K E Y B O A R D I N G 1

Computer Basics

Definitions

Computer

An electronic, digital, programmable machine that has four functions

accepts input

processes data

stores data

produces output

Definitions

Hardware

The electronic and mechanical devices that process data

Refers to the computer as well as peripheral devices

Can be touched

Definitions

Software

A computer program that tells the computer how to perform particular tasks

Cannot be touched

Definitions

Network

Two or more computers and other devices that are connected for sharing data and programs

Definitions

Peripheral Devices

Used to expand the computer’s input, output, and storage capabilities

Examples: mouse, keyboard, printer, monitor, webcam, microphone, speakers

Definitions

Input

Whatever is put into a computer system

Data

Refers to the “symbols” that represent facts, objects, or ideas

Information

Processed data

Output

Results produced by the computer

Example: what is printed or shown on the monitor

Definitions

Memory

Area of the computer that temporarily holds data waiting to be processed, stored, or output

Storage

Area of the computer or device that holds data on a long-term basis

Hard disk drive

USB drive

CD-R or RW

DVD-R or RW

Cloud

Types of Computers

PDA (personal digital assistant)

Often uses flash memory rather than a hard drive

Uses touch screen rather than keyboard

Smart phone is an example

Types of Computers

Personal Computer (microcomputer)

Designed to meet the needs of an individual

Provides access to applications such as

Word processing

Photo editing

E-mail

Internet

Has peripherals (keyboard, mouse, etc.) that are plugged into it

What category does an iPad fit into?

Types of Computers

Laptop

Portable, compact computer

All components are in one compact unit

Often more expensive than a comparable desktop

Sometimes called a notebook and netbook

Types of Computers

Workstation

Powerful desktop computer designed for specialized tasks that require a lot of processing speed

Can look like an ordinary personal computer

Often used for 3-D graphics or game development

Types of Computers

Mainframe

Large, expensive computer capable of simultaneously processing data for hundred of thousands of users

Used by large, complex organization such as

Universities

Banks

Airlines

Types of Computers

Supercomputer

A very fast, very powerful computer

Used for scientific and engineering work

Huge storage capacity

Very fast input and output capabilities

Types of Computers

Server

A computer that provides services to other computers over a network.

Servers usually have powerful processors, lots of memory, and large hard drives.

Input Devices

A peripheral device that provides data to a computer

Keyboard

Mouse

Camera/Webcam

Scanner

Microphone

Output Devices

Computer hardware equipment used to communicate the results of data processing carried out by an computer

Speakers

Headphone

Printer

Monitor

Storage Devices

A device for storing/recording information

Disk drive

CD/DVD

Magnetic tape

Flash drive

Memory card

Cloud

Care and Treatment of Computers

Keep computer free of dust, dirt, and liquids

Don’t spray monitor with glass cleaner

Don’t touch with your fingers either

Don’t clean the inside of the computer yourself

Canned air can be used on the outside of the computer

Wash your hands before using the computer

Wash your hands after using the computer

Care and Treatment of Computers

Use a surge protector to guard against electrical surges

Use and update virus protection software

Do not accept downloads from Internet sites that you don't know and trust.

Don’t open an e-mail attachment from someone you don’t know

Install only one software program at a time; check for problems before installing another program