheld computer models can also work as cellular phones or digital cameras. %ablet $omputers %ablet computers are fully functional computers that allow you to write directly on the screen by using a tablet pen. You can also use the tablet pen to perform mouse functions. %ablet computers, therefore, do not need a keyboard and a mouse. T#e Ro$e o% Me&o)2 +hen a computer performs a task, it re;uires a place to store data. ,emory is a device where information can be stored and retrieved. Before buying software for your compute, you need to know if your computer has enough memory to run the software properly. $omputer memory can be volatile or nonvolatile. & 6olatile ,emory %his is the temporary memory of a computer. %he content stored on the temporary memory is erased when the computer is turned off. 4andom access memory 24A,3 is an e)ample of volatile memory. 4A, stores program information and data that needs to be readily available while performing a particular task. & :onvolatile ,emory %he conte)t stored on this type of memory is retained after the computer is turned off. An e)ample of nonvolatile memory is read& only memory 24.,3, which contains a set of instructions that need to remain

unchanged for the computer to function. (or e)ample, 4., stores commands that check whether the motherboard, memory, hard drive, and other components are working when the computer is started.

In a computer, 4., stores information that is permanent and does not change. 0owever, sometimes this information may need to be changed or updated. (or this reason, a device called flash memory was developed. *imilar to 4.,, flash memory can retain information after you have switched off a computer, but it provides an additional benefit of allowing the stored information be erased or modified. %he information stored in the computer is internally represented in the form of 8s and Cs. 5ach 8 or C is called a bit. A combination of eight bits is called a byte. %he following table e)plains the various terms used to measure storage or memory capacity. Te)& *n+ Desc)!' !on Bit A bit is the smallest unit of information that a computer handles. A single bit can hold only one of two values, 8 or C. .ne of the two values is always present. A single bit conveys little meaningful information. 0owever, you can obtain more meaningful information by combining consecutive bits into larger units. Byte A byte is a combination of eight bits arranged in a particular se;uence. 5ach se;uence represents a single character, symbol, digit or letter. A byte forms the basic unit that is used to measure the storage capacity of a storage device. -ilobyte .ne kilobyte 2-B3 is e;ual to C,8D7 bytes. ,ost of the user data stored in a computer, such as simple e&mail messages or a te)t file, occupies storage space of a few kilobytes. ,egabyte .ne megabyte 2,B3 is e;ual to C,8D7 -B. %he amount of information contained in C ,B is appro)imately e;ual to a complete te)tbook. Bigabyte .ne gigabyte 2BB3 is e;ual to C,8D7 ,B, which is appro)imately a billion bytes. ,ost computers today have hard disks with large capacities that are measured in gigabytes. A BB denotes a huge storage capacity. (or e)ample, a video film stored on a computer can occupy more than C BB of space. %erabyte .ne terabyte is e;ual to C,8D7 BB, appro)imately a trillion bytes. *torage devices having capacities in terabytes are generally used by organi'ations that need to store large volumes of data. A terabyte is so large that a few terabytes of memory space can contain the complete te)t of a large number of books. Co&'( e) Pe)%o)&*nce +hether you use your computer for business or for personal use, it is important that your computer perform efficiently. 0owever performance does not depend on a

single factor. %he following table lists some of the important factors that affect the overall performance of the computer.

F*c o) *n+ Desc)!' !on $#1 *peed %he $#1 is the brain of the computer and its speed is an important factor that affects the overall performance of the computer. %he $#1 speed is the rate at which the $#1 can perform a task, such as moving data to and from 4A,, or performing a numerical calculation. If you have two computers that are identical e)cept for the $#1 speed, the computer with the faster $#1 completes a task more ;uickly. 0ard !isk (actors 0ard disks differ in storage capacities as well as their speed of data storage and retrieval. If the speed of data retrieval is fast, the computer takes less time to start and load programs. Additionally, the speed and si'e of the hard disk play an important role when a program needs to process large volumes of data. 4A, 4A, is the active memory of the computer. %he speed of retrieving data stored on 4A, is very fast and for this reason the computer uses it to store the information that is currently in use. If the amount of 4A, is large enough to hold all of the information in use, this can result in faster computer performance. %he 4A, speed and the amount of 4A, are important factors in the personal computer performance. %hen there is not enough 4A, in a computer, the computer slows down or fails to function properly. P)o+(c !"! 2 P)o1)*&s You can use different computer programs to perform a variety of tasks. You can use computer programs to organi'e numbers, write letters or proposals, maintain records, create and modify images, convert te)t into visuals, and create maga'ines and brochures. %he table below lists the different types of programs and describes their uses. P)o1)*& *n+ Desc)!' !on +ord&#rocessing and #ublishing #rograms You use word&processing programs to create and modify te)t&based documents. You can type in and modify te)t, use the spelling checker and the built&in thesaurus, and format the document. By using these programs, you can also create personal and professional documents. +ord is a commonly used word&processing program. #ublishing programs are used to combine te)t and graphics to create documents such as brochures, greeting cards, annual reports, books, or maga'ines. %hese programs also include word&processing and graphics features that allow you to refine parts of the document. #resentation #rograms

You use presentation programs to present your information in the form of slides. You can add sound and pictures to these slides to make them more attractive and informative. ,icrosoft .ffice #ower#oint D88F is a commonly used presentation program. *preadsheet #rograms You used spreadsheet programs to create budgets, manage accounts, perform mathematical calculation, and convert numerical data into charts and graphs. *preadsheets store information in a table, with values spread over hori'ontal rows and vertical columns. 5ach value is stored in a cell. A cell is the intersection of a row and a column. ,icrosoft .ffice 5)cel D88F is an e)ample of a spreadsheet program. !atabase #rograms You use database programs to store and manage data in an organi'ed way. By using these programs, you can also sort or search for the information stored in a database. In addition, you can create simple reports from the data that you have stored. (or e)ample, you can use a database program to store customer details, create and manage inventory, and track sales. You can then create reports to target sales or plan customer services. An e)ample of a database program is ,icrosoft .ffice Access D88F. Braphics #rograms You use graphics programs to create and edit drawings. You can also use there programs to enhance photographs. ,icrosoft #aint is an e)ample of a graphics program that allows you to create drawings. Co&&(n!c* !on P)o1)*&s Hust as you use a telephone or postal mail to communicate with friends and family, you can also use computers to communicate with people. $omputers use special programs called communication programs that allow you to send and receive messages with other people in a digital format. %he table below describes the different types of communication programs and their uses. T2'es o% Co&&(n!c* !on P)o1)*&s *n+ Desc)!' !on #rograms used to send e&mail messages *ending e&mail messages is the e)change of messages form one computer user to another computer user. %his e)change can be within a local area or from one part of a country to another. You can send an e&mail message to or receive an e&mail message from one or several persons at any time of the day. *ending an e&mail message is similar to making a phone call9 you must have a phone connection and know the phone number of the person with whom you want to speak. %o send an e&mail message you must have an Internet connection and an e&mail account. %his Internet connection is provided by an Internet service provider 2I*#3.

If you have an e&mail account, it will be similar to usernameIe)ample.com, where the username is your name. %he I is the sign and e)ample.com is the domain name. A domain name identifies the name and type of organi'ation with whom you have an e&mail account. After you have an e&mail account, you need to know the e& mail account of the person to whom you want to send an e&mail. You can send both te)t and pictures through e&mail9 however, this depends on various factors, such as the type of service you have or the kind of picture you are sending. *ending and receiving e&mail messages is an instant way of communicating with anyone. It only takes a few seconds to send and receive an e&mail. %his also depends on the speed of your Internet connection. #rograms used to chat Another type of communication is through chat programs, which allows you to send and receive messages immediately. You can use a chat program to communicate with several of people at the same time. A commonly used communication program is ,*: ,essenger. +hen you are chatting with someone, the person on the other end receives your messages immediately. %hrough chat you can also talk to the person you are chatting with. %his is call voice chat. Another form of chatting allows you to also see the person you are talking to. You use a device called webcam to do this. You can also share pictures and other files through ,*: ,essenger. E+(c* !on*$ *n+ En e) *!n&en P)o1)*&s $onsider a scenario in which you want to learn a new language. 0owever, there are no schools in your area that teach the language. +ith educational software program, a computer can help you learnt the new language. 5ducational software programs software programs often use audio&visual clips and games to make learning more effective. 5ducational software is use in classrooms, offices, and homes. 5ducational software is available on various topics that re applicable to different age groups. (or e)ample, ,icrosoft 5ncarta is a widely used digital encyclopedia that is available on both $!& 4., and !6!&4.,. You can also use computers as a source of entertainment. You can use entertainment software to play games, listen to music, record music, draw pictures, and watch movies on a computer. 6ideo $!s and !6!s that allow you to watch movies and music videos as well as listen to music are all e)amples of entertainment software that is used for recreation. Se$% Tes Juestion C +hich of the following features are true of laptops as compared with desktop computers> K %hey generally cost more for similar hardware. K %hey consume less power. K %hey are good travel companions. K %hey are easier to upgrade. +hich of the following are true statement about 4A,> K %he amount affects the computer"s performance. K Its contents are permanent. K It has lower data&retrieval speed compared with storage memory. K It stores active data and programs.

+hich of the following programs do you use to create personal and professional documents> K ,icrosoft .ffice +ord D88F K ,icrosoft #aint K ,icrosoft .ffice #ower#oint D88F K ,icrosoft .ffice 5)cel D88F COMPUTER OPERATING SYSTEMS CONTENTS: INTRODUCTION TO OPERATING SYSTEMS UNDERSTANDING THE 3INDO3S USER INTERFACE 3ORKING 3ITH 3INDO3S4BASE PROGRAMS MANAGING FILES AND FOLDERS PERFORMING BASIC FILE OPERATIONS COMPUTER OPERATING SYSTEMS Lesson In )o+(c !on %he operating system is the most important program in the computer. An operating system performs four primary functions. It manages and controls the hardware connected to a compute. It helps other programs running on a computer to use the hardware. It helps you organi'e and manage files and folders on the computer. It provides a user interface that allows you to interact with the hardware, the operating system itself, and other programs. An e)ample of an operating system is +indows <#. Lesson Objec !"es After completing this lesson, you will be able to 5)plain the common functions of an operating system. Identify the basic components of the +indows <# user interface. +ork with the +indows <# user interface within programs. ,anage files and folders in ,icrosoftL +indowsL 5)plorer #erform basic file operations. In )o+(c !on o O'e)* !n1 S2s e&s An operating system controls how programs work with each other and how they interact with the computer hardware. It also creates the file system that determines how your data is stored within a storage device. %he performance of an operating system depends on the number of bits that it can transfer at a time. 5arly operating systems could transfer only M bits of data at a time and were called M&bit operating systems. 0owever, with the introduction of the B1I interface, CN&bit operating systems were developed. $urrently, operating systems such as +indows <# are FD&bit operating systems. %he newest operating systems, such as ,icrosoftL +indowsL <# #rofessional )N7 5dition, can transfer up to N7 bits at a time, which enables programs to run much faster. An operating system such as +indows <# provides a B1I that makes it easier for you to give instructions to a computer. %he following table describes the functions of an operating system.

F(nc !ons *n+ Desc)!' !on #rovides a user interface ,any operating systems provide visual elements, such as icons and menus, to help you interact with a computer. You can use a mouse to select icons and issue commands. (or e)ample, you can double&click a file to open it with the appropriate program. #rovides utilities to configure your system A B1I&based operating system provides easy&to&use utilities to help you configure your compute. %hese utilities are small programs that help you configure your computer. %hese utilities are small programs that help you perform specific functions, such as connecting to a network, managing resources, and adding new programs to your computer. (or e)ample, +indows <# provides a backup program to save your important data. In addition, it provides a user&friendly setup wi'ard that allows you to install hardware or software, or connect to other computers. 0elps manage computer resources An operating system helps manage hardware. #rograms communicate with the operating system to work with the re;uired hardware, such as the $#1, to complete the re;uired tasks. 0elps secure data by controlling user access to a computer An operating system allows you to secure your data. It helps you specify authentication and authori'ation rights to control access to your computer and its resources. Authentication is the process by which the computer system validates a user"s logon information. An operating system can help you create a username and a password, so that only those users who know the username and password can access the resources on your computer. In addition, you can associate specific permission to each username. %his is called authori'ation. (or e)ample, you can prevent users from printing documents from your computer. Un+e)s *n+!n1 #e 3!n+o-s Use) In e)%*ce +indows <# provides a B1I that has a number of components to help you interact with a computer. %he following are the components of a +indows user interface !esktop %he desktop is an on&screen work area that uses a combination of menus and icons. %he desktop includes the following components (a##paper is a pattern or picture on the screen background that you can choose. You can consider it as a tablecloth placed on a table. An icon is a small image displayed on the screen to represent an object. Icons help you perform certain computer actions without having to remember commands or type them. (or e)ample, you can click a file icon to open the file with the appropriate program. %askbar %he taskbar is a rectangular bar that is usually located at the bottom of the screen. You can use the taskbar to select a program running on your computer. %he taskbar

displays the programs in the form of taskbar buttons. %he program displayed on the taskbar in the graphic is +ord. :otification Area +hen the taskbar is located at the bottom of a screen, the notification area is located on the right side of the taskbar. %he notification area displays the time, a volume icon, and icons of some programs running on a computer. (or e)ample, the printer shortcut icon appears after a document has been sent to the printer and disappears when the printing is complete. *tart In +indows <#, the *tart button opens the *tart menu. You can use the commands on the *tart menu to start a program, or to restart or shutdown the computer. %he *tart menu typically displays the following commands )y Documents: +hen you click )y Documents on the Start menu, the contents in the ,y !ocuments folder appear in a rectangular area, called the window. %he window displays two speciali'ed folders, ,y #ictures and ,y ,usic. You can use the ,y !ocuments folder to share your documents and also keep private the documents you do not want to share. )y Computer: +hen you click )ay Computer on the Start menu, the contents of your floppy disk, hard disk, $!&4., drive, and network drives appear in a window. You can use the icons and menus in ,y $omputer window to search for or open files and folders. )y Net*ork P#ace: +hen you click )y Net*ork P#aces on the Start menu, the ,y :etwork #laces window appears. It provides a view of all the shared computers and other resources on the network to which your computer is connected. Contro# Pane#: +hen you click Contro# Pane# on the Start menu, the $ontrol #anel window appears. It allows you to control the various aspects of the operating system or hardware, such as setting the system time and date, adding and removing programs, troubleshooting hardware and software and setting keyboard characteristics. Printers and +a,es: +hen you click Printers and +a,es on the Start menu the #rinters and (a)es window appears. It allows you to install and share printing resources. After you install a printer, you can print documents from your computer. -e#p and Support: +hen you click -e#p and Support on the Start menu, the 0elp and *upport $enter window appears. You can use the ,icrosoft 0elp and *upport $enter whenever you have a ;uestion about the operating system. It is a comprehensive resource that helps you learn about +indows <#. You can use the *earch or the Inde) feature to view all +indows 0elp resources, including those available on the Internet. Search: +hen you click Search on the Start menu, the *earch window appears. It allows you to search for a file or a folder on your computer. In addition, if you are authori'ed to access other computers on your network, you can search files on those computers. .un: %his allows you to start a program. 3o).!n1 -! # 3!n+o-s4B*se+ P)o1)*&s In +indows <#, a window is a rectangular area on the monitor that displays a program. 5ach program has its own window. In this demonstration, you will see how to work with a +indows&based program.

3o).!n1 -! # 3!n+o-s4B*se+ P)o1)*&s T)*nsc)!' %he +indows interface provides a combination of menus and icons that allow you to interact with a computer. You can use a mouse to make selections, and issue commands, such as opening a program. An e)ample of a commonly used program is ,icrosoft #aint. You can open the ,icrosoft #aint program from the Accessories menu. %he ,icrosoft #aint program is displayed in a window. A window has several parts that make it easy to control its appearance and operation. It has a title bar that contains the name of the window. You can use the title bar to drag a window to any location on the screen. You release the mouse button when the window is at the desired place. A window has a menu bar. A menu bar is a rectangular bar, usually at the top, in which you can select menus. %hese menus contain many commands to perform various functions in a program. (or e)ample, you can click the commands in the (ile menu to save a file or open a file. A toolbar can be a hori'ontal or vertical block of on&screen buttons or icons. You can click these buttons or icons to give commands to the program. You can drag a scroll bo) to move around in the program window. %hese scroll bo)es are within scroll bars, which can be present both hori'ontally and vertically within a window. You can click the ,inimi'e button to remove the window from the screen and display the program as a button on the taskbar. You can display the ,icrosoft #aint window by clicking the ,icrosoft #aint button on the taskbar. You can click the ,a)imi'e button to e)pand the window so that it covers the entire screen. You will be able to view the document better. After ma)imi'ing the window, the ,a)imi'e button becomes the 4estore !own button. You can click the 4estore !own button to return the window to its original si'e. You can resi'e a window by moving the mouse pointer to a corner of the window. %he mouse pointer will change its shape to a double&headed arrow. You can then

resi'e the window by dragging the pointer. It is important to know that a ma)imi'ed window cannot be resi'ed. %he $lose button terminates the program running in the window. In this demonstration, you learned about the different parts of a window.

De&ons )* e+ ')oce+()e C. !emonstration +orking with +indows&Based #rograms D. $lick S *) , point to A$$ P)o1)*&s, point to Accesso)!es, and then click P*!n . F. #oint to the title bar. 7. %o move the ,icrosoft #aint window, drag the title bar. O. #oint to the menu bar. N. #oint to the toolbar. P. !rag the hori'ontal scroll bo) and then drag the vertical scroll bo). M. %o minimi'e the window, click the M!n!&!5e button. E. %o view the ,icrosoft #aint window, on the taskbar, click the M!c)oso% P*!n button. C8. %o ma)imi'e the window, click the M*,!&!5e button. CC. %o restore the window to its original si'e, click the Res o)e Do-n button. CD. ,ove the mouse pointer to the corner of the ,icrosoft #aint window till the shape of the mouse pointer changes to a double&headed arrow. !rag the double&headed arrow to resi'e the window. CF. .n the ,icrosoft #aint window, click the C$ose button. M*n*1!n1 F!$es *n+ Fo$+e)s *uppose you own a book shop. %o manage it efficiently, you need to first categori'e books based on their subject, such as management or fiction. You can then arrange these books in separate sections of a cabinet. You need to provide appropriate name to each section so that it is easier to locate a book. *imilarly, in the +indows operating system, you use +indows 5)plorer to arrange files in appropriate folders. +indows 5)plorer is a program that helps you locate and open files and folders. %he +indows 5)plorer window is often divided into two sections, called panes. %he panes on the left side, called the (olders panes, displays the structure of drives and folders on your computer. A folder is a container for programs and files in B1I interfaces. It is represented by an icon of a file folder on the screen. It can hold both file and additional folders. %he pane on the right is called the details pane. It displays the contents of a drive or folder. You can select folders from the list displayed in the (olders pane to view its contents in the details pane.

In this e)ercise, you will e)plore how to manage files and folders by using +indows 5)plorer. $lick to launch the e)ercise. (ollow the steps to complete the e)ercise. In this e)ercise, you used +indows 5)plorer to successfully e)pand a drive, create a new folder, rename a folder, copy a file, move a file, and delete a file from a folder. Launch Pe)%o)&!n1 B*s!c F!$e O'e)* !ons 5very file has an associated format that defines the way data is stored in the file. %he file format is identified by a period 2also called a dot3 appended to a file name, followed by three or four letters. %he following are some of the more common file formats +ord document 2.doc3 Images 2.gif and .jpg3 5)ecutable programs 2.e)e3 ,ultimedia files 2.wma and others3 +hen you open a file, the operating system selects an appropriate program to display the contents of the file based on the file format. (or e)ample, when you open a +ord document, the operating system opens a word processor, such as +ord, to display the contents of the document. %o understand this concept of performing basic file operations, consider a scenario. You want to create a document by using +ord#ad. You are new to the concept of files and want to know how to create and save the file in a specific location. You also want to know how to open or delete an e)isting file. In this e)ercise, you will e)plore how to perform basic file operations. $lick to launch the e)ercise. (ollow the steps to complete the e)ercise. In this e)ercise, you successfully edited a file, saved a file, browsed a file, deleted a file, and restored a file. Launch Se$% Tes In this e)ercise, you will e)plore how to work with the +indows <# .perating *ystem. $lick to launch the e)ercise. (ollow the steps to complete the e)ercise. Launch

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES CONTENTS: UNDERSTANDING THE 3IDESPREAD REACH OF COMPUTERS CAREER OPPORTUNITIESIN THE IT 3ORLD CAREER OPPORTUNITIES Lesson In )o+(c !on 1sing computers is no longer restricted to any specific field of work. %hey are e)tensively used everywhere, from households to large businesses. %his widespread use of computers has created many career opportunities. !epending on our field of interest and degree of knowledge about computers, you can select a job that matches your skills. Lesson Objec !"es After completing this lesson, you will be able to !escribe how computers have become a central part of our everyday life. Identify the different career opportunities available for a person who is computer literate. Un+e)s *n+!n1 #e 3!+es')e*+ Re*c# o% Co&'( e)s $omputers are now being used e)tensively in business. You can use computers to maintain records, e)change information with people at distant locations, and analy'e daily transactions to generate reports. You can also use computers to buy or sell products over the Internet. $omputers can analy'e your sales for the day to determine the products that have sold the most. As a result, you need not perform lengthy calculations to manually analy'e your sales data. +ith advancements in technology, electronic devices such as bar code scanners are now used in stores. Bar codes are printed black&and&white bars that contain information about a product, such as its price and product I!. %he bar code scanner, which is connected to a computer, reads the bar code and sends information to the computer. %he computer decodes the information and generates the invoice for the customer. You do not have to manually enter information in a computer to store sales information and generate the invoice. At the end of day, the computer can automatically analy'e your sales data. $omputers can also be used for online transactions, such as selling products over the Internet. $ustomers can visit +eb sites of different stores to purchase products. %hey can pay for these products over the Internet, and the products can be delivered tot their doorstep.

%raders can also use computers to check stock prices over the Internet. %his helps them organi'e and manage investments.

C*)ee) O''o) (n! !es !n #e IT 3o)$+ You can seek various job opportunities in the field of computers if you have relevant computer knowledge. !epending on your skills, you can work as an information worker, an I% professional, or a software developer. An information worker, such as a data entry operator, a warehouse manager or a travel agent, uses the computer to enter and maintain records. (or e)ample, a data entry operator can use the computer to create documents and maintain records. %hese records can be analy'ed by the computer to generate reports. A warehouse manager keeps an account of the warehouse stocks. +ith the help of a computer, the warehouse manager also plans the schedules and working hours for the people working in the warehouse. %ravel agents use computers to provide their customers with information on various holiday destinations, flight schedules, and details about a specific location. %he details may range from information on the weather to hotel accommodations. %ravel agents can also provide information about the local tourist attractions and modes of transport. %hey also use computers to update travel plans and schedules. You can also use your computer knowledge to work as an I% professional. :etwork administrators, graphic designers, and database administrators are some e)amples of I% professionals. :etwork administrators are responsible for managing a network and installing new devices on the network. %hey also add and remove individuals from the list of authori'ed users. %hey archive files on a computer and administer access rights. Braphic designers use computers to create graphics and animations for commercial purposes. !atabase administrators work with databases to maintain and organi'e the information stored on a computer. A database is an organi'ed collection of information on a computer. !atabase administrators organi'e and manage the structure of database in a computer. %hey also decide who should be given access to which part of the database. A software developer creates software for commercial purposes, such as managing the inventory for a small business or editing a media file. *imilar to a software developer, a computer game designer creates games that can be played on computers.

 SUMMARY In )o+(c !on o Co&'( e) $omputers help you perform your tasks efficiently and ;uickly. %hey are used in almost every field, such as industry, government offices, shops and educational institutions. $omputers are made of various parts that can be broadly categori'ed into input devices, output devices, processing devices, and storage devices. Co&&on Co&'( e) Te)&!no$o12 %he essential components of a computer are hardware and software. 0ardware refers to all the physical components connected to a computer and software refers to the instructions for the hardware to perform the necessary tasks. %he most important software on the computer is the operating system, which controls and manages the hardware connected to your computer. You can share your computer components with other computer users by connecting your computer to other computers. A group of computers and associated devices that are linked together to facilitate sharing information is called a network. %he Internet is a collection of these networks that are linked together. Co&'( e) Pe)%o)&*nce *n+ Fe* ()es %he different kinds of computers come in a wide selection based on shape, si'e and performance. %hese include desktop computers, laptop computes, handheld computes, and tablet computers. All computers have memory, which is used to store information that is being used by the operating system and programs. Information that the computer uses is represented in the form of 8s and Cs. !ifferent computer programs perform different tasks. #roductivity programs help you organi'e numbers, write letters or proposals, maintain records, and create images. $ommunications programs help you talk to other compute users. +ith entertainment programs, you can watch movies, listen to music, or play games. Co&'( e) O'e)* !n1 S2s e&s An operating system is a program that controls how the hardware works and helps manage files and folders on the computer. *ome operating systems, such as +indows <#, provide a B1I, which makes it easier for you to provide instructions to a computer. +indows 5)plorer is a program in the +indows operating system that helps you locate and open files and folders. 5ach file has an associated format. !epending on the file format, the operating system decides the appropriate program to open the file.

C*)ee) O''o) (n! !es $omputers are e)tensively used everywhere, from households to large businesses. $omputers are used to maintain records, e)change information, and analy'e daily transactions to generate reports. $omputers are also being used for online trading and checking stock prices. %his widespread use of computers has created many career opportunities. +ith relevant computer knowledge, you can work as an information worker, an I% professional, or a software developer.