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Agrément définitif par Arrêté n°4677 / MES / CAB du 05 Juillet 2017

PROGRAMMATION

ESGAE BRAZZAVILLE
Major: Technical English
Code: EC 12 – L1-IG - Credits: 1.5
Theoretical sessions: 10 H: Workshop sessions: 5 H
Academic Year: 2022-2023
Teacher in tenure: Will BIYEKELE
Email: willbiye@gmail.com

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By the end of this course, the student should be able to:

• Have basics of Information and Communication Technologies and vocabulary;


• Know what a computer is and how it works;
• Know how to use it as a working tool or for entertainment.

Course outline
CHAPTER ONE: WHAT IS A COMPUTER?

Section 1: Hardware Vs Software

Section 2: Types of computers

Section 3: Other types of computers

Section 4: PCs and Macs

CHAPTER TWO: BASIC PARTS OF A COMPUTER

Section 1: Visual Display Unit

Section 2: Keyboard

Section 3: Mouse

CHAPTER THREE: BUTTONS AND PAERTS ON A COMPUTER

Section 1: Front of a computer case

Section 2: Back of a computer case

Section 3: Peripherals used with a computer

CHAPTER FOUR: INSIDE A COMPUTER

Section 1: Motherboard

Section 2: CPU/Processor

Section 3: RAM

Section 4: Hard drive

Section 5: Power supply unit

Section 6: Expansion card

Section 7: Video card

Section 8: Sound card

Section 9: Network card

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Section 10: Bluetooth card (adapter)

CHAPTER FIVE: LAPTOP COMPUTERS

Section 1: What is a laptop computer?

Section 2: Difference between a laptop and a desktop computer

CHAPTER SIX: MOBILE DEVICES

Section 1: Tablet computers

Section 2: E-readers

Section 3: Smartphones

CHAPTER SEVEN: UNDERSTANDING OPERATING SYSTEMS

Section 1: Operating system’s tasks

Section 2: Types of operating systems

CHAPTER EIGHT: UNDERSTANDING APPLICATIONS

Section 1: Applications

Section 2: Desktop applications

CHAPTER NINE: SETTING UP A COMPUTER

Section 1: Setting a laptop computer

Section 2: Setting a desktop computer

CHAPTER TEN: GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR FIRST COMPUTER

Section 1: Turning on your computer

Section 2: Using the keyboard and mouse

Section 3: Using the computer’s tools

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CHAPTER I : WHAT IS A COMPUTER ?

This chapter focuses on:


• Computer science and computers;
• Basic parts of a computer;
• Types of computers.

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has

the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can

use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web.

You can also use it to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.

Section 1 : Hardware vs. Software

Before we talk about different types of computers, let's talk about two things all

computers have in common : hardware and software.

1.1. Hardware
Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the

keyboard or mouse. It also includes all of the computer's internal parts, which you

can see in the image below.

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1.2. Software
Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do and how to

do it. Examples of software include web browsers, games, and word processors.

Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software. For

example, right now you may be viewing this lesson in a web browser (software)

and using your mouse (hardware) to click from page to page. As you learn about

different types of computers, ask yourself about the differences in their hardware.

As you progress through this tutorial, you'll see that different types of computers

also often use different types of software.

Section 2 : Types of computers


When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal

computer such as a desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many shapes

and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily lives. When you

withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're

using a type of computer.

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2.1 : Desktop computers

Many people use desktop computers at work, home, and school. Desktop

computers are designed to be placed on a desk, and they're typically made up of

a few different parts, including the computer case, monitor, keyboard,

and mouse.

2.2. Laptop computers

The second type of computer you may be familiar with is a laptop computer,

commonly called a laptop. Laptops are battery-powered computers that are more

portable than desktops, allowing you to use them almost anywhere.

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2.3. Tablet computers

Tablet computers - or tablets - are handheld computers that are even more

portable than laptops. Instead of a keyboard and mouse, tablets use a touch-

sensitive screen for typing and navigation. The iPad is an example of a tablet.

2.4. Servers

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A server is a computer that serves up information to other computers on a

network. For example, whenever you use the Internet, you're looking at something

that's stored on a server. Many businesses also use local file servers to store and

share files internally.

Section 3 : Other types of computers

Many of today's electronics are basically specialized computers, though we don't

always think of them that way. Here are a few common examples.

3.1. Smartphones : Many cell phones can do a lot of things computers can do,

including browsing the Internet and playing games. They are often

called smartphones.

3.2. Wearables : Wearable technology is a general term for a group of devices -

including fitness trackers and smartwatches - that are designed to be worn

throughout the day. These devices are often called wearables for short.

3.3. Game consoles : A game console is a specialized type of computer that is

used for playing video games on your TV.

3.4. TVs : Many TVs now include applications - or apps - that let you access

various types of online content. For example, you can stream video from

the Internet directly onto your TV.

Section 4 : PCs and Macs

Personal computers come in two main styles : PC and Mac. Both are fully

functional, but they have a different look and feel, and many people prefer one or

the other.

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4.1. PCs

This type of computer began with the original IBM PC that was introduced in 1981.

Other companies began creating similar computers, which were called IBM PC

Compatible (often shortened to PC). Today, this is the most common type of

personal computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating

system.

4.2. Macs

The Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely sold

personal computer with a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). All

Macs are made by one company (Apple), and they almost always use the Mac OS

X operating system.

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CHAPTER II : BASIC PARTS OF A COMPUTER

Introduction

The basic parts of a desktop computer are the computer

case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, and power cord. Each part plays an important

role whenever you use a computer.

Computer case

The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains the main

components of the computer, including the motherboard, central processing unit

(CPU), and power supply. The front of the case usually has an On/Off

button and one or more optical drives.

Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop case lies flat on a

desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of it. A tower case is tall and sits next to

the monitor or on the floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal

components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need for a separate case.

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Section 1 : Monitor

The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to display

images and text on the screen. Most monitors have control buttons that allow you

to change your monitor's display settings, and some monitors also have built-in

speakers.

Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting

diode) displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat-panel

displays. Older monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT monitors are

much larger and heavier, and they take up more desk space.

Section 2 : Keyboard

The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are

many different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to

accomplish the same basic tasks.

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Section 3 : Mouse

The mouse is another important tool for communicating with computers.

Commonly known as a pointing device, it lets you point to objects on the

screen, click on them, and move them.

There are two main mouse types : optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses

an electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical

mouse uses a rolling ball to detect movement and requires regular cleaning to

work properly.

3.1. Mouse alternatives

There are other devices that can do the same thing as a mouse. Many people find

them easier to use, and they also require less desk space than a traditional mouse.

The most common mouse alternatives are below.

3.1.1. Trackball : A trackball has a ball that can rotate freely. Instead of moving the

device like a mouse, you can roll the ball with your thumb to move the

pointer.

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2.1.2. Touchpad : A touchpad—also called a trackpad—is a touch-sensitive pad

that lets you control the pointer by making a drawing motion with your

finger. Touchpads are common on laptop computers.

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CHAPTER III : BUTTONS AND PORTS ON A COMPUTER

Introduction

Take a look at the front and back of your computer case and count the number

of buttons, ports, and slots you see. Now look at your monitor and count any you

find there. You probably counted at least 10, and maybe a lot more.

Each computer is different, so the buttons, ports, and sockets will vary from

computer to computer. However, there are certain ones you can expect to find on

most desktop computers. Learning how these ports are used will help whenever

you need to connect something to your computer, like a new printer, keyboard, or

mouse.

Section 1 : Front of a computer case

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Section 2 : Back of a computer case

The back of a computer case has connection ports that are made to fit specific

devices. The placement will vary from computer to computer, and many

companies have their own special connectors for specific devices. Some of the

ports may be color coded to help you determine which port is used with a

particular device.

Note that there are many other types of ports, such as FireWire, Thunderbolt, and

HDMI. If your computer has ports you don't recognize, you should consult your

manual for more information.

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Section 3 : Peripherals used with computer

The most basic computer setup usually includes the computer

case, monitor, keyboard, and mouse, but you can plug many different types of

devices into the extra ports on your computer. These devices are

called peripherals. Let's take a look at some of the most common ones.

3.1. Printers
A printer is used to print documents, photos, and anything else that appears on

your screen. There are many types of printers, including inkjet, laser,

and photo printers. There are even all-in-one printers, which can also scan and

copy documents.

3.2. Scanners
A scanner allows you to copy a physical image or document and save it to your

computer as a digital (computer-readable) image. Many scanners are included as

part of an all-in-one printer, although you can also buy a

separate flatbed or handheld scanner.

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3.3. Speakers/headphones

Speakers and headphones are output devices, which means they send

information from the computer to the user - in this case, they allow you to hear

sound and music. Depending on the model, they may connect to the audio port

or the USB port. Some monitors also have built-in speakers.

3.4. Microphones :
A microphone is a type of input device, or a device that receives information from

a user. You can connect a microphone to record sound or talk with someone

else over the Internet. Many laptop computers come with built-in microphones.

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3.5. Web cameras


A web camera - or webcam - is a type of input device that can record videos and

take pictures. It can also transmit video over the Internet in real time, which allows

for video chat or video conferencing with someone else. Many webcams also

include a microphone for this reason.

3.6. Game controllers and joysticks


A game controller is used to control computer games. There are many other types

of controllers you can use, including joysticks, although you can also use

your mouse and keyboard to control most games.

3.7. Digital cameras

A digital camera lets you capture pictures and videos in a digital format. By

connecting the camera to your computer's USB port, you can transfer the images

from the camera to the computer.

3.8. Mobile phones, MP3 players, tablet computers, and other devices

Whenever you buy an electronic device, such as a mobile phone or MP3 player,

check to see if it comes with a USB cable. If it does, this means you can most likely

connect it to your computer.

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CHAPTER FOUR : INSIDE A COMPUTER

Have you ever looked inside a computer case, or seen pictures of the inside of one

? The small parts may look complicated, but the inside of a computer case isn't

really all that mysterious. This lesson will help you master some of the

basic terminology and understand a bit more about what goes on inside a

computer.

Section 1 : Motherboard

The motherboard is the computer's main circuit board. It's a thin plate that holds

the CPU, memory, connectors for the hard drive and optical drives, expansion

cards to control the video and audio, and connections to your computer's ports

(such as USB ports). The motherboard connects directly or indirectly to every part

of the computer.

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Section 2 : CPU/processor

The central processing unit (CPU), also called a processor, is located inside

the computer case on the motherboard. It is sometimes called the brain of the

computer, and its job is to carry out commands. Whenever you press a key, click

the mouse, or start an application, you're sending instructions to the CPU.

The CPU is usually a two-inch ceramic square with a silicon chip located inside. The

chip is usually about the size of a thumbnail. The CPU fits into the

motherboard's CPU socket, which is covered by the heat sink, an object that

absorbs heat from the CPU.

A processor's speed is measured in megahertz (MHz), or millions of instructions

per second ; and gigahertz (GHz), or billions of instructions per second. A faster

processor can execute instructions more quickly. However, the actual speed of the

computer depends on the speed of many different components—not just the

processor.

Section 3 : RAM (Random Access Memory)

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RAM is your system's short-term memory. Whenever your computer performs


calculations, it temporarily stores the data in the RAM until it is needed.

This short-term memory disappears when the computer is turned off. If you're

working on a document, spreadsheet, or other type of file, you'll need to save it to

avoid losing it. When you save a file, the data is written to the hard drive, which

acts as long-term storage.

RAM is measured in megabytes (Mb) or gigabytes (Gb). The more RAM you have,

the more things your computer can do at the same time. If you don't have enough

RAM, you may notice that your computer is sluggish when you have several

programs open. Because of this, many people add extra RAM to their computers

to improve performance.

Section 4 : Hard drive

The hard drive is where your software, documents, and other files are stored. The

hard drive is long-term storage, which means the data is still saved even if you turn

the computer off or unplug it.

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When you run a program or open a file, the computer copies some of the data

from the hard drive onto the RAM. When you save a file, the data is copied back to

the hard drive. The faster the hard drive, the faster your computer can start

up and load programs.

Section 5 : Power supply unit

The power supply unit in a computer converts the power from the wall outlet to

the type of power needed by the computer. It sends power through cables to the

motherboard and other components.

If you decide to open the computer case and take a look, make sure to unplug the

computer first. Before touching the inside of the computer, you should touch a

grounded metal object—or a metal part of the computer casing - to discharge any

static buildup. Static electricity can be transmitted through the computer circuits,

which can seriously damage your machine.

Section 6 : Expansion cards

Most computers have expansion slots on the motherboard that allow you to add

various types of expansion cards. These are sometimes called PCI (peripheral

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component interconnect) cards. You may never need to add any PCI cards because

most motherboards have built-in video, sound, network, and other capabilities.

However, if you want to boost the performance of your computer or update the

capabilities of an older computer, you can always add one or more cards. Below

are some of the most common types of expansion cards.

Section 7 : Video card

The video card is responsible for what you see on the monitor. Most computers

have a GPU (graphics processing unit) built into the motherboard instead of

having a separate video card. If you like playing graphics-intensive games, you can

add a faster video card to one of the expansion slots to get better performance.

Section 8 : Sound card

The sound card - also called an audio card - is responsible for what you hear in the

speakers or headphones. Most motherboards have integrated sound, but you can

upgrade to a dedicated sound card for higher-quality sound.

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Section 9 : Network card

The network card allows your computer to communicate over a network and

access the Internet. It can either connect with an Ethernet cable or through

a wireless connection (often called Wi-Fi). Many motherboards have built-in

network connections, and a network card can also be added to an expansion slot.

Section 10 : Bluetooth card (or adapter)

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Bluetooth is a technology for wireless communication over short distances. It's

often used in computers to communicate with wireless keyboards, mice,

and printers. It's commonly built into the motherboard or included in a wireless

network card. For computers that don't have Bluetooth, you can purchase a USB

adapter, often called a dongle.

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CHAPTER FIVE : LAPTOP COMPUTERS

Section 1 : What is a laptop computer ?

A laptop is a personal computer that can be easily moved and used in a variety of

locations. Most laptops are designed to have all of the functionality of a desktop

computer, which means they can generally run the same software and open the

same types of files. However, laptops also tend to be more expensive than

comparable desktop computers.

Section 2 : How is a laptop different from a desktop ?

Because laptops are designed for portability, there are some important

differences between them and desktop computers. A laptop has an all-in-one

design, with a built-in monitor, keyboard, touchpad (which replaces the mouse),

and speakers. This means it is fully functional, even when no peripherals are

connected. A laptop is also quicker to set up, and there are fewer cables to get in

the way.

You'll also have to the option to connect a regular mouse, larger monitor, and

other peripherals. This basically turns your laptop into a desktop computer, with

one main difference : You can easily disconnect the peripherals and take the

laptop with you wherever you go.

Here are the main differences you can expect with a laptop.

2.1. Touchpad
A touchpad - also called a trackpad - is a touch-sensitive pad that lets you control

the pointer by making a drawing motion with your finger.

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2.2. Battery
Every laptop has a battery, which allows you to use the laptop when it's not

plugged in. Whenever you plug in the laptop, the battery recharges. Another

benefit of having a battery is that it can provide backup power to the laptop if the

power goes out.

2.3. AC adapter
A laptop usually has a specialized power cable called an AC adapter, which is

designed to be used with that specific type of laptop.

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2.4. Ports
Most laptops have the same types of ports found on desktop computers (such

as USB), although they usually have fewer ports to save space. However, some

ports may be different, and you may need an adapter in order to use them.

2.5. Price
Generally speaking, laptops tend to be more expensive than a desktop computer

with the same internal components. While you may find that some basic laptops

cost less than desktop computers, these are usually much less powerful machines.

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CHAPTER SIX : MOBILE DEVICES

Introduction : What is a mobile device ?

A mobile device is a general term for any type of handheld computer. These

devices are designed to be extremely portable, and they can often fit in your hand.

Some mobile devices - like tablets, e-readers, and smartphones - are powerful

enough to do many of the same things you can do with a desktop or laptop

computer.

Section 1 : Tablet computers

Like laptops, tablet computers are designed to be portable. However, they provide

a different computing experience. The most obvious difference is that tablet

computers don't have keyboards or touchpads. Instead, the entire screen is touch-

sensitive, allowing you to type on a virtual keyboard and use your finger as a

mouse pointer.

Tablet computers can't necessarily do everything traditional computers can do.

For many people, a traditional computer like a desktop or laptop is still needed in

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order to use some programs. However, the convenience of a tablet computer

means it may be ideal as a second computer.

Section 2 : E-readers

E-book readers - also called e-readers - are similar to tablet computers, except

they are mainly designed for reading e-books (digital, downloadable books).

Notable examples include the Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and Kobo.

Most e-readers use an e-ink display, which is easier to read than a traditional

computer display. You can even read in bright sunlight, just like if you were reading

a regular book.

You don't need an e-reader to read e-books. They can also be read

on tablets, smartphones, laptops, and desktops.

Section 3 : Smartphones

A smartphone is a more powerful version of a traditional cell phone. In addition to

the same basic features - phone calls, voicemail, text messaging - smartphones

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can connect to the Internet over Wi-Fi or a cellular network (which requires

purchasing a monthly data plan). This means you can use a smartphone for the

same things you would normally do on a computer, such as checking your email,

browsing the Web, or shopping online.

Most smartphones use a touch-sensitive screen, meaning there isn't a physical

keyboard on the device. Instead, you'll type on a virtual keyboard and use your

fingers to interact with the display. Other standard features include a high-quality

digital camera and the ability to play digital music and video files. For many people,

a smartphone can actually replace electronics like an old laptop, digital music

player, and digital camera in the same device.

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CHAPTER SEVEN : UNDERSTANDING OPERATING SYSTEMS

What is an operating system ?

An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It

manages the computer's memory and processes, as well as all of

its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer

without knowing how to speak the computer's language. Without an operating

system, a computer is useless.

Section 1 : The operating system's job

Your computer's operating system (OS) manages all of

the software and hardware on the computer. Most of the time, there are several

different computer programs running at the same time, and they all need to

access your computer's central processing unit (CPU), memory, and storage. The

operating system coordinates all of this to make sure each program gets what it

needs.

Section 2 : Types of operating systems

Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most

people use the operating system that comes with their computer, but it's possible

to upgrade or even change operating systems. The three most common operating

systems for personal computers are Microsoft Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface,

or GUI (pronounced gooey). A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons, buttons,

and menus, and everything is clearly displayed on the screen using a combination

of graphics and text.

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Each operating system's GUI has a different look and feel, so if you switch to a

different operating system it may seem unfamiliar at first. However, modern

operating systems are designed to be easy to use, and most of the basic principles

are the same.

2.1. Microsoft Windows

Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. There have

been many different versions of Windows, but the most recent ones are Windows

10 (released in 2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009), and Windows

Vista (2007). Windows comes pre-loaded on most new PCs, which helps to make it

the most popular operating system in the world.

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2.2. MacOS

MacOS (previously called OS X) is a line of operating systems created by Apple. It

comes preloaded on all Macintosh computers, or Macs. Some of the specific

versions include Mojave (released in 2018), High Sierra (2017), and Sierra (2016).

According to StatCounter Global Stats, MacOS users account for less than 10% of

global operating systems—much lower than the percentage of Windows users

(more than 80%). One reason for this is that Apple computers tend to be more

expensive. However, many people do prefer the look and feel of macOS over

Windows.

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2.3. Linux
Linux (pronounced LINN-ux) is a family of open-source operating systems, which

means they can be modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is

different from proprietary software like Windows, which can only be modified by

the company that owns it. The advantages of Linux are that it is free, and there are

many different distributions - or versions - you can choose from.

According to StatCounter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 2% of

global operating systems. However, most servers run Linux because it's relatively

easy to customize.

To learn more about different distributions of Linux, visit the Ubuntu, Linux Mint,

and Fedora websites, or refer to our Linux Resources. For a more comprehensive

list, you can visit MakeUseOf's list of The Best Linux Distributions.

Section 3 : Operating systems for mobile devices

The operating systems we've been talking about so far were designed to run

on desktop and laptop computers. Mobile devices such as phones, tablet

computers, and MP3 players are different from desktop and laptop computers, so

they run operating systems that are designed specifically for mobile devices.

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Examples of mobile operating systems include Apple iOS and Google Android. In

the screenshot below, you can see iOS running on an iPad.

Operating systems for mobile devices generally aren't as fully featured as those

made for desktop and laptop computers, and they aren't able to run all of the

same software. However, you can still do a lot of things with them, like watch

movies, browse the Web, manage your calendar, and play games.

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CHAPTER EIGHT : UNDERSTANDING APPLICATIONS

Section 1 : What is an application ?

You may have heard people talking about using a program, an application, or

an app. But what exactly does that mean ? Simply put, an app is a type of software

that allows you to perform specific tasks. Applications for desktop or laptop

computers are sometimes called desktop applications, while those for mobile

devices are called mobile apps.

When you open an application, it runs inside the operating system until you close

it. Most of the time, you will have more than one application open at the same

time, which is known as multi-tasking.

App is a common term for an application, especially for simple applications that

can be downloaded inexpensively or even for free. Many apps are also available

for mobile devices and even some TVs.

Section 2 : Desktop applications

There are countless desktop applications, and they fall into several categories.

Some are more full featured (like Microsoft Word), while others may only do one

or two things (like a clock or calendar app). Below are just a few types of

applications you might use.

2.1. Word processors


A word processor allows you to write a letter, design a flyer, and create many other

types of documents. The most well-known word processor is Microsoft Word.

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2.2. Web browsers


A web browser is the tool you use to access the Internet. Most computers come

with a web browser pre-installed, but you can also download a different one if you

prefer. Examples of browsers include Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google

Chrome, and Safari.

2.3. Media players


If you want to listen to MP3s or watch movies you've downloaded, you'll need to

use a media player. Windows Media Player and iTunes are popular media players.

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2.4. Games
There are many types of games you can play on your computer. They range from

card games like Solitaire to action games like Halo. Many action games require a

lot of computing power, so they may not work unless you have a newer computer.

Section 3 : Mobile apps

Desktop and laptop computers aren't the only devices that can run applications.

You can also download apps for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

Here are a few examples of mobile apps.

3.1. Gmail
You can use the Gmail app to easily view and send emails from your mobile device.

It's available for Android and iOS devices.

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3.2. Instagram
You can use Instagram to quickly share photos with your friends and family. It's

available for Android and iOS.

3.3. Duolingo
With a combination of quizzes, games, and other activities, this app can help you

learn new languages. It's available for Android and iOS.

Section 4 : Installing new applications

Every computer and mobile device will come with some applications already built

in, such as a web browser and media player. However, you can also purchase and

install new apps to add more functionality.

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CHAPTER NINE : SETTING UP A COMPUTER


So you have a new computer and you're ready to set it up. This may seem like an

overwhelming and complicated task, but it's actually a lot easier than you might

think ! Most computers are set up in a similar way, so it doesn't matter what brand

of computer you have.

If you're setting up a new computer that's still in the box, you'll probably find

a how-to guide that includes step-by-step details. Even if it didn't include

instructions, you can still set up the computer in a few easy steps. We'll take you

through the different steps needed to set up a typical computer.

Section 1 : Setting up a laptop computer

If you have a laptop, setup should be easy : Just open it and press the power

button. If the battery isn't charged, you'll need to plug in the AC adapter. You can

continue using the laptop while it charges.

If your laptop has any peripherals, like external speakers, you may want to read

the instructions below. Laptops and desktops generally use the same types of

connections, so the same steps will still apply.

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Section 2 : Setting up a desktop computer


Step 1

Unpack the monitor and computer case from the box. Remove any plastic

covering or protective tape. Place the monitor and computer case on a desk or

work area.

Be sure to place your computer case in an area that is well ventilated and has good

air flow. This will help to prevent the computer from overheating.

Step 2

Locate the monitor cable. There are several types of monitor cables, so the one

for your computer may not look like the one in the image below.

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If you're having trouble finding your monitor cable, refer to the instruction manual

for your computer. (If you have an all-in-one computer that's built into the

monitor, you can skip to Step 4).

Step 3

Connect one end of the cable to the monitor port on the back of the computer
case and the other end to the monitor.

Many computer cables will only fit a specific way. If the cable doesn't fit, don't force

it or you might damage the connectors. Make sure the plug aligns with the port,

then connect it.

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Step 4

Unpack the keyboard and determine whether it uses a USB (rectangular)

connector or a PS/2 (round) connector. If it uses a USB connector, plug it into any

of the USB ports on the back of the computer. If it uses a PS/2 connector, plug it

into the purple keyboard port on the back of the computer.

Step 5

Unpack the mouse and determine whether it uses a USB or PS/2 connector. If it

uses a USB connector, plug it into any of the USB ports on the back of the

computer. If it uses a PS/2 connector, plug it into the green mouse port on the

back of the computer.

If your keyboard has a USB port, you can connect your mouse to the keyboard

instead of connecting it directly to your computer.

If you have a wireless mouse or keyboard, you may need to connect a

Bluetooth dongle (USB adapter) to your computer. However, many computers

have built-in Bluetooth, so an adapter may not be necessary.

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Step 6

If you have external speakers or headphones, you can connect them to your

computer's audio port (either on the front or back of the computer case). Many

computers have color-coded ports. Speakers or headphones connect to

the green port, and microphones connect to the pink port. The blue port is

the line in, which can be used with other types of devices.

Some speakers, headphones, and microphones have USB connectors instead of

the usual audio plug. These can be connected to any USB port. In addition, many

computers have speakers or microphones built into the monitor.

Step 7

Locate the two power supply cables that came with your computer. Plug the first

power supply cable into the back of the computer case and then into a surge

protector. Then, using the other cable, connect the monitor to the surge protector.

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You can also use an uninterruptable power supply (UPS), which acts as a surge

protector and provides temporary power if there is a power outage.

Step 8

Finally, plug the surge protector into a wall outlet. You may also need to turn on

the surge protector if it has a power switch.

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If you don't have a surge protector, you can plug the computer directly into the

wall. However, this is not recommended because electrical surges can damage

your computer.

Step 9

If you have a printer, scanner, webcam, or other peripherals, you can connect

them at this point. Many peripherals are plug and play, which means they will be

recognized by your computer as soon as they are plugged in.

Other peripherals may include software that needs to be installed before you can

begin using them. Use the instructions included with the device to install it if

necessary.

Generally, peripherals are optional, and you can add new ones at any time ; you

don't have to add all peripherals during the initial setup of your computer.

Setup complete !

That's it - you've finished setting up your computer, so it's time to start using it !

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CHAPTER TEN : GETTING STARTED WITH YOUR FIRST


COMPUTER

Getting started with your first computer

A computer is more than just another household appliance. The vast amount of

information and possibilities can be overwhelming. But you can accomplish a lot

with a computer, and using one can be a good experience. Let's walk through

getting started with your first computer.

Turning on a computer for the first time can be different from one computer to

the next. Your experience could be different from this lesson. It's OK to ask

someone for help.

If you're using a desktop computer, you'll need to make sure that the keyboard,

mouse, and monitor are plugged into the computer case before you continue.

Section 1 : Turning on a computer

The very first step is to turn on the computer. To do this, locate and press

the power button. It's in a different place on every computer, but it will have the

universal power button symbol (shown below).

Once turned on, your computer takes time before it's ready to use. You may see a

few different displays flash on the screen. This process is called booting up, and it

can take anywhere from 15 seconds to several minutes.

Once the computer has booted up, it may be ready to use, or it may require you

to log in. This means identifying yourself by typing your user name or selecting

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your profile, then typing your password. If you've never logged in to your computer

before, you may need to create an account.

Section 2 : Using the keyboard and mouse

You interact with a computer mainly by using the keyboard and mouse, or

a trackpad on laptops. Learning to use these devices is essential to learning to use

a computer. Most people find it comfortable to place the keyboard on the desk

directly in front of them and the mouse to one side of the keyboard.

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The mouse controls the pointer on the screen. Whenever you move the mouse

across the desk, the pointer will move in a similar manner. A mouse usually has

two buttons, which are referred to as the left button and the right button. You will

often interact with the computer by moving the mouse pointer over something on

the computer screen, then clicking one of the buttons.

On laptops, you can use the trackpad, located below the keyboard, instead of a

mouse. Simply drag your finger across the trackpad to move the pointer on the

screen. Some trackpads do not have buttons, so you'll either press or tap

the trackpad to click.

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The keyboard allows you to type letters, numbers, and words into the computer.

Whenever you see a flashing vertical line—called the cursor—you can start typing.

Note that the mouse pointer is also called a cursor, but it is shaped differently.

The keyboard cursor is also called the insertion point.

Section 2 : Using computer’s tools

The main screen you'll start from is the desktop. This is sort of like a main menu

or a table of contents. From here, you can access the programs and features you

need to use your computer.

Icons are used to represent the different files, applications, and commands on

your computer. An icon is a small image that's intended to give you an idea at a

glance of what it represents, like a logo. Double-clicking an icon on the desktop

will open that application or file.

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2.1. Button

A button is a command that performs a specific function within an application. The

most commonly used commands in a program will be represented by buttons.

2.2. Menus

Menus are organized collections of commands and shortcuts. Click a menu to

open it and display the commands and shortcuts within. Then click an item in

the menu to execute it.

When you open an application or folder, it is displayed in its own window.

A window is a contained area—like a picture within a picture—with its own menus

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and buttons specific to that program. You can rearrange multiple windows on the

desktop and switch between them.

What's next ?

Here is the END of our intellectual pilgrimage in the world of computer science.

Next year in ANAPRO class, we'll elaborate more and talk about how to use your

computer's specific operating system.

THE END

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Reference

https://www.udemy.com/computer-basics/online-course

https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics

https://edu.gcfglobal.org/en/computerbasics/what-is-a-computer/1

https://www.koenig-solutions.com/computer_net/training

https://www.birmingham.ac.uk/

https://www.uc.edu/webapps/af/hr/CUSTOMGUIDE/content/content/computerbasics.pd
f

https://www.tutorialspoint.com/basics_of_computers/basics_of_computers_introduction
.htm

https://www.uopeople.edu/blog/the-basics-of-computer-science-how-to-get-started

Santiago Remacha Esteras, Elena Marco Fabré: Professional English in Use, ICT,
Cambridge University Press, 2009

Ensmenger, Nathan. “The ‘Computer Boys’ Take Over.” Cambridge, MA: MIT Press. 2019.
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Weber, Steve. The Success of Open Source. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press, 2004.
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Berry, David. Philosophy of Software: Code and Mediation in the Digital Age. Palgrave
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Chun, Wendy Hui Kyong. Programmed Visions: Software and Memory. MIT Press, 2011.

Coleman, Biella. Coding Freedom: The Ethics and Aesthetics of Hacking. Princeton University
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DeNardis, Laura. Protocol Politics: The Globalization of Internet Governance. MIT Press, 2009.

Fuller, Matthew, ed. Software Studies: A Lexicon. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2008. Print.

Shirky, Clay. “Situated Software.” (2004). Web. 15 Jan 2010.


<http://www.shirky.com/writings/situated_software.html

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Wardrip-Fruin, Noah. Expressive Processing: Digital Fictions, Computer Games, and Software
Studies. Cambridge, MA: MIT Press, 2009. Print

Ballentine, Brian. “Hacker Ethics & Firefox Extensions: Writing & Teaching the ‘Grey’
Areas of Web 2.0.” Computers and Composition Online

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