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Course Name :(GECS101)

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Study Material
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Table of Contents

Computer Fundamentals
1. Definition of Computer,

2. Function of Computers,

3. Evolution of Computers,

4. Basic anatomy of Computers,

5. Component of Computers,

6. Windows 10 features and components.

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Programme: BSCMIRT and Semester 1A
Course Name :(GECS101)
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COMPUTER FUNDAMENTALS

INTRODUCTION
The term computer is derived from the word ‘compute’, which means ‘to calculate’. The impact of computers in
our day to day life is tremendous and visible in all fields. Similarly in modern libraries, various activities are
performed with the help of computers.. In this lesson, you will learn about works, and functions of a computer.

OBJECTIVES
After completing through this lesson, you will be able to:

● define a computer, identify its characteristics and functions;

● list types of computers;

● explain hardware and software;

● recognize Input and Output units and devices; and

● list types of operating systems;

1.1 WHAT IS A COMPUTER

Computer is an electronic device which is capable of receiving information or data and perform a series of
operations in accordance with a set of operations. This produces results in the form of data or information.
Computer is a machine capable of solving problems and manipulating data. It accepts and processes the data by
doing some mathematical and logical operations and gives us the desired output. Therefore, we may define a
computer as an electronic device that transforms data into information. Data can be anything like marks obtained
by you in various subjects, it can also be name, age, sex, weight, height, etc. of all the students in your class or
income, savings, investments, etc. of a country.

1.2 BASIC COMPUTER OPERATIONS

A computer basically performs five major operations or functions such as :

● Accepts data or instructions by way of input.

● Stores data,

● Processes data as required by the user,

● Gives results in the form of output, and

● Controls all operations inside a computer.

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Each of these operations are discussed and shown in the figure given below:

Fig.1.1 Basic computer Operations

Let us know the details of basic computer operations.

1.2.1 Input
This is the process of entering data and programs in the computer system. Therefore, the input unit takes data
from us to the computer in an organized manner for processing.

1.2.2 Storage
The data and instructions are saved/ stored permanently in storage unit. The storage unit performs the following
major functions:

● All data and instructions, before and after processing, are stored here,and

● Intermediate results of processing are also stored here.

1.2.3 Processing
The task of performing operations like arithmetic and logical operations is called processing. The Central
Processing Unit (CPU) takes data and instructions from the storage unit and makes all sorts of calculations based
on the instructions given and the type of data provided. After this data is sent back to the storage unit.

1.2.4 Output
This is the process of producing results from the data for getting useful information. The output produced by the
computer after processing is stored inside the computer before it is given to you in human readable form. The
output is also stored inside the computer for further processing.

1.2.5 Control
Controlling of all operations like input, processing and output are performed by control unit. It takes care of step
by step processing of all operations inside the computer.

1.3 COMPUTER SYSTEM

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In order to carry out its operations, a computer system is divided into three separate units. They are:

1) Arithmetic logical unit,

2) Control unit, and

3) Central processing unit.

All these three units are known as functional units.

1.3.1 Arithmetic Logical Unit (ALU)

The processing of the data and instructions are performed by Arithmetic Logical Unit. The major operations
performed by the ALU are addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, logic and comparison. For processing,
data is transferred from storage unit to ALU. After processing, the output is returned back to storage unit for
further processing or for storing purpose.

1.3.2 Control Unit (CU)

The next component of computer is the Control Unit, which acts like the supervisor seeing that things are done in
proper way. The control unit determines the sequence in which computer programs and instructions are to be
executed. Activities like processing of programs stored in the main memory, interpretation of the instructions and
issuing of signals for other units of the computer to execute them are carried out by CU. It coordinates the
activities of computer’s peripheral equipment which include input and output devices. Therefore, it is the
manager of all the operations mentioned in the previous section.

1.3.3 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The ALU and the CU of a computer system are jointly known as the central processing unit( CPU) . You may call
CPU as the brain of any computer system. It is just like brain that takes all major decisions, makes all sorts of
calculations and directs different parts of the computer functions by activating and controlling the operations. The
CPU (Central Processing Unit) is the device that interprets and executes instructions.

A computer system includes a computer, peripheral devices, and software.

1.4 CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTER

Let us now identify the major characteristics of a computer. These are:

1.4.1 Speed
As you know computer can work very fast. It takes only a fraction of a second for calculations that manually take
hours to complete. It takes few minutes for the computer to process huge amount of data and give the result.

1.4.2 Accuracy
The degree of accuracy of computer is very high and every calculation is performed with the same accuracy. The
accuracy level is determined on the basis of design of the computer. The errors in computer are mainly due to
human and inaccurate data.

1.4.3 Diligence

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A computer is free from tiredness, lack of concentration, fatigue, etc. It can work for hours without any error.

1.4.4 Versatility
The computer is highly versatile. You can use it for a number of tasks simultaneously such as, for inventory
management, preparation of electrical bills, preparation of pay cheques, etc. Similarly, in libraries computer can
be used for various library house keeping operations like acquisition, circulation, serial control, etc. and also by
students for searching library books on the computer terminal.

1.4.5 Power of Remembering

Computer has the power of storing large amount of information or data. Any information can be stored and
recalled whenever required for any numbers of years. It depends entirely upon you how much data you want to
store in a computer and when to retrieve or delete stored data.

1.4.6 Dumb Machine with no IQ

Computer is a dumb machine and it cannot do any work without instructions from the user. It performs the
instructions at a tremendous speed and with great accuracy as it has the power of logic. It is for you to decide
what you want to do and in which sequence. So, a computer cannot take decision of its own as human beings can
take.

1.4.7 Storage
The computer has an in-built memory where it can store huge amount of data. You can also store data in
secondary storage devices such as CDs, DVDs, and pen drives which can be kept outside the computer and can be
carried to other computers.

1.5 GENERATION OF COMPUTERS

The history of computer development is in reference to different generation of computing devices. The first
generation computers appeared in mid-1940s. The present day computer, however, has undergone rapid changes
for the last seven decades. This period, during which the evolution of computer took place, can be divided into
five distinct phases known as Generations of Computers that are being presented in the table given below:-

Generations of
Computer Time-Period Evolving Hardware

First Generation 1940s – 1950s Vacuum Tube Based

Second Generation 1950s – 1960s Transistor Based

Third Generation 1960s – 1970s Integrated Circuit Based

Fourth Generation 1970s – Present Microprocessor Based

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Generations of
Computer Time-Period Evolving Hardware

Artificial Intelligence
Fifth Generation Present – Future
Based

1.6 TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Present day computers can be categorized as below:

a) Super Computer
Supercomputers are fastest computers and are very expensive. These are employed for specialized applications
that require immense amounts of mathematical calculations. For example, weather forecasting requires a
supercomputer. Other uses of supercomputers include animated graphics, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear
energy research, and petroleum exploration.

b) Mainframe Computer
It is a very large and expensive computer and is capable of supporting hundreds, or even thousands of users
simultaneously. In the hierarchy that starts with a simple microprocessor (in watches, for example) at the bottom
and moves to supercomputers at the top, mainframes are just below supercomputers. In some ways, mainframes
are more powerful than supercomputers because they support simultaneous programs. But, supercomputers can
execute a single program faster than a mainframe.

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.

c) Mini Computer
It is a mid sized computer in size and power. It lies between workstations and mainframes. In the past decade,
the distinction between large minicomputers and small mainframes has blurred. In general, a minicomputer is a
multiprocessing system capable of supporting from 4 to about 200 users simultaneously.

d) Micro Computer
i. Desktop Computer: a personal or micro-mini computer sufficient to fit on a desk.
ii. Laptop Computer: a portable computer complete with an integrated screen and keyboard. It is generally
smaller in size than a desktop computer and larger than a notebook computer

iii. Palmtop Computer/Digital Diary /Notebook /PDAs (Personal Digital Assistant): a hand-sized
computer, Palmtop, does not have keyboard, but its screen serves both as an input and output device.

e) Workstations

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It is a terminal or desktop computer in a network. In this context, workstation is just a generic term for a user’s
machine (client machine) in contrast to a “server” or “mainframe.”

1.7 HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE

1.7.1 Hardware Hardware refers to the physical equipment used for the input, processing, output and
storage activities of a computer system. It consists of mechanical and electronic devices, which we are able to see
and touch easily. Some of them are central processing unit (CPU), primary storage devices, secondary storage
devices, input and output unit and communication devices. These are explained below:-

● Central processing unit (CPU): It manipulates the data and controls the tasks performed by the other
components.

● Primary storage: It stores temporarily data and program instructions during the processing.

● Primary memory (main memory): These are RAM (Random Access Memory/Read-Write Memory), and ROM
(Read-only-memory).

● Secondary storage: These store data and programs for future use. These are Hard Disk (Local Disk) and External
Hard Disc, Optical Disks,(CDR, CDRW, DVD-R, DVD-RW ), Pen Drive, Memory Cards, etc.

Secondary Storage Devices

Communication Devices: These are used for communication or flow of data from one computer to another
computer. Some of them are Modem, Switch, Router, TV tuner card, etc.

1.7.2 Software
A computer cannot do anything on its own. It has to be guided by the user. We have to give a sequence of
instructions to the computer in order to do any specific job. Software is simply a computer program or a set of
instructions. Software guides the computer at every step indicating where to start and stop during a particular
job. The process of software development is called programming.

1.7.2.1 Types of software

There are two types of software, namely, system software and application software.

System software
System Software are general purpose programs designed to perform tasks such as controlling all operations
required to move data into and out of the computer. It communicates with keyboard, printer, card reader, disk,
tapes, etc. It also monitors the use of various hardwares like memory, CPU, etc. System software acts as an
interface between hardware and application software. Remember that it is not possible to run applicaion
software without system software. Some of the system softwares are Disc Operating System(DOS), Windows,
Unix/Linux, MAC/OS X etc.

Application software

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It is a set of programs, which are written to perform specific tasks of the users of computer. These softwares are
developed in high level languages to help the user to get the computer to perform various tasks. Some of the
application software are MS Office, Macromedia (Dreamweaver, Flash, Freehand), Adobe (PageMaker,
PhotoShop), LIBSYS, SOUL, WINISIS, KOHA, etc.

1.8 INPUT AND OUTPUT UNIT

An input and output unit consists of two parts namely, input devices and output devices. Normally, an Input and
output unit can control one or more peripheral devices. These units are explained below:

1.8.1 Input Unit

The data is entered / input into the computer through input devices. The input devices translate the data /
information from a natural language in which the user is working, into the machine language which the computer
can understand. Computer language is in the form of binary code (0 and 1). Input devices are classified as follows:

● Human data entry devices - keyboard, mouse, joystick, trackball, digitizing labels and; pick devices - light
pen touch screens.
● Source data entry devices (Audio input –speech recognition; video input - digital camera; scanners -
optical scanner OCR, OMR, MICR, Barcode Reader).

1.8.2 Output Unit

The output unit accepts output data from computer via output devices and transforms the data into human
readable form. All the information inside the computer is in the form of binary digits (0 and 1). Output devices
convert them to numbers, words, graphics, sound and motion which we can easily understand

Output devices are classified as

● Hard copy device (Printer, Plotter, Computer Output on Micro-film)

● Soft copy devices (Monitor, Visual Display Terminal, Video Output and Audio Response)

1.9 Windows 10 features and component

Start Menu:
The Start Menu in Windows 10 is a combination of the classic Windows 7-style Start Menu and Live Tiles
introduced in Windows 8.

It provides quick access to frequently used applications, settings, and power options.

Live Tiles are interactive icons on the Start Menu that display real-time information from supported apps, such as
weather updates, news headlines, and calendar events.

Cortana:

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Cortana is a virtual assistant developed by Microsoft, providing voice-activated assistance to perform tasks, set
reminders, answer questions, and more.

It can be activated by voice command or by clicking on the search bar next to the Start button.

Cortana can integrate with your Microsoft account, allowing it to provide personalized recommendations and
reminders based on your activities.

Microsoft Edge:
Microsoft Edge is the default web browser in Windows 10, replacing Internet Explorer.

It offers faster browsing, improved security, and better support for modern web standards, such as HTML5 and
CSS3.

Features like Reading View, Web Notes, and Cortana integration enhance the browsing experience.

Task View and Virtual Desktops:

Task View is a feature that allows users to see all open windows on a single screen, making it easier to switch
between applications and manage tasks efficiently.

Virtual Desktops enable users to create and manage multiple desktop environments. Each desktop can have its
own set of open applications, allowing for better organization and multitasking.

Action Center:
The Action Center is a centralized notification hub where users can view and manage notifications from various
apps and system events.

It provides quick access to frequently used settings, such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, screen brightness, and more.

Windows Ink:
Windows Ink is a suite of features aimed at improving the experience of using a digital pen or stylus on
touchscreen devices.

Users can take notes, draw, sketch, and annotate directly on the screen using compatible apps like Sticky Notes,
Sketchpad, and Microsoft Whiteboard.

Microsoft Store:
The Microsoft Store is the official app store for Windows 10, providing a wide range of applications, games,
movies, and other content.

It offers both free and paid apps, and Microsoft verifies the apps for security and compatibility before listing them
on the store.

Windows Defender:
Windows Defender is the built-in antivirus and antimalware solution in Windows 10.

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It provides real-time protection against viruses, malware, and other security threats.

Windows Defender periodically updates its virus definitions to keep up with the latest threats.

BitLocker:
BitLocker is a full-disk encryption feature that helps protect data on the hard drive from unauthorized access.

It encrypts the entire drive, and users must provide a password or use other authentication methods, like a USB
key or TPM (Trusted Platform Module) to unlock it.

Windows Update:
Windows Update ensures that the operating system and other Microsoft products receive regular updates,
including security patches, bug fixes, and feature enhancements.

Users can configure Windows Update settings to automatically download and install updates or manually choose
when to install them.

Taskbar:
The Taskbar is a prominent part of the Windows 10 interface, located at the bottom of the screen by default.

It provides quick access to the Start Menu, pinned applications, and system tray icons, including the clock, volume
control, and notifications.

File Explorer:
File Explorer is the file management tool in Windows 10, allowing users to browse, open, copy, move, and delete
files and folders.

It provides a user-friendly interface to access local drives, network locations, and cloud storage services.

Snap Assist:
Snap Assist makes it easy to organize and arrange windows on the screen for multitasking.

When you drag a window to the edge of the screen, it will automatically snap to that side, allowing you to work
with multiple applications side by side.

Night Light:
Night Light is a feature designed to reduce blue light emissions from the screen during nighttime usage.

By reducing blue light, it can help reduce eye strain and improve sleep quality.

Storage Sense:
Storage Sense is a built-in feature that helps users manage their storage space more effectively.

It can automatically clean up temporary files, clear the Recycle Bin, and remove old versions of Windows updates
to free up space.

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Microsoft Account Integration:

Windows 10 can be linked to a Microsoft Account, allowing users to access personalized settings, preferences,
and content across multiple devices running Windows 10.

1.10 Computer Memory

RAM (Random Access Memory):
● Function: RAM is a type of computer memory that provides temporary storage for data and instructions
that the CPU needs to access quickly during active tasks and operations.
● Volatile: RAM is volatile memory, meaning its contents are lost when the power is turned off or the
system is restarted. It needs constant power to retain data.
● Access Speed: RAM has fast access times, enabling quick retrieval and manipulation of data, which
significantly improves overall system performance.
● Types: There are two main types of RAM - Dynamic RAM (DRAM) and Static RAM (SRAM). DRAM is
common in PCs, while SRAM is used for cache memory within the CPU.
● Upgradeability: Most computers allow users to upgrade or expand their RAM, which can boost system
performance and handle more demanding tasks.

ROM (Read-Only Memory):

● Function: ROM is a type of computer memory that stores critical instructions and data required for
booting up the computer and other essential functions.
● Non-Volatile: Unlike RAM, ROM is non-volatile memory, meaning its contents are retained even when
the power is turned off or the system is restarted.
● Types: There are several types of ROM, including Mask ROM (MROM), Programmable ROM (PROM),
Erasable Programmable ROM (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM), and Flash
Memory.
● Usage: ROM is commonly used to store firmware, boot loaders, and other essential system-level
instructions that are read-only and should remain constant throughout the device's lifetime.
● Embedded Systems: ROM is widely used in embedded systems, such as microcontrollers and
specialized devices, where fixed firmware is needed for operation.

Secondary Memory:

Definition: Secondary memory, also known as external memory or storage, is a type of non-volatile
memory in a computer system used to store data and programs for long-term or permanent use, even
when the power is turned off.

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Non-Volatile: Unlike primary memory (RAM), secondary memory retains its data even when the
computer is powered down, making it suitable for long-term data storage.

Types: Common types of secondary memory include hard disk drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs),
optical discs (e.g., CDs, DVDs), USB flash drives, and memory cards.

Storage Capacity: Secondary memory devices generally offer larger storage capacities compared to
primary memory, allowing users to store vast amounts of data, files, and applications.

Access Speed: Access times in secondary memory are slower than primary memory (RAM), leading to
longer data retrieval times. However, advancements in SSD technology have significantly improved access
speeds.

Functionality: Secondary memory serves as a repository for data that is not currently in use or is too
large to fit into the limited capacity of RAM. It is used for data storage, file archiving, and backing up
important information.

Data Persistence: Data stored in secondary memory persists across system restarts and power cycles,
making it suitable for storing user files, programs, and system software.

Data Transfer: Data is transferred between secondary memory and RAM when needed. The operating
system manages this process, loading data from secondary memory into RAM for active use.

File Systems: Secondary memory is typically organized using file systems, such as NTFS, FAT32, or exFAT,
which allow users to organize and access their stored data efficiently.

External Devices: Many secondary memory devices are external and portable, enabling easy transfer of
data between different computers and devices.

Backup and Restore: Secondary memory is crucial for data backup, providing a way to safeguard
important files and restore data in case of system failure or data loss.

MCQ Questions

1. What is a computer?

a) A device that performs calculations and logical operations

b) A device that generates electricity

c) A device used for communication

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d) A device used for cooking

Answer: a) A device that performs calculations and logical operations

2. Which of the following is not a function of a computer?

a) Storage

b) Processing

c) Communication

d) Maintenance

Answer: d) Maintenance

3. The first electronic computer was developed during which era?

a) Mechanical Era

b) Vacuum Tube Era

c) Transistor Era

d) Microprocessor Era

Answer: b) Vacuum Tube Era

4. The basic anatomy of a computer consists of:

a) Input, processing, output

b) CPU, RAM, ROM

c) Monitor, keyboard, mouse

d) Software, hardware, firmware

Answer: a) Input, processing, output

5. Which component of a computer is responsible for executing instructions?

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a) CPU (Central Processing Unit)

b) RAM (Random Access Memory)

c) GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)

d) HDD (Hard Disk Drive)

Answer: a) CPU (Central Processing Unit)

6. What is the main function of an operating system?

a) Managing hardware resources

b) Creating documents and spreadsheets

c) Connecting to the internet

d) Playing games

Answer: a) Managing hardware resources

7. Which of the following is a feature of Windows 10?

a) Cortana virtual assistant

b) Internet Explorer browser

c) Windows Media Player

d) Windows XP mode

Answer: a) Cortana virtual assistant

8. Which component of a computer is responsible for long-term storage of data?

a) CPU (Central Processing Unit)

b) RAM (Random Access Memory)

c) GPU (Graphics Processing Unit)

d) HDD (Hard Disk Drive)

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Answer: d) HDD (Hard Disk Drive)

9. Which of the following is an example of an output device?

a) Keyboard

b) Printer

c) Scanner

d) USB drive

Answer: b) Printer

10. Which generation of computers used vacuum tubes for circuitry?

a) First generation

b) Second generation

c) Third generation

d) Fourth generation

Answer: a) First generation

11. What is the function of the motherboard in a computer?

a) It provides power to the computer.

b) It connects all the components together.

c) It displays images on the screen.

d) It stores data for long-term use.

Answer: b) It connects all the components together.

12. Which operating system is developed by Microsoft?

a) macOS

b) Linux

c) Windows

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d) Android

Answer: c) Windows

13. Which of the following is a feature of Windows 10?

a) Start Menu

b) Control Panel

c) Windows Movie Maker

d) Internet Explorer

Answer: a) Start Menu

14. Which generation of computers introduced integrated circuits?

a) Second generation

b) Third generation

c) Fourth generation

d) Fifth generation

Answer: b) Third generation

15. What is the purpose of an operating system kernel?

a) To manage the user interface

b) To control peripheral devices

c) To allocate system resources

d) To provide internet connectivity

Answer: c) To allocate system resources

16. Which of the following is an example of system software?

a) Microsoft Word

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b) Adobe Photoshop

c) Google Chrome

d) Windows Defender

Answer: d) Windows Defender

17. What is the function of the mouse in a computer?

a) To display images on the screen

b) To process data and perform calculations

c) To input commands and interact with objects

d) To store data for long-term use

Answer: c) To input commands and interact with objects

18. What is the purpose of the BIOS in a computer?

a) To control the cooling system

b) To store user files and data

c) To manage hardware initialization

d) To run application software

Answer: c) To manage hardware initialization

19. Which generation of computers introduced microprocessors?

a) Third generation

b) Fourth generation

c) Fifth generation

d) Sixth generation

Answer: b) Fourth generation

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20. What is the purpose of the taskbar in Windows 10?

a) To display the time and date

b) To manage open windows and applications

c) To provide internet connectivity

d) To control the system settings

Short answer questions

1. Write full form of following abbreviations used in computer terminology: ENIAC,

UNIVAC, IBM?
2. Who is known as the father of modern computer and why?
3. List key hardware technologies used in building computers of each of five generations?
4. Differentiate between the characteristics of primary and secondary storage.
5. Differentiate between RAM and ROM.
6. List two Input and Output devices?
7. Who invented the concept of stored program? Why is this concept so important?
8. Give two example of primary and secondary memory.
9. Define KB, MB, GB, TB.
10. Describe Operating System.

Long answer questions

1. Differentiate application and system software.
2. Explain some important characteristics of a computer.
3. Write the characteristics of Fourth and Fifth generation computer.
4. What are the basic function perform by a computer system?

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5. Define ALU, CU, MU.

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