1. Chapter 1 Introduction to Computers

2. Chapter 1 Objectives Explain the importance of computer literacy
Explain the purpose of a network
Define the term computer
Discuss the uses of the Internet and the World Wide Web
Identify the components of a computer
Describe the categories of computers and their uses
Explain why a computer is a powerful tool
Identify the various types of computer users
Differentiate among the various categories of software
Understand how a user can be a Web publisher
p. 1.2

3. The Digital Revolution
Where can you find computers?
p. 1.2 Fig. 1-1
Computers are everywhere

4. The Digital Revolution
What is computer literacy?
If you are computer literate, you have knowledge and understanding of computers and their uses
p. 1.4

5. What Is a Computer? What is a computer?
An electronic machine, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory
accepts data
manipulates the data according to specified rules
produces results
stores the results for future use
p. 1.4

6. What is a Computer? What are data and information? Data Information
Collection of raw unprocessed facts, figures, and symbols
Information
Data that is organized, meaningful, and useful
p. 1.4 Fig. 1-2

7. What is a Computer? Who is a user?
Someone that communicates with a computer
Someone who uses the information it generates
p. 1.4

8. What is a Computer? What are hardware and software? Hardware Software
The electric, electronic, and mechanical equipment that makes up a computer
Software
The series of instructions that tells the hardware how to perform tasks
p. 1.4

9. What is a Computer? What is the information processing cycle? Process
Manipulate the input (data) to produce output (information)
Input
Any data or instructions you enter into a computer
What is the information
processing cycle?
Output
Data that has been processed into information
Communication
The capability of communicating with other computers
Storage
Area in a computer that can hold data and information for future use
p. 1.5

10. The Components of a Computer
What are common computer hardware components?
system unit
PC camera
speaker
printer
speaker
monitor
keyboard
modem
scanner
mouse
digital camera
p. 1.5 Fig. 1-3
microphone

11. The Components of a Computer
What is an input device?
Any hardware component that allows a user to enter data and instructions into a computer
microphone
PC camera
keyboard
mouse
scanner
Click to view Web Link
then click Input Devices
digital camera
p. 1.5 Fig. 1-3

12. The Components of a Computer
What is an output device?
Any hardware component that can convey information to a user
monitor
speakers
printer
Click to view Web Link
then click Output Devices
p. 1.6 Fig. 1-3

13. The Components of a Computer
What is the system unit ?
Sometimes called a chassis
A box-like case made from metal or plastic that protects the internal electronic components of the computer from damage
Circuitry in the system unit usually is part of or is connected to a circuit board called the motherboard
CD-RW drive
CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive
Zip® disk drive
floppy disk drive
hard disk drive
p Fig. 1-3

14. The Components of a Computer
What are two main components on the motherboard?
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
Also called a processor
Electronic device that interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate the computer
Memory
Temporary holding place for data and instructions
Click to view Web Link
then click Processors
p. 1.6

15. The Components of a Computer
What is a chip?
An electronic device that contains many microscopic pathways that carry electrical currents
Usually no bigger than one-half inch square
Packaged so it can be attached to a motherboard
memory chip
processor chip packaging
p. 1.6 Fig. 1-4

16. The Components of a Computer
What are internal components and external devices?
Internal Component
Resides inside the system unit
External Device
Also called a peripheral
Attaches to the system unit
p. 1.6

17. The Components of a Computer
What is storage?
Holds data, instructions, and information for future use
Storage Device
Records and retrieves items to and from a storage medium
Devices often function as source of input because they transfer items from storage into memory
Storage Medium
Physical material on which a computer keeps the data, instructions and information
Click to view Web Link
then click Storage Devices
p. 1.7

18. The Components of a Computer
What are common storage devices or drives?
CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive
CD-RW drive
ZIP® drive
hard disk drive
floppy disk drive
p. 1.7 Fig. 1-3

19. The Components of a Computer
What is a floppy disk?
A thin, circular, flexible disk enclosed in a plastic shell
Insert and remove a floppy disk into and from a floppy disk drive
A Zip® disk is a higher capacity disk
p. 1.7 Fig. 1-5

20. The Components of a Computer
What is a hard disk?
self-contained hard disk
Consists of several circular platters that store items electronically
Disks are enclosed in an airtight, sealed case, which often is housed inside the system unit
Provides much greater storage capacity than a floppy disk
Some hard disks are removable
p Fig. 1-6 & 7
removable hard disk

21. The Components of a Computer
What is a compact disc?
A flat, round portable medium that stores data using microscopic pits, which are created by a laser light
CD-ROM
CD-RW
rewriteable CD
DVD-ROM
tremendous storage capacities
p. 1.8 Fig. 1-8

22. The Components of a Computer
What is miniature storage media?
Used in devices such as digital cameras
One popular type is called a card
miniature storage media
p. 1.8 Fig. 1-9

23. The Components of a Computer
What is a communications device?
Enables computer users to communicate and to exchange items such as data, instructions, and information with another computer
Allows you to establish a connection between two computers and transmit items over transmission media, such as cables, telephone lines, or satellites
One type is a modem
Click to view Web Link
then click Communications Devices
p. 1.8 Fig. 1-3
modem

24. Why Is a Computer So Powerful?
What characteristics make a computer powerful?
Storage
Enormous amounts of data can be stored and made available for processing anytime it is needed
Speed
Billions of operations can be carried out in a single second
Reliability
Dependable because components have a low failure rate so they produce consistent results
Accuracy
If data is entered correctly and program works properly, the results are error-free — garbage in, garbage out (GIGO) accuracy of output depends on accuracy of input
Communications
Two connected computers can share stored data, instructions, and information
p. 1.8

25. Why Is a Computer So Powerful?
What is a network?
Two or more computers connected together via communications media and devices
The most widely known network is the Internet
p Fig. 1-10

26. Technology Trailblazer
Bill Gates
Microsoft’s chairman and chief software architect
Co-founded Microsoft in 1975
Regarded as the most powerful person in the computer industry
Consistently anticipates technological developments and customer needs
Click to view Web Link
then click Bill Gates
p. 1.9

27. Compares values stored in memory
Computer Software
What is a computer program?
A series of instructions that tells the hardware of a computer what to do
Allows you to input data and stores it in memory
Displays information on monitor
Compares values stored in memory
Uses data in memory in calculations
Directs computer to perform alternative operations
Prints a report
Stores information on disk
Click to view Web Link
then click Computer Programs
p. 1.10

28. Computer Software What is software installation?
Some programs can be loaded directly from purchased media, others must be installed
Install means part or all of the instructions are copied from the purchased media onto the computer's hard disk before the program can be used
p Fig. 1-11

29. Computer Software What happens when you run a program from a CD-ROM?
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 1
Step 1
Step 2
Step 1: Insert the CD-ROM that contains the program into the CD-ROM drive.
Step 2: If necessary, install the program on the hard disk. Then instruct the computer to run the program. Instructions transfer from the CD-ROM or hard disk to memory.
Step 3: The program executes and the screen displays graphics that allow you to create a greeting card.
p Fig. 1-12

30. Computer Software What is system software?
Programs that control the operations of the computer and its devices
Operating System (OS)
Set of programs containing instructions that coordinate all the activities among computer hardware devices
Utility program
Type of system software that performs a specific task, usually related to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs
p. 1.12

31. Computer Software What is the user interface?
Determines how you interact with software
Used to control how you enter data and instructions
Used to control how information displays on the screen
p. 1.12

32. Computer Software What is a graphical user interface (GUI)?
Allows you to interact with the software using visual images such as icons
An icon is a small image that represents a program, an instruction, or some other object
icons
p Fig. 1-13

33. Computer Software What is application software?
Programs that perform specific tasks for users
Suite
Four popular software applications bundled together as a single unit
Spreadsheet software
Database software
Presentation graphics software
Word processing software
Word processing software
Presentation graphics software
Spreadsheet software
Database software
Click to view Web Link
then click Application Software
p. 1.13

34. Computer Software What is packaged software?
Copyrighted retail software that meets the needs of a wide variety of users
Purchase from stores or companies on the Internet
p Fig. 1-14

35. Computer Software What is custom software? Written by a programmer
Tailor-made program developed at a user’s request to perform specific functions p

36. Public-Domain Software
Computer Software
What are freeware, public-domain software, and shareware?
Shareware
Copyrighted software that is distributed free for a trial period
Send a payment to developer on honor system
Freeware
Software provided at no cost to a user by an individual or company
Copyrighted
Cannot resell it on your own
Public-Domain Software
Freeware donated for public use
No copyright restrictions
p. 1.4

37. You can run the programs from the Internet
Computer Software
What is an application service provider (ASP)?
Third-party company that manages and distributes software and services on the Internet
You can run the programs from the Internet
Both free and paid ASPs
p. 1.14

38. Computer Software Who designs and writes software?
Computer programmer (or programmer)
Writes software programs
Systems Analyst
Designs a program, working with both the user and the programmer to determine the desired output of the program
p. 1.14

39. Computer Software How are programs written?
Programmers use a programming language to write computer programs
p Fig. 1-15

40. Networks and the Internet
What is a network?
Collection of computers and devices connected together via communications devices and media
When your computer connects to a network you are online
Communications Device
Modem
Communications Media
Cables
Telephone lines
Cellular radio
Satellites
p. 1.16

41. Networks and the Internet
What are the reasons to network?
To share resources
Hardware devices
To save time and money
Information
Software programs
Data
p. 1.16

42. Networks and the Internet
What is a local area network (LAN)?
A network that connects computers in a limited geographic area such as a school computer laboratory, office or group of buildings
p Fig. 1-16

43. Networks and the Internet
What is a wide area network (WAN)?
A network that covers a large geographical area, such as one that connects offices across the country
p Fig. 1-17

44. Networks and the Internet
What is the Internet?
A worldwide collection of networks that links together millions of businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and individuals
Click to view Web Link
then click Internet
p. 1.17

45. Networks and the Internet
Why do users access the Internet?
Meeting people
Shopping
Information
Shopping
Meeting people
Entertainment
Information
Entertainment
p Fig. 1-18

46. Networks and the Internet
How do users connect to the Internet?
Internet Service Provider (ISP)
Company that supplies connections to the Internet, usually for a monthly fee
Online Service Provider (OSP)
Provides access to the Internet, as well as a variety of other specialized content and services
p. 1.18

47. Networks and the Internet
What is the World Wide Web (WWW)?
Billions of documents, called Web pages, that are linked together on computers throughout the world
Web browser
Program used to access and view Web pages
Web site
Collection of related Web pages
Web page
Contains text, graphics, sound, or video and has connections to other Web pages
p. 1.18

48. Networks and the Internet
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Step 3
Step 2
Step 1
Step 2
Step 1
Step 1
How do you connect to the Internet and display a Web page?
Step 1 : Use your computer to make a local telephone call to an online service
Step 2 : A Web browser such as Internet Explorer displays a Web page on your screen
Step 3 : Enter the address of the Web site you wish to visit
Step 4 : The Web browser locates the Web site for the entered address and displays a Web page on your screen
p Fig. 1-19

49. Categories of Computers
What are the categories of computers?
p Fig. 1-20

50. Personal Computers What is a personal computer?
A computer that can perform all of its input, processing, output, and storage activities by itself
Contains at least
One Input device
One output device
One storage device
Memory
A processor
Microprocessor
The single chip that performs all the processing functions on a personal computer
Two major categories
Desktop
Notebook
p. 1.19

51. Personal Computers
What are the two most popular series of personal computers?
The Apple Macintosh uses the Macintosh operating system (Mac OS)
The PC and compatibles use the Windows operating system
p Fig & 22
p Fig & 22

52. Company on the Cutting Edge
Gateway
One of the world’s leading technology manufacturers
Manufactures built-to-order PCs
Consumers from around the world order more than 11,000 custom systems daily
Click to view Web Link
then click Gateway p

53. Personal Computers What is a desktop computer?
Designed so the system unit, input devices, output devices, and any other devices fit entirely on or under a desk or table
Click to view Web Link
then click Personal Computers
p Fig. 1-23

54. Personal Computers What are some desktop computer variations?
Tower model
Tall and narrow system unit that can sit on the floor vertically
p Fig. 1-23

55. Personal Computers What are some desktop computer variations?
All-in-one computer
Less expensive desktop that combines he monitor and system unit into a single device
p Fig. 1-24

56. Personal Computers What are some desktop computer variations?
Workstation
More expensive and powerful desktop designed for work that requires intense calculations and graphics capabilities
Stand-alone
Can perform the information processing cycle operations without being connected to a network
p. 1.21

57. Personal Computers What are some desktop computer variations? Server
Powerful desktop that manages the resources on a network
Clients or workstations
Other computers on network that access the contents of the storage area on the servers
p Fig. 1-25

58. Personal Computers What is a notebook computer? Also called a laptop
Portable, personal computer small enough to fit on your lap
Generally more expensive than a desktop computer with equal capabilities
Click to view video
p Fig. 1-26

59. Handheld Computers What is a handheld computer?
Also called a palmtop computer
Small computer that fits in your hand
Click to view Web Link
then click Handheld Computers
p Fig. 1-27

60. Handheld Computers How do you input data with a handheld computer?
Others use a stylus
A stylus looks like a ballpoint pen, but uses pressure, instead of ink to write
Some have small keyboards
Some support voice input
p. 1.23

61. Handheld Computers What is a personal digital assistant (PDA)?
One of the most popular handheld computers in use today
Provides personal organizer functions
Calendar
Appointment book
Address book
Calculator
Notepad
p Fig. 1-28

62. Handheld Computers What are Web-enabled handheld computers?
Allow you to access the Internet wirelessly
Web-enabled cellular telephone
Web-enabled handheld computer
Web-enabled two-way pager
p Fig. 1-29

63. Internet Appliances
What is an Internet appliance or information appliance?
Computer with limited functionality whose main purpose is to connect to the Internet from home
p Fig. 1-30

64. Internet Appliances What is WebTV?
An Internet appliance in the form of a set-top box
Sits on top of or next to a television set and allows you to access the Internet on the TV
p Fig. 1-31

65. Mid-Range Servers What is a mid-range server?
More powerful and larger than a workstation computer
Supports up to 4,000 users
Often connected via a personal computer or terminal
Once known as a minicomputer
p Fig. 1-32

66. Mid-Range Servers What is a terminal? Sometimes called dumb terminals
No processing power
Cannot stand alone
Must be connected to a server to operate
Device with a monitor and keyboard used to access a server
p. 1.25

67. Mainframes What is a mainframe?
Large, expensive, very powerful computer
Can handle hundreds or thousands of connected users simultaneously
Stores tremendous amounts of data, instructions, and information
p Fig. 1-33

68. Company on the Cutting Edge
International Business Machines (IBM)
Incorporated in 1911
The first family of computers with interchangeable software and peripherals
World’s largest information technology company
Click to view Web Link
then click IBM
p. 1.26

69. Supercomputers What is a supercomputer?
Fastest, most powerful computer
Able to process more than 12 trillion instructions per second
p Fig. 1-34

70. Elements of an Information System
What is an information system?
1. Hardware
4b. People (users)
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Data
4a. People (IT personnel)
5. Procedures
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Data
4a. People (IT personnel)
4b. People (users)
3. Data
1. Hardware
2. Software
2. Software
1. Hardware
4a. People (IT personnel)
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Data
For an information system to provide accurate, timely, and useful information, each element must be present and all of the elements must work together
Click to view Web Link
then click Women in Technology
Click to view Web Link
then click Minorities in Technology
p Fig. 1-35

71. Examples of Computer Usage
What are five categories of computer users?
Mobile
Home
Large Business
Small Office/Home Office
Power
p Fig. 1-36

72. Examples of Computer Usage
What software is available for a home user?
finance and business management
research
Web access
entertainment
p Fig. 1-37

73. Examples of Computer Usage
How do computer companies accommodate children?
Many manufacturers design special hardware for children
p Fig. 1-38

74. Examples of Computer Usage
What is the digital divide?
Idea that you can separate people of the world into two distinct groups
Those who have access to technology with the ability to use it
Those who do not have access to technology or are without the ability to use it
Click to view video
p. 1.30

75. Technology Trailblazer
Shawn Fanning
As a 19-year-old freshman computer science major, he developed the Napster software and company
Pioneering file-sharing concept has implications for all copyrighted digital information
Click to view Web Link
then click Shawn Fanning
p. 1.30

76. Examples of Computer Usage
What hardware and software is available for a small office/home office (SOHO) user?
Web access
Desktop usage
Local Area Network (Lan)
Productivity software
Specialty software
Web usage
p Fig. 1-39
spreadsheet

77. Examples of Computer Usage
What new computer trends concern a small office/home office (SOHO) user?
Communicate with others
E-commerce
Conduct financial business on the Web
Web cam
Allows a SOHO user to show the world a live view of some aspect of their business
p. 1.31

78. Examples of Computer Usage
What is a mobile user?
Travel to and from a main office to conduct business
Hardware
Notebook computers
Handheld computers
Web-enabled cellular telephones
Software
Productivity
Presentation
p Fig. 1-40

79. Examples of Computer Usage
What are the needs of the large business user?
Network
Local area network (LAN)
Wide Area Network (WAN)
Large business Web site
Sales management
Accounting
Desktop publishing
Information systems department
Productivity software
Scheduling
Web access
p Fig. 1-41

80. Examples of Computer Usage
What is a kiosk?
A freestanding computer
Usually has multimedia capability and a touch screen
Used by a large business to provide information to the public
Click to view video
p Fig. 1-43

81. Examples of Computer Usage
What is telecommuting?
A work arrangement in which employees work away from a company’s standard workplace
Often communicate with the office using some communications technology
p Fig. 1-44

82. Examples of Computer Usage
What are the needs of a power user?
Requires the capabilities of a workstation or other powerful computer
Types of power users
Engineers
Architects
Desktop publishers
Graphic artists
Typically work with multimedia
Combines text, graphics, sound, video, an other media elements into one application
p Fig. 1-45

83. Computer User as a Web Publisher
What is Web publishing?
Making a Web page available on the Internet
A few reasons to publish Web pages
Provide family information
Provide information about business
Provide a resume online
Provide online courses called distance-learning courses
p Fig. 1-46

84. Computer User as a Web Publisher
What are other ways to use the Web?
Photo communities
Allow you to create an online photo album
Electronic storefronts
Allow a small business to advertise and take orders directly at a Web site
Communicate with others
Chat rooms
Instant messaging
p Fig. 1-47

85. Summary of Introduction to Computers
The digital revolution
What is a computer?
The components of a computer
Why is a computer so powerful?
Computer software
Networks and the Internet
Categories of computers
Personal computers

86. Summary of Introduction to Computers (cont.)
Handheld computers
Internet appliances
Mid-range servers
Mainframes
Supercomputers
Elements of an information system
Examples of computer usage
Computer user as a Web publisher

87. Chapter 1 Complete