Information Technology is the

Information Technology use of any computer, storage,

networking and other physical
device to create, process,
store, secure and exchange all
forms of electronic data. IT
focuses on the information
processing from the
collection, to the processing,
and the sharing of
information. IT deals with the
methods and tools used in the
information processing.
Digital Literacy
An individual’s ability to find,
evaluate, and compose clear
information through writing and
other media on various digital
platforms.
Also known as Computer Literacy.

An individual must keep up with

the changes in technology and
become computer literate.
Why do we need to study information technology?
We use these technologies in
our everyday lives, and we need
to further understand how
these hardware and software
are working. Computer skills are
needed regardless of setting and
field, whether at home, work,
school or play. By understanding
computers, you become
self-sufficient whether you use
it for research, communications
or time management.
Some computer roles in our lives:
1. Tiny embedded computers control alarm clocks, entertainment
centers and home appliances
2. Today’s automobiles cannot run efficiently without embedded
computer systems
3. An estimated 10 mil people work from home instead of
commuting to work because of PCs and networking technologies
4. People use social media for communications nearly 10 times as
often as snail mail and 5 times more than a telephone.
5. Routine daily tasks such as banking, buying groceries are affected
by computer technologies.
Some computer roles in our lives:
Why do we need to study information
technology?
In a world that being defined
by technology and digital
trends, the demand for
digital literacy has increased
exponentially. We need to
expand our knowledge to
avoid unfamiliar situations
and modernize our skills to
stay relevant in a dynamic
work environment.
What is a computer?
A computer is defined by Peter
Norton as “An electronic
device that processes data
according to a predetermined
set of instructions that convert
data information useful to
people. They perform specific
tasks based on the instructions
provided by a software or
hardware program”.
What is a computer?
According to Gary Shelly, a
computer is defined as “An
electronic device operating
under the control of
instructions stored in its
memory that can accept data,
process the data, produce and
store results for future use”.
Computers can also store data
for future use with the
appropriate storage devices.
What is a computer?
A computer is a programmable
device that can automatically
perform a sequence of
calculations or other
operations on data once
programmed for the task. It
can store, retrieve, and process
data according to internal
instructions.
Computer Types and Varieties
Computers can be
categorized in many ways:
by size and capacity,
by data handling and
operating system
capabilities, based on the
number of microprocessors,
and based on the number of
users.
In this module, we’re going to classify computers according to the
size and capacity.
Computer Types and Varieties
SUPERCOMPUTERS Before cloud computing and the use of
digital systems, large companies use
supercomputers because they required
a big amount of computing power.
A supercomputer has an incredibly high
level of performance. These are usually
used on a large-scale operation like
industrial function, space exploration,
weather forecasting, and nuclear
testing.
Computer Types and Varieties
SUPERCOMPUTERS A supercomputer is a computer at the
leading edge of data processing
capability, with respect to calculation
speed.
Supercomputers are used for scientific
and engineering problems
(high-performance computing) which
crunch numbers and data, while
mainframes focus on transaction
processing.
Computer Types and Varieties
Mainframe computers are like big
MAINFRAME COMPUTER
centralized machines that contains the
large memory, huge storage space,
multiple high-grade processors, so it has
ultra-processing power compare to
standard computer systems. The use of
the primary memory and having multiple
processors are done by mainframe
computers. These are used in moderate
data processing, banking, and insurance.
It handles bulk data processing, statistics,
and analyses them.
Computer Types and Varieties
MAINFRAME COMPUTER The term originally referred to the large
cabinets called “main frames” that
housed the central processing unit and
main memory of early computers.
Later, the term was used to distinguish
high-end commercial machines from less
powerful units. Most large-scale
computer system architectures were
established in the 1960s, but continue to
evolve. Mainframe computers are often
used as servers.
Computer Types and Varieties
MINICOMPUTERS Minicomputers were introduced in the
mid-1960s. It has the most of the
features and capabilities of a large
computer but more compact in size. This
is also called a mid-range computer.
Minicomputers were primarily used for
process control and performing financial
and administrative tasks, such as word
processing and accounting. Some
machines were designed for medical
laboratory and teaching aids.
Computer Types and Varieties
MINICOMPUTERS
a mid-range computer that is
intermediate in size, power, speed,
storage capacity, etc., between a
mainframe and a microcomputer.
Minicomputers are used by small
organizations.
“Minicomputer” is a term that is no
longer used much.
Computer Types and Varieties
MICROCOMPUTER
A microcomputer has a central
processing unit (CPU) as a
microprocessor. These are also
known as personal computers (PC).
Microcomputers are primarily used
for word processing, managing
databases or spreadsheets, graphics
and general office applications.
Computer Types and Varieties
MICROCOMPUTER
A microcomputer is a small and
relatively inexpensive computer that
has a microprocessor as its central
processing unit. It includes memory,
a microprocessor, and minimal
input/output circuitry built on a
single printed circuit board.
Computer Types and Varieties
Micro-computers are classified into
MICROCOMPUTER
workstations – Also known as
desktop machines, workstations are
mostly used for intensive graphical
applications, personal computers –
more affordable and easier to use
than workstations and are
self-sufficient computers intended for
one user, laptop computers and Mini
PCs – Mini PCs are tiny computers
that can fit in the palm of your hand.
Computer Types and Varieties
An embedded computer, which is an
EMBEDDED COMPUTER integral component of most embedded
systems, is a combination of hardware
and software that is designated to
perform a highly specific function. For
example, the type of embedded
computer in a washing machine will
not be the same as the embedded
computer in a Nikon camera.
Because the software in embedded computers is designed to only execute
certain tasks, the computer’s software in one device can be totally distinct from
that of another.
Computer Types and Varieties
EMBEDDED COMPUTER The hardware of an embedded
computer is also specially designed to
withstand stresses in its intended
environment. For instance, an
embedded computer installed under
the hood of a car is designed to
withstand high temperatures.
Embedded computers are everywhere.
They are in phones, microwaves,
airplanes, automobiles, and calculators.
Components of a Computer System
COMPUTER SYSTEM
A computer system is a
collection of parts, a
computer combined with
hardware and software used
to perform desired tasks. No
matter the size and
capability of a computer
system, it consists of four
(04) parts: hardware,
software, data, and the user.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

Refers to the tangible, physical computer equipment and devices

which provide support for the major functions of the computer
system. Mainly the mechanical aspects of the computer. The
hardware controls the input of data into the computer system and
the output of information from the computer system. All these
devices are interconnected with each other.

Example: mouse, keyboard, monitor

Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
Input Devices - Used to enter data or instructions into a
computer system.
Input devices fall into two categories:
▪ manual input devices (needs to be operated by a human to
input data) and
▪ automatic input devices (can input data on their own.)
Each input device is concerned with a specific type of data:
Scanner – documents or images, Digital Camera – still and
moving images
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

Common Manual Input Devices Common Automatic Input

Devices
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
Output Devices - Used to convey information from the
computer system to one or more people. When raw data has
been processed it becomes usable information. Output
devices are pieces of hardware that send this usable
information out of the computer.
▪ temporary output device (monitors)
▪ permanent output devices (printers which output
information onto paper as hard copy).
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

Common Output Devices

Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
Almost all input and output devices are known as ‘Peripheral
Devices’. These are non-essential hardware components that
usually connect to the system externally. Peripherals are
called non-essential because the system can operate without
them.

Common Peripheral Devices

Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
System Unit - houses the electronic components to process
data
▪ Motherboard – This is the main circuit board of the
system unit. The motherboard is central to any
computer system. All components are plugged into the
motherboard either directly (straight into the circuit
board) or indirectly (vis USB ports)
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE Motherboard
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

▪ Processor – The Central Processing

Unit (CPU) is the brain of the
computer. Electronic component
that interprets and carries out
basic instructions. The CPU
'controls' what the computer does
and is responsible for performing
calculations and data processing.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

▪ Memory – Electronic component that store instructions

waiting to be executed and data needed by those
instructions.
There are two types of internal memory. These two
memories are used to store computer data and this can
be directly accessed by the CPU. RAM and ROM are
sometimes referred to as ‘primary storage’.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ ROM (Read Only Memory) – ROM is used to permanently store
instructions that tell the computer how to boot (start-up). It also
loads the operating system (e.g. Windows).
- These instructions are known as the BIOS (Basic input/output system)
or the boot program.
- Information stored in ROM is known as READ ONLY. This means that
the contents of ROM cannot be altered or added to by the user.
- ROM is fast memory. Data stored in ROM can be accessed and read
very quickly.
- ROM is Non-Volatile memory. This means that stored information is
not lost when the computer loses power.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ ROM (Read Only Memory)

Other examples of ROM include:

- DVD/CD ROMS bought in stores
containing pre-recorded music
and movie files. These are played
back at home but cannot be
altered.
- ROM in printers which is used
Example of a Read-only Memory to store different font types.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ RAM (Random Access Memory) – RAM is used to temporarily
store information that is currently in use by the computer. This
can include anything from word documents to videos.
- RAM can be read from and written to and so the information stored
in RAM can change all the time (it depends what tasks you are using the
computer for).
- RAM is a fast memory. Data can be written to and read from RAM
very quickly. RAM is generally measured in GB (Gigabytes).
- RAM is Volatile Memory and stores date ‘non-permanently’. This
means that information stored in RAM is deleted as soon as the
computer is turned off.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ RAM (Random Access Memory)
- The more RAM you have installed in
your computer -- the faster it can
perform. You can open and use more
programs at the same time without
slowing the computer down.

Example of a Random-Access Memory

Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
RAM ROM
Contents are lost when the computer is turned off. ✓
Contents are not lost when the computer is turned off. ✓
Stores instructions that tell the computer how to start up. ✓
Stores data and programs currently in use. ✓
Your computer will perform faster with more of this. ✓
This cannot be written to (altered) ... only read. ✓
Stands for Random Access Memory. ✓
Stands for Read Only Memory. ✓

Differences between RAM and ROM

Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

▪ Storage Devices – Holds data, instructions and

information permanently for future use. It records
(writes) and/or retrieves (reads) items to and from
storage media. Secondary storage devices are used to
store data that is not instantly needed by the computer.
Secondary storage devices permanently store data and
programs for as long as we need. These devices are also
used to back-up data in case original copies are lost or
damaged.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

▪ Storage Devices – There

are two categories of
storage devices:
internal storage (internal
hard disk drives) and
external storage (external
hard disk drive, memory
sticks, etc.)
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE

▪ Example of Storage Devices

Magnetic Storage Device – one of the most popular types of
storage used.
o Hard drive – An internal hard drive is the main storage
device in a computer. An external hard drive is also
known as removable hard drive. It is used to store
portable data and backups.
Components of a Computer
System
HARDWARE
▪ Example of Storage Devices
Optical Storage Device – uses lasers
and lights as its mode of saving and
retrieving data.
o Blu-ray disc – A digital optical
storage device which was intended
to replace the DVD format.
Components of a Computer
System
HARDWARE
▪ Example of Storage Devices
Optical Storage Device –

o CD-ROM disc – An optical storage device that is

read-only or cannot be modified nor deleted.
o CD-R and CD-RW disc – CD-R is a recordable disc that can
be written to once, while CD-RW is a rewritable disc that
can be written to multiple times.
Components of a Computer
System
HARDWARE
▪ Example of Storage Devices
Optical Storage Device –

o DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW and DVD+RW disc – DVD-R and

DVD+R are recordable discs that can be written to once,
while DVD-RW and DVD+RW are rewritable discs that
can be written to multiple times. The difference
between the + and – is in the formatting and
compatibility.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ Example of Storage Devices
Flash Memory Device – is now replacing magnetic storage
device as it is economical, more functional and dependable.
o Memory card – An electronic flash memory device used to store
digital information and commonly used in mobile electronic devices.
o Memory stick – A memory card that is removable.
o SSD – Solid State Drive – A flash memory device that uses integrated
circuit assemblies to save data steadily.
o USB flash drive, jump drive or thumb drive – A small, portable
storage device connected through the USB port.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ Example of Storage Devices
Online and Cloud – is now becoming widespread as people
access data from different devices.
o Cloud storage – Data is managed remotely and made available over
a network. Basic features are free to use but upgraded version is
paid monthly as a per consumption rate.
o Network media – Audio, Video, Images or Text that are used on a
computer network. A community of people create and use the
content shared over the internet.
Components of a Computer System
HARDWARE
▪ Communication Devices – Enables a computer to send
and receive data, instructions, and information to and
from one or more computers. A hardware device capable
of transmitting an analog or digital signal over the
telephone, other communication wire, or wirelessly.
Examples: Bluetooth devices, Infrared devices, Modem
(over phone line), Network card (using Ethernet),
Smartphone, Wi-Fi devices (using a Wi-Fi router)
Components of a Computer System
SOFTWARE

Software is known as the series of related instructions that

make the computer perform tasks. In other words, software
tells the computer what to do. The term ‘program’ or
‘application’ refers to any piece of software. Some software
exists to help the computer perform tasks and manage
resources; some software performs tasks that are more
specific. The types of software are systems software and
application software.
Components of a Computer System
SOFTWARE
• Systems Software – Systems software includes the programs that
are dedicated to managing the computer itself, such as the
operating system, file management utilities, and disk operating
system (or DOS). Without systems software installed in your
computers, no instructions would be executed for the tasks needed
to be done.
Examples: Utility software (antivirus, disk tools), system servers,
device drivers, operating systems, windows/graphical user interface
(GUI) systems
Components of a Computer System
SOFTWARE
• Application Software – Simply referred to as ‘applications’, these
are end-user programs that execute specific tasks like report
generation, spreadsheet management, running games, sending
emails, and online research among other functions. They can be as
simple as a calculator or as complex as a video editing software.

Examples: MS Office Word, Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft Edge,

Calculator, Minesweeper, Steam
Components of a Computer System
DATA
Consists of individual facts or pieces of information that are used
by the computer system to produce information. Data by
themselves may not make much sense to a person. The
computer’s primary job is to process data in various ways,
making them useful. Without data, the computer wouldn’t be
able to function properly.
Example: The grades of fifty students in one class, all different
pieces of data which doesn’t make much sense yet, but when a
chart is created from the data, and frequencies are developed.
This now makes sense at a glance.
Components of a Computer System
USERS
The operator of a computer is known as ‘peopleware’, other books
call them liveware, or human ware. The user commands the
computer system to execute on instructions. Some computer
systems are complete without a person’s involvement, but not all
computers are totally autonomous. Basically, anyone who
communicates with a computer system or uses the information it
generates.
Example: Programmer, Developer, Teacher using Excel, Student using
Word
Knowing the parts of a computer system allows us, users, to understand
better each function of the computer system and our make the