Topic:- of 1st chapter

Data and Information

1. What is Data?

 Data is a collection of raw facts and figures.

 It has no meaning until it is processed.
 It can be numbers, text, symbols, images, or sounds.

📌 Example:
Ahmed, 65, Red, 2025 → These are all data.

2. What is Information?

 Information is the result of processed data.

 It is organized and meaningful.
 Helps in decision-making.

📌 Example:
"Ahmed scored 65 marks in 2025." → This is information because it gives meaning.

3. Difference between Data and Information

Feature Data Information

Meaning Raw facts Processed and meaningful
Use Input for processing Output after processing
Example 90, Ali, Blue "Ali scored 90 marks and likes blue color"
Dependence Does not depend on information Depends on data
Readability Not easily understandable Easily understandable

4. Types of Data

Type Description Example

Numeric Data Numbers 10, 250.75
Text Data Alphabets, words "Ali", "Computer"
 Audio Data Sounds and speech Voice recording
Image Data Photos and graphics .jpg, .png files
Video Data Moving pictures .mp4, .avi files

5. How Data Becomes Information (Data Processing Cycle)

1. Input → Raw data is entered.

2. Processing → Data is organized or calculated.
3. Output → Information is displayed as result.
4. Storage → Information is stored for later use.

📊 Example:
Raw Data: 5, 10, 15
Processing: Calculate Average
Information: "The average is 10"

📝 Short Questions / MCQs

Q1: What is data?

A: Raw facts and figures.

Q2: What is information?

A: Processed and meaningful data.

Q3: Which of the following is an example of data?

a) Marks sheet
b) 89 ✅
c) Report
d) Conclusion

Q4: Data becomes information after:

a) Input
b) Storage
c) Processing ✅
d) Printing

2. Characteristics of a Computer
A computer is an advanced electronic device that takes raw data as input, processes it using a set
of instructions (software), and gives meaningful output. It has several unique characteristics that
make it different from other machines. These features make computers extremely useful in
almost every field of life.
1. Speed

One of the most important characteristics of a computer is its high speed. A computer can
perform millions of instructions per second.

 The speed is measured in microseconds (10⁻⁶), nanoseconds (10⁻⁹), or even

picoseconds (10⁻¹²).
 For example, what might take a human several minutes or hours to complete can be done
by a computer in seconds.

2. Accuracy

Computers are highly accurate and produce error-free results if the input data and instructions
are correct.

 Errors in computer output are usually due to human mistakes (called GIGO: Garbage
In, Garbage Out), not due to computer faults.

3. Automation

Once instructions (programs) are given to a computer, it can perform tasks automatically
without further human intervention.

 Computers can execute pre-defined instructions repeatedly and reliably.

4. Storage

Computers have a large storage capacity.

 They can store vast amounts of data permanently on storage devices like hard drives,
SSDs, CDs, or USBs.
 Additionally, they have temporary storage (RAM) for quick access during operations.
 Data stored can be retrieved quickly and efficiently.

5. Versatility

A computer is a multi-purpose machine. It can be used for:

 Education
 Banking
 Engineering
 Healthcare
 Business
 Entertainment
Just by changing the software, a computer can switch from one task to another.
6. Diligence

Unlike humans, a computer does not suffer from fatigue or lack of concentration.

 It can work continuously without getting tired or losing efficiency.

 It performs repetitive tasks with the same accuracy and speed.

7. Communication

Modern computers are capable of communicating with other computers and devices.

 Through networks and the internet, computers can share data, files, and resources.
 Communication can be wired or wireless.

8. Multitasking

Computers can perform multiple tasks at the same time (multitasking).

 For example, you can type a document while listening to music and downloading files.
 This is made possible by powerful processors and memory management.

9. No Intelligence

Computers are not intelligent.

 They do not think or make decisions on their own.

 They follow instructions given by users or programmers. This limitation is being
overcome to some extent by Artificial Intelligence (AI).

10. No Feelings

A computer does not have emotions, sympathy, or memory like humans.

 It does not have intuition or the ability to make value judgments.

Summary Table

Characteristic Explanation
Speed Performs millions of operations per second
Accuracy Produces error-free results if inputs are correct
Automation Works automatically once programmed
Storage Can store large amounts of data
 Versatility Can perform different types of tasks
Diligence Never tires or loses concentration
Communication Shares data with other devices
Multitasking Handles multiple tasks at once
No Intelligence Works only as per given instructions
No Feelings Lacks emotions and personal judgment

3. Hardware and Software

A computer system is made up of two main components:
🔹 Hardware
🔹 Software
Both are essential for the proper functioning of a computer. Without hardware, the software has
nothing to run on, and without software, the hardware is useless.

1. Hardware
Hardware refers to the physical components of a computer that you can touch and see.
These include all the electronic and mechanical parts of a computer system.

Examples of Hardware:

 Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone

 Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speaker
 Storage Devices: Hard Disk, SSD, USB Drive, CD/DVD
 Processing Devices: Central Processing Unit (CPU)
 Internal Components: Motherboard, RAM, ROM, Power Supply

✅ Key Characteristics of Hardware:

 Tangible (can be touched)

 Requires electricity
 Can wear out or get damaged over time
 Works only when software is installed

2. Software
Software is a set of instructions, programs, or data that tell the computer how to perform
specific tasks.
It is intangible – you cannot touch it, but you can see its operation on the screen.
Types of Software:
A. System Software

Helps the computer run and manage hardware.

Examples:

 Operating System (OS): Windows, Linux, macOS

 Device Drivers
 Utility Programs (e.g., antivirus, disk cleanup)

B. Application Software

Allows users to do specific tasks.

Examples:

 Microsoft Word / Excel / PowerPoint

 Web Browsers (Google Chrome, Firefox)
 Media Players, Games, Design Software, etc.

✅ Key Characteristics of Software:

 Intangible (cannot be touched)

 Programs are written in programming languages
 Does not wear out, but can become outdated or corrupt
 Essential to make hardware functional

🔁 Relationship Between Hardware and Software

Hardware Software

Physical parts of the computer Set of instructions for the computer

Tangible – can be touched Intangible – cannot be touched

Requires software to function Controls the functioning of hardware

Examples: CPU, Monitor, Keyboard Examples: MS Word, Windows OS

🧠 A computer without software is like a body without a brain, and software without hardware
is like thoughts with no action.

📌 Summary Points
  Hardware is what you see and touch; software is what you use and run.
 Both are interdependent: software tells the hardware what to do, and hardware carries it
out.
 To use a computer effectively, both hardware and software must work together.

4. Memory Units
Memory units are used to measure the size of data and storage capacity of memory in a
computer system. All digital data in computers is stored and processed in the form of binary
digits (bits).

📏 Basic Units of Memory

Unit Symbol Value

Bit (b) Smallest unit (0 or 1)
Byte (B) 1 Byte = 8 Bits
Kilobyte (KB) 1 KB = 1,024 Bytes
Megabyte (MB) 1 MB = 1,024 KB
Gigabyte (GB) 1 GB = 1,024 MB
Terabyte (TB) 1 TB = 1,024 GB
Petabyte (PB) 1 PB = 1,024 TB
Exabyte (EB) 1 EB = 1,024 PB

🔢 1. Bit (Binary Digit)

 Smallest unit of data in a computer

 Can store only two values: 0 or 1
 Represents the state of an electronic signal (off = 0, on = 1)

💡 2. Byte

 A group of 8 bits
 Can represent a single character (like a letter, number, or symbol)
 Example: The letter A is stored as 01000001 in binary (1 byte)

📦 Larger Memory Units Explained

🧮 Kilobyte (KB)

 1 KB = 1024 bytes
 Used to measure small text files (e.g., a page of typed text)

📄 Megabyte (MB)

 1 MB = 1024 KB
 Used to store images, songs, and small software files

🎞️Gigabyte (GB)

 1 GB = 1024 MB
 Used for videos, games, and operating systems
 Most modern mobile phones and computers have RAM and storage in GBs

📚 Terabyte (TB)

 1 TB = 1024 GB
 Used in large hard drives and cloud storage systems

Petabyte (PB), Exabyte (EB), etc.

 Used by large organizations, data centers, and cloud platforms for storing massive
amounts of data

Example Conversion Table

Data Approx. Size

1 Page of text 4 KB
1 Image (HD) 2–5 MB

1 Song (MP3) 4 MB
1 Video (HD movie) 1–4 GB

1 TB Hard Drive Stores ~250 movies

🔁 Memory Size Prefixes

Prefix Symbol Multiplier

 Kilo K or KB 1,024

Mega M or MB 1,024 × 1,024

Giga G or GB 1,024 × 1,024 × 1,024

Tera T or TB etc.

🧠 Quick Facts

 Bit is used for digital communication (like data speed: Mbps).

 Byte and larger units are used for storage capacity.
 Computers always use binary (base-2), so memory increases by multiples of 1024, not
1000.

📌 Conclusion

Memory units are vital to understanding how much data a computer can store or process.
Knowing these units helps us select proper storage devices, manage memory, and evaluate
system performance.

5. RAM and ROM

Both RAM (Random Access Memory) and ROM (Read Only Memory) are essential types of
memory in a computer system. They are used to store data and instructions, but they have
different purposes, characteristics, and behaviors.

1. RAM – Random Access Memory

Definition:
RAM is a volatile memory that temporarily stores data and instructions that the CPU needs
while the computer is running.

✅ Characteristics of RAM:

 Temporary storage: Data is lost when the computer is turned off.

 Read and write memory: CPU can both read from and write to RAM.
 Fast access speed
 Used by operating system, applications, and active processes
📌 Types of RAM:

1. DRAM (Dynamic RAM)

o Needs to be refreshed constantly to retain data.
o Cheaper and slower.
2. SRAM (Static RAM)
o Faster and more expensive, does not need refreshing often.
o Used in cache memory.

🧾 Common RAM Sizes:

 4 GB, 8 GB, 16 GB, etc.

📋 Example:

When you open MS Word, it is loaded into RAM. When you close it or shut down the computer,
it disappears from RAM.

2. ROM – Read Only Memory

Definition:
ROM is a non-volatile memory that permanently stores instructions needed to start the
computer.

✅ Characteristics of ROM:

 Permanent storage: Data remains even after the computer is powered off.
 Read-only: Usually, data cannot be changed (or can be changed only with difficulty).
 Slower than RAM.
 Stores firmware – low-level software like the BIOS (Basic Input Output System)

📌 Types of ROM:

1. PROM (Programmable ROM)

o Can be programmed once only.
2. EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM)
o Can be erased using UV light and reprogrammed.
3. EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM)
o Can be erased and rewritten using electrical signals.

🔁 Comparison: RAM vs. ROM

Feature RAM ROM

Full Form Random Access Memory Read Only Memory
 Volatility Volatile (data lost when power off) Non-volatile (data remains)
Function Temporary data storage Permanent instruction storage

Access Type Read and Write Read-only (mostly)

Usage Holds programs currently running Stores BIOS and startup instructions

Speed Fast Slower than RAM

Size Usually larger (GBs) Usually smaller (MBs or less)

📌 Conclusion

 RAM is essential for temporary and fast access to data while the system is running.
 ROM is important for permanently storing startup instructions and firmware.
 Both are crucial for the functioning and performance of a computer.

6. Input Devices
Here is a detailed explanation of "Input Devices" for your ADP 2nd Semester –
Introduction to Computer notes:

⌨️🖱️Input Devices
✅ Definition:

Input devices are hardware components used to enter data, commands, and signals into a
computer system for processing.
They act as a bridge between the user and the computer.

📥 Purpose of Input Devices

 To allow users to communicate with the computer

 To send instructions, data, and control signals for processing
 Essential for performing tasks like typing, drawing, pointing, and scanning

🔠 Types of Input Devices

1️⃣ Keyboard

 Most common input device

  Used to enter text, numbers, and commands
 Contains keys like:
o Alphanumeric keys (A–Z, 0–9)
o Function keys (F1–F12)
o Control keys (Ctrl, Alt, Esc)
o Navigation keys (Arrow keys, Home, End)
o Numeric keypad

2️⃣ Mouse

 A pointing device used to interact with graphical user interface (GUI)

 Moves the cursor on screen
 Has buttons for clicking, selecting, dragging, etc.

3️⃣ Scanner

 Converts physical documents/images into digital format

 Types: Flatbed scanner, handheld scanner
 Commonly used in offices, banks, and academic institutions

4️⃣ Microphone

 Captures audio input (voice, sound) and converts it into digital signals
 Used in voice commands, video calls, voice recording

5️⃣ Webcam

 Captures live images or videos for input

 Used in video conferencing, online classes, security systems

6️⃣ Touchscreen

 Acts as both input and output device

 Allows users to touch icons or buttons directly on the screen
 Common in smartphones, tablets, ATMs

7️⃣ Joystick

 Mainly used in gaming and simulations

 Allows movement in different directions
 Used in aircraft simulators and some video games

8️⃣ Light Pen

 A pointing device shaped like a pen

  Used to draw or select objects on a screen (mostly in graphic design)

9️⃣ Trackball

 Similar to a mouse but with a rotating ball on top

 The ball is rolled with fingers to move the cursor
 Useful for limited space environments

🔟 Barcode Reader

 Reads barcodes (black-and-white stripes)

 Converts barcode data into text
 Common in supermarkets, libraries, inventory systems

📊 Comparison Table of Common Input Devices

Device Function Common Use

Keyboard Typing text, commands Document writing, coding

Mouse Moving pointer, selecting items GUI navigation

Scanner Scanning documents/images Digitizing papers

Microphone Input voice/audio Calls, voice commands

Webcam Capturing video/images Video calls, surveillance

Touchscreen Direct interaction with display Smartphones, ATMs

Joystick Controlling movement Games, simulations

 Light Pen Drawing/selecting on screen Design work

Barcode Reader Reading barcodes Billing, inventory

Trackball Cursor control with ball Limited space computing

6. Pointing Devices
✅ Definition:

Pointing devices are a type of input device that allow users to control the position of the
cursor or pointer on the computer screen.
They are used mostly in graphical user interfaces (GUI) to interact with icons, menus,
windows, and other visual elements.

🎯 Purpose of Pointing Devices

 To select, open, drag, and drop items on the screen

 To navigate and interact with software applications
 To perform tasks such as drawing, clicking, zooming, and scrolling

Common Pointing Devices

1️⃣ Mouse

 Most commonly used pointing device

 Has two or more buttons and a scroll wheel
 Used for clicking, dragging, and selecting objects

Types of Mouse:

 Mechanical Mouse (uses ball to detect movement)

 Optical Mouse (uses light sensor)
 Wireless Mouse (connects via Bluetooth or USB receiver)

2️⃣ Touchpad (Trackpad)

 Flat, touch-sensitive surface

 Found mostly in laptops
  Used by moving a finger across the surface to move the pointer

3️⃣ Trackball

 A stationary device with a rotating ball on top

 The user rotates the ball with fingers to control the cursor
 Used in space-constrained environments like laptops and industrial systems

4️⃣ Joystick

 A vertical stick that moves in multiple directions

 Mostly used in games and simulations
 Also used in robotics and flight simulators

5️⃣ Light Pen

 Pen-shaped pointing device

 Used by touching the screen surface to draw or select items
 Used in designing, engineering, and educational applications

6️⃣ Touchscreen

 Acts as both input and output device

 User touches the screen directly to select or control items
 Used in smartphones, tablets, kiosks, ATMs

Comparison Table of Pointing Devices

Device Working Method Common Use

Mouse Moves on a surface to control pointer Desktop PCs, all-purpose computing

Touchpad Touch-sensitive surface Laptops

Trackball Rotating ball with fingers Limited-space work areas

Joystick Stick movement in different directions Gaming, simulation, robotics

Light Pen Touching screen with a pen Graphics, design applications

Touchscreen Touch input directly on screen Phones, tablets, kiosks, ATMs

8. Keyboard
Definition:

A keyboard is an input device that allows users to enter text, numbers, symbols, and
commands into a computer system by pressing keys.

It is one of the most commonly used input devices, especially for tasks involving typing,
programming, searching, and data entry.

Structure of a Keyboard
A standard keyboard usually has 101 to 105 keys, divided into different groups based on
function:

1️⃣ Alphanumeric Keys

 Include letters (A–Z), numbers (0–9), and punctuation symbols.

 Main area used for typing text.

2️⃣ Function Keys

 Located at the top row (F1 to F12).

 Used to perform specific functions, which vary by software (e.g., F1 for Help, F5 to
refresh, etc.).

3️⃣ Numeric Keypad

 Found on the right side of the keyboard (like a calculator).

 Used to enter numeric data quickly, especially useful in accounting.

4️⃣ Control Keys

 Include: Ctrl, Alt, Windows key, Esc

 Used in combination with other keys to perform special commands
o Example: Ctrl + C (Copy), Ctrl + V (Paste)

5️⃣ Navigation Keys

 Used to move the cursor or screen position.

 Include: Arrow keys, Home, End, Insert, Delete, Page Up, Page Down

6️⃣ Modifier Keys

 Change the function of another key when pressed together.

 Include: Shift, Ctrl, Alt, Fn
7️⃣ Special Keys

 Include: Enter, Backspace, Spacebar, Caps Lock, Tab

 Perform specific actions like moving to the next line, deleting characters, or inserting
spaces

📦 Types of Keyboards
Type Description
Standard Keyboard Common desktop keyboard with 101–105 keys
Laptop Keyboard Built into laptops, compact layout without numeric pad
Multimedia Keyboard Includes extra keys for volume, play/pause, internet, etc.
Wireless Keyboard Connects via Bluetooth or USB receiver, no physical cable
Virtual Keyboard On-screen keyboard used on touchscreens
Ergonomic Keyboard Designed for comfortable typing to reduce strain

🔁 Common Keyboard Shortcuts

Shortcut Function
Ctrl + C Copy
Ctrl + V Paste
Ctrl + Z Undo
Ctrl + S Save
Ctrl + P Print
Alt + Tab Switch between windows
Shift + Key Type uppercase or symbols

9. Types of Scanners
✅ Definition:

A scanner is an input device that captures images, text, or objects from paper and converts
them into a digital format that can be displayed or edited on a computer.
Scanners are classified based on their design, use, and scanning mechanism.

Main Types of Scanners

1️⃣ Flatbed Scanner

 Most commonly used scanner.

 Has a flat glass surface on which the document is placed.
 The scanning head moves beneath the glass to capture the image.

✅ Features:

 High-quality scans
 Can scan documents, photos, books
 Easy to use

📌 Used in: Offices, schools, photo scanning

2️⃣ Sheet-fed Scanner

 The document is fed through rollers.

 Cannot scan books or thick documents.
 Scans one sheet at a time automatically.

✅ Features:

 Fast scanning speed

 Ideal for scanning multiple loose pages

📌 Used in: Business offices for bulk document scanning

3️⃣ Handheld Scanner

 A small device that is moved by hand over the document.

 Requires steady hand movement for proper scanning.

✅ Features:

 Portable and lightweight

 Low resolution compared to flatbed

📌 Used in: Barcode scanning, quick scans, travel use

4️⃣ Drum Scanner

  Uses a rotating drum and laser to scan images.
 Provides extremely high resolution.

✅ Features:

 Very accurate and detailed scans

 Expensive and professional-grade

📌 Used in: Publishing, archiving, graphic design studios

5️⃣ Photo Scanner

 Specially designed to scan photographs.

 Comes with color correction and image enhancement features.

✅ Features:

 High resolution
 Good color accuracy

📌 Used in: Photo studios, personal image digitization

6️⃣ Barcode Scanner

 Reads barcodes and converts them into digital numbers or text.

 Uses laser or imaging technology.

✅ Features:

 Quick and reliable

 Designed for reading product codes

📌 Used in: Retail stores, libraries, inventory systems

📊 Comparison Table
Type of Scanner Key Feature Best Use
Flatbed Scans various document types Offices, general use
Sheet-fed Fast, auto-feed scanning High-volume document scanning
Handheld Small, portable, manual Barcodes, quick scanning
Drum Very high-resolution Professional publishing, graphics
Photo Optimized for photos Studios, image archiving
Barcode Scans barcodes quickly Retail, POS systems
📌 Conclusion:
Each scanner type is designed for specific tasks.

 Flatbed and sheet-fed scanners are used in offices.

 Drum scanners serve professionals.
 Photo and barcode scanners meet special needs.

Definition:

A scanner is an input device that converts physical documents, photos, or images into digital
format that can be viewed, edited, and stored on a computer.

Scanners use light sensors to capture data from paper and convert it into a digital image.

🔍 Common Types of Scanners

1️⃣ Flatbed Scanner

 Most commonly used scanner

 Has a flat glass surface where documents are placed
 The scanning head moves under the glass to scan the image
 Can scan text, photos, books, and documents
 High-quality and accurate

Use: Offices, schools, homes

2️⃣ Sheet-fed Scanner

 Has a roller mechanism that pulls in sheets of paper

 Scans only one sheet at a time
 Faster than flatbed scanners for multiple pages
 Cannot scan thick or bound materials (like books)

Use: Offices with high-volume document scanning

3️⃣ Handheld Scanner

 Small, portable device moved by hand over the document

 Used for quick, low-resolution scans
 Requires a steady hand for good results
Use: Inventory systems, ID card scanning, barcodes

4️⃣ Drum Scanner

 Uses a rotating drum and photomultiplier tubes (PMTs)

 Provides very high-resolution scans
 Mainly used in publishing and professional graphics

Use: Magazines, printing industries, archiving high-quality images

5️⃣ Photo Scanner

 Specially designed for scanning photographs

 Includes image enhancement features
 High color accuracy and resolution

Use: Photo studios, personal image archiving

6️⃣ Barcode Scanner

 Reads barcodes and converts them into digital data

 Uses laser or camera-based technology
 Very fast and efficient

Use: Retail stores, inventory systems, libraries

📊 Comparison Table of Scanner Types

Scanner Type Features Common Use
Flatbed Scanner High-quality, scans books & papers Offices, schools, homes

Sheet-fed Scanner Fast, automatic page feeding Offices with bulk scanning
Handheld Scanner Portable, low cost, manual operation Inventory, quick scanning

Drum Scanner Highest resolution, professional use Publishing, archiving

Photo Scanner Optimized for photos, color correction Photo studios, personal use
Barcode Scanner Scans barcodes quickly Retail, inventory, POS systems

📌 Conclusion:
Scanners are essential for digitizing physical content. Each type of scanner has a specific use
depending on quality, speed, and document type.
For regular office use, flatbed and sheet-fed scanners are common, while drum and photo
scanners are used for high-quality image work.

10. Monitors & Their Types

Monitors:

Display screens that show visual output.

Types:

Type Description
CRT Old, bulky monitors
LCD Flat, uses liquid crystals
LED LCD with LED backlight (clearer, brighter)
OLED High contrast, used in modern displays
Touchscreen Allows input by touching the screen

11. Types of Printers

Here is a detailed explanation of "Types of Printers" for your ADP 2nd Semester –
Introduction to Computer notes:

🖨️Types of Printers
✅ Definition:

A printer is an output device that takes electronic data from a computer and produces a hard
copy (printed version) on paper or other media. Printers are commonly used in homes, schools,
offices, and industries for printing text and images.

Printers can be classified into two main categories based on printing technology:

1. Impact Printers
These printers physically strike the paper through an ink ribbon to produce characters or
images.
They are noisy and mainly used for printing multi-copy forms.
✳️Types of Impact Printers:

a) Dot Matrix Printer

 Uses a print head with pins to strike an ink ribbon

 Creates characters using dots
 Can print on multi-part paper
 Low-quality output, but cheap to operate

Use: Banks, billing systems, inventory systems

b) Daisy Wheel Printer

 Works like a typewriter

 Uses a wheel with raised characters that strike ink onto paper
 Produces high-quality text, but is very slow
 Cannot print graphics

Use: Legal documents where text clarity is critical

c) Line Printer

 Prints an entire line at a time

 Very fast (used in large-scale data centers)
 Low print quality

Use: Large organizations, banks, government records

2. Non-Impact Printers
These printers do not strike the paper. Instead, they use spray or heat to transfer ink or toner.
They are quiet, faster, and support high-quality printing including graphics.

✳️Types of Non-Impact Printers:

a) Inkjet Printer

 Sprays tiny droplets of ink onto paper

 Good for high-quality color printing
 Affordable for home use
 Ink cartridges can be expensive

Use: Home, students, photo printing

b) Laser Printer
  Uses a laser beam and toner powder
 High-speed and sharp output for text and graphics
 Ideal for office environments
 Cost-effective for high-volume printing

Use: Offices, schools, businesses

c) Thermal Printer

 Uses heat to print on special heat-sensitive paper

 No ink or toner required
 Common in receipts and ATMs

Use: Shops, ATMs, ticket machines

Comparison Table of Printer Types

Printer Type Technology Print Quality Speed Use

Dot Matrix Pins strike ribbon Low Slow Bills, invoices

Daisy Wheel Character wheel High (text only) Very slow Legal documents

Line Printer Line at once Medium Very fast Bulk printing

Inkjet Ink spray High (color) Medium Home, photos

Laser Toner & laser beam Very high Fast Offices, businesses
Thermal Heat on special paper Medium Fast Receipts, ATMs

Conclusion:
Printers vary based on speed, quality, and purpose.

 Impact printers are durable but noisy.

 Non-impact printers are quieter, offer better quality, and are widely used today.

12. System Software

Here is a detailed explanation of "System Software" for your ADP 2nd Semester –
Introduction to Computer notes:

💻 System Software
✅ Definition:

System software is a type of software designed to manage, operate, and control computer
hardware and application programs.
It serves as a bridge between the user, the application software, and the hardware of the
computer.

Without system software, a computer cannot function properly.

🔧 Main Functions of System Software

 Controls and coordinates hardware parts
 Runs system processes and background tasks
 Manages files, memory, and devices
 Provides a platform for application software to work

📂 Types of System Software

1️⃣ Operating System (OS)

 Most important system software

 Manages all hardware and software resources
 Provides user interface, file management, process management, and device control

🔹 Examples:

 Microsoft Windows
 Linux
 macOS
 Android

2️⃣ Device Drivers

 Specialized programs that allow the operating system to communicate with hardware
devices
 Each device (e.g., printer, scanner, mouse) needs its own driver

🔹 Examples:

 Printer driver
 Graphic card driver
 Sound card driver

3️⃣ Utility Programs

  Help manage, maintain, and optimize a computer’s performance
 Usually come pre-installed with the operating system or can be added separately

🔹 Common Utilities:

 Antivirus software – protects against viruses

 Disk cleanup – removes unnecessary files
 File compression tools – reduce file size (e.g., WinRAR, WinZip)
 Backup software – makes copies of important data

4️⃣ Language Translators

 Convert programming code written in high-level or assembly languages into machine

language (binary) that the computer can understand

🔹 Types of Language Translators:

 Compiler – Translates whole program at once

 Interpreter – Translates and executes code line-by-line
 Assembler – Translates assembly language into machine code

Difference Between System Software and Application

Software
System Software Application Software

Controls and manages hardware Performs specific user tasks

Runs in the background Used directly by the user

Includes OS, drivers, utilities Includes MS Word, Excel, browsers

Essential for system operation Optional based on user needs

📌 Conclusion:
System software is the backbone of a computer system. It helps hardware and application
software work together smoothly. Without it, the user cannot interact with the computer, and
no programs would run.?
13. Application Software
Here is a detailed explanation of "Application Software" for your ADP 2nd Semester –
Introduction to Computer notes:

🧩 Application Software
✅ Definition:

Application software is a type of computer program designed to perform specific tasks for the
user. It allows users to complete tasks such as writing documents, making spreadsheets,
browsing the internet, editing photos, and more.

It runs on top of the operating system and depends on system software to function.

🧠 Purpose of Application Software

 Helps users solve problems
 Makes it possible to do work like typing, accounting, designing, or entertainment
 Offers tools for productivity, creativity, communication, and more

📂 Types of Application Software

1️⃣ General-Purpose Application Software

These are widely used by all kinds of users for everyday tasks.

🔹 Examples:
Software Purpose
MS Word Word processing

MS Excel Spreadsheets and data analysis

MS PowerPoint Creating presentations

Web Browsers Internet browsing (e.g., Chrome)

Media Players Play audio/video files

PDF Readers View PDF documents

2️⃣ Specialized (Custom) Application Software

These are designed for specific tasks or professions and are often used in particular
industries.

🔹 Examples:
Field Software Example Use
Education Moodle, MS Teams Online classes and learning management
Accounting QuickBooks, Peachtree Financial management and bookkeeping
Design Adobe Photoshop, AutoCAD Image editing, technical drawing
Hospitals HMS (Hospital Management Sys) Patient records and treatment tracking
Business POS systems, ERP software Sales and business resource planning

🔁 Difference: System vs. Application Software

System Software Application Software

Manages hardware Solves specific user tasks

Runs in background Used directly by the user

Examples: Windows, Linux Examples: MS Word, Photoshop

Essential for system startup Optional, based on user’s needs

📌 Features of Application Software

 User-friendly interface
 Solves real-world problems
 Developed in various programming languages
 Can be pre-installed or downloaded

Installation Types
 Standalone software (installed on one computer)
 Web-based software (runs in the browser, like Google Docs)
 Mobile apps (for Android/iOS)
📌 Conclusion:
Application software helps users perform specific tasks efficiently. From students to
professionals, everyone relies on applications tailored to their daily needs. While system
software runs the computer, application software helps get work done.