Computer Basics and its Components

Examine computer components

Edited by A. Moore 01/2012

Information retrieved from Digital Literacy Modules and 2003 BCT Curriculum

Computer Basics and its Components

Upon completion of this objective, the learner will: Differentiate types of computers, printers, and ports Learn the importance of memory (RAM and ROM) Identify and describe IPOS Know system software and productivity programs Identify LAN and WAN Understand the importance of maintaining the

computer system and proper printer care

Essential Standard

Benefits of Using Computers

Error-free calculations Speed Flexibility Storage Consistency and repetition

What Is A Computer System? The actual computer

(monitor, CD/DVD drives)

An electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data, and produces a result (output).

The other parts are called

peripheral devices

Types of ComputersSupercomputer: most powerful

Used for scientific purposes Predict hurricanes and navigate satellites (Doplar Radar)

MainMainframes/minicomputers: used by

business and government to process large

amounts of information

Personal computers: smaller and less powerful

Personal ComputersDesktop computer: designed to be used on a

desktop.

Notebook/Tablet computer: used on a desktop but still small enough to

be portable.

Laptop computer: designed to be small enough and light enough to be used on your lap.

Types of Printers

Dot Matrix Gives a printed

image in a pattern (matrix) of tiny ink dots. Less expensive and

not as clear

Inkjet Printer Better quality of

printed document Machine uses an

ink cartridge and a printing element to print images on the paper.

Laser Best quality of

printed documents Laser beam and an

ink toner cartridge are used to produce the images.

More expensive Quick

System ComponentsCentral Processing Unit (CPU): the

microprocessor, the brains of the computer Tells which switch turns on and off by the processing program that tells it what to do Most Popular CPU: Intel (Ex: Manager and employees).

Basic Controllers: Located on the motherboard Controls the transfer of data from the

computer to a peripheral device and vice versa.

Keyboards, mouse, monitors, and printers.

The MotherboardMotherboard: Center of all processing• Contains the CPU,

ports and expansion slots• Circuit board (a thin

plate or board that contains electronic components) that contains many integral components.

System Components

RAM is short term memory found on the Motherboard

Random Access Memory (RAM): Data and program instructions are stored

temporarily

When the computer is turned off or if there is loss of power, what ever is stored in RAM disappears.

This memory know as the main memory and is considered volatile.

Example: Admin

System Components (con’t.)

ROM is long term memory found on the motherboard

Read-Only Memory (ROM): Stores specific instructions for the computer to operate.

• The instructions remain on the chip regardless if the power is turned on or off.•Memory is know as nonvolatile.

• Example: user name and password

Systems Software

Operating System (OS): controls the entire operation

of the computer The first thing we see when we turn it on The last thing we see when we turn it off Windows XP, Windows Vista, Windows 7

Utility programs: Performs housekeeping chores Copies files from one location to another Manages the computer’s resources, file management, etc.

Graphical User Interface (GUI)

GUI (graphical user interface) – pronounced “gooey” • Allows users to communicate with programs on your

computer

• Use the mouse or pointer to click and drag on-screen icons to perform functions.

• Graphical symbols (icons) represent files, disks, programs, and other objects.

RAM or ROM?If you wanted to save your work the SMS network so you could print later, which memory would you use?

A) ROMB) RAM

Hardware/Software

Hardware: the tangible, physical equipment that can be seen and touched such as: Computer Case

(houses the computer components)

Monitor Keyboard and Mouse Speakers

Software: the intangible set of

instructions that tells the computer

what to do Application System software

Data: information entered into the computer to be processed Text, numbers, sounds,

and images

Which best describes Graphical User Interface (GUI)? (Write the correct alphabet on your paper)

A) Hardware that provides printed output from the computer. B) Graphical symbols instead of text commands to control common computer functions C) Portable magnetic storage medium for computer data that allows users to randomly access information.

B Graphical symbols instead of

text commands to control

common computer functions

The answer is. . .

What is an icon? A) Portable magnetic storage medium for

computer data that allows users to randomly access information.

B) The computer's working memory, sometimes called random-accessed memory.

C) A small picture or symbol representing a computer hardware function or component.

D) A printed copy of computer output.

The answer is. . .

C A small picture or symbol

representing a computer

hardware function or

component.

Are you smarter than a middle school scholar?

Hardware/Software Terminology

http://www.quia.com/quiz/3275766.html

Productivity (Application) Programs

• Productivity programs perform certain jobs• Allows the user to create different documents in

different formats, using different programs.

Examples:• Word Processing programs• Presentation programs• Spreadsheet programs• Database programs

• Desktop publishing programs• Integrated programs

• Games

Name the desktop publishing program used in the computer labs at Sampson Middle School. (Write it down)

The answer is . . . .

Microsoft Office Publisher

Business SoftwareWord Processing

Allows you to create, edit,

and print text documents Report, flyer, memo

Desktop PublishingUses pictures and words to create documents

Newsletters Brochures

Database Lets you set up an

electronic filing systems

Enter text and numbers

File cabinet, media center

Spreadsheet Numbered Rows and

Lettered Columns Grades, calculate

numbers

Business Software (Con’t.)Graphics Software

Uses pictures or images to help communicate messages.

Multimedia Combines text, graphics, animation, video, and

audio. Clip art: graphical

images to be added to documents

Integrated Software

Combine several software applications into one program. Include: Work Processing Spreadsheet Database Desktop Publishing Multimedia PP

software Communication

Examples: MS OFFICE

If you want to boot up your computer, which one of the following programs would you use?

a) Application softwareb) System software

The correct answer is:

BSystem software

PortsSerial and Parallel Ports: Connects

peripheral devices to the computer; usually one serial and one

parallel port on a computer.

Serial devices transmit data one bit at a time.

Flat screen TV, mouse, monitor, modem

Parallel devices transfer several bits at a time. Joy stickPrinter

Ports Universal Serial Bus (USB): supports

data transfer rates of up to 12 million bits per second. Expected to replace serial and parallel ports in

the near future.

Expansion Slots: electrical connections in the motherboard where a circuit board or expansion board can be inserted. Additional Memory, video cards, and sound

cards.

Modems and Routers

• A modem connection device that allows you to connect your computer to the Internet over a phone line.

• Access point (AP) connects a wireless device to a wired network (Ex: WiFi, Wireless router)

Input, Output, & Storage Devices (IPOS)

Input device: hardware that allows you to communicate with your computer.

Output device: hardware that

allows your computer to communicate with the user

Storage device: allows you to store or retrieve information

Computer Input Devices

Keyboard Mouse Joystick Touchpad Touch screen

Webcam Scanner Microphone Digital Cameras Smart board

More Input DevicesJoystick and wheel: Joysticks consist of a metal or plastic handle

mounted on a base that you can move in any direction to

move thepointer or other object.

Typically are used for video games. Most have buttons that can be pushed or

clicked to control input/output.

Computer Output Devices

Monitor Printer Speakers Headsets Projector

Storage Devices

Hard Disk Drive: stores data inside of the computer.Magnetic platter that holds a large amount of information in a form the computer can understand. Size of Hard drive is measured in megabytes or

gigabytes.

USB Flash Drive: connects to the computer via a USB port.

Zip Disk: capable of storing tremendous amounts of information

Storage Devices (con’t.) Magnetic Tape

Drives: used for making system backup copies of large volumes of data. Very slow Can be used to replace

data that may have been lost on the hard drive

Optical discs: (CDs and DVDs) use laser technology to read and write data on silver platters. CD-ROM (Compact Disk

Read-Only Memory) can store up to 800MB of data.

CD-R (record once) CD-RW (multiple times) DVD (Digital Versatile

Disk) can be played in a regular CD or in a DVD movie player.

NetworkNetwork - group of computers are connected to share resources and exchange information.

• Wide area network (WAN) covers a large geographic area.

• Local area network (LAN) connection of computers in a limited area (home, school, or a lab)

Proper Computer Care

Keep food and drinks away from the computer and keyboard.

Avoid dusty locations. Use a surge protector. Keep magnets away. Do not block vents on the CPU. Avoid bright sunny locations. Do not move the computer while it is in use. Always exit programs properly. Use a virus check program on a regular basis.

Proper CD ROM Care Keep CDs stored in a clean, cool and dry place

with a protective cover. Avoid touching the back side of the CD; to avoid

scratches. Avoid hot and cold locations. Make a back-up copy of your programs and files. Insert into CD ROM Drive properly; label facing

up. Only write on CD’s with a CD Marking Pen on a

label or the correct side of the CD.

How to Maintain your Computer System

Start a notebook of information on your system. Serial numbers Vendor support telephone numbers User IDs Date and vendor for each equipment and software

purchase. Trouble log

Periodically review disk directories and delete unneeded files.

Make sure all plug-ins are secure at all times. Turn off the power and disconnect the equipment form

the power source before you open the inside of you computer.

Keep surrounding area dirt and dust free. Back up files and data regularly. Periodically defragment your hard disk. Protect your system from computer viruses

Proper Care of Printers

Avoid cold, hot, and dusty locations. Always use the correct ink or toner

replacement. Always have the proper printer cable

connected to your computer. Never pull paper out of a printer in motion. Do not turn off the printer while printing. Read the instruction manual before operating

a printer. Always use the proper type of paper in your

printer.

Ergonomics

The science of designing equipment for a comfortable and safe working environment.

Proper Computer Ergonomics Sit up straight and lean forward slightly from the

waist. Keep your feet flat on the floor. Your body should be about a hand’s length from the

front of the keyboard and centered with the keyboard. Keep your fingers on the home row keys and curved. Keep your wrists up, not touching the keyboard or

desk. Focus your eyes on the book, copy or screen. Place all materials you will type on the right side of

the computer and supplies on the left side. Keep any items you are not using off your desk. Occasionally rest your eyes and take short breaks. Avoid lights that cause glare on the monitor.

Questions???