FUNDAMENTAL OF COMPUTER
1. Introduction to Computers
Computer: A machine that can store, retrieve, and process data.
Hardware: Physical components of a computer system (e.g., monitor, keyboard, CPU).
Software: Programs and applications that run on the hardware, enabling it to perform
specific tasks.
System Unit: Main body of the computer, housing the motherboard, CPU, RAM, and
storage devices.
2. Types of Computers
Supercomputers: High-performance machines used for complex computations (e.g.,
weather forecasting).
Mainframe Computers: Large-scale systems used by organizations for bulk data
processing.
Minicomputers: Smaller than mainframes, used for specific functions in smaller
enterprises.
Microcomputers: Personal computers (PCs), including desktops, laptops, tablets, and
smartphones.
3. Computer Components
Central Processing Unit (CPU): The brain of the computer, responsible for executing
instructions.
o Control Unit (CU): Directs the operations of the CPU.
o Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU): Handles arithmetic and logical operations.
o Registers: Small storage areas within the CPU for quick data access.
Memory (RAM): Temporary storage that holds data currently in use or being processed.
o Primary Memory: Volatile (e.g., RAM, cache memory).
o Secondary Memory: Non-volatile, used for permanent storage (e.g., Hard Disk,
SSD).
Input Devices: Tools used to input data into the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse,
scanner).
Output Devices: Devices that display or produce results from the computer (e.g.,
monitor, printer, speakers).
4. Operating Systems (OS)
Function: Manages computer hardware and software resources.
Popular OS: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS.
Types of OS:
o Single-user, Single-task OS: One user, one task (e.g., early versions of DOS).
o Single-user, Multi-tasking OS: One user, multiple tasks (e.g., Windows,
macOS).
o Multi-user OS: Multiple users accessing the computer simultaneously (e.g.,
UNIX, Linux).
5. Storage Devices
Primary Storage: Fast, temporary storage (e.g., RAM).
Secondary Storage: Long-term storage (e.g., Hard drives, SSDs, DVDs, USB flash
drives).
Tertiary Storage: Archive storage (e.g., tape drives).
6. Networking
Computer Network: A system of interconnected computers sharing resources.
Types of Networks:
o LAN (Local Area Network): A network confined to a small geographic area.
o WAN (Wide Area Network): A network that spans large geographical areas, like
the internet.
o VPN (Virtual Private Network): A secure connection over the internet for
private communication.
7. Programming Languages
High-level languages: Easier for humans to understand and use (e.g., Python, Java, C+
+).
Low-level languages: Closer to machine code (e.g., Assembly Language).
Compilers and Interpreters: Programs that translate high-level code into machine code.
8. Applications of Computers
Business Applications: Accounting, inventory management, payroll systems.
Educational Applications: Online learning, educational games, virtual classrooms.
Entertainment: Video games, streaming services, social media.
Scientific Research: Simulations, data analysis, medical research.
9. Security and Privacy
Computer Security: Protection of computer systems from unauthorized access, attacks,
and data breaches.
o Malware: Harmful software designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized
access to a system (e.g., viruses, trojans, ransomware).
o Encryption: Secures data by converting it into a code to prevent unauthorized
access.
10. Evolution of Computers
First Generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes.
Second Generation (1956-1963): Transistors.
Third Generation (1964-1971): Integrated Circuits (ICs).
Fourth Generation (1971-present): Microprocessors.
Fifth Generation (Present & Beyond): Artificial Intelligence, Quantum Computing.
