 Prof. Dr. M. H. Assal Introduction to Computer AS 15/10/2014

 A computer is an electronic device used to process data.  A computer can convert data into information that is useful to people.  A complete computer system includes four distinct parts (The Parts of Computer System): o Hardware o Software o Data o User Introduction to Computer2

 Hardware  Software  Data  Users Introduction to Computer3

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 A computer's hardware consists of electronic devices; The parts you can see and touch. 1. Speakers 2. Modem 3. Microphone 4. RAM 5. CPU 6. Keyboard 7. Mouse 8. CD-ROM drive 9. Diskette drive 10. Hard drive 11. Printer 12. Ports 13. Monitor 14. Expansion board Introduction to Computer5

 Software – also called programs – consists of organized sets of instructions for controlling the computer.  Some programs exist for the computer's use, to help it manage its own tasks and devices.  Other programs exist for the user, and enable the computer to perform tasks for you, such as creating documents. Introduction to Computer6

 Data consists of raw facts, which the computer can manipulate and process (or convert) into information that is useful to people.  People are the computer's operators, or users. Introduction to Computer7

 Types of Hardware  The CPU  Memory  How Memory is Measured  Input and Output Devices  Storage Devices Introduction to Computer8

 A computer's hardware devices are categorized as follows: o Processor o Memory o Input and output (I/O) devices o Storage devices Introduction to Computer 9

10  The processor is also called the central processing unit (CPU). It manages all devices and performs the actual processing of data.

 Memory consists of chips attached to the motherboard.  Memory holds data and program instructions as the CPU works with them. This memory is called Random Access Memory (RAM). Introduction to Computer11

 Input devices accept data and instructions from the user or from another computer system. The keyboard and mouse are examples of input devices.  Output devices return processed data back to the user or to another computer system. The printer and monitor are examples. Introduction to Computer12

 Storage devices hold data not currently being used by the CPU. Data is commonly stored on a magnetic or optical disk. Each type uses a special medium for storing data on its surface. Introduction to Computer13

Introduction to Computer14 SizeAbbreviations 0 or 1Bit 8 bitByte (B) 1024 BKilobyte (KB) 1024 KBMegabyte (MB) 1024 MBGigabyte (GB) 1024 GBTerabyte (TB)

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DecimalHexadecimalBinary A B C D E F1111 Introduction to Computer16

 Computers can be classified in many ways. The common classification is by size and by function.  By Size o Supercomputers o Mainframe o Minicomputers o Microcomputers Introduction to Computer17

 Supercomputers are the most powerful computers. They are used for problems requiring complex calculations.  Because of their size and expense, supercomputers are relatively rare.  Supercomputers are used by: Universities, Government agencies and Large businesses Introduction to Computer18

 Mainframe computers can support hundreds or thousands of users, handling massive amounts of input, output, and storage.  Mainframe computers are used in large organizations where many users need access to shared data and programs.  Mainframes are also used as e-commerce servers, handling transactions over the Internet. Introduction to Computer19

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 Minicomputers are smaller than mainframes but larger than microcomputers.  Minicomputers usually have multiple terminals.  Minicomputers may be used as network servers and Internet servers. Introduction to Computer21

 Microcomputers are more commonly known as personal computers. The term "PC" is applied to IBM-PCs or compatible computers.  Full-size desktop computers are the most common type of PC.  Notebook (laptop) computers are used by people who need the power of a desktop system, but also portability.  Handheld PCs (such as PDAs) lack the power of a desktop or notebook PC, but offer features for users who need limited functions and small size. Introduction to Computer22

 By Function o Server o Workstations o Embedded Computers Introduction to Computer23

 Server usually refers to a computer that is dedicated to provide a service. For example, a computer dedicated to a database may be called a "database server". Introduction to Computer24

 Workstations are powerful single-user computers.  Workstations are used for tasks that require a great deal of number-crunching power, such as product design and computer animation.  Workstations are often used as network and Internet servers. Introduction to Computer25

 Embedded computers are computers that are a part of a machine or device. Embedded computers generally execute a program that is stored in non-volatile memory and is only intended to operate a specific machine or device. Introduction to Computer26