2. A computer is simply a machine that is programmed to follow instructions. Computers of today can: Calculate finances Make animated films Order airline tickets Develop blueprints for a building Listen to a live concert View and build web pages Computers of today have become both economical and powerful. They are more advanced than the past computers and now allows you to build more professional web pages.

3. Computers consist of many components such as the: The Case- holds the many parts of the computer and protects them from damage. The Motherboard- is the largest circuit board and holds on the important parts of your computer together. Internal Hard Drive- stores your operating system, software programs, and many other files. The Processor- acts as the brains of your computer by processing all the information given to your computer. Ram- where the computer place all programs and applications you currently have running. Expansion Slot Cards- ports in your motherboard that allow you to add additional hardware.

4. If you have ever looked at the back of your computer, you should have noticed all of the odd shaped things that look like outlets. These are your computer many ports which connects things such as your printer, scanner, keyboard, and mouse. If you know how to use these connections, then you will get more out of your computer.

5. If there isn't a computer monitor then it is impossible for the computer to display graphics or information. A monitor that is on the rise is the Gas Plasma Screens, which provide the largest screen area of all monitors. Only problem they have is they are not cost effective.

6. Input & Output Devices Input Devices Mouse- used for selecting and highlighting information. Keyboards- used for typing and has many shortcut keys. Scanners- allows you to convert anything you scan to a digital image. Digital Cameras- do not use film and can download images to the computer. Graphic Tablets- allows you to free hand draw. Output Devices Printers- photo printers print high quality photos and laser printers print high quality images. Speakers- needed to listen to music from the computer.

7. USB- allows you to store information on a removable drive. External Hard Drive- holds more information than a USB and also is removable. CD/DVD DRIVE- Plays DVD’S and CD’s for your computer.