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What is a computer?
A machine that follows a program of
mathematical and logical directions to
convert input to output.
A computer is a device that:
Accepts input
Processes data
Stores data
Produces output
The most important device in todays
generation
Block diagram of a Computer
STORAGE
Computer Functions
•Words, symbols, numbers, sound, pictures,
Input
program instructions
•Results of processing
Output •Reports, graphs, documents, pictures
•Printer or monitor
LCD CRT
Both types produce sharp images, but LCD monitors have the
advantage of being much thinner and lighter. CRT monitors, however, are
generally more affordable.
2. System Unit
The system unit is the core of a computer system.
Usually it's a rectangular box placed on or
underneath your desk. Inside this box are many
electronic components that process information.
Almost every other part of your computer connects to
the system unit using cables. The cables plug into
specific ports (openings), typically on the back of the
system unit.
Hardware that is not part of the system unit is
sometimes called a peripheral device or device.
Inside the System Unit
CD, DVD
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Common Storage Type
USB Flash
Flash card
Online
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Computer Ports:
USB
Serial
Parallel
Network port
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Computer Ports:
VGA
HDMI
Headphone/Mic/Speaker
Touch Pad
5. Speaker
Speakers are used to
play sound. They may
be built into the system
unit or connected with
cables. Speakers allow
you to listen to music
and hear sound
effects from your
computer.
6. Printer
A printer transfers data from a computer onto paper. You don't need a
printer to use your computer, but having one allows you to print e-mail,
cards, invitations, announcements, and other materials. Many people
also like being able to print their own photos at home.
The two main types of printers are inkjet printers and laser printers. Inkjet
printers are the most popular printers for the home. They can print in
black and white or in full color and can produce high-quality
photographs when used with special paper. Laser printers are faster and
generally better able to handle heavy use.
Categories of Computer Parts
INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT STORAGE
Hz MHz GHz 44
What hardware affects computer
performance (speed)?
CPU speed
Measured in MHz or GHz
Common computers in 2011 had CPUs in the 1-
4GHz range.
RAM size
Measured in KB, MB or GB
Common RAM amounts in 2011 were between 1-
4GB.
Inexpensive computers are often shipped with too
little ram to run well.
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What hardware affects computer
performance (speed)?
Video/Graphics performance:
Integrated (onboard)
Built-in on the main circuit board
Inexpensive
Sufficient for most work
Usually borrows processing power and RAM from the
main system
Add-on
Plugged into the main circuit board
More powerful, for gaming or video editing
Separate RAM and special processor (GPU)
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Integrated Video Graphics
PCI Graphics
Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP)
PCI Express Graphics Card
What hardware affects computer
performance (storage)?
Computer size vocabulary:
Mbyte, Gbyte
Bit = short for binary digit,
Byte = 8 bits = 1 letter or number.
A KB (Kilobyte) stores 1024 bytes.
A MB (Megabyte) stores 1024 KB.
A GB (Gigabyte) stores 1024 MB. Common
thumbdrives are 2GB or 4GB. Common
harddrives in 2011 stored hundreds of GB.
A TB (Terabyte) stores 1024 GB.
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What hardware affects computer
performance (speed)?
Hard Drive speed
Hard drive is like a little metal CD that uses
magnets to store information.
Faster rotation = faster information
Common rotation speeds are:
5400, 7200, and 10,000 RPM (rotations per
minute).
That little flashing light on your computer
Moving parts = breakable parts
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What is computer software?
Computer software is what you can not touch on the
computer
Commonly called as programs, which tells the
hardware what to do.
2 Types of Software:
Operating Systems
Applications
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Operating System
Operating System
An OS is a special type of software that organizes other
software on the system.
An operating system, or OS, is a software program that
enables the computer hardware to communicate and
operate with the computer software. Without a
computer operating system, a computer would be
useless.
Microsoft Windows Operating Systems
Apple Mac OS X Operating Systems
Apple IOS Operating Systems
Andriod Operating Systems
Linux Operating Systems
Tizen Operating System
Applications
Are programs used to do specific task.
Examples:
Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc
Computer Virus / Anti-virus
AutoCAD
Open Office
Internet browsers: Internet explorer, Mozilla Firefox, etc
Computer Games
TIPP10