Introduction of Computer: DIPLOMA OF Office Management Notes
Introduction of Computer: DIPLOMA OF Office Management Notes
Introduction of Computer
A programmable electronic machine for the input, storage, processing and output of data
according to your requirements. Computers are complex machines that perform multiple tasks,
and execute several fundamental functions to operate effectively. Some of these basic functions
are written below
Input
Input is the process of providing data or instructions to a computer system. It is the initial step in
the computing process and can take various forms, including:
· Keyboard Input
· Mouse Input
· Touch screen Input
· Voice Input
Processing
Processing involves the manipulation and transformation of input data to produce meaningful
output. The central processing unit (CPU) serves as the brain of the computer, executing
instructions and performing calculations. Key aspects of processing include
· Arithmetic and Logic Operations:
· Control Flow
· Data Manipulation
Storage
Storage involves the retention of data and instructions for later retrieval and use. Computers
utilize various types of storage media, each with its characteristics and capabilities
· Primary Storage (RAM)
· Secondary Storage (Hard Drives, SSDs)
Output
Output refers to the presentation of processed data or results to users in a
human-readable format. Common output devices include
· Display Monitors
· Printers
· Speaker
Types of Computers
There are four main types of computers by use
● Mainframes Computers
● Server
● Microcomputers
● Supercomputers
Mainframes Computers
Mainframe computers are computers used mainly by large organizations for critical
applications. Mainframe computers are large computers often found in businesses and colleges,
where thousands of people are able to simultaneously use the computer to access data. These
computers have much greater memory and storage capacities than other types of computers.
Server
Server is an important component of computer networks. These specialized computers manage
and provide specific services in networks. These are used by multiple users, but a smaller
number than a mainframe (Generally used to serve up to 300 users).
It is smaller than a mainframe computer, designed originally for use in small organizations.
Mainframes and Servers are the backbone of information systems in corporations, universities,
and other organizations.
· Web servers
· Database servers
· Network Servers
Microcomputers
Microcomputers are designed to be used by individuals for daily usage and entertainment. Some
of the most common types of microcomputer include
· Desktop computers (PCs)
· Notebook computers
· Tablet computers
· Mobile devices
Supercomputers
Supercomputers are large, powerful computers that perform specialized tasks. Supercomputers
are designed to run fewer programs at one time, but to do so as quickly as possible
· Weather forecasting
· Climate research
· Scientific simulation
Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the brain of the computer, the CPU
executes instructions and performs calculations required for various tasks.
Memory (RAM): Random Access Memory (RAM) provides temporary storage for data and
instructions that the CPU needs to access quickly.
Storage Devices: Storage devices are essential components of computer systems responsible for
storing and retrieving data persistently. There are several types of storage devices commonly
used in computers HDD, SDD, USB
Motherboard: The motherboard is the main circuit board of the computer, providing
connections for other components to communicate with each other.
Power Supply Unit (PSU): The PSU converts electrical power from the main circuit into usable
power for the computer components. It provides the necessary voltages and currents to run the
CPU, GPU, storage devices, and other hardware.
Input Devices: Input devices are peripherals used to provide data and instructions to a computer
system. They allow users to interact with computers by inputting commands, text, and other
forms of data. Here are some common input devices: Keyboard, Mouse, touch pads.
Output Devices: Output devices are peripherals that display or present information processed by
a computer system. They convert electronic data into human-readable or perceivable forms. Here
are some common output devices: monitors, speakers, printers.
Cooling System: Computers require cooling systems to minimize heat generated by the CPU,
GPU, and other components during operation. This typically involves fans, and sometimes liquid
cooling solutions to maintain optimal operating temperatures and prevent overheating.
Hardware
Hardware is a combination of all physical components of a computer system. This includes
Each component plays a unique role in enabling the functionality and performance of computing
devices. Hardware components interact with each other through electrical signals and physical
connections.
Software
Software refers to the non touchable programs, instructions, and data that tell hardware what
tasks to perform and how to perform them. Software refers to a set of instructions or programs
that tell a computer what to do. It includes:
· Application software (e.g., Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop)
· System software (e.g., operating systems, device drivers)
· Utility software (e.g., antivirus programs, disk cleaners)
· Programming languages (e.g., Java, Python)
An Operating System (OS) is a type of system software that manages computer hardware and
software resources. It provides a platform for running application software and performs tasks
such as:
· Process management
· Memory management
· File management
· Input/output operations
The OS acts as an intermediary between the user and the computer hardware, making it easy to
interact with the computer and run applications. Without software, hardware would remain
useless, incapable of executing meaningful actions or responding to user commands.
Hardware and software are dependent on each other, each rely on the other to achieve
functionality. Hardware provides the physical platform for software to run, while software uses
the capabilities of hardware to perform specific tasks and deliver desired results.
Input devices
Input devices are hardware components that allow users to interact with and send data to
computers or other electronic devices. Examples of input devices include:
· Keyboards
· Mice and other pointing devices
· Scanners
· Cameras
· Microphones
· Game controllers
· Touch pads and touch screens
· Joysticks
· Barcode readers
These devices enable users to enter data, control cursors, and provide commands, making them
essential for interacting with computers and other digital systems.
Output devices
Output devices are hardware components that receive data from computers or other electronic
devices and display or produce the output for users to see, hear, or touch. Examples of output
devices include:
· Monitors and displays
· Printers
· Speakers and headphones
· Plotters
· Projectors
· Braille readers
· Smart watches and fitness trackers
These devices enable users to view, print, or hear the output of computer processing, making them
essential for effective communication and interaction with digital systems.
programming languages
Language in which a computer program is written is known as programming language. They
serve as the intermediary between human programmers and the underlying hardware, translating
human-readable instructions into machine-executable code.
Low-Level Languages
Low-Level language is the only language which can be understood by the computer.
High-level language
High-level language is a computer language which can be understood by the programmer. The
high-level language is very similar to human languages and has a set of grammar rules that are
used to make instructions more easily.
Every high-level language has a set of predefined words known as Keywords and a set of rules
known as Syntax to create instructions. The high-level language is easier to understand for the
users but the computer cannot understand it.
High-level language needs to be converted into the low-level language to make it understandable
by the computer. We use a Compiler or interpreter software to convert high-level language to
low-level language. Examples of High level language are as follows
· Python
· Java
· C++
Storage devices
Storage is a process through which digital data is saved within a data storage device by means
of computing technology. Storage is a mechanism that enables a computer to retain data, either
temporarily or permanently.
Storage devices such as flash drives and hard disks are a fundamental component of most
digital devices since they allow users to preserve all kinds of information such as videos,
documents, pictures and raw data.
Computer storage is divided into main or primary memory and secondary memory.
Random Access Memory (RAM): is a type of computer memory that is used to temporarily store data
that the computer is currently using or processing. RAM is volatile memory, which means that the data
stored in it is lost when the power is turned off. RAM is typically used to store the operating system,
application programs, and data that the computer is currently using.
ROM (Read-Only Memory): It is a type of computer storage that permanently stores data and programs,
even when the computer is turned off. It is non-volatile, meaning its contents are retained even without
power.
It is used to store
Spreadsheet software
Spreadsheet software is a type of application software that enables users to store, organize, and
analyze data in a tabular format. It allows users to create tables, charts, and formulas to manage
and visualize data.
· Microsoft Excel
· Google Sheets
· Libre Office Calc
· Apple Numbers
Spreadsheet software is commonly used for:
Spreadsheet software is an essential tool for various industries, including business, finance,
science, and engineering.
· Microsoft Word
· Google Docs
· LibreOffice Writer
· Apple Pages
Word processors have revolutionized the way people create and edit documents, making it easier
to produce professional-looking texts with ease.
PowerPoint
PowerPoint is popular presentation software developed by Microsoft. It allows users to create
engaging and interactive presentations by combining text, images, charts, and other multimedia
elements.
Key features of PowerPoint include:
PowerPoint has become an essential tool for effective communication and visual storytelling.
font by +2pt.
35. Ctrl+[ Decrease selected font -1pts.
36. Ctrl+/+C Insert a cent sign (¢).
37. Ctrl+’+<char> Insert a character with an accent (acute) mark, where <char> is the
character you want. For example, if you wanted an accented é you would use Ctrl+’+e as your
shortcut key. To reverse the accent mark, use the opposite accent mark, often found on the tilde
key.
38. Ctrl+Shift+* View or hide non printing characters.
39. Ctrl+Left arrow Moves one word to the left.
40. Ctrl+Right arrow Move one word to the right.
41. Ctrl+Up arrow Moves to the beginning of the line or paragraph.
42. Ctrl+Down arrow Moves to the end of the paragraph.
43. Ctrl+Del Deletes word to right of cursor.
44. Ctrl+Backspace Deletes word to left of cursor.
45. Ctrl+End Moves the cursor to the end of the document.
46. Ctrl+Home Moves the cursor to the beginning of the document.
47. Ctrl+Spacebar Reset highlighted text to the default font.
48. Ctrl+1 Single-space lines.
49. Ctrl+2 Double-space lines.
50. Ctrl+5 1.5-line spacing.
51. Ctrl+= Set selected text as subscript.
52. Ctrl+Shift+= Set selected text as superscript.
53. Ctrl+Alt+T Insert trademark (TM) symbol.
54. Ctrl+Alt+1 Changes text to heading 1.
55. Ctrl+Alt+2 Changes text to heading 2.
56. Ctrl+Alt+3 Changes text to heading 3.
57. Ctrl+Alt+F2 Open new document.
58. Ctrl+F1 Open the Task Pane.
59. Ctrl+F2 Display the print preview.
60. Ctrl+Shift+> Increases the font size of selected text by one point.
61. Ctrl+Shift+< Decreases the font size of selected text by one point.
62. Ctrl+Shift+F6 Switches to another open Microsoft Word document.
63. Ctrl+Shift+F12 Prints the document.
64. F1 Open help.
65. F4 Repeat the last action performed (Word 2000+).
66. F5 Open the Find, Replace, and Go To window in Microsoft Word.
67. F7 Spell Check and grammar check selected text or document.
68. F12 Save As.
69. Shift+F3 Change the text in Microsoft Word from uppercase to lowercase or a capital
letter at the beginning of every word.
70. Shift+F7 Runs a Thesaurus check on the selected word.
71. Shift+F12 Save the open document. Like Ctrl+S.
72. Shift+Enter Create a soft break instead of a new paragraph.
73. Shift+Insert Paste.
74. Shift+Alt+D Insert the current date.
75. Shift+Alt+T Insert the current time