Chapter 1:

Introduction to
Computers
 Definition
Computer is an electronic device that allows
you to processing and storing data and
produce output.
 Classification of a computer
according to physical size
Based on physical size, computer can be
classified into four main groups namely:-
 Super Computers
 Mainframe Computers
 Mini Computers
 Micro Computers
1. Super Computers. Super computers are the fastest, largest, most
expensive and power full computers viable. Super Computers are
mainly used for scientific research.
2. Mainframe Computers Mainframe Computers are less powerful
and less expensive than Super Computers. Mainframes are used
for processing data and performing complex mathematical
calculation they have a large storage capacity and can support
variety peripheral devices.
3. Mini Computers Minicomputers are resemble the mainframe but
are slightly smaller. They are used mainly in scientific
laboratories, research institution, engineering plants and places
where processing where processing automatic is required.
4. Micro Computers A Microcomputer is smallest, cheapest and
relatively least power full type of computer. They are commonly
used in training institutions, small business enterprises,
communication centers, among other today.
 Generations of
computer.
Computers, at various stages of their evolution,
have been divided into four generation.

 First generation computers (1940s to 1958 )

 Second generation computers (1958 – 1964)

 Third generation computers (1964 – 1971 )

 Fourth generation computers ( 1971– present )

 Input devices
Input devices are pieces of computer hardware that
entering data into a computer.

 Keyboard
 Mouse
 Scanner
 Camera
 Microphone
 Output devices
Output devices are parts of a computer hardware that
displays the information.
 Screen or monitor
 Printer
 Speakers
 The parts of computer
system
Complete computer system consist of four
parts.
 Hardware
 Software
 Data
 Users
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Introduction to Computers

Software
Hardware
 Software is a set of instructions that
 The mechanical devices that make up makes the computer perform task.
the computer are called Hardware.
 In other words software tells the
 Hardware is any piece or any part of computer what to do.
the computer you can see and touch.
 The term program refers to any piece
 All input devices are examples of of software.
hardware.
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Introduction to Computers

USERS
DATA
➜  People the most
➜  Data consist of computer operators,
individual facts or called Users.
pieces of information
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Introduction to Computers

The Information Processing Cycle has

four parts, and each part involves
one or more specific components of
Information Processing Cycle the computer.

➜ ➜  Input: -Accepts data from some

 Computer converts data into
sources for processing.
information by performing
➜  Processing:- Transforms raw data
various actions on data.
into useful information
➜  For example computer might ➜  Output: - Computer displays the
perform a mathematical results of its processing.
operation on two numbers, and ➜  Storage: - Computer permanently
then display the result. stores the result of its processing.
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Introduction to Computers

Processor
Essential Computer Hardware ➜  The procedure that
transforms raw data into
A computer’s hardware devices useful information is known
fall into one of the four as processing.
categories. ➜  The processor is like the
➜  Processor brain of computer.
➜  Memory
➜  Input and output
➜  Storage
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Storage Devices
Memory devices
➜  A computer can function with
➜  In computer memory is one or more
only processing, memory, input,
sets of chips that store data and or
program instructions either temporarily and output devices.
or permanently. ➜  There more rooms in storage
➜  ROM is permanently storage.. than memory.
➜  ROM holds instruction that the ➜  Contents are retained in
computer needs to operate.
storage when the computer is
➜  RAM is temporarily storage.
➜  RAM holds data and program turn off.
instruction while the CPU works with
them.
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System software
Software brings the machine
➜  System software is any program
to life. that controls the computer’s
hardware or that can be used to
most software falls into two major maintain the computer in some way
categories: so that it runs more efficiently.
➜  System software ➜  There are three basic types of
➜  Application software system software.
 An operating system (OS):-
tells the computer how to use its own components.
A network operating system: -
allows computers to communicate and share data across a
network.
A Utility: -
is a program that makes the computer system is easier to use.
Utility :-
are used to manage disks, troubleshoot hardware problems,
and so on.
 Application software

 Application software tells the computer how to accomplish a specific task,

such as word processing or drawing, for the user.
 Thousands of applications are available for many purposes and for
people of all ages.
 Some of the major categories of these applications include.
 Word processing software.
 Database management software.
 Entertainment and education software.
 More and more

User’s Role
When working with a personal computer, the user can take on several roles,
depending on what he or she wants to accomplish.

» Setting up the system.

» Installing software.
» Running software.
» Managing files.
» And some others.
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