CHAPTER 1: Introduction to Computers

Content to be covered:

Intro to Computer

Functioning of a computer system

Terms related to Computer:

 Hardware
 Software
 Data
 Information
 Instruction
 Program

Information processing cycle

The components of a computer:

 Input devices
 Output devices
 System unit
 Storage devices

Advantages and disadvantages of using computer

Networks and the Internet

Computer Software:

 System software
 Application software
 Installing and running programs

Categories of Computers:

 Personal computers
 Mobile computers and mobile devices
 Game consoles
 Servers
 Mainframe
 Supercomputers

 Minicomputers

 Microcomputers

Computer applications in society

Introduction to computers
Computers are everywhere: at work, at school, and at home.
Many daily activities either involve the use of or depend on
information from a computer. Some computers sit on top of a
desk or on the floor; others are small enough to carry.
Computers are a primary means of local and global
communication for billions of people. At home or while on the
road, people use computers to manage schedules, balance
check-books, pay bills, transfer funds, and buy or sell stocks.
Definition: A computer is an electronic device, operating
under the control of instructions stored in its own memory. Or

A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data from

the user, processes the data by performing calculations and
operations on it and generates the desired output as a result.

The term Computer is derived from the Latin word

‘Computerae’ which means to ‘compute’.

Generally, computer is the combination of Hardware and

Software which converts data into information. Computer
operates on set of instructions only, they cannot think as
human being.

Father of computer: Charles Babbage

Father of modern computer: Alan turing

Functioning of Computer system

Computer is responsible for performing four basic

functions:
• Input----- Information or the data that is entered into a
computer is called input.

• Processing--- It is the sequence of actions taken on data

to convert it into the information which is meaningful to
the user.

• Output---- It makes processed data available to the user.

• Storage--- It stores data and programs permanently.

Terms related to computer

 Hardware --- Hardware is the collection of

physical elements that constitute a computer
system.

e.g
 Keyboard, scanner, printer, display screen.

 Software---- Software tells the hardware what to

do and how to accomplish a task. E.g. Word
processers, web browsers.
 Data---- Unprocessed raw facts and figures like
numbers, text on pieces of paper.

 Information--- When data is processed,

organized, structured or presented in a given
context so as to be useful, then it is called
information.

 Instruction---- It is a command given to a

computer in the computer language by the user.

 Program--- It is a set of instructions given to a

computer in order to perform some task.
In computer program the instructions are the code that tell
the computer what to do
 Every line in a computer program is one or more
instructions.

Information processing cycle

Computers processes data (input) into information (output).
A computer often holds data, information and instruction in
storage for future use. Instructions are the steps that tell
the computer how to perform a particular task. Some
people refer to the series of input, process, output, and
storage as the information processing cycle.\

The components of a computer

The internal architectural design of computers differs from one
system model to another. However, the basic organization
remains the same for all computer systems. The following five
units (also called "The functional units") correspond to the
five basic operations performed by all computer systems.

Input Unit/Input devices

Data and instructions must enter the computer system before any
computation can be performed on the supplied data. The input unit that
links the external environment with the computer system performs this
task. Data and instructions enter input units in forms that depend upon
the particular device used. For example, data is entered from a keyboard
in a manner similar to typing, and this differs from the way in which data
is entered through a mouse, which is another type of input device.
However, regardless of the form in which they receive their inputs, all
input devices must provide a computer with data that are transformed
into the binary codes that the primary memory of the computer is
designed to accept. This transformation is accomplished by units that
called input interfaces. Input interfaces are designed to match the unique
physical or electrical characteristics of input devices to the requirements
of the computer system.

In short, an input unit performs the following functions.

1. It accepts (or reads) the list of instructions and data from the
outside world.
 2. It converts these instructions and data in computer acceptable
format.
3. It supplies the converted instructions and data to the computer
system for further processing.

Output Unit/output devices

The job of an output unit is just the reverse of that of an input unit. It
supplied information and results of computation to the outside world.
Thus it links the computer with the external environment. As computers
work with binary code, the results produced are also in the binary form.
Hence, before supplying the results to the outside world, it must be
converted to human acceptable (readable) form. This task is accomplished
by units called output interfaces.

In short, the following functions are performed by an output unit.

1. It accepts the results produced by the computer which are in coded

form and hence cannot be easily understood by us.
2. It converts these coded results to human acceptable (readable)
form.
3. It supplies the converted results to the outside world.
Storage Unit/devices

The data and instructions that are entered into the computer system
through input units have to be stored inside the computer before the
actual processing starts. Similarly, the results produced by the computer
after processing must also be kept somewhere inside the computer
system before being passed on to the output units. Moreover, the
intermediate results produced by the computer must also be preserved for
ongoing processing. The Storage Unit or the primary / main storage
of a computer system is designed to do all these things. It provides space
for storing data and instructions, space for intermediate results and also
space for the final results.

In short, the specific functions of the storage unit are to store:

1. All the data to be processed and the instruction required for

processing (received from input devices).
2. Intermediate results of processing.
3. Final results of processing before these results are released to an
output device.
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
 Figure 1: The Central Processing Unit

The central processing unit consists of set of registers, arithmetic and

control circuits, which together interpret, and execute instructions.
The primary functions of the CPU are:

 The CPU transfers instructions and input data from main memory
to registers.
 The CPU executes the instructions in the stored sequence.
 When necessary, CPU transfers output data from registers to main
memory.
Central processing unit consists of three main subsystems: Control unit
(CU), Arithmetic logic unit (ALU) and registers. Each part has a specific
function.

The CPU is the brain of any computer system. In a human body, all major
decisions are taken by the brain and the other parts of the body function
as directed by the brain. Similarly, in a computer system, all major
calculations and comparisons are made inside the CPU and the CPU is also
responsible for activating and controlling the operations of other units of a
computer system.

What a CPU Looks Like and Where It's located?

A modern CPU is usually small and square, with many short, rounded
metallic connectors on its underside. Some older CPUs have pins instead
of metallic connectors.
The CPU attaches directly to a CPU "socket" (or sometimes a "slot") on
the motherboard. The CPU is inserted into the socket pin-side-down, and
a small lever helps to secure the processor.

After running even a short while, modern CPUs can get very hot. To help
dissipate this heat, it's almost always necessary to attach a heat sink and
a fan directly on top of the CPU. Typically, these come bundled with a
CPU purchase.
CPU Clock Speed
The clock speed of a processor is the number of instructions it can
process in any given second, measured in gigahertz (GHz).For example, a
CPU has a clock speed of 1 Hz if it can process one piece of instruction
every second. Extrapolating this to a more real-world example: a CPU
with a clock speed of 3.0 GHz can process 3 billion instructions each
second.
CPU Cores
Some devices have a single-core processor while others may have a dual-
core (or quad-core, etc.) processor. As might already be apparent, having
two processor units working side by side means that the CPU can
simultaneously manage twice the instructions every second, drastically
improving performance.

Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

The arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) contains the electronic circuitry
that executes all arithmetic and logical operations on the available data. It
is used to perform all the arithmetic and logical calculations. ALU uses
register to hold the data that is being processed.

Control Unit (CU)

The control unit directs and controls the activities of the internal and
external devices. It interprets the instructions fetched into the computer,
determines what data, if any, are needed, where it is stored, where to
store the results of the operation, and sends the control signals to the
devices involved in the execution of the instructions.
Register

Registers are special purpose and high speed temporary memory units.
They hold the information that the CPU is currently working on. Registers
store data, instructions, address and intermediate results of processing.
The number and size of register vary from processor to processor.

HOW DOES A COMPUTER WORK?

 Press the power button.
 Computer sends the signals to power supply.
 Power supply converts alternative current to direct current.
 When all the components have ample power and power supply
counters no problem, then it sends signals to C.P.U and
motherboard.
 While all this is happening, processor will clear the left over data in
the memory registers and give the registers a hexadecimal
number. This number is the location of the first instruction and tells
the C.P.U that it is ready to process the instructions contained in
BIOS.
 When computer first looks at the BIOS, it begins the POST test. If
computer passes the POST (Power on self test), it looks at the
CMOS (Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) chip. This chip
contains the information such as system time, date and information
about all the hardware on your computer.
 After loading the CMOS, POST will load the device drivers.
  Next post will check RTC (Real time check) or system timer and
computer system bus to make sure both are working properly.
Finally you will get a picture on your screen.
 Next BIOS checks to see if it is performing a cold boot or warm
boot. After the POST is complete, it instructs the computer to start
the process of loading the operating system.

Advantages and disadvantages of using

computers

Advantages of computer
Multitasking
Multitasking is one of the major advantage of computer. Person can
perform multiple task, multiple operation, calculate numerical problems
within few seconds. Computer can perform trillion of instructions per
second.
Speed
Now computer is not just a calculating device. Now a day’s computer has
very important role in human life. One of the main advantages of
computer is its incredible speed, which helps human to complete their
task in few seconds. All the operations can be performed very fast just
because of its speed elsewise it takes a long time to perform the task.
Stores huge amount of data/storage
It is a low cost solution. Person can save huge data within a low budget.
Centralized database of storing information is the major advantage that
can reduce cost.
Accuracy
One of the root advantage of computer is that can perform not only
calculations but also with accuracy.
Communications
Most computers today can communicate with other computers, often
wirelessly.
Reliability: The electronic component in modern computers are
dependable and reliable because they rarely break or fail.

Disadvantages of computer
The use of computer has also created some problems in society which are
as follows.

1. Unemployment

Different tasks are performed automatically by using computers. It

reduces the need of people and increases unemployment in society.
2. Wastage of time and energy

Many people use computers without positive purpose. They play games
and chat for a long period of time. It causes wastage of time and energy.
Young generation is now spending more time on the social media
websites like Facebook, Twitter etc or texting their friends all night
through smartphones which is bad for both studies and their health. And
it also has adverse effects on the social life.

3. Data Security

The data stored on a computer can be accessed by unauthorized persons

through networks. It has created serious problems for the data security.

4. Computer Crimes

People use the computer for negative activities. They hack the credit card
numbers of the people and misuse them or they can steal important data
from big organizations.

5. Privacy violation

The computers are used to store personal data of the people. The privacy
of a person can be violated if the personal and confidential records are
not protected properly.
6. Health risks

The improper and prolonged use of computer can results in injuries or

disorders of hands, wrists, elbows, eyes, necks and back. The users can
avoid health risks by using the computer in proper position. They must
also take regular breaks while using the computer for longer period of
time. It is recommended to take a couple of minutes break after 30
minutes of computer usage.

7. Impact on Environment

The computer manufacturing processes and computer waste are polluting

the environment. The wasted parts of computer can release dangerous
toxic materials. Green computer is a method to reduce the electricity
consumed and environmental waste generated when using a computer. It
includes recycling and regulating manufacturing processes. The used
computers must be donated or disposed of properly.

Networks and Internet

A network is a collection of computers and devices connected
together, often wirelessly, via communications devices and
transmission media.
 The Internet is a worldwide collection of networks that connects
millions of businesses, government agencies, educational
institutions, and individuals.

More than one billion people around the world use the Internet
daily for the variety o reasons, including the following:

 Communicate with and meet other people.

 Access a wealth of information, news, and research findings.
 Shop for goods and services.
 Bank and invest
 Take a class
 Access a source of entertainment and leisure, such as online
games, music, videos, books, and magazines.
 Download music and video
 Share information

Computer software
Software, also called a program, tells the computer what tasks to
perform and how to perform them.

You interact with a program through its user interface. The user
interface controls how you enter data and instructions and how
information is displayed on the screen. Software today often has a
Graphical user interface (GUI).

With a GUI, you interact with the software using text, graphics, and
visual images such as icons.
Icons: An icon is a miniature image that represents a program, an
instruction, or some other object.

The two categories of software are:

1. System software

2. Application software

System software:

System software is a type of computer program that is designed to run

a computer’s hardware and application programs. If we think of the
computer system as a layered model, the system software is the
interface between the hardware and user applications.

The operating system (OS) is the best-known example of system

software. The OS manages all the other programs in a computer.

Application software

An application is any program, or group of programs, that is

designed for the end user. Applications software (also called end-
user programs) include such things as database programs, word
processors, Web browsers and spreadsheets.
Installing and running program
Installing is the process of setting up software to work with the computer,
printer, and other hardware components. When you buy a computer, it
usually has some software preinstalled on its hard disk.

This enables you to use the computer the first time you turn it on. To
begin installing additional software from a CD or DVD, insert the program
disc in a CD or DVD drive. The computer than copies all the programs
from the disc to the computer’s hard disc.

Once software is installed, you can use or run it.

Categories of Computers
Computers are sometimes divided into categories. In order of size and
computing power, these categories are: handheld computers, personal
computers, servers, mainframe computers, and supercomputer
 Handheld computer

A handheld computer features a small keyboard or

touch-sensitive screen and is designed to fit into a
pocket, run on batteries, and be used while you are
holding it. A handheld PDA (personal digital assistant)
is typically used as an electronic appointment book,
address book, calculator, and notepad. Most of these
devices can also send and receive e-mail, collect
maps and locations based on the global positioning
system, and make voice calls using cellular phone
service. Handheld computing devices also include
portable e-book readers, smartphones, portable
media
players, portable game systems, and programmable
calculators.
Personal computers
A personal computer is designed to meet the
computing needs of an individual. These computers
are sometimes referred to as microcomputers.
Personal computers typically provide access to a
wide variety of computing applications, such as word
processing, photo editing, e-mail, and Internet
access. Personal computers are available in desktop
configurations or in portable configurations such as
notebooks, tablets, and netbooks.
Desktop computers
A desktop computer fits on a desk and runs on power
from an
electrical wall outlet. The keyboard is typically a
separate component, connected to the main unit by a
cable. Although computer circuitry is sometimes
incorporated into the display device or keyboard, more
typically a desktop computer is housed in a vertical
case, as shown on the right, or in a horizontal case.
Desktop computers are popular for offices, schools,
and homes. Because their components can be
manufactured economically, desktop computers
typically provide the most computing power for your dollar. The price
of an entry-level desktop computer starts at $300 or a bit less, but
most consumers Desktop computer select more powerful models
that cost between $700 and $1,200.
Notebook computer
A notebook computer (also referred to as a laptop) is
a small, lightweight personal computer that incorporates a screen, a
keyboard, storage devices, and processing components
into a single portable unit. Notebook computers can run
on power supplied by an electrical outlet or a battery.
These computers are ideal for mobile uses because they
are easy to carry and can be used outdoors, in airports, and in
classrooms without the need for a nearby electrical outlet. Small
notebook computers are sometimes called Netbooks. Notebook
computers cost a bit more than desktop computers with similar
computing power and storage capacity.
Tablet computers
A tablet computer is a portable computing device featuring a that can be
used as a writing or drawing pad. A slate tablet configuration
lacks a keyboard (although one can be attached) and
resembles a high-tech clipboard. A convertible tablet
configuration is constructed like a notebook computer, but the
screen folds face up over the keyboard to provide a horizontal
writing surface. Tablet computers shine for applications that
involve handwritten input. When tablet computers were first
introduced in 2002, they were priced significantly higher than
notebook computers with similar specifications. Currently, however, tablet computers
are priced only slightly higher than Tablet computer equivalent notebook computers.

Servers
The purpose of a server is to "serve" data to
computers connected to a network. Technically, just about
any computer can be configured to perform the work of a
server. Nonetheless, computer manufacturers such as IBM
and Dell offer devices such as blade servers and storage
servers that are especially suited for storing and distributing
data on a network. Despite impressive performance on
server-related tasks, these machines do not offer features
such as sound cards, DVD players, and other fun
accessories, so they are not a suitable alternative to a personal Server
computer.

Mainframe computer

A mainframe computer (or simply a mainframe) is a large and expensive

computer capable of simultaneously processing data for
hundreds or thousands of users. Its main processing
circuitry is housed in a closet-sized cabinet like the one
shown on the rightbut after large components are added
for storage and output a mainframe can fill a good-sized
room. Originally designed to accept input from devices
called terminals, mainframes today are typically accessed
by desktop computers.
Mainframes are generally used by businesses and
governments to provide centralized storage, processing,
and management for large amounts of data. Mainframes remain the computer of
choice
Mainframe in situations where reliability, data security, and centralized
control are necessary. The price of a mainframe computer typically starts at
several hundred thousand dollars and can easily exceed $1 million.
 Supercomputer
A computer falls into the supercomputer category if it is, at the
time of construction, one of the fastest computers in the world
Because of their speed, supercomputers can tackle complex
tasks that just would not be practical for other computers.
Typical uses for supercomputers include breaking codes, modeling
worldwide weather systems, and simulating nuclear explosions.

Computer Applications in society

People interact directly with computers in fields such as education,
banking, marketing, travel etc.

Business

Speed, accuracy, reliability and versatility of computer made it an integrated part of

the all business organizations. Computer can be used in business organizations for
payroll calculations, budgeting, sales analysis, financial forecasting, managing
employee database, maintenance of stocks etc.

Banking

Today’s banking is almost totally dependent of computer. Banks provide the

following facility that is totally dependable of computer.
Almost all type of banking operations like account opening, closing, deposit, over
draft, interest charges, shares and other trusty records are maintained using
computer. ATM machines are making it even easier for customers to deal with the
bank.

Insurance

Computers are also helpful for the insurance companies to keep all the records up-
to-date. Insurance companies, finance houses. Stock brooking firms are widely using
the computers for their work. They are maintaining database of all clients with
information showing procedure to continue with the policies, starting date of
policies, next due date for instalment of a policy, maturity date, interest dues,
survival benefits, bonus etc.

Education

Computer has provided lots of facility to the education system. Computer provides a
tool in the education system known as CBE (Computer Based Education). CBE
involves in control, delivery and evaluation of learning. Computer education is rapidly
increasing the number of students. Several methods are used by the educational
institute to teach students using computer.

Marketing

Using computers advertising professional create art and graphics, write and revise
the same before print and publish over the streaming media. General people able to
shop online for their required goods using computer.

Health Care

Computers have become important part in hospital. Labs, dispensaries. Computers

are used in hospitals to keep the record of patients there tests and medicine. It is
also used in scanning and diagnosing different disease. ECG, EEG, Ultrasounds and
CT Scans etc. are also done using computerized system.

Military

Computers are largely used in defence, modern tanks, missiles, weapons etc. Military
also employs control system. It can be used for missile control, military
communication, military operation and planning, smart weapons etc.

Traffic System

Nowadays road traffic are also controlled by the computer system. Using CCTV
cameras, we are able to view the entire city from a computer screen.

Communication

Communication means to convey a message, an idea, a picture or speech that is

received and understood clearly and correctly by the person for whom it is meant
for. Email, Social Media, Usenet, FTP, Telnet, Video conferencing etc. are the main
areas in the communication category in computer system.

Government

Computers play an important role in Government system. Some major areas of Govt.
in this category are

 Budgets
 Sales tax department
 Income tax department
 Male/Female Ratio
 Computerization of voters list
 Computerization of driving license system
 Computerization of PAN card
 Weather forecasting
 Maintain all the government records on a single place. Etc.

Tit-bits
 Charles babbage is called the father of computer.

 Alan turing is known as the father of Modern computer.

 The first computer architecture was introduced by John Von Neumann in

1948.

 EDVAC was the first electronic computer constructed at the Moore school of
Engineering (USA).

 ENIAC was the world’s first successful electronic computer.

 Microprocessor is the main concept behind fourth generation of computers.

 The performance of computer is affected by the size of registers, size of RAM,

speed of system clock and size of cache memory.

 The speed of processor is measured in millions of cycles per second pr

megahertz (MHz).