Introduction to Computers

LESSON 1

Computer System
- Is a combination of all the components required to process and store data using computer.
The Four Operations
A.) Input - data items enter the computer system and are put into memory, where they can be processed.
B.) Process - processing data items may involve organizing or sorting them, checking them for accuracy,
or performing calculations.
- performs arithmetic calculation and other data-processing operations as specified by the program.
C.) Memory - storage of all data input and process by the processor (CPU).
Processor to Memory: The processor writes a unit of data to memory (store the data into the
memory).
Memory to Processor: The processor reads an instruction or a unit of data item from memory (Get
the data item in the memory to process it, to be an executable result).
D.) Output - after data items have been processed, the resulting information usually is sent to a printer,
monitor, or some other device so people can view, interpret, and use the results.
The Four Operations Diagram

1 4

INPUT PROCESS Output

2 3

Memory

1.) Input: The data item that have been input

2.) Process: Storing the result in memory

3.) Memory: Fetches machine instruction from memory

Decode the instruction
Control the interpretation of each instructions
Controlling the required execution

4.) Output: Output the result

The Components of a Computer
A.) Power Supply – is a computer system components that converts line-voltage alternating current (AC)
power from an electrical outlet to the low-voltage direct current (DC) power needed by other system
components.
– The power supply is often referred to as the power supply unit (PSU).
– Converts 110 – 115 or 220 – 230 volt alternating current (AC) into a steady low-
voltage direct current (DC) usable by the computer.

B.) Motherboard – is a printed circuit board that is the foundation of a computer.

C.) Hard Disk Drive (HDD) – is a non-volatile memory hardware device that permanently stores and
retrieves data on a computer.
D.) Central Processing Unit (CPU) – hands all instructions receives from hardware and software running
on the computer.
E.) Memory – storage of all data input and process by the processor (CPU).
– There are two types of memory used in computer systems: Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read
Only Memory (ROM).
a.) RAM is a computer storage method that functions as a computer’s main memory. This type requires a
constant power source to access the data stored within the RAM.
b.) ROM is saved and stored without a constant power source. Once data is written to ROM, it cannot be
modified easily.
– Volatile memory stores data temporarily and requires a constant source of electricity to keep track of the
data stored in it. When the power is no longer available, the data stored in volatile memory is lost.
– Non-volatile memory retains the information stored on it whether or not electrical current is available.
F.) CD-ROM – compact disc-read only memory. Data is permanently burned onto the disc during its
manufacture. The capacity for CD-ROMs ranges from 700 to 860MB.
G.) DVD-ROM Drive – digital versatile disc-read only memory. Data is permanently burned onto the disc
during its manufacture. Single-sided DVD-ROMs have a capacity of 4.7 GB, while double-sided DVD-
ROMS can hold 9.4 GB.
H.) Graphic Processing Unit (GPU) – is an electronic circuitry unit that alters and controls the memory
of a computer to meet the immediate needs of rapidly changing computer graphics and detailed visual
images displayed on the display device.
I.) Monitor – a display device is a personal computer components that enables users to view the text and
graphical data output from a computer.
– common terms for various types of display devices include display, monitor, screen, liquid
crystal display (LCD), and flat-panel monitors.
J.) Keyboard – is a peripheral device that enables a user to input text into a computer or any other electronic
machinery.
– is an input device and is the most basic way for the user to communicate with a computer.
K.) Mouse – mouse, sometimes called a pointer, is hand-operated input device used to manipulate objects
on a computer screen.
 – whether the mouse users a laser or ball, or wired or wireless, a movement detected from the
mouse sends instructions to the computer to move the cursor on the screen in order to interact with files,
windows, and other software elements.
L.) Chassis – is the housing that helps protect and organize all the components that make up a desktop
computer.
M.) Cooling System – is a computer system component that prevents damage to other computers parts by
dissipating the heat generated inside a computer chassis.
– The cooling system can consist of one or more fans and other components such as
heat sink or liquid cooling system that service the entire computer as well as individual components, such
as the power supply and CPU.
N.) Expansion Card – is a printed circuit board that you install into an expansion slot on the computer’s
system board to expand the functionality of the computer.
An Overview of Computer

A.) Hardware – is a physical device that associated with a computer.

- electrical and mechanical devices attached to the computer for the purpose of input, process, storage and
output operations

B.) Software – is a computer instructions that tells hardware what to do.

2 types of software

a.) Application Software - uses the capacity of computer directly for specific tasks and are used to
manipulate text, sounds, documentation, and management tools.

Running application – is a software program that runs on your computer. Web browsers, e-mail programs,
word processors, games, and utilities are all applications. The word "application" is used because each
program has a specific application for the user.

b.) System Software – a programs that you use to manage your computer, including operating systems,
utilities programs, and device drivers

In contrast, system software consists of programs that run in the background, enabling applications to run.

Computer networks and the internet

Computer Network - is a collection of hardware and other devices that are connected together so that users
can share hardware, software, and data, as well as electronically communicate with each other.

Internet - is a worldwide collection of computer networks that links millions of computers used by
business, the government, educational institutions, organizations, and individuals using moderns, satellite
links, and other communications devices and media.

Other uses of Internet

A.) Communication
B.) Research
C.) Financial Transaction
D.) Entertainment
E.) Exploring the World
F.) Shopping

Assignment #1:

Direction: Explain it in your own words.

1.) What is a computer and what does it do?

2.) Why is a computer so powerful?

3.) What is the difference between AGP and GPU?

4.) What is the difference between RAM and ROM?

5.) What is the difference between application software and system software?