European Computer Driving Licence Module 1 – Concepts of IT Chapter 1.1 – General Concepts

General Concepts ZInformation Technology, General term used to describe the use of computers to process and transfer information, Can also refer to other office equipment (such as faxes and telephones) which contain tiny computers

Hardware and Software ZHardware, Refers to the physical parts of a computer – those parts which you can see or touch ZSoftware, Primarily a list of instructions coded in a special way that computers can understand Operating system software – eg Windows which works in the background and controls your software and hardware devices Applications software – eg Microsoft Word – software used to perform tasks

Different Types Of Computer ZMainframe computers ZNetworked Computers ZPersonal Computers ZLaptop/Notebook Computers ZPersonal Digital Assistants/Handheld Computers

Mainframe Computers ZLarge, fast and expensive ZUsed by large organisations such as utility companies, banks or multinational companies ZConnect hundreds or thousands of users ZUsers connect via terminals which are located in different cities or even abroad, Dumb terminals – these types of terminals cannot be used unless they are connected to the mainframe, Intelligent terminals – e.g. a personal computer connected to a mainframe, can also be used when not connected to the mainframe

Networked Computers ZPersonal computers connected to a server via network cards and cables ZThe software and data is stored on the central server rather than installed individually on each PC ZThe network also enables a fast Internet connection, printers and scanners to be shared ZUsers access allocated resources via a user name and password ZVery popular with small-to- medium-sized businesses, schools and colleges/adult education centres

Personal Computers ZAn indispensable tool for managers, humble office workers and home users ZTwo main types:, Desktop model – the system unit sits horizontally on a desk and the monitor is placed on top, Tower model – the system unit is vertical so can be placed on the floor to save desk space ZHardware devices (screen, keyboard and mouse) attached to the system unit (by a cable) are called peripheral devices

Notebook/Laptop Computers ZSimilar in specification to a personal computer ZMonitor and keyboard are integrated into a single unit ZCan be used from the mains or with a built-in rechargeable battery ZMore expensive than personal computers due to miniaturisation of computer components ZIdeal computer for business people and ICT trainers who are constantly on the move

PDAs/Handheld Computers ZHandheld computers which have superseded electronic organisers ZSome use a stylus which you use to write or draw on the screen ZRun very basic cut-down software such as calculator, address book and notepad functions ZCan be connected to a PC to synchronise data ZPDAs can also be used as mobile phones and can access the Web to send and receive s