Algorithm Flowchart

A flowchart is a blueprint that pictorially represents the algorithm and its steps. The steps of a flowchart do
not have a specific size and shape rather it is designed in different shapes and sizes.
the boxes in different shapes and interconnected with arrows, are logically making a flow chart. A flow-
chart represents the general steps in a process.

Benefits of Flowchart -Let us now discuss the benefits of a flowchart.

Simplify the Logic
As it provides the pictorial representation of the steps; therefore, it simplifies the logic and subsequent steps.
Makes Communication Better
Because of having easily understandable pictorial logic and steps, it is a better and simple way of
representation.
Effective Analysis
Once the flow-chart is prepared, it becomes very simple to analyze the problem in an effective way.
Useful in Coding
The flow-chart also helps in coding process efficiently, as it gives directions on what to do, when to do, and
where to do. It makes the work easier.
Proper Testing
Further, flowchart also helps in finding the error (if any) in program
Applicable Documentation
Last but not the least, a flowchart also helps in preparing the proper document (once the codes are written).

Flow-Chart Symbols
The following table illustrates the symbols along with their names (used in a flow-chart) −

Name Symbol Name Symbol

Flow Line Magnetic Disk

Terminal Communication Link

Processing Offline Storage

Decision Annotation
 Connector Flow line

Document Off-Page Connector

Sample of Flow Chart

Programming Languages
The computer system is simply a machine and hence it cannot perform any work; therefore, in order to make
it functional different languages are developed, which are known as programming languages or simply
computer languages.
Over the last two decades, dozens of computer languages have been developed. Each of these languages
comes with its own set of vocabulary and rules, better known as syntax. Furthermore, while writing the
computer language, syntax has to be followed literally, as even a small mistake will result in an error and not
generate the required output.
Following are the major categories of Programming Languages −
 Machine Language
 Assembly Language
 High Level Language
 System Language
 Scripting Language
Let us discuss the programming languages in brief.
Machine Language or Code
This is the language that is written for the computer hardware. Such language is effected directly by the
central processing unit (CPU) of a computer system.
 Assembly Language
It is a language of an encoding of machine code that makes simpler and readable.
High Level Language
The high level language is simple and easy to understand and it is similar to English language. For example,
COBOL, FORTRAN, BASIC, C, C+, Python, etc.
High-level languages are very important, as they help in developing complex software and they have the
following advantages −
 Unlike assembly language or machine language, users do not need to learn the high-level
language in order to work with it.
 High-level languages are similar to natural languages, therefore, easy to learn and understand.
 High-level language is designed in such a way that it detects the errors immediately.
 High-level language is easy to maintain and it can be easily modified.
 High-level language makes development faster.
 High-level language is comparatively cheaper to develop.
 High-level language is easier to document.
Although a high-level language has many benefits, yet it also has a drawback. It has poor control on
machine/hardware.
The following table lists down the frequently used languages −

Hardware and Software

The following table highlights the points that differentiate a hardware from a software.

Hardware Software

It is the physical component of a computer It is the programming language that makes hardware
system. functional.

It has the permanent shape and structure, which It can be modified and reused, as it has no permanent
cannot be modified. shape and structure.

The external agents such as dust, mouse, The external agents such as dust, mouse, insects,
insects, humidity, heat, etc. can affect the humidity, heat, etc. cannot affect (as it is not
hardware (as it is tangible). tangible).
It works with binary code (i.e., 1’s to 0’s) . It functions with the help of high level language like
COBOL, BASIC, JAVA, etc.

It takes in only machine language, i.e., lower It takes in higher level language, easily readable by a
level language. human being.

It is not affected by the computer bug or virus. It is affected by the computer bug or virus.

It cannot be transferred from one place to other It can transfer from one place to other electronically.
electronically.

Duplicate copy of hardware cannot be created. A user can create copies of a software as many as he
wishes.

Operating System
An operating system is the fundamental basis of all other application programs. Operating system is an
intermediary between the users and the hardware.
Operating system controls and coordinates the use of hardware among application programs. The major
services of an operating system are −
 Memory management
 Disk access
 Creating user interface
 Managing the different programs operating parallel
 Likewise, it controls and manage the hardware’s working
Applications of Operating System
Following are the major applications of an operating system −
 An operating system is accountable for the formation and deletion of files and directories.
 An operating system manages the process of deletion, suspension, resumption, and
synchronization.
 An operating system manages memory space by allocation and de-allocation.
 An operating system stores, organizes, and names and protects the existing files.
 Further, an operating system manages all the components and devices of the computers
system including modems, printers, plotters, etc.
 In case, if any device fails, the operating system detects and notify.
 An operating system protects from destruction as well as from unauthorized use.
 An operating system facilitates the interface to user and hardware.
Types of Operating System
Following are the major types of operating system −
 Disk Operating System (DOS)
 Windows Operating System
 Unix Operating System
Let us now discuss each operating system in detail.
Disk Operating System
MS-DOS is one of the oldest and widely used operating system. DOS is a set of computer programs, the
major functions of which are file management, allocation of system resources, providing essential features to
control hardware devices.
DOS commands can be typed in either upper case or lower case.
Features of DOS
Following are the significant features of DOS −
 It is a single user system.
 It controls program.
 It is machine independence.
 It manages (computer) files.
 It manages input and output system.
 It manages (computer) memory.
 It provides command processing facilities.
 It operates with Assembler.
Types of DOS Commands
Following are the major types of DOS Command −
Internal Commands − Commands such as DEL, COPY, TYPE, etc. are the internal
commands that remain stored in computer memory.
 External Commands − Commands like FORMAT, DISKCOPY, etc. are the external
commands and remain stored on the disk.
Windows Operating System
The operating system window is the extension of the disk operating system.
It is the most popular and simplest operating system; it can be used by any person who can read and
understand basic English, as it does not require any special training.
However, the Windows Operating System requires DOS to run the various application programs initially.
Because of this reason, DOS should be installed into the memory and then window can be executed.
Elements of Windows OS
Following are the significant element of Windows Operating System (WOS) −
 Graphical User Interface
 Icons (pictures, documents, application, program icons, etc.)
 Taskbar
 Start button
 Windows explorer
 Mouse button
 Hardware compatibility
 Software compatibility
 Help, etc.
Versions of Windows Operating System
Following are the different versions of Windows Operating System −

Version Year Version Year

Window 1.01 1985 Windows XP Professional x64 2005

Windows NT 3.1 1993 Windows Vista 2007

Windows 95 1995 Windows 7 2009

Windows 98 1998 Windows 8 2012

Windows 2000 2000 Windows 10 2015

Windows ME 2000 Windows Server 2016 2016

Windows XP 2001

Unix Operating System

The Unix Operating System is the earliest operating system developed in 1970s. Let us consider the
following points relating to the Unix Operating System −
 It is an operating system that has multitasking features.
 It has multiuser computer operating systems.
 It runs practically on every sort of hardware and provides stimulus to the open source
movement.
 It has comparative complex functionality and hence an untrained user cannot use it; only the
one who has taken training can use this system.
 Another drawback of this system is, it does not give notice or warn about the consequences of
a user’s action (whether user’s action is right or wrong).

INTERNET
Internet is a system that interconnects the different computer systems across the world. It uses the Internet
protocol suite to link devices located in different corners of the world. The Internet system carries an
extensive range of information resources and services including World Wide Web (WWW), telephony,

electronic mail, etc. It uses standard internet protocols, such as TCP/IP and HTTP, etc.
An internal web comprises of all Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) nodes on a private network; for
example, an organization’s LAN or WAN.
Features of Internet
Let us now discuss the features of Internet. The features are described below −
Accessibility
An Internet is a global service and accessible to all. Today, people located in a remote part of an island or
interior of Africa can also use Internet.
Easy to Use
The software, which is used to access the Internet (web browser), is designed very simple; therefore, it can
be easily learned and used. It is easy to develop.
Interaction with Other Media
Internet service has a high degree of interaction with other media. For example, News and other magazine,
publishing houses have extended their business with the help of Internet services.
Low Cost
The development and maintenance cost of Internet service are comparatively low.
Extension of Existing IT Technology
This facilitates the sharing of IT technology by multiple users in organizations and even facilitates other
trading partners to use.
Flexibility of Communication
Communication through Internet is flexible enough. It facilitates communication through text, voice, and
video too. These services can be availed at both organizational and individual levels.
Security
Last but not the least, Internet facility has to a certain extent helped the security system both at the individual
and national level with components such as CCTV camera, etc.
Internet Software
Internet Software comprises of all the tools needed for networking through computer. Following are a few
important components of the Internet Software −
 Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)
 Dialer Software
 Interment Browser
Internet Applications
Internet applications are server-based applications. Following are a few Internet Applications −
 World Wide Web (WWW)
 Electronic mail (e-mail)
 File Transfer Protocol (FTP)
 Telnet (i.e., log-in to the computer located remotely)
 Internet Relay Chat (IRC) (Real time video chatting)
 Types of Computer
All the computers that are developed are not alike rather they have different designs and features. Some
computers have very high capacity as well as working speed; however, some are slow. Depending upon the
requirements, computers are being developed.
Types of Computer
Depending upon the internal structure and subsequent features and applicability, computer system is
categorized as follows −
Mainframe Computer
It is high capacity and costly computer. It is largely used by big organizations where many people can use it
simultaneously.
Super Computer
This category of computer is the fastest and also very expensive. A typical supercomputer can solve up to
ten trillion individual calculations per second.
Workstation Computer
The computer of this category is a high-end and expensive one. It is exclusively made for complex work
purpose.

Personal Computer (PC)

It is a low capacity computer developed for single users.
Apple Macintosh (Mac)
It is a sort of personal computer manufactured by Apple company.
Laptop computer (notebook)
It is a handy computer that can be easily carried anywhere.
Tablet and Smartphone
Modern technology has advanced further. It has helped develop computers that are pocket-friendly. Tablets
and smartphones are the best examples of such computer.

Computer Networking Terminology

In this chapter, we will discuss the major terminologies used in computer networking −
WAN
It stands for Wide Area Network and covers a wide area such as a city.
LAN
It stands for Local Area Network and covers a small area such as a small office or home. It physically
connects all the computers located in the premises.
Internet
It is a computer network system that connects the computers of the world. It is normally connecting through
WAN and LAN.
Intranet
It is a close room computer network system, as it covers a small area and only authorized people can access
it.
Extranet
It is also a sort of Internet the access to which is granted only to a few.
World Wide Web (WWW)
It is the service that is used on Internet to view and search contents (in the form of web-pages).
Instant messaging (IM)
It is an online facility that facilitates us to chat or talk. Such service is provided by Skype, Google Talk,
Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, etc.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)
It is a Protocol, which is used especially for voice transfer over IP network. Likewise, it facilitates users to
make phone-calls by using internet.
Really Simple Syndication (RSS)
It is a technique, which is used for the dissemination of information, articles, etc. Users normally subscribe
to the RSS channel in order to receive news. After subscription, users do not need to visit the respective
website rather they receive emails regarding the same.
Web log
It is a sort of online inventory (normally on a specialized topics) that consists of a series of entries. These
entries are arranged in opposite chronological order. The person who maintains the weblog regularly update
it with a new information.
Podcast
It is a digital file that normally contains audio or video record and is available on the Internet as well.
Social networking websites
It refers to the websites that facilitate users with a common platform where they can share their message (in
text, audio, or even video form), images, videos, etc. For example, Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn,
MySpace, etc.

Chat Rooms
It is a dedicated area on the Internet that facilitates users to communicate.
Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN)
It is a technical expression for public telephone system.
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN)
It is a set of communication standards that transmits voice, video, data, and other network services
simultaneously.
Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL)
It is a sort of digital subscriber line (DSL) technology that facilitates faster data transmission.
Download
It is a process that saves data from Internet onto a personal computer.
Upload
It is a process that transfers the saved data from a personal computer to Internet server.
Dial-up
It is a technique in which a phone line is used in order to connect to the Internet.
Broadband
It is a wide bandwidth data transmission that transports multiple signals and traffic types swiftly.
 Basics of Computer Science - APPLICATIONS
A number of tasks in today’s world is computer based - filling an application, transferring fund, or doing
online business everything can be done through computer application.
Easily accessible and user friendly, computer applications process the required transactions very quickly and
accurately.
Computer applications are designed in such a simple manner that no qualification or training is required to
use it; any person who can read and write can use computer application.
Uses of Computer Applications
In this section, we will discuss the different computer applications and their uses.
 On-line Application
 Real Time Application
 Business Application
Online Applications
Today, most of the applications are being accepted online, whether it is for opening a bank account, filling
admission form, filling job application, etc.
Following are the important forms of online applications −
Banking
Most of the banks are interlinked through computer networking and offer core banking facilities. Computer
networking helps maintain accounts online, offers net banking facility, makes available online transactions
facility, and offers digital signature facility, the biggest advantage being that ATM machines can dispense
money anytime, etc.
Ticket Booking
Ticket booking has become easier with computer networking. Flight ticket, railway ticket, and even bus
ticket can be booked online with simple and easy steps.

Passport Application
If you want to apply for a new passport, you can do it by yourself online. Besides, you can also apply for
other essential documents online such as PAN card, Aadhaar Card, etc.
Job Application
Today, most of the applications (private as well as government) are being filled online. Many of the
organizations also conduct competitive exams leading to employment online.
Admission Application
Most of the schools and universities have made their admission applications available online; they also
accept fees online.
Real-time Application
Real-time application is a computer based application program that functions in a given period of time. Or in
other words, in a given period of time, a user has to perform certain functions before the time lapses.
For example, if you are making online transactions, then you have to provide the required information in a
given time framework or else you will miss the chance.
Following are significant examples of real-time application −
Videoconferencing
With this technology, people can connect with each other visually from different places.

VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol)

This technology helps to make telephone calls over digital computer networks.
E-commerce transactions
This technology helps in buying and selling products over the digital computer network.
Online banking
Online banking is virtual banking from any place with the help of computer networks.
Instant messaging
This is where messages can be exchanged over the Internet instantly.
Online gaming
This enables playing of games partially or completely over the Internet.
Business Application
Different businesses have different computer applications; however, a few applications such as for
maintaining the data base (of respective business), keeping employees’ records, offering online business
facilities, online promotions, etc. are the common features of almost every business organization.
As such, introduction of computer technology has made business easier, simpler, and accessible 24×7.