LECTURE 1& 2

COM 111- INTRODUCTION TO

COMPUTER
By Engr. Arolu K. A.
Mnse.
 What is a Computer?
 Literarily means a device that can calculate.
 Old definition
A computer is an electromechanical device, which
accepts input, processes the input, and generates the
output.
 New definition
Is an electronic device that is capable of accepting
input, stores or performs prescribed arithmetic and
logical operations at high speed on the input, and can
produces output in a desired format.
 Basic function of a computer
 Input : accepts data
Computers can receive data and instructions from various input
devices such as keyboards, mice, scanners, microphones, and
sensors. Input allows users to interact with the computer and
provide information or commands.
 Processing – processes data
Once the computer receives input, it processes the data using
the central processing unit (CPU). The CPU performs
calculations, executes instructions, and manages the flow of
information within the computer system.
 Basic function of a computer
 Output – produces output
After processing the data, computers can produce output
through various output devices such as monitors, printers,
speakers, and actuators. Output presents the processed
information in a human-readable or usable format.
 Storage – stores result
Computers have the ability to store data and instructions for
later use. This storage can be in the form of primary memory
(RAM) or secondary storage devices such as hard disk drives
(HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), or external storage media like
USB drives.
 Basic workflow of a computer

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

(Data) (Arithmetic & (Information
Logical) )

Computer input is called Data

while the output is called information.

There are two types of Process that can be apply to data:

Arithmetic & Logical operation
 Characteristics of a Computer
 SPEED
Computers are designed to perform tasks quickly. They can
execute instructions and process data at incredible speeds,
measured in terms of gigahertz (GHz) or even terahertz (THz).
 ACCURACY
Computers are highly accurate machines. They can perform
calculations with precision, eliminating errors that may occur due
to human fallibility.
 RELIABILITY
Computers are built with redundant components and error-
checking mechanisms to ensure high reliability. Redundancy and
error correction techniques minimize the chances of system
 Characteristics of a Computer
 VERSATILITY
Computers are versatile devices capable of performing a wide
range of tasks. With the right software and hardware, they can
handle numerous applications.
 STORAGE CAPACITY
Computers have the ability to store vast amounts of data. They
utilize various types of storage devices, such as hard disk drives
(HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and cloud-based storage, to
store and retrieve data efficiently.

 PROGRAMMABILITY
Computers can be programmed to perform specific tasks based
 ADVANTAGES OF USING A COMPUTER
 Multitasking
 Speed
 Reduces Cost/ Stores huge amount of data
 Accuracy
 Productivity
 Data Security
DISADVANTAGES OF USING A COMPUTER

 Health risks
 Security risks
 Social risks
 Reduction in employment opportunity
 Dependency and addiction:
 WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH A
Create Document
COMPUTER Perform Research

Monitor your finances Store Data

 WHAT YOU CAN DO WITH A
COMPUTERPlay Media
Teaching Keep in touch

Learn new life skills

Buy and Sell

Learning Skills Play Games
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING

Tally Sticks
A tally stick was an
ancient memory aid
device to record and
document numbers,
quantities, or even
messages.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Abacus
• An abacus is a mechanical device used
to aid an individual in performing
mathematical calculations.
• The abacus was invented in Babylonia
in 2400 B.C.
• The abacus in the form we are most
familiar with was first used in China in
around 500 B.C.
• It is used to perform basic arithmetic
operations.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Napier’s
Bones
• Invented by John Napier in
1614.

• It can perform multiplication,

division and can calculate square
and cube roots by moving the
rods around and placing them in
specially constructed boards.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING

Slide Rule

• Invented by William Oughtred

in 1622.
• Is based on Napier's ideas
about logarithms.
• Used primarily for
multiplication, division, roots,
logarithms, Trigonometry
• Not normally used for addition
or subtraction.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Pascaline
• Invented by Blaise Pascal
in 1642.

• It was its limitation to

addition and subtraction.

• It is too expensive.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING

Stepped Reckoner
• Invented by Gottfried
Wilhelm Leibniz in 1672.

• The machine that can add,

subtract, multiply and divide
automatically.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING

Jacquard Loom
• The Jacquard loom is a
mechanical loom, invented by
Joseph-Marie Jacquard in 1881.

• It an automatic loom controlled

by punched cards.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Arithmomete
• Armechanical calculator
invented by Thomas de Colmar in
1820,
• The first reliable, useful and
commercially successful
calculating machine.
• The machine could perform the
four basic mathematic functions.
• The first mass-produced
calculating machine.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Difference Engine and Analytical Engine
• It an automatic, mechanical
calculator designed to
tabulate polynomial
functions.
• Invented by Charles
Babbage in 1822 and 1834
• It is the first mechanical
computer
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING

Tabulating Machine
• Invented by Herman Hollerith
in 1890.
• To assist in summarizing
information and accounting
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Havard Mark
1
• Also known as IBM
Automatic Sequence
Controlled Calculator (ASCC).
• Invented by Howard H.
Aiken in 1943
• The first electro-mechanical
computer.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
Z1
• The first programmable
computer.

• Created by Konrad Zuse in

Germany from 1936 to
1938.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING

Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC)

• It was the first electronic
digital computing device.

• Invented by Professor John

Atanasoff and graduate
student Clifford Berry at Iowa
State University between 1939
and 1942.
 HISTORY OF COMPUTING
The First Portable
Computer
• Osborne 1 – is the first
commercially successful
portable microcomputer.

• Released in 1981 by the

Osborne Computer
Corporation.
 Computer Generations
The history of computers is often divided into generations, which
represent significant advancements and changes in computer
technology.
Here is a brief overview of the different generations of computers:

First Generation (1940s-1950s):

 Used vacuum tubes as the primary electronic component.
 Large in size, generated a lot of heat, and were prone to
frequent failures.
 Examples: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and
Computer) and UNIVAC (Universal Automatic Computer).
 Computer Generations
Second Generation (1950s-1960s):
• Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, leading to smaller,
faster, and more reliable computers.
• Used magnetic core memory for data storage.
• Assembly language and early high-level programming
languages were introduced.
• Examples: IBM 1401, CDC 1604, and IBM 7090.
Third Generation (1960s-1970s):
 Integrated circuits (ICs) were introduced, allowing for greater
miniaturization and increased performance.
 Multiple transistors and electronic components were combined on
single silicon chip.
 Operating systems and time-sharing systems became more
prevalent.
 Computer Generations
Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s):
 The era of microprocessors began, with the entire central
processing unit (CPU) on a single chip.
 Personal computers (PCs) were introduced, making computers
more accessible to individuals.
 Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) and programming languages
like C and Pascal gained popularity.
 Examples: Apple II, IBM PC, and Commodore 64.
Fifth Generation (1980s-Present):
 Advancements in microprocessor technology, storage, and networking
capabilities.
 Introduction of parallel processing, supercomputers, and high-
performance computing.
 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and expert systems development.

 CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS

Computers are classified based on three major criteria

namely - size, type of signal being processed and
purpose.
 Purpose
 type of signal
 Size
 On The Basis Of Purpose

Special-Purpose Computers
 A special purpose computer is one that is designed
to solve a restricted class of problems.
 Such computers may even be designed and built to
handle only one job. E.g: E-book readers, Digital
cameras, dumb phones, Automated Teller Machine
Thin Client common in banks.
 On The Basis Of Purpose (Cont..)

General-Purpose Computers
 General-Purpose computers are computers
designed to handle wide range of problems.
 General Purpose Computers are more complex than
the special purpose ones. E.g. Personal computers,
including desktops, notebooks, smartphones and
tablets,
 On The Basis Of Signal Type
Analogue Computers: measure continuous
changes in a physical quantity i.e. the data changes
continuously.

 Analog computers are used for measuring of

parameters that vary continuously in real time, such
as temperature, pressure and voltage.
 The earliest computers were analog computers.
 On The Basis Of Signal Type
(Cont..)
Digital Computer: data are represented in discrete form i.e.
data are expressed in binary code using only the two digits 0 and 1.
 All modern computers such as laptops and desktops are
digital computers.

Hybrid computer: is a type of computer that offers the

functionalities of both a digital and an analog computer.
 Main objective of designing of this computer is to perform
very complicated calculations. E.g. a gas pump, ECG
Machine in the hospital to record heartbeats, DNA Forensic
machine
 On The Basis Of Size
 Super Computers: are the fastest, most
expensive and the most powerful computer in
world, which is used for solving complex
problems.
 The speed of a supercomputer is generally
measured in FLOPS (FLoating point Operations
per Second).
 A super computer has multiple processors (100 or
more) fitted inside.
 Not used for general applications.
 On The Basis Of Size
 Supercomputers are used for highly calculation-
intensive tasks, such as:
 weather forecasting
 climate research (global warming)
 molecular research
 biological research
 nuclear research and
 aircraft design.
 On The Basis Of Size (Cont…)
Mainframe Computer: They are multi-user, multi-
programming and high performance computers.
 Mainframe computers are used in organizations
like banks or companies, where many people
require frequent access to the same data.
 The mainframe computers are big in size and
require big room for installation.
 They are very expensive
 On The Basis Of Size (Cont…)

Mini Computer: they are also known as a mid-range

computer, and are comparatively smaller than
mainframe.
 They are primarily multi-users systems where more than
one user can operate concurrently.
 Smaller and less expensive than mainframe computers.
 These computers are used as servers with many
computers (usually less than 100) connected to them.
 The computers are used by Banks, and Data Processing
Centers.
 On The Basis Of Size (Cont…)
Micro computers: are small, low-cost and single-
user digital computers.
 They are the most common type of computers in
existence today.
 Examples of microcomputers include desktop
computers, notebook computers or laptop, tablet
computer, handheld computer and smart phones
 Desktop PC:
 A computer designed to be used at a desk, and
seldom moved. This type of computer consists of a
large metal box called a system unit that
contains most of the essential components, with a
separate monitor, keyboard, and mouse that all
plug into the system unit
 Notebook PC:
 A portable computer designed to fold up like a
notebook for carrying, as shown in Figure below.
 The cover opens up to reveal a built-in screen,
keyboard, and pointing device, which
substitutes for a mouse. This type of computer is
sometimes called a laptop.
 Tablet PC
 A portable computer that consists of a touch-
sensitive display screen mounted on a tablet-size
plastic frame with a small computer inside, as in
Figure Below .
 There is no built-in keyboard or pointing device; a
software based keyboard pops up onscreen when
needed, and your finger sliding on the screen
serves as a pointing device.
 Smartphone

 A mobile phone that can run computer

applications and has Internet access capability.
 Smart phones usually have a touch-sensitive
screen, and provide voice calls, text messaging,
and Internet access.
 The Computer System
 The computer system is made up of the hardware
and the software.
 Software controls the computer and makes it do
useful work. Without software a computer is
useless
 The Hardware

 Hardware refers to the physical components that

make up a computer system. The computer
hardware comprises
 the Input unit,
 The processing unit
 The output unit and
 The storage unit
 The input unit

 The input unit comprises those media through

which data is fed into the computer.
 Examples include the keyboard, mouse, joystick,
trackball, scanner etc.
 Stylus Pen
BACK

Barcode Reader

Microphone
 Output unit
Output unit comprises those media through which
processed data is returned as information back to
the user.
In other words output devices allow the computer to
‘talk’ to us. Examples include the monitor, printer
and speaker
BACK
 The Processing Unit

 A CPU is brain of a computer. It is responsible for all

functions and processes. Regarding computing
power, the CPU is the most important element of a
computer system.
 The two largest manufacturers of CPUs are the
companies Intel and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD).
 CPUs are rated in clock speed, Pentium chips began
at 75 MHz in the late 1990s. Speeds now exceed
3000+ MHz or 3 gigahertz (GHz).
THE CPU

WHAT IS COMPUTER HARDWARE
CONFIGURATION?
Computer hardware configuration refers to the specific combination of
hardware components that make up a computer system.
 It includes the selection and arrangement of various physical
components such as the central processing unit (CPU), memory
modules, storage devices, motherboard, graphics card, power supply
unit, and peripherals like keyboards, mice, and monitors.
 The hardware configuration determines the capabilities and
performance of a computer system.
 Different configurations can be chosen based on the intended use of
the computer. For example, a high-performance gaming computer may
have a powerful CPU, a dedicated graphics card, and ample RAM, while
a basic office computer may have a less powerful CPU, integrated
graphics, and sufficient memory for typical office tasks.
 COMPUTER HARDWARE CONFIGURATION?

 Some devices that can be adjusted include:

• the accessible memory,

• Processor,
• HDD,
• connected devices,
• disc drivers,
• some power management features.
 Examples of some computer configurations

 ASUS Mini PC Intel i7-4600U Windows 10 PRO 8GB RAM 512GB SSD
HDMI 4K + OFFICE
 Dell i5 | 32GB | 2TB | SSD Windows 10 WiFi HDMI Desktop
Computer PC
 Hp 290 G2 MT, INTEL CORE I3, 500GB HDD, 4GB RAM, 18.5"
MONITOR, Win 10 Pro
 DELL OptiPlex 3070 Tower Intel Core I3 4GB RAM 1TB Win 10 Pro
 DELL OPTIPLEX GX115 SFF - INTEL PENTIUM 3 933MHZ, 384MB
RAM, 4GB HARD DRIVE
 Dell Optiplex GX110 Intel Pentium 3 733 MHz 256MB RAM CD_RW
 2x Isa Slot MSI MS-6163 Intel Pentium II 2 Computer PC RS-232
Parallel Ati Sound
 3x ISA Slot Computer PC Intel Pentium 200mhz CPU Windows 98

Olivetti Rs-232
Questions?