Definition of Computer,

Introduction, Basic concepts,

Applications, Uses
Introduction to Computers
Definition:
A computer is an electronic device that can process data to produce
meaningful information.
Data:
Data is simply raw facts or figures collected whereas information is
what one gets after processing the data.
Information:
Information is always useful and meaningful for the user. It is the
processed form of data.

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Historical Background
Evolution of Computers:
• Computers have evolved significantly from early mechanical
devices to modern electronic machines.
1. Early Mechanical Computers:
• Early mechanical devices like the abacus and the Babbage's
Analytical Engine (early 19th century), which laid the foundation
for modern computing.
• These devices performed basic arithmetic calculations.

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2. First Electronic Computers:
• Development of the first electronic computers, such as the ENIAC
(1940s), which were massive and used vacuum tubes for processing.
• They played role in complex calculations, especially during World War II.
3. Transistors and Miniaturization:
• Miniaturization makes electronic components, such as transistors, smaller
without sacrificing performance.
• The invention of transistors in the 1950s, which replaced vacuum tubes,
making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable.
• The first step in miniaturization was the creation of Integrated Circuits
(ICs) in the late 1950s. ICs are tiny chips that contain many transistors and
other electronic components on a single piece of silicon.

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4. Personal Computers and the Microprocessor:
• The first commercially available microprocessor, like Intel
4004 in 1971, which paved the way for personal computers.
• The emergence of companies like Apple and IBM in the late
1970s and early 1980s, which popularized personal
computing.
5. The Internet and Networking:
• The development of ARPANET in the late 1960s, a precursor
to the modern internet.
• Importance of networking and the World Wide Web in
connecting computers globally.
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6. Mobile Computing and Smartphones:
• The rise of mobile computing with the introduction of smartphones and tablets in
the 21st century.
• These devices have become integral to our daily lives.
Future Trends:
Emerging technologies like quantum computing and artificial intelligence, indicating at
the potential future developments in computing.
• Quantum computing is an emergent field of cutting-edge computer science
harnessing the unique qualities of quantum mechanics to solve complex problems
beyond the ability of even the most powerful supercomputers.
• Artificial intelligence is the ability of a computer or computer-controlled robot to
perform tasks that are commonly associated with the intellectual processes
characteristic of humans, such as the ability to reason.
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Basics of Computers
1. Hardware and Software:
• Computers consist of two essential components: hardware and
software.
Hardware:
• Hardware refers to the physical, tangible components of a computer
system.
• Like the central processing unit (CPU), memory, hard drive, keyboard,
and monitor.

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Four Major Categories of Computer Hardware
1. Central Processing Unit – CPU
• The processor, often referred to as the CPU, is the central unit
responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations.
• CPU processes data, manages tasks, and controls other hardware
components.
2. Memory (RAM and ROM)
RAM:
• RAM (Random Access Memory) is the computer's primary working
memory.

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• RAM stores data and program instructions that the CPU actively uses
during operations.
• RAM is volatile memory, meaning data is lost when the computer is
powered off.
ROM:
• ROM (Read-Only Memory) is a type of memory that retains data even
when the computer is turned off.
• ROM stores essential firmware and instructions that are crucial for
booting up the computer.
• ROM is non-volatile, meaning data remains intact even without
power.
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3. Input and Output Devices
Input devices allow users to send data to the computer, while output
devices provide information from the computer.
• Input Devices: keyboards, mouse, touchscreens, and cameras.
• Output Devices: Displays, speakers, printers, and headphones.
4. Storage Devices
• Storage devices are crucial for permanently saving data, files, and
applications.
• Various storage devices, includes hard disk drives (HDDs) and solid-
state drives (SSDs).
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Software:
• Software includes the programs, applications, and instructions that
tell the hardware what to do.
• Like operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS), word processors, and
web browsers.
Software can be classified mainly into two categories:
System Software
Application Software

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System software:
• System software is fundamental software that manages and controls
the computer's hardware and provides a foundation for running
applications.
• Examples of system software are: operating system (Windows, macOS,
Linux), device drivers, and utility programs.
Application Software:
• Application software is designed to perform specific tasks and functions
for users.
• Application software includes word processors, web browsers,
spreadsheet software, and graphics editors.
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2. Input, Processing, Output (IPO) Model:
• Computers follow a fundamental model known as Input, Processing, Output (IPO).
• Input:
• Input is the data or instructions that enter the computer system.
• Like Keyboard input, mouse clicks, touch screen taps, or data from sensors.
• Processing:
• Processing involves the computer's manipulation of input data using its hardware and
software.
• Like Arithmetic calculations, data analysis, and executing programs.
• Output:
• Output is the result or information produced by the computer after processing.
• Some examples are displayed text and graphics, printed documents, sound, or files saved to
storage.

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3. Data vs. Information:
Data and information are two related but distinct concepts in
computing.
• Data:
• Data are raw, unprocessed facts and figures.
• For example: Numbers, text, images, and sensor readings.
• Information:
• Information is data that has been processed and given meaning.
• For example: Graphs, reports, summaries, and visual representations.

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Types of Computers
1. Personal Computers (PCs)
Personal Computers (PCs) are widely used for various tasks and come in
different forms.
• Desktop PCs:
• Desktop computers are stationary and consist of a separate monitor,
keyboard, and CPU.
• It is used in office work, gaming, and content creation.
• Laptops:
• Laptops are portable computers with an integrated keyboard and display.
• They are portable and are used in business, education, and personal use.

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2. Servers and Mainframes
Servers and mainframes are designed for heavy-duty computing tasks.
• Servers:
• Servers are specialized computers that manage and store data, serve web
pages, and handle network requests.
• They are used in data centers, web hosting, and enterprise applications.
• Mainframes:
• Mainframes are high-performance computers used in large organizations for
critical data processing.
• They play vital role in financial institutions, government agencies, and airlines
for transaction processing.

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3. Mobile Devices
Mobile devices have revolutionized personal computing with their
portability and versatility.
• Smartphones:
• Smartphones are pocket-sized computers with touchscreen interfaces.
• They play an important role in communication, navigation, and app-based
services.
• Tablets:
• Tablets are larger than smartphones and offer a touchscreen interface for a
variety of applications.
• These are used in education, entertainment, and productivity.

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4. Embedded Computers
• Embedded computers, which are specialized hardware and software
systems that perform specific functions in larger devices.
• Embedded computers are hidden within everyday objects to enhance
functionality.
Examples:
such as smart appliances (smart refrigerators), automotive control
systems, and wearable devices (smartwatches).
Uses:
Embedded computers improve convenience and efficiency in these
devices.
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Applications and Uses
1. Business and Office Applications
Computers are integral to modern workplaces, streamlining various tasks.
• Word Processing:
• Computers are used for creating documents, reports, and business
correspondence.
• Examples: Microsoft Word, Google Docs.
• Spreadsheet Analysis:
• Computers play role in data analysis, financial modeling, and budgeting.
• Examples: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets.
• Email Communication:
• Email is a primary mode of communication in business.
• Examples: Microsoft Outlook, Gmail.
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2. Entertainment and Multimedia
Computers provide a platform for a wide range of entertainment
options.
• Gaming:
• Computers are used in gaming industry. Gaming computers have specialized
hardware components that deliver high performance.
• Examples: PC gaming, consoles like PlayStation and Xbox.
• Streaming and Content Creation:
• Computers are used for streaming content and creating multimedia.
• Examples: Netflix, YouTube, video editing software.

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3. Education and Research
Computers have transformed the educational landscape and research
methodologies.
• E-Learning:
• There are many online education platforms which we can access easily.
• Examples: Coursera, edX.
• Research and Data Analysis:
• Computers plays vital role in scientific research, simulations, and data
analysis.
• Examples: Scientific computing software, data analysis tools.

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4. Communication and Social Media
Computers play a central role in online communication and social
networking.
• Social Media:
• Computers play a role in providing different social media platforms for
communication and information sharing.
• Examples: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.
• Video Conferencing:
• There are video conferencing tools, especially in the case of remote work.
• Examples: Zoom, Microsoft Teams.

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 Thanks

11/09/2024 CUST