APPRECIATION OF COMPUTERS

Computers have become a useful part of our everyday lives. The types of computers we use at home or at work
are referred to by varied names such as PCs, microcomputers, workstations, laptops and desktops. These
computers are most popularly referred to as “personal computers” or PCs, the most common type of computer
in the world. Today, an average person uses computer-based assistance several times each day and it
becomes an integral part of our lives. So, it is very important to be aware of and understand them.
Computers - is an electronic device that receives input, stores or processes the input as per user instructions
and provides output in desired format.
Input-Process-Output Model (simplest workflow of computer)
Computer input is called data and the output obtained after processing it, based on user’s instructions is
called information. Raw facts and figures which can be processed using arithmetic and logical operations to
obtain information are called data.
The processes that can be applied to data are of two types
Arithmetic operations − Examples include calculations like addition, subtraction, differentials, square root,
etc.
Logical operations − Examples include comparison operations like greater than, less than, equal to, opposite,
etc.
The basic parts of a computer are as follows
1) Input Unit − Devices like keyboard and mouse that are used to input data and instructions to the
computer are called input unit.
2) Output Unit − Devices like printer and visual display unit that are used to provide information to the
user in desired format are called output unit.
3) Control Unit − As the name suggests, this unit controls all the functions of the computer. All devices or
parts of computer interact through the control unit.
4) Arithmetic Logic Unit − This is the brain of the computer where all arithmetic operations and logical
operations take place.
5) Memory − All input data, instructions and data interim to the processes are stored in the memory.
Memory is of two types – primary memory and secondary memory. Primary memory resides within
the CPU whereas secondary memory is external to it.
Characteristics of Computers
1) Speed − Typically, a computer can carry out 3-4 million instructions per second.
2) Accuracy − Computers exhibit a very high degree of accuracy. Errors that may occur are usually due to
inaccurate data, wrong instructions or bug in chips – all human errors.
3) Reliability − Computers can carry out same type of work repeatedly without throwing up errors due to
tiredness or boredom, which are very common among humans.
4) Versatility − Computers can carry out a wide range of work from data entry and ticket booking to
complex mathematical calculations and continuous astronomical observations. If you can input the
necessary data with correct instructions, computer will do the processing.
5) Storage Capacity − Computers can store a very large amount of data at a fraction of cost of traditional
storage of files. Also, data is safe from normal wear and tear associated with paper.
A computer system is a combination of several components, the primary components of a computer are the
input unit, central processing unit and output unit. All these units work to convert the raw data provided by the
user into meaningful information desired by the user. During the entire conversion process, the data is stored in
the primary memory and handled by the CPU as per the given instructions.
Input: A device we use to put information into the computer. List as many as we can think of.
Output: A device we use to see the results of the computer’s manipulation of the data we input. List as many as
we can think of. ***How many devices can we think of that are both input and output. Information Processing
Cycle}
Central Processing Unit (CPU=Control Unit and Arithmetic Logic Unit): Control Unit interprets the
instructions (traffic cop), Arithmetic Logic Unit performs the arithmetic and logical functions (addition,
subtraction, multiplication, division, equals, not equal, equal to or greater than, equal to or less than, greater
than, less than…)
Memory. Memory is what makes the computer so darned fast - the ability to go from point A to point Q without
having to pass through B, C,D,E, etc. in order.
▪ RAM (Random Access Memory RAM s is where the computer holds data while it is needed for
processing. It is volatile in that it loses its contents when the machine is turned off.
▪ ROM (Read Only Memory): a set of chips that contain instructions that help a computer prepare for
processing tasks. These instructions are permanent. The only way to change them is to remove the chips
and replace them.
Storage: Hard Drive, Floppy Disk Drive, CD Drive, Memory Sticks, etc.
Binary Number System
A Binary is still the primary language of computers for the following reasons:
• It is a simple and elegant design.
• Binaries 0 and 1 method are quick to detect electrical signals in on or off state.
• Positive and negative poles of magnetic media are translated into binary quickly.
110100: Example of a binary number
Bi - represents by 0 and 1.
1 – on or open
0 – off or close
Byte – the basic unit of information in computer storage and processing.
A byte consists of 8 adjacent binary digits (bits),
Bit – each of which consists of a 0 or 1.
0 and 1 – bits
1 byte equivalent to 8 bits
Binary to Decimal (Power of 2 table)
(conversion)
Ex.
 32 16 8 4 2 1
1 1 0 1 0 1 = binary
32+16+4+1
= 53 decimal
Ex.
1 0 1 0. 1 0 1
8+2+1/2+1/8
8+2+0.5+0.125
= 10.625

Binary has 8 – bits

128 64 32 16 8 4 2 1
0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0
Ex. Decimal to Binary numbers
78-64=14-8=6-4=2-2=0
Binary of 78 = 0 1 0 0 1 1 1 0
UNICODE – (alphabets, symbols, emojis)
ASCII - 7 BITS
EXTENDED ASCII - 8 BITS
UNICODE – 0 – 127 SAME AS ASCII
UNICODE – 8, 16 OR 32 BITS
32 BITS – 2,147,483,647

Computer Organization
Multimedia - is a representation of information in an attractive and interactive manner with the use of a
combination of text, audio, video, graphics and animation. In other words we can say that Multimedia is a
computerized method of presenting information combining textual data, audio, visuals (video), graphics and
animations. For examples: E-Mail, Yahoo Messenger, Video Conferencing, and Multimedia Message Service
(MMS).
Multimedia as name suggests is the combination of Multi and Media that is many types of media
(hardware/software) used for communication of information.

Components of Multimedia
Following are the common components of multimedia:
Text- All multimedia productions contain some amount of text. The text can have various types of fonts and
sizes to suit the profession presentation of the multimedia software.
Graphics- Graphics make the multimedia application attractive. In many cases people do not like reading large
amount of textual matter on the screen. Therefore, graphics are used more often than text to explain a concept,
present background information etc. There are two types of Graphics:
1) Bitmap images- Bitmap images are real images that can be captured from devices such as digital
cameras or scanners. Generally, bitmap images are not editable. Bitmap images require a large amount
of memory.
 2) Vector Graphics- Vector graphics are drawn on the computer and only require a small amount of
memory. These graphics are editable.
Audio- A multimedia application may require the use of speech, music and sound effects. These are called
audio or sound element of multimedia. Speech is also a perfect way for teaching. Audio are of analog and
digital types. Analog audio or sound refers to the original sound signal. Computer stores the sound in digital
form. Therefore, the sound used in multimedia application is digital audio.
Video- The term video refers to the moving picture, accompanied by sound such as a picture in television.
Video element of multimedia application gives a lot of information in small duration of time. Digital video is
useful in multimedia application for showing real life objects. Video have highest performance demand on the
computer memory and on the bandwidth if placed on the internet. Digital video files can be stored like any other
files in the computer and the quality of the video can still be maintained. The digital video files can be
transferred within a computer network. The digital video clips can be edited easily.
Animation- Animation is a process of making a static image look like it is moving. An animation is just a
continuous series of still images that are displayed in a sequence. The animation can be used effectively for
attracting attention. Animation also makes a presentation light and attractive. Animation is very popular in
multimedia application.

Applications of Multimedia
Following are the common areas of applications of multimedia.
Multimedia in Business- Multimedia can be used in many applications in a business. The multimedia
technology along with communication technology has opened the door for information of global wok groups.
Today the team members may be working anywhere and can work for various companies. Thus the work place
will become global. The multimedia network should support the following facilities:
• Voice Mail
• Electronic Mail
• Multimedia based FAX
• Office Needs
• Employee Training
• Sales and Other types of Group Presentation
• Records Management
Multimedia in Marketing and Advertising- By using multimedia marketing of new products can be greatly
enhanced. Multimedia boost communication on an affordable cost opened the way for the marketing and
advertising personnel. Presentation that have flying banners, video transitions, animations, and sound effects are
some of the elements used in composing a multimedia based advertisement to appeal to the consumer in a way
never used before and promote the sale of the products.
Multimedia in Entertainment- By using multimedia marketing of new products can be greatly enhanced.
Multimedia boost communication on an affordable cost opened the way for the marketing and advertising
personnel. Presentation that have flying banners, video transitions, animations, and sound effects are some of
the elements used in composing a multimedia based advertisement to appeal to the consumer in a way never
used before and promote the sale of the products.
Multimedia in Education- Many computer games with focus on education are now available. Consider an
example of an educational game which plays various rhymes for kids. The child can paint the pictures, increase
reduce size of various objects etc. apart from just playing the rhymes. Several other multimedia packages are
available in the market which provide a lot of detailed information and playing capabilities to kids.
File Format – is the structure of how information is stored (encoded) in a computer file. File formats are
designed to store specific types of information, such as JPEG or TIFF for image or raster data. AI (Adobe
Illustrator) for vector data, or PDF for document exchange.

A computer system is divided into two categories: Hardware and Software. Hardware refers to the physical
and visible components of the system such as a monitor, CPU, keyboard and mouse. Software, on the other
hand, refers to a set of instructions which enable the hardware to perform a specific set of tasks.
Computer Software Examples
Since personal computers have become ubiquitous in many countries, computer software can be found across
the globe. In fact, because of the widespread use of computers in both personal and business contexts, as well as
the integral role that the internet plays in the global economy, it is difficult to imagine how today's world would
function without computer software. A list of some of the most well-known computer software examples
includes:
▪ Operating systems (such as Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS)
▪ Productivity Software (for example, Microsoft Office Suite including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint)
▪ Internet Browsers (including Firefox, Chrome, and Safari)
4 Main Types of Software
1. Application Software
This is the most common type of computer software, and can be defined as end-user programs that help you
perform tasks or achieve a desired outcome. The end-user is the person who is actually using a product or
program. (They are the one for whom the “end result” is designed.) Some examples of application software
include internet browsers, a CRM tool like Hubspot, a photo-editing software like Adobe or Lightroom, or a
word processing application like Microsoft Word. Application software is installed on a computer or mobile
device based upon a user’s need. Because this is the most common type of software, there are many options
available and users can choose the one that best fits their needs, budget, and expectations. (For example, anyone
wanting to look on the internet could use Chrome, Safari, or even Firefox.)
2. System Software
System software is a category that includes many kinds of software, all of which directly relate to the
functioning of the computer itself. System software includes highly technical programs that allow users to make
use of the computer's capabilities. This type of software interacts with the computer's hardware, such as its
processor and motherboard, and provides a framework for users to be able to use other applications on their
computers. System software could thus be thought of as a bridge between a computer's hardware and the
applications that people use.
3. Programming Software
While application software is designed for end-users, and system software is designed for computers or mobile
devices, programming software is for computer programmers and developers who are writing code. These are
programs that are used to write, develop
4. Driver Software
This software is often considered to be a type of system software. Driver software operates and controls devices
that are plugged into a computer. These drivers make it possible for devices to perform their necessary
functions. A very good (and practical) example of this is your printer. When you are first setting up your printer
to work with your computer, you have to install software to connect the two so that they communicate and print
anything you need. 
A compiler is a special program that translates a programming language's source code into machine code,
bytecode or another programming language. The source code is typically written in a high-level, human-
readable language such as Java or C++.
Commonly used high-level languages
Many types of high-level language exist and are in common use today, including:
Operating System
Microsoft Windows (also referred to as Windows or Win) is a graphical operating system developed and
published by Microsoft. It provides a way to store files, run software, play games, watch videos, and connect to
the Internet.
Microsoft Windows was first introduced with version 1.0 on November 10, 1983. Over a dozen versions of
Windows were released after that, including the current version, Windows 10.

Windows File Management is designed to teach management of files and changing settings effectively in the
Windows operating system. The learner will be able to use the Windows File Explorer to create a hierarchical
folder structure as well as how to move, copy, rename and delete files.
Using Essential Accessories
Accessories include a calculator, a painting program, a word processor, a text editor, and Internet applications.
System Tools For a smooth performance of a system, periodic maintenance is necessary. Tools like Disk Check,
Disk Derangement, etc., helps in system maintenance. Windows includes some of the system utilities such as
Disk Cleanup, Disk Defragment, System Restore, Control Panel and so on.
Application Management pack helps you maintain healthy application life-cycle. Install and uninstall MSI
based application as well as custom software often delivered as .exe files. Retrieve details from the Windows
Event log about the last application crash.