Introduction to Computers Just the Facts

Computer Functions Input Processing Output Storage

Hardware - Software TV - Videotapes Cooking Pots - Recipes It’s hardware if you can use a screwdriver on it dust it plug it in

Hardware Input Keyboard Mouse Floppy drive CD-ROM, Zip, etc. Scanner Processing CPU Memory chips Output Monitor Printer Storage Hard disk Floppy disk CD-RW, Zip, etc.

Memory and Storage Memory ROM – Read Only Memory “Hard-wired” Runs computer RAM – Random Access Memory Volatile Data can be changed Storage Holds data to be used again Accessible from outside computer or stored within

Storage Options Hard Drive - Desk Diskette - Briefcase

Software Electronic instructions for hardware Operating System Applications

Operating Systems DOS Windows 3.1 Windows95, 98, NT, 2000, XP MAC Operating System 7.5, 8.0 Not obvious unless problem arises

Using the Windows Operating System Starting your computer Getting to know your desktop Working with windows Communicating by mouse Getting (and staying) organized

Application Software Software programs run by operating system Each performs specific function Word-processing Storing and analyzing data Graphics Playing games Communicating over network

Applications are Tools Only one tool can do the job fast and effectively Training shows how to use tools properly

Microsoft Office 2000 SoftwareApplication WordWord processing ExcelSpreadsheet PowerPointPresentation graphics AccessDatabase

World Wide Web Use search engines such as Lycos and Google to find sites that interest you. Key in topics of interest and choose the sites you want to visit. Click on the underlined site to go to that “page.” Add your favorite sites to your Hot List.