Computer Fundamentals – Unit 1 Detailed Notes
1. Introduction to Computers
A computer is an advanced electronic device designed to process data according to a set of logical
instructions. It takes input data, processes it through the Central Processing Unit (CPU), and generates
meaningful output information. The term “computer” is derived from the Latin word ‘Computare’,
meaning ‘to calculate’. Computers are widely used in all areas of life because of their speed, accuracy,
and ability to perform complex operations automatically. They are capable of performing millions of
calculations in a second without error, provided correct instructions are given. The major operations
performed by a computer are known as the IPO cycle – Input, Process, and Output. **Characteristics of
a Computer:** 1. **Speed:** Performs tasks in microseconds. 2. **Accuracy:** Produces error-free
results if instructions are correct. 3. **Storage:** Can store vast amounts of data for future use. 4.
**Versatility:** Performs different kinds of tasks. 5. **Diligence:** Does not suffer from fatigue or
boredom. 6. **Automation:** Operates automatically once programmed. 7. **Connectivity:** Can
communicate through networks globally. Computers have become essential in education, research,
healthcare, industry, and governance.
2. Components of a Computer System
A computer system is made up of **hardware** and **software**, both of which work together to
execute user commands. **Hardware:** These are the physical and tangible components of the
computer that can be touched or seen, such as the CPU, keyboard, monitor, and printer. Hardware
includes input devices, output devices, storage devices, and processing units. **Software:** Software is
a collection of programs, procedures, and routines that instruct the computer to perform tasks. It acts as a
bridge between the user and the hardware. **Types of Software:** 1. **System Software:** Controls
hardware and provides a platform for running applications (e.g., Windows, Linux, macOS). 2.
**Application Software:** Used to perform specific tasks such as MS Word, Excel, or Tally. 3.
**Utility Software:** Helps maintain and protect the system, such as antivirus, disk cleanup, or backup
tools.
3. Block Diagram of a Computer System
The functioning of a computer can be explained through its block diagram which includes the following
units: 1. **Input Unit:** Accepts data and instructions from the user through devices like the keyboard,
mouse, or scanner. 2. **Central Processing Unit (CPU):** The brain of the computer, consisting of: -
**Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):** Performs all arithmetic and logical operations. - **Control Unit
(CU):** Controls and coordinates operations between hardware components. - **Registers:**
Temporary high-speed storage areas for processing data. 3. **Memory Unit:** Stores data temporarily
or permanently. 4. **Output Unit:** Displays or outputs the processed data through devices such as
monitors and printers. **Data Flow:** Input → Processing (CPU) → Output → Storage
4. History and Generations of Computers
Computers have evolved dramatically over time. The development of computers is categorized into five
generations: **First Generation (1940–1956):** - Technology: Vacuum tubes - Features: Huge in size,
generated much heat, consumed high power. - Language: Machine language - Example: ENIAC,
UNIVAC, IBM 701. **Second Generation (1956–1963):** - Technology: Transistors - Faster and
smaller compared to vacuum tubes. - Language: Assembly language and high-level languages. -
Example: IBM 1401, CDC 1604. **Third Generation (1964–1971):** - Technology: Integrated Circuits
(ICs) - Cost-effective, smaller in size, and introduced operating systems. - Example: IBM 360, PDP-8.
**Fourth Generation (1971–Present):** - Technology: Microprocessors - Introduction of personal
computers (PCs). - Example: Apple II, IBM PC. **Fifth Generation (Present and Future):** -
Technology: Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotics, quantum computing. - Focused on self-learning and
natural language processing.
5. Classification of Computers
Computers are classified on the basis of purpose, size, and technology used. **Based on Purpose:** •
General Purpose Computers – Perform a variety of tasks (PCs, laptops). • Special Purpose Computers –
Designed for specific tasks (ATMs, washing machines). **Based on Size and Performance:** •
**Microcomputers:** Small, single-user systems (Desktops, Laptops). • **Minicomputers:**
Multi-user systems for small businesses. • **Mainframes:** High-performance computers supporting
hundreds of users. • **Supercomputers:** Extremely fast computers for scientific research and
simulations.
6. Number Systems
A number system defines how numbers are represented and manipulated inside a computer. **Types of
Number Systems:** 1. **Decimal (Base 10):** Uses digits 0–9. Commonly used by humans. 2.
**Binary (Base 2):** Uses digits 0 and 1. The language of computers. 3. **Octal (Base 8):** Uses digits
0–7. 4. **Hexadecimal (Base 16):** Uses digits 0–9 and A–F. **Binary to Decimal Conversion:**
Multiply each bit by powers of 2 and add the results. Example: 1011■ = (1×8) + (0×4) + (1×2) + (1×1) =
11■■. **Decimal to Binary Conversion:** Divide the decimal number by 2 repeatedly and record the
remainders. Example: 13■■ = 1101■. **Importance:** The binary system forms the foundation of all
digital systems including computers, as each 0 and 1 represent electrical ON/OFF states.
7. Input Devices
Input devices are hardware components used to feed data and commands into the computer.
**Examples:** • **Keyboard:** Used to enter text, numbers, and commands. • **Mouse:** Pointing
device used to control the cursor. • **Scanner:** Converts images or text into digital format. •
**Microphone:** Records audio input. • **Light Pen, Joystick, Webcam:** Specialized devices for
drawing, gaming, and video input.
8. Output Devices
Output devices display or present the results of processed data to the user. **Examples:** •
**Monitor:** Visual display unit (types: CRT, LCD, LED). • **Printer:** Produces permanent hard
copies (Inkjet, Laser, Dot Matrix). • **Speakers:** Output sound or audio signals. • **Plotter:** Draws
vector graphics and designs used in engineering and architecture.
9. Memory and Storage Devices
Memory is essential for storing data and instructions both temporarily and permanently. **Primary
Memory:** • **RAM (Random Access Memory):** Temporary, volatile memory used during
execution. • **ROM (Read Only Memory):** Permanent storage containing essential programs like
BIOS. **Types of ROM:** PROM, EPROM, EEPROM. **Secondary Memory:** Used for long-term
data storage. Examples: Hard Disks, CDs, DVDs, Pen Drives. **Cache Memory:** High-speed memory
between CPU and RAM. **Virtual Memory:** Portion of the hard drive used as extended RAM when
memory is full.
10. Operating System
An Operating System (OS) is system software that manages hardware, software, and user interactions. It
acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware. **Functions:** • File and memory
management. • Device control and error handling. • Provides user interface (GUI or CLI). • Handles
multitasking and security. **Examples:** Windows, Linux, macOS, Android.
11. Hardware vs Software
| Feature | Hardware | Software | |----------|-----------|-----------| | Definition | Physical components of
computer | Programs and instructions | | Tangibility | Tangible | Intangible | | Dependency | Works with
software | Depends on hardware | | Example | CPU, Keyboard | MS Word, Windows OS |
12. Application Areas of Computers
Computers are used in almost every field of human activity. **Education:** Online classes, digital
learning, research. **Banking:** Online transactions, ATMs, account management. **Healthcare:**
Patient records, diagnostics, medical imaging. **Industry:** Automation, production control, and
inventory management. **Government:** Data storage, e-governance, taxation systems. **Research:**
Data analysis and simulations.
13. Advantages and Limitations of Computers
**Advantages:** 1. High speed and efficiency. 2. Accuracy and reliability. 3. Data storage and retrieval.
4. Automation and multitasking. **Limitations:** 1. Cannot make decisions on their own. 2. Require
human instructions. 3. Dependence on electricity and maintenance.
14. Summary Chart
| Concept | Key Points | |----------|-------------| | Generations | 1st: Vacuum tubes | 2nd: Transistors | 3rd:
ICs | 4th: Microprocessors | 5th: AI | | Number Systems | Binary (Base 2), Decimal (Base 10), Octal
(Base 8), Hexadecimal (Base 16) | | Memory | Primary (RAM/ROM), Secondary (HDD, CD), Cache,
Virtual | | Input Devices | Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Mic | | Output Devices | Monitor, Printer, Speaker |
| Hardware vs Software | Hardware = Physical, Software = Programs | | Operating System | Interface
between user and hardware | | Application Fields | Education, Banking, Healthcare, Industry,
Government |
