INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

THE COMPUTER SYSTEM

FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTING
THE COMPUTER SYSTEM

The computer has become the most useful piece of equipment in the modern office
environment. The computer not only makes work easier but also helps to produce creative
and acceptable documents. In the modern office the computer is used not only for typing but
also to store and transmit documents.

A computer can be defined as an electronic device that accepts data, process the data to
produce meaningful information. It also stores data for future use.

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS
SUPERCOMPUTERS

Supercomputer is a broad term for one of the fastest computers currently available.
Supercomputers are very expensive, take up a lot of floor space and are employed for
specialized applications that require immense amounts of mathematical calculations (number
crunching). For example, weather forecasting requires a supercomputer. Other uses of
supercomputers scientific simulations, (animated) graphics, fluid dynamic calculations,
nuclear energy research, electronic design, and analysis of geological data (e.g. in
petrochemical prospecting).

 
MAINFRAME COMPUTERS

Mainframe was a term originally referring to the cabinet containing the central processor unit
or "main frame" of a room-filling Stone Age batch machine. Nowadays a Mainframe is a
very large and expensive computer capable of supporting hundreds, or even thousands, of
users simultaneously. The chief difference between a supercomputer and a mainframe is
that a supercomputer channels all its power into executing a few programs as fast as
possible, whereas a mainframe uses its power to execute many programs concurrently.
In some ways, mainframes are more powerful than supercomputers because they
support more simultaneous programs. But supercomputers can execute a single
program faster than a mainframe.

WORKSTATIONS

It is a type of computer used for engineering applications (CAD/CAM), desktop publishing,

software development, and other types of applications that require a moderate amount of
computing power and relatively high quality graphics capabilities. Workstations generally
come with a large, high-resolution graphics screen, at large amount of RAM, built-in network
support, and a graphical user interface. Most workstations also have a mass storage device
such as a disk drive, but a special type of workstation, called a diskless workstation, comes
without a disk drive. The most common operating systems for workstations are UNIX and
Windows NT. Like personal computers, most workstations are single-user computers.
However, workstations are typically linked together to form a local-area network, although
they can also be used as stand-alone systems.
MICROCOMPUTERS/PERSONAL COMPUTERS

A microcomputer can be defined as a small, relatively inexpensive computer designed for an

individual user. In price, personal computers range anywhere from a few hundred pounds to
over five thousand pounds. All are based on the microprocessor technology that enables
manufacturers to put an entire CPU on one chip. Businesses use personal computers for word
processing, accounting, desktop publishing, and for running spreadsheet and database
management applications. At home, the most popular use for personal computers is for
playing games and recently for surfing the Internet. Personal Computers also include the
following: Notebooks, Laptops, PDA, Palmtop, Tablets.

DESKTOP COMPUTER LAPTOP COMPUTER

PDA COMPUTER NOTEBOOK COMPUTER

TABLET COMPUTER

HARDWARE
Hardware refers to the tangible or physical components of a computer system (the parts of the
computer that can be seen and touched) .

Examples of these are: mouse, keyboard, monitor, scanners, etc.

Devices
Categories of computer devices:

1. Input
2. Processing
3. Output
4. Storage

INPUT DEVICES

These are any peripheral device that is connected to the computer system that allows the user
to send data into the computer system.

Now let us look at some examples of input devices:

1. Keyboard
2. Mouse
3. Light Pen
4. Microphone
5. Scanners
6. Barcode Readers
7. Optical Character Reader, etc

PROCESSING DEVICES

This represents the section of the computer system which manipulates or processes the data
entered into the computer. All processing takes place in the Central Processing Unit (CPU)
which is considered to be the brain of the computer.

The CPU is divided into two components or parts:

1. The Control Unit (CU)

The control unit takes responsibility for the flow of data throughout the computer system. It
controls how the data is sent throughout the computer.

2. The Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

The arithmetic and logic unit is responsible for all the mathematical and logical operations
within the computer system.
OUTPUT DEVICES

These are any peripheral device that is connected to the computer system that allows the user
to produce meaningful information. e.g. Information printed on paper.

Examples of output devices:

1. Printers
2. Plotters
3. Speakers
4. Monitors
5. Multimedia projectors, etc.

PRINTERS

Printers are categorized under two main headings:

1. Impact Printers
2. Non-impact Printers.

IMPACT PRINTERS

These printers create text or images by physically making the print head press the ink ribbon
causing the ink to deposit on the paper in a desired form called impact type. Normally it is
quite louder in nature when compared to other types of printers. Well known examples for
impact type are Dot Matrix and Daisy Wheel.

These printers are normally utilized in businesses where multi-forms are printed. For
example hospital bills, pay invoice, sales invoice, etc

Dot Matrix Printer Daisy Wheel Printer

NON-INPACT PRINTERS

These printers produce text or images on paper without striking the paper physically and are
called non-impact type. These are not louder when compared to other types of printers. Well
known examples of this type are Thermal Printer, Laser Printer and Inkjet Printer. Some of
the latest non-impact printers on the market are HP Laser Jet and Apple Laser Writer.

These printers are used to perform task such as the printing of programs, letters, flyers,
invitations, etc.

Laser Printer Inkjet Printer

STORAGE DEVICES
These devices are used to back up information for later use.

Computer storage can be either temporarily or permanent storage media. These are
categorized into two groups namely:

1. PRIMARY STORAGE OR MEMORY

2. SECONDARY STORAGE OR MEMORY.

Primary Storage

Primary storage is also known as main memory. This type of storage is highly electrical and
carries no moving parts. Primary memory is very fast and reliable; however, it has to be
supplemented by a secondary storage device. Primary memory is divided into two types
namely:

1. RAM (Random Access Memory)

2. ROM (Read Only Memory).
RAM – Random Access Memory is the place in a computer where the operating system,
application programs, and data in current use are kept so that they can be quickly reached by
the computer's processor.  However, it cannot hold data permanently (short term memory). If
the user wish to store the data prepared he would have to supplement RAM with a secondary
storage device (save the data) for example a flash drive.

ROM – Read Only Memory is "built-in" computer memory containing data that normally can
only be read, not written to. ROM contains the programming that allows your computer to be
"booted up" or regenerated each time you turn it on. Unlike a computer's random access
memory (RAM), the data in ROM is not lost when the computer power is turned off. The
ROM is sustained by a small long-life battery in your computer.

Types of Read Only Memory

1. BIOS Basic Input Output System

2. PROM Programmable Read Only Memory
3. EPROM Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
4. EEPROM Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

Secondary storage or memory is those devices that are used to save data for future use. The
devices are not totally electrical and they have moving parts. These devices are said to have
permanent storage capacity.

Such devices are as follows:

1. Compact Disc (CD-R, CD-RW)

2. Digital Video Disc (DVD-R. DVD-RW)
3. Blue Ray
4. Hard Drives
5. Flash Drives
6. Memory Cards, etc.

COMPUTER SOFTWARE
Software refers to a set of instructions or programs that tells the computer what to and how to
do.

Software is categorised into two main groups:

 Operating System Software

 Application Software

OPERATING SYSTEM SOFTWARE

This is a collection of instructions that co-ordinates the overall running of the computer. This
type of software acts as an interface between hard-drive and the applications.
The functions of the operating system software are as follows:

1. Provides a user interface

2. Boot up the computer
3. Manage the hardware and software of the computer
4. Managing memory and scheduling jobs

Some examples of this type software are:

 UNIX
 WINDOWS
 LINUX
 APPLE MACINTOSH
 DISK OPERATING SYSTEM (DOS)
 OS/2

APPLICATION SOFTWARE
These are known as programmes and are used to complete a specific user task. Some task that
application software may perform are typing, drawing, playing games, etc.

Some examples of application software are:

 Microsoft Office Suite

 Antivirus Programs
 Games, etc.

USER INTERFACE

The user interface allows the user and the computer to communicate. The interface provides
the computer with a screen, icons, commands, buttons and instruction upon what is known as
a desktop. Without the user interface the user would not be able accomplish his task.
There are three types of user interface:

1. Command–driven
2. Graphic-driven
3. Subject-driven

COMMAND DRIVEN INTERFACE

To use a command-driven system to communicate with the computer, the user has to type in
special command words. DOS, which stands for Disk Operating System, is a very commonly
used command-driven user interface.
The main advantage of command driven interfaces is that they can be quick to use as long as
the user knows the correct commands.
The main disadvantage of command-driven interfaces is that they are very difficult to use if
the user is a beginner or doesn’t know the correct commands.
Command-driven systems can be very unfriendly and confusing for non-computer experts to
use.

 Example of command driven interface

MENU-DRIVEN USER INTERFACE

As the name suggest, with this type of user interface the user communicate by words, menus
or subjects. One example of this type of user interface is the menu bar in the Microsoft Office
Suite program.

 example of subject oriented user interface

GRAPICAL USER INTERFACE

This type of user interface allows the user to communicate with the computer by the means of
graphics

 Example of graphic oriented user interface

 CARING FOR THE COMPUTER
The computer is a very delicate piece of equipment and thus it should be taken care of
properly, listed below are some ways in which you can care for your computer.

1. Keep your work area clean.

2. Hold disks and CD-ROMs by the edges.
3. Close all programs before you shut down your computer.
4. Don't bring food or drinks near your computer.
5. Dust your computer and shake dirt out of the keyboard.
6. Keep magnets away from your computer and disks.  Magnets can erase information.
7. Don’t play around the computer.
8. Protect your computer from malicious software by using an up-dated antivirus program.
9. Don’t drop the computer or related devices.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

When using the computer proper health and safety procedures must be followed.

HEALTH
Ergonomics is the study of people and their working environment, with a view to enhance the
workplace to make it a safer place. When using the computer you the workstations should be
designed to ensure that the user is comfortable when working.

These are some things that you can do to maintain proper health measures when using the
computer.

WAYS TO MAINTAIN PROPER POSTURE WHEN USING A

COMPUTER

STEP 1: Your Chair

 Push your hips as far back as they can go in the chair.
 Adjust the seat height so your feet are flat on the floor and your knees
equal to, or slightly lower than, your hips.

Adjust the back of the chair to a 100°-110° reclined angle. Make

sure your upper and lower back are supported. Use inflatable cushions or small
pillows if necessary. If you have an active back mechanism on your chair, use it
to make frequent position changes.
 Adjust the armrests (if fitted) so that your shoulders are relaxed. If
your armrests are in the way, remove them.
 STEP 2: Your Keyboard
An articulating keyboard tray can provide optimal positioning of input devices.
However, it should accommodate the mouse, enable leg clearance, and have an
adjustable height and tilt mechanism. The tray should not push you too far away
from other work materials, such as your telephone.
 Pull up close to your keyboard.
 Position the keyboard directly in front of your body.
 Determine what section of the keyboard you use most frequently,
and readjust the keyboard so that section is centred with your body.
 Adjust the keyboard height so that your shoulders are relaxed, your
elbows are in a slightly open position (100° to 110°), and your wrists and
hands are straight.
 The tilt of your keyboard is dependent upon your sitting
position. Use the keyboard tray mechanism, or keyboard feet, to adjust the
tilt. If you sit in a forward or upright position, try tilting your keyboard away
from you at a negative angle. If you are reclined, a slight positive tilt will help
maintain a straight wrist position.
 Wristrests can help to maintain neutral postures and pad hard
surfaces. However, the wristrest should only be used to rest the palms of the
hands between keystrokes. Resting on the wristrest while typing is not
recommended. Avoid using excessively wide wristrests, or wristrests that are
higher than the space bar of your keyboard.
 Place the pointer as close as possible to the keyboard. Placing it on
a slightly inclined surface, or using it on a mousebridge placed over the 10-
keypad, can help to bring it closer.
If you do not have a fully adjustable keyboard tray, you may need to adjust your
workstation height, the height of your chair, or use a seat cushion to get into a
comfortable position. Remember to use a footrest if your feet dangle.

STEP 3: Screen, Document, and Telephone

Incorrect positioning of the screen and source documents can result in awkward
postures. Adjust the screen and source documents so that your neck is in a
neutral, relaxed position.
 Centre the screen directly in front of you, above your keyboard.
 Position the top of the screen approximately 2-3” above seated eye
level. (If you wear bifocals, lower the screen to a comfortable reading level.)
 Sit at least an arm's length away from the screenand then adjust the
distance for your vision.
 Reduce glare by careful positioning of the screen.
o Place screen at right angles to windows
o Adjust curtains or blinds as needed
o Adjust the vertical screen angle and screen controls to
minimize glare from overhead lights
o Other techniques to reduce glare include use of optical glass
glare filters, light filters, or secondary task lights

 Position source documents directly in front of you, between the
screen and the keyboard, using an in-line copy stand. If there is
insufficient space, place source documents on a document holder positioned
adjacent to the screen.
 Place your telephone within easy reach. Telephone stands or arms
can help.
 Use headsets and speaker phone to eliminate cradling the handset.
 
 STEP 4: Pauses and Breaks
Once you have correctly set up your computer workstation use good work habits.
No matter how perfect the environment, prolonged, static postures will inhibit
blood circulation and take a toll on your body.
 Take short 1-2 minute stretch breaks every 20-30 minutes. After
each hour of work, take a break or change tasks for at least 5-10 minutes.
Always try to get away from your computer during lunch breaks.
 Avoid eye fatigue by resting and refocusing your eyes
periodically. Look away from the monitor and focus on something in the
distance.
 Rest your eyes by covering them with your palms for 10-15 seconds.
The UCLA Ergonomics site
is acknowledged for this  Use correct posture when working. Keep moving as much as possible.
material.