UNIT 1: OVERVIEW OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

1.1 Introduction
Today’s world is an information-rich world, and it has become a necessity for everyone to know
about computers. Information technology- refers to hardware, software, databases,
telecommunication technologies and other information processing technologies that manipulate
data resources into useful information products like reports, financial statements. Consider the
example of a person who goes into a banking hall to inquire his balance. That technology they
would use to create, store, manipulate and communicate information is what is referred to as
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY. Closely related to information technology is an Information
system, which refers to the set totality of requirements for handling information within an
organization. It can also be considered as an organized combination of people, hardware,
software, communication networks and data resource that collects, transforms, and disseminates
information in an organization. An information system can be manual (i.e. paper work) or
informal (word of mouth); however, the aspect of the module is specifically computer-based
information systems that use information technology.

1.2 Objectives
After going through this unit, you would be able to:
a) Define the terms used in information technology
b) State the five (5) basic operations of a computer system
c) State and explain the advantages and disadvantages of computers
d) Identify the uses of computers in your field of study
e) Identify different types of computers and their uses in everyday life
f) Recognise the seven (7) types of microcomputers and their characteristics
g) State the five (5) generations of computers

1.3 Definition of terms

Define the following terms:
 Information technology
 Computer
 Data
 Information
 Knowledge
  Computer hardware
 Computer software
 Central processing unit (CPU)
 Email
 Internet
 Ethernet
 File transfer protocol (FTP) 
 Firewall
 Hard disk
 Home page
 internet service provider (ISP)
 Operating system
 Search engine
 Computer virus
 Server

1.4 Explain the following basic operations of a computer system

1. Inputting
2. Processing
3. Outputting
4. Storing
5. Controlling

1.5 Advantages of computers

a) High Speed
b) Accuracy
c) Storage Capability
d) Diligence
e) Versatility
f) Reliability
g) Automation
h) Reduction in Paperwork and Cost

1.6 Disadvantages of computers

1.7 Uses of computers in your field of study

1.8 Different types of computers

a) Supercomputers
b) Mainframe computers
c) Minicomputers
d) Microcomputers

1.9 Types of microcomputers

a. Desktop computer
b. Notebook/laptop
c. Smartphone
d. Tablet
e. Personal Digital Assistant
f. Sever microcomputer
g. Workstation

1.10 Generations of computers

 What do you understand by the term computer generations?
 State the five (5) generations of computers