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

2. General Concepts Information 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

3. Hardware and Software Hardware Software
Refers to the physical parts of a computer – those parts which you can see or touch
Software
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

4. Different Types Of Computer
Mainframe computers
Networked Computers
Personal Computers
Laptop/Notebook Computers
Personal Digital Assistants/Handheld Computers

5. Mainframe Computers Large, fast and expensive
Used by large organisations such as utility companies, banks or multinational companies
Connect hundreds or thousands of users
Users 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

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

7. Personal Computers
An indispensable tool for managers, humble office workers and home users
Two 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
Hardware devices (screen, keyboard and mouse) attached to the system unit (by a cable) are called peripheral devices

8. Notebook/Laptop Computers
Similar in specification to a personal computer
Monitor and keyboard are integrated into a single unit
Can be used from the mains or with a built-in rechargeable battery
More expensive than personal computers due to miniaturisation of computer components
Ideal computer for business people and ICT trainers who are constantly on the move

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Handheld computers which have superseded electronic organisers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