Course ICT ADS English

1. Brief History of Computers

Computers have a rich history, evolving through several distinct phases:
Pre-computer Era: Humans relied on tools like the abacus for calculations.
Mechanical Era:
Blaise Pascal (1642): Invented the Pascaline, an early mechanical calculator.
Charles Babbage (1822): Designed the Difference Engine, a mechanical device capable of
performing mathematical calculations, and later conceptualized the Analytical Engine, considered
the first design for a general-purpose computer.
First Generation (1940s–1950s):
Used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory.
Examples: ENI
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1 Brief History of Computers
The development of computers can be categorized into several eras:
Pre-Mechanical Era
Tools: Abacus (3000 BCE) was the earliest computing device for arithmetic operations.
Concepts: Devices like Napier's Bones and logarithms paved the way for mechanical computing.
Mechanical Era
1642: Blaise Pascal invented the Pascaline, a mechanical calculator for addition and subtraction.
1822: Charles Babbage designed the Difference Engine, capable of performing mathematical
tables. Later, he conceptualized the Analytical Engine, which had features of modern computers
(like a CPU and memory).
Ada Lovelace: First programmer, developing algorithms for Babbage’s Analytical Engine.
Electromechanical Era
1930s: Devices like the Zuse Z3 (first programmable computer) and electromechanical relays
emerged.
1944: Harvard Mark I, a large electromechanical computer, was used during WWII.
Electronic Era
First Generation (1940s–1950s):
Vacuum tubes replaced electromechanical relays.
Key Features: Large size, high power consumption, used for calculations.
Example: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer).
Second Generation (1950s–1960s):
Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable.
Example: IBM 1401.
Third Generation (1960s–1970s):
Integrated Circuits (ICs) replaced transistors, further reducing size and cost.
Computers like the IBM System/360 introduced multitasking.
Fourth Generation (1970s–present):
Microprocessors, personal computers (e.g., IBM PC, Apple II), and networks emerged.
Fifth Generation (Present):
Focus on Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Quantum Computing.
2. Four Stages of History
1. Pre-Mechanical Age
Time: Before 1450 CE.
Tools: Abacus, tally sticks.
Purpose: Simplify arithmetic and record-keeping.
2. Mechanical Age
Time: 1450–1840.
Innovations: Pascaline, Difference Engine.
Importance: Foundation of modern computing concepts.
3. Electromechanical Age
Time: 1840–1940.
Key Developments: Telegraph, telephone, Zuse Z3.
Significance: Enabled the first programmable machines.
4. Electronic Age
Time: 1940s–present.
Features: Advanced circuitry, digital computers, AI.
3. Computer Elements
Components:
1. Input: Accepts data (e.g., keyboards, scanners).
2. Processor: CPU processes and executes instructions.
3. Memory: Stores data (RAM for temporary storage, HDD for permanent storage).
4. Output: Displays results (monitors, printers).
5. Storage: Internal (hard drives) and external (USB drives).
4. Processor
The CPU (Central Processing Unit) performs the computer's core tasks:
Control Unit (CU): Directs the flow of data and instructions.
Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Executes mathematical calculations and logical operations.
Registers: Temporarily hold data for quick access.
Types of Processors:
Single-core: One processing unit.
Multi-core: Multiple units for parallel processing (e.g., dual-core, quad-core).
5. Memory
Types of Memory:
1. Primary Memory:
RAM (Random Access Memory): Volatile; temporary storage for active tasks.
ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile; contains essential system instructions.
2. Secondary Memory:
Hard drives, SSDs (Solid-State Drives).
3. Cache:
High-speed memory for frequently accessed data.
6. Hardware and Software
Hardware:
Physical components like the CPU, motherboard, and peripherals.
Software:
Application Software: Task-specific (e.g., MS Word, web browsers).
System Software: Manages hardware and applications (e.g., operating systems).
7. Application Software: Uses and Limitations
Uses:
Productivity: Word processing, spreadsheets.
Entertainment: Games, media players.
Limitations:
Platform dependency (e.g., Windows apps don’t run on macOS).
Resource requirements.
8. System Software
Importance: Essential for computer operation.
Types:
Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, macOS.
Utility Programs: Antivirus, file management tools.
9. Types of Computers
1. Supercomputers: High-speed processing for simulations, climate models.
2. Mainframes: Handle bulk data processing (e.g., banks).
3. Mini Computers: Mid-range systems for specific functions.
4. Microcomputers: Personal use (PCs, laptops).
10. CBIS (Computer-Based Information System)
Definition: A system using computer hardware and software to manage and process data.
Components:
Hardware, software, people, procedures, and data.
Applications: Inventory management, payroll systems
11. Methods of Input and Processing
Input Methods
Input devices capture data from the user or environment. Common methods include:
1. Keyboard: For text and numeric input.
2. Pointing Devices: Mice, touchpads, and styluses.
3. Scanners: Convert physical documents into digital form.
4. Voice Input: Microphones convert speech into text or commands.
Processing Methods
Processing refers to the transformation of raw data into meaningful information.
1. Batch Processing: Data is collected and processed in groups or batches (e.g., payroll systems).
2. Real-time Processing: Data is processed instantly (e.g., online banking).
3. Parallel Processing: Tasks are divided and executed simultaneously using multiple processors.
4. Sequential Processing: Tasks are executed one after another.
12. Centralized, Distributed, and Decentralized Computing Facilities
Centralized Computing
All computing resources are in one location (e.g., mainframe systems).
Advantages: Easy management, centralized control.
Disadvantages: Single point of failure, slower access for remote users.
Distributed Computing
Resources are shared across multiple locations but are connected via networks.
Advantages: Scalability, redundancy.
Disadvantages: Complex management.
Decentralized Computing
Independent computing units operate without reliance on a central system.
Advantages: Faster local processing.
Disadvantages: Lack of coordination.
13. Input Devices
Keyboard
Types:
Standard Keyboard: QWERTY layout.
Ergonomic Keyboard: Designed for comfort.
Virtual Keyboard: On-screen keyboards for touch devices.
Pointing Devices
Examples: Mouse, trackball, joystick.
Voice Input Devices
Use microphones and speech recognition software (e.g., Google Assistant).
14. Output Devices
Soft Copies
Displayed on screens or speakers.
Hard Copies
Physical outputs like printed documents or charts.
Types of Monitors
1. CRT (Cathode Ray Tube): Old technology, bulky.
2. LCD (Liquid Crystal Display): Thin, energy-efficient.
3. LED (Light Emitting Diode): High-quality visuals.
Printers
1. Dot Matrix: Impact printer for simple tasks.
2. Inkjet: High-quality images, slower printing.
3. Laser: Fast and efficient.
15. Storage Units
Primary Memory
RAM: Temporary storage; lost when power is off.
ROM: Permanent storage for essential programs.
Secondary Memory
Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): Store large amounts of data.
Solid State Drives (SSDs): Faster, more durable than HDDs.
Backup Systems
RAID arrays, cloud storage.
16. Data Communication
Data Communication Model
1. Sender: Device that initiates the communication.
2. Medium: The path (e.g., cables, wireless).
3. Receiver: Device receiving the data.
Data Transmission Types
Simplex: One-way communication.
Half Duplex: Two-way, but only one direction at a time.
Full Duplex: Two-way simultaneously.
17. Networking
Network Topologies
1. Star: Central hub connected to all devices.
2. Bus: Single communication line for all devices.
3. Ring: Devices connected in a circular path.
LAN and WAN
LAN (Local Area Network): Limited to small areas (e.g., homes, offices).
WAN (Wide Area Network): Covers large areas (e.g., the internet).
Internet
Originated as ARPANET in the 1960s.
Evolved into the global network we use today.
18. Internet Services
Browsers
Examples: Chrome, Safari, Firefox.
Features: Bookmarks, tabs, extensions.
Search Engines
Tools like Google or Bing help find information online.
Online Services
Email: Communication via Gmail, and Outlook.
Cloud Storage: Services like Google Drive, and Dropbox.
Streaming: Platforms like Netflix, YouTube