CPT - 112 Reviewer

1st Sem Finals+Midterms

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

Computer
- derived from the Latin term ‘computare’, this means to calculate or to sum up.
- an electronic and programmable device that manipulates information, or data
- has the ability to store, retrieve and process information or data.
Computer Program
- sequence or set of instructions in a programming language for a computer to execute.
- a set of instructions that a computer follows in order to perform a particular task.

DATA and INFORMATION

Data
- facts from which information can be produced by processing or analysis.
- represented as numbers, words or images that have yet to be organized or analyzed to answer a specific
question.
Information
- organized or classified data, which has some meaningful values for the receiver
- the processed data on which decisions and actions are based

Characteristics of Information
1. Accuracy
- the degree of exactness with which computations are made and operations are performed.
2. Valid
- a value or statement that is true or logically correct.
3. Reliability
- refers to consistency
- extent to which an experiment, test, or measuring procedure yields the same results on repeated trials.
4. Timeliness
- measured as the time between when data is expected and when it is readily available for use.
5. Relevance
- Considers the importance of the information for research needs.
- Refer to the data that can be applied to solve a problem.
6. Completeness
- It refers to how comprehensive the information is.
- Refers to the wholeness of the data.
- There should be no gaps or missing information for data to be truly complete

COMPUTER SYSTEM
Computer System
- a basic, complete and functional hardware and software setup with everything needed to implement computing
performance
- a combination of hardware and software devices that help computers to receive data or information, process,
manage and present information in a meaningful format.
Components of Computer System
Hardware
- physical components that a computer system requires to function.
- to the physical, tangible computer equipment and devices, which provide support for major functions such as
input, processing, output, secondary storage.
Software
- a set of instructions, data or programs used to operate computers and execute specific tasks
- a generic term used to refer to applications, scripts and programs that run on a device.
- System Software
- controls a computer’s internal functioning, chiefly through an operating system
- controls such peripherals as monitors, printers, and storage devices.
- Application Software
- Performs a specific function directly for an end user.
- type of software program that assists people in performing any particular activity on their device
Liveware
- the computer user. User commands the computer system to execute on instructions.
- a slang term used to denote people using computers.
OPERATIONS OF COMPUTER SYSTEM
Computer Operation
- an action that is carried out to accomplish a given task.
- a process of executing the instructions given by the user.
Basic Operations of Computer System
Input - a method that instructions or data are being sent inside of the computer system.
- Input Device
- a collection of devices that initiate input operations
- Example: Keyboard, Mouse
Process - the instance of a computer program that is being executed by one or many threads.
- Processing Device
- It is a device that is used to execute operations or to perform complex tasks.
- Example: CentralProcessingUnit(CPU)
Output - Any information processed by and sent out from a computer or other electronic device.
- Output Device
- devices that used to display all processed data or the result.
- Example: Monitor Speaker
Storage - a process that enables a computer to retain data, either temporarily or permanently
- Storage Device
- devices that keep or save the data inside of the computer system.
- Example: Primary Memory Secondary Memory
Primary Memory
- also known as main memory or may also refer to “Internal memory”.
- the first level of storage in a computer
- the part of the computer that stores current data, programs, and instructions
Two Types of Primary Memory
- Random Access Memory (RAM)
- a type of computer memory that is used to temporarily store data that the computer is
currently using or processing.
- a volatile memory, which means that the data stored in it is lost when the power is turned
off.
- Read Only Memory (ROM)
- a type of computer memory that is used to permanently store data that does not need to
be modified
- a non-volatile memory, which means that the data stored in it is retained even when the
power is turned off.
- typically used to store the computer’s BIOS (Basic Input / Output System)
Secondary Memory
- known as a Backup memory or Auxiliary memory.
- computer memory that is non-volatile, persistent and not immediately accessible by a computer
or processor.
- allows users to store data and information that can be retrieved, transmitted, and used by apps
and services quickly and easily.
Examples of Secondary Memory
- Hard Disk Drive (HDD)
- Solid State Drive (SSD)
- Flash Drive
- Floppy Disk Drive (FDD)
- Compact Disc (CD)
- Digital Video Disc (DVD)

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SYSTEM

Computer System
- a combination of hardware, software, and peripherals that work together to perform various tasks, process data,
and provide functionality for users.
- encompasses all the components and resources necessary for computing operations.
Major Components of Computer System
1. Hardware
- the physical components of a computer system that you can touch and manipulate.
- components work together to enable a computer to perform various tasks and functions.
2. Software
- the set of instructions, programs, and data that enable a computer system to perform specific tasks and functions.
- controls and manages the hardware resources to execute various operations and provide the desired functionality
Two Primary Types of Software
 - System Software
- manages and controls the computer's hardware and provides a platform for running applications.
- EX:
Operating System (OS)
- the core software that manages hardware resources, provides user interfaces, and facilitates
communication between software and hardware.
- Examples include Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.
Device Drivers
- software modules that allow the operating system to communicate with and control specific
hardware devices, such as printers, graphics cards, and network adapters.
Utility Software
- perform various maintenance and optimization tasks, such as disk cleanup, antivirus scans, and
software updates.
- Application Software
- includes programs designed to perform specific tasks or activities for users.
3. Data
- refers to the raw, unprocessed facts, figures, text, images, and other forms of information that computers can
manipulate, store, and process.
- can be in various formats, including numbers, text, audio, video, and more.
- the fundamental building block of all digital information and is used as input for various computer processes,
which transform it into meaningful outputs.
4. User Interface
- users interact with and control a computer system or software application
- encompasses the visual, auditory, and tactile elements that allow users to input commands, provide information,
and receive feedback from the computer
- goal of a user interface is to make the interaction between humans and computers intuitive, efficient, and
user-friendly.
Types of User Interface
1. Command Line Interface (CLI)
2. Graphical User Interface (GUI)
3. Touchscreen Interface
4. Voice User Interface
5. Gesture Based Interface
6. Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality Interface
7. Web User Interface
8. Command and Control Interface
5. Computer Peripherals
- external devices or components that connect to a computer to enhance its functionality, provide input, output, or
auxiliary features.
- peripherals expand the capabilities of a computer system, allowing users to interact with the computer and
perform various tasks.
Classification of Peripherals
1. Input Devices
2. Output Devices
3. Storage Devices
4. Communication Devices
5. Multimedia Devices
6. Computer Network
- a collection of interconnected devices, such as computers, servers, routers, switches, and other networking
equipment, that are linked together to share resources, information, and services.
- primary purpose of a computer network is to enable communication and collaboration among these devices,
allowing them to share data and resources efficiently.
7. Power Supply
- primary function is to convert the electrical power from a standard alternating current (AC) source, usually from a
wall outlet, into the direct current (DC) voltage and current levels required to operate the various components
within the computer
8. Cooling System
- helps dissipate heat generated by the internal hardware components, such as the central processing unit (CPU),
graphics card (GPU), and other high-performance components.
Types of Cooling System
1. Fans
2. Heatsinks
3. Liquid Cooling
4. Thermal Paste
5. Case Design
9. Security Measures
- Also known as cyber security measures
- a set of practices, technologies, policies, and procedures implemented to protect computer systems, networks,
data, and users from various security threats and risks
- measures aim to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of digital assets while minimizing the potential
impact of security breaches
Common Security Measure
• Firewalls
• Antivirus and Anti Malware Software
• Patch Management
• Access Controls
• Encryption
• User Authentication
• Intrusion Detection and Prevention Systems (IDS/IPS)
• Monitoring and Logging
• Regular Backups and Disaster Recovery Plans:
• Physical Security Measures

Parts and Functions of Computer System

1. System Unit
- The term "system unit" typically refers to the main enclosure or case of a desktop computer.
- It houses the most essential components of the computer system and provides physical protection and
connectivity for various internal and external components.
2. Motherboard
- Also known as a mainboard or system board.
- the primary circuit board that serves as the central hub and foundation of a computer system.
- houses the CPU, RAM, storage devices, expansion slots, and connectors that allow all the parts of a computer to
work together.
3. Central Processing Unit
- the primary hardware component of a computer system that performs most of the processing, calculation, and
control tasks required for the system to function.
- Often referred to as the "brain" of the computer, the CPU interprets and executes instructions from computer
programs and manages the overall operation of the system.
4. Random Access Memory
- a type of volatile computer memory that provides fast and temporary storage for data that the computer is actively
using or processing.
- It stores data that the CPU (Central Processing Unit) can quickly access and manipulate.
5. Graphics Card
- also known as a video card, GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), or graphics adapter.
- a hardware component designed to handle the rendering and display of visual content on a computer monitor or
other display devices.
6. Sound Card
- known as an audio card or audio interface.
- a hardware component used to process and manage audio signals in a computer or other electronic device.
- responsible for converting digital audio data into analog signals that can be played through speakers or
headphones, and vice versa.
7. Hard Disk Drive
- a traditional type of storage device that uses spinning disks, known as platters, to store and retrieve digital data.
Key features of Hard Disk Drives include:
• Spinning Platters:
• Mechanical Components:
• Storage Capacity
• Lower Cost per Gigabyte:
• Slower Performance
• Susceptible to Physical Shock
• Noise and Heat
8. Solid State Drive
- a type of storage device that uses flash memory to store data electronically.
- Key features of Solid State Drives include:
1. Faster Performance
2. Durability and Reliability
3. Lower Power Consumption
4. No Noise
5. Improved Boot and Load Times
9. Power Supply Unit
- a hardware component that converts the alternating high voltage current (AC) into direct current (DC).
- regulate the DC output voltage to the fine tolerances required for modern computing components.
Types of Power Supply Unit
1. Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS)
- an electronic power supply that integrates a switching regulator for efficient electrical power conversion.
- transfers power from a DC or AC source to DC loads while converting voltage and current.
2. Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
- a device that allows a computer to keep running for at least a short time when incoming power is
interrupted
- As long as utility power is flowing, it also replenishes and maintains the energy storage.
- The more energy stored, the longer power can be maintained.
AC vs DC
- Electricity comes in two forms—alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC). Both AC and DC describe types
of current flow in a circuit.
- Direct Current (DC), the electric charge (current) only flows in one direction.
- Alternating Current (AC), on the other hand, changes direction periodically.

Direct Current
- type of electrical current in which the flow of electric charge remains constant in one direction.
- characterized by having a steady and constant voltage polarity.
- used in various applications, including: Battery Powered Devices, Electronics, Some Industrial Processes
, Some Transportation System
Alternating Current
- the standard electricity that comes out of power outlets and is defined as a flow of charge that exhibits a
periodic change in direction.
- used in various applications, including: Household Electrical Outlets, Appliances and devices, Lighting,
Charging devices, Kitchen Appliances, Power Tools
10. Monitor
- an output device that displays information in pictorial or textual form or even in a video and graphics information.
- sometimes referred to as a screen, display, video display, or video screen.
11. Keyboard
- an input device that allows a person to enter letters, numbers, and other symbols or characters into a computer.
- Using a keyboard is often called typing
- A keyboard contains many mechanical switches or push-buttons called "keys".
12. Mouse
- a handheld hardware input device that controls a cursor in a GUI for pointing, moving and selecting text, icons,
files, and folders on your computer.
- can also be used to drag-and-drop objects and give access to the right-click menu.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE

COMPUTER ARCHITECTURE
- It determines how a computer’s components exchange electronic signals to enable input, processing, and output.
- It is about the high-level design and conceptual structure of a computer system, focusing on what the system
does and how it performs at a broad level.
- the low-level details of implementing that architecture, dealing with the physical components and their
interconnections to make the system work.
COMPONENTS OF ARCHITECTURE
1. Central Processing Unit
- often considered the "brain" of the computer.
- performs arithmetic and logical operations and executes instructions stored in the computer's memory.
2. Memory
- used to store data and instructions that the CPU needs during operation.
- Different types of memory include registers, cache, RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read-Only
Memory).
3. Input/Output (I/O)Devices
- Different types of memory include registers, cache, RAM (Random Access Memory), and ROM (Read-Only
Memory).
- While Output devices (e.g., monitors, printers) display or provide results.
4. Storage Devices
- Any type of computing hardware that is used for storing, porting or extracting data files and information.
- can hold and store information both temporarily and permanently.
5. Bus Systems
- communication pathways that facilitate the transfer of data and control signals between the CPU, memory, and
I/O devices.
- include address buses, data buses, and control buses
TYPES OF BUS SYSTEMS
- Data Bus
- Address Bus
- Control Bus
6. Instructions Set Architecture (ISA)
- the set of instructions that a CPU can execute.
- serves as an interface between the hardware and software, allowing software developers to write programs
without detailed knowledge of the underlying hardware
7. Control Unit
- manages the execution of instructions by generating control signals that coordinate the activities of other
components.
- ensures that instructions are executed in the correct sequence
-
8. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
- performs arithmetic and logical operations on data.
- a key component of the CPU responsible for carrying out the actual computation.
9. Registers
- These are small, fast storage locations within the CPU used for temporary storage of data and instructions during
the execution of a program
10.Cache Memory
- stores frequently accessed instructions and data to reduce access time and improve overall system performance.

STRUCTURE AND FUNCTION

COMPUTER STRUCTURE
- the organization and arrangement of the various hardware components that make up a computer system.
- the physical and logical layout of these components and how they interact to perform computational tasks.
COMPUTER FUNCTION
- the operations and tasks that a computer system can perform.
- involves the execution of instructions, processing of data, and the overall behavior of the system in response to
various inputs.
- The function of a computer is driven by its software, which includes the operating system and application
programs.
EXAMPLES OF COMPUTER FUNCTION:
Executing Instructions
- primary function of a computer is to execute instructions.
- These instructions are provided by software programs and are processed by the CPU.
- Instructions may involve arithmetic and logical operations, data manipulation, and control flow.
Data Processing
- designed to process and manipulate data. This includes tasks such as sorting, searching, filtering, and
transforming data.
- It is fundamental to various applications, from spreadsheet software to database management systems.
Memory Management
- the process of controlling and coordinating a computer's main memory.
- function of memory management involves allocating and deallocating memory space, ensuring efficient
use of available resources.
Input/Output Operations
- describes any operation, program or device that transfers data to or from a computer.
- Input functions involve receiving data from sources like keyboards, mice, or sensors.
- Output functions involve displaying information on screens, printing documents, or sending data to
external devices.
File Management
- refers to the process of organizing and storing information in an easily retrievable manner.
Basic Functions:
1. Organizing – putting files into folders
2. Storing – keeping your files saved on your computer
3. Naming – giving your files an appropriate name for easy identification
4. Deleting – deleting old or unnecessary files to free up space on your hard drive
Networking
- the practice of transporting and exchanging data between nodes over a shared medium in an information
system.
- Include data transmission, protocol handling, and managing connections between computers.
 Information System
- an interconnected set of components used to collect, store, process and transmit data and digital
information.
User Interface
- the space where interactions between humans and machines occur.
- It includes the following:
1. Displaying graphical elements
2. Responding to user inputs
3. Presenting information in a human-readable format.
Security and Access Control
- the practice of managing and restricting access to certain areas or resources.
- primary is to ensure that only authorized individuals or systems are granted access to specific assets,
while unauthorized entities are denied access.
KEY COMPONENTS ARE:
1. Authentication
- process of verifying the identity of a user, system, or device
- the use of usernames and passwords, biometric data (such as fingerprints or iris scans), smart
cards.
2. Authorization
- the level of access or permissions granted to the authenticated entity.
- involves defining what actions or resources a user or system is allowed to access based on their
identity and role.
3. ACCESS MANAGEMENT
- process of managing and controlling access rights.
- includes adding, modifying, or revoking access permissions as needed.
- often handled through the use of Access Control Lists or Role-based Access Control systems.
4. AUDIT AND MONITORING
- refers to track and log access attempts.
- This information is valuable for identifying security incidents, investigating unauthorized access,
and ensuring compliance with security policies.
Multitasking and Parallel Processing
Multitasking
- It refers to the ability of an operating system to run multiple tasks concurrently, allowing them to run
simultaneously on a single processor.
Parallel Processing
- It involves the simultaneous execution of multiple tasks using multiple processors or cores.
- - It is a true form of concurrent execution, where each processor works independently on its assigned
task.
System Maintenance and Diagnostic
System Maintenance
- a set of activities performed to keep a computer system running smoothly and efficiently. It helps to
prevent problems, optimize performance, and ensure the overall health of the system.
- It Includes:
1. Software Updates
2. Disk Clean Up
3. Defragmentation
4. Back Up and Recovery
System Diagnostic
- It involve the process of identifying, isolating, and resolving issues within a computer system
- This is done through a systematic approach to troubleshooting.

Brief History of Computer

ABACUS
- a calculation tool used by sliding counters along rods or grooves, used to perform mathematical functions.
- basic functions of addition, subtraction, multiplication and division
PASCALINE
- It was invented by Blaise Pascal, in the 17th century.
- The device invented in 1642 and publicly presented in 1645
ANALYTICAL ENGINE
- a proposed mechanical general-purpose computer designed by the inventor Charles Babbage.
FIRST COMPUTER PROGRAMMER
- AUGUSTA ADA BYRON (LADY LOVELACE)
TABULATING MACHINE
Herman Hollerith
- proposed to store information in the form of holes punched through a strip of paper.
- used for processing data from the U.S. Census.
- Marked a significant step toward automated data processing.
FATHER OF COMPUTER SCIENCE
ALAN TURING
- British mathematician, logician, and computer scientist who made significant contributions to various
fields.
- Most notably in the development of theoretical computer science and artificial intelligence.
ENIAC - UNIVERSAL AUTOMATIC COMPUTER I
- the first commercially produced computer in the United States.
- used for various applications, including business and scientific calculations.
PERSONAL COMPUTER 1970 - 1980
- development of microprocessors, such as the Intel 4004.
- Companies like Apple and Microsoft emerged, and personal computers became more accessible to individuals.
INTERNET AND WORLD WIDE WEB
INTERNET
- a global network of interconnected computers and computer networks.
- a vast network infrastructure that connects millions of private, public, academic, business, and
government networks.
WORLD WIDE WEB
- Often referred to as the Web.
- a system of interlinked hypertext documents and multimedia content that is accessed via the Internet
using web browsers.
MOBILE COMPUTING AND SMARTPHONES
- combination of mobile computing and smartphones has revolutionized the way people communicate, work, and
access information.
- They have become integral tools in modern life, providing convenience and connectivity on the go.

Characteristics of Computer

CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTER
SPEED
- Computer can perform calculations and process data at incredibly high speeds.
- This speed is measured in terms of gigahertz (GHz)
RELIABILITY
- Computers can run continuously for long periods without significant issues, making them valuable for tasks that
require continuous operation.
ACCURACY
- Computers are highly accurate in performing calculations and processing data.
- It can execute complex mathematical operations with precision, reducing the likelihood of errors due to human
factors.
DILIGENCE
- Computers can work for many hours continuously without taking any rest and without decreasing its speed,
accuracy and efficiency.
MEMORY
- Computer can store vast amounts of data in various forms, from text and images to videos and software
applications.
- Storage capacity is measured in terms of bytes, kilobytes, megabytes, gigabytes, terabytes, and beyond
LOGICAL
- The capability of thinking, reasoning, and learning.
- These characteristics have been further developed into what we today know as Artificial Intelligence.
VERSATILITY
- Computers can be programmed to perform a wide range of tasks.
- They can handle diverse applications, from word processing and data analysis to graphic design and scientific
simulations.
AUTOMATION
- Computers can automate repetitive tasks, which can save time and improve efficiency.
- Automation can be achieved through software programs or hardware devices,