Module 2
Module 2
When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal
computer such as a desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many
shapes and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily
lives. When you withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or
use a calculator, you're using a type of computer.
Digital Computers are often classified according to their processing power, size
and functions. The size of computers varies widely from tiny to huge and is
usually dictated by computing requirements.
Supercomputers: They are the most powerful, the most expensive, the largest
in size and the fastest. They are capable of processing trillions of instructions
per second. They tend to be used primarily for scientific applications in weather
forecasting, aircraft design, nuclear research, space research, and seismic
analysis. Commercially, they are used as “host” processors and large networks
that process data from thousands of remote station. An example of a
supercomputer is Cray- 1 Supercomputer built by Cray Research Company.
Supercomputers are used for tasks that require mammoth data manipulation.
5
workstations. Workstations are specialized computers that approach the speed
of mainframes. Often microcomputers are connected to networks of other
computers. The price of a microcomputer varies greatly depending on the
capacity and features of the computer. Microcomputers make up the vast
majority of computers. They are further categorized into: desktop, Laptop,
Notebook, Palmtop and the smallest in size is the handheld computer called a
personal digital assistant or a PDA.
Examples of Microcomputers
Desktop Computers
Many people use desktop computers at work, home, school,
or the library. They can be small, medium, or large in style,
and they usually sit on a desk. Once you add a monitor,
mouse, and keyboard, you have what is typically known as a
desktop computer.
Most desktop computers are easy to upgrade and expand or add new
parts. Another benefit of desktop computers is their cost. If you compare
a desktop and laptop with the same features, you will most likely find
that the desktop is less expensive.
Laptop Computers
The second type of computer you may be familiar with is a laptop
computer, or a laptop. Laptops are battery- or AC-powered personal
computers that are more portable than desktop computers,
allowing you to use them almost anywhere.
Because a laptop is smaller than a desktop, it's more difficult to
access its internal components. This means you may not be able to
upgrade them as easily as a desktop.
Tablet Computers
Tablet computers or tablets are handheld computers that are even
more portable than laptops. Instead of a keyboard or touchpad,
tablets use a touch sensitive screen for typing and navigation.
The iPad is an example of a tablet.
Tablets can't necessarily do anything a laptop or a desktop can
do, so you may still want a desktop or laptop to run programs or
create documents. But if you just want to be able to play games, check
email and social media, or stream music and videos, a tablet may be a
good computer replacement.
6
• Mobile phones: Many mobile phones can do a lot of things computers
can do, such as browsing the Internet and playing games. These phones
are often called smart phones.
• Game consoles: A game console is a specialized kind of computer that
is used for playing video games. Although they are not as fully featured
as desktop computers, many newer consoles allow you to perform
nongaming tasks like browsing the Web.
• TVs: Many TVs now include applications or apps that let you access
various types of online content. For example, you can view your Facebook
News Feed or watch streaming movies on Netflix.
Every computer has special parts to do each of the jobs listed above.
A computer collects, processes, stores and outputs information as illustrated
by the figure below:
Process
STORE
INPUT
Computer receives inputs (instructions and data) through input devices. Input
device lets you communicate with a computer. You can use input devices to
enter information and issue commands. A keyboard, mouse and joystick are
input devices.
PROCESS
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the main chip in a computer. The CPU
processes instructions, performs calculations and manages the flow of
information through a computer system. The CPU communicates with input,
output and storage devices to perform tasks.
7
STORE
Inputs and sometimes processing results are stored on storage devices. A
storage device holds information. The computer uses information stored on
these devices to perform tasks. Hard drives, tape drive, floppy disk, Flash Drive
are storage devices.
OUTPUT
Outputs from a computer are received through output devices. An output
device lets a computer communicate with you. These devices display
information on a screen, create printed copies or generate sound. A monitor,
printer and speakers are output devices.