COMPONENTS OF COMPUTERS AND COMPUTER SYSTEMS

At the end of this content, learners will be able to:

 Discuss the trends in the next generation of computers.

 Examine the concept of Perceptual Computing.
 Discuss the uses of Output devices such as Wearable Displays, E-Paper, E-Books, Kindle
 Describe Storage Systems: Network and Cloud Storage Systems, Smart Cards,
 Holographic Storage, Storage Systems for Large Computer Systems

TRENDS IN THE NEXT GENERATION OF COMPUTERS

The key trends of next-generation computing are computers and digitization. In the coming decades, the digital world
will experience immense technological advancement.

Features expected to be seen in the next generation of computers include:

1. Neuromorphic Computing: Neuromorphic computing uses the human brain as a model for hardware and
computing platforms, semiconductor technologies, chip design, architectures and algorithms in order to
increase the performance and energy efficiency of computing systems, including mobile and edge applications.
2. Quantum Computers: Quantum computers can tackle highly complex calculations that would be almost
impossible to perform even with conventional supercomputers. This makes the development of corresponding
technologies and algorithms essential for the next generation of computers.
3. Artificial Intelligence: There is no doubt that artificial intelligence will be one of the biggest trends. We are
still in the initial phase of development in artificial intelligence. With modern technology, companies are
focusing on integrating AI with various technological tools. Along with that, speech generation with AI will
improve the interaction between humans and computers.
4. Facial Recognition and Computer Vision: Artificial intelligence is promoting computers to interact with
humans. But in the upcoming years, we expect these machines to see as well. This feature is also available in
various security systems and mobile phones. Hence, this section will improve more in the future with rapid
development.
5. Increased Connectivity: Improvement in digital connections with 5G connectivity will improve economic
structure significantly. Also, the increase in wireless control of machines and mobile tools can cause a drastic
shift in digitalization.

Quantum Computing
Quantum computing is an area of computer science that uses the principles of quantum theory. Quantum
theory explains the behaviour of energy and material on the atomic and subatomic levels.
Quantum computing uses subatomic particles, such as electrons or photons.
Quantum bits, or qubits, allow these particles to exist in more than one state (i.e., 1 and 0) at the same time.
Where classical computers store information as bits with either 0s or 1s, quantum computers use qubits. Qubits
carry information in a quantum state that engages 0 and 1 in a multidimensional way.

Google Sycamore is a quantum computer developed by Google AI Quantum. Google

Sycamore chip is based on a type of quantum computing called superconducting qubits, which uses electric
currents flowing through superconducting materials to store and process information.

Sycamore Is the name of Google quantum processor comprising 54 qubit (quantum bits). Sycamore achieved its
results using exactly 53 qubits.
PERCEPTUAL COMPUTING

Perceptual computing maybe defined as a technology advancement in which computers are able to sense or
analyze the environment around them and respond accordingly. In simple terms, perceptual computing is the
ability for a computer to recognize what is going on around it. The computer then can determine what user
might need, as well as react to those needs without giving or receiving any additional information from the user.
Passwords are no longer needed.
When your computer is able to recognize you, there is no need for a password. You are your password with
perceptual computing.
Checking a person’s emotions is possible. By analysing facial expression, the computer can guess at how a
person is feeling. With this technology the computer can tell that a person is getting happy, angry or sad and
respond accordingly.

Features of perceptual computing includes;

1. Speech and Voice Recognition
2. Controlling application using gestures
3. Hand, Finger and Head tracking
4. Gesture and pose recognition
5. Face tracking and recognition
6. Emotion detection

Uses of Output devices such as Wearable Displays, E-Paper, and E-Books

WEARABLE DISPLAY
Wearable device is any kind of electronic device designed to be worn on the user's body. Such devices can take
many different forms, including glasses, jewellery, accessories, medical devices, and clothing or elements of
clothing.
A wearable computer is a technology tool that a customer can wear usually to monitor health and fitness-
related information.
The most common examples of wearable technology include smart watches, (AI) hearing aids, Google Glass,
Apple Glass and Microsoft's HoloLens.

Google Glass
Google Glass is a wearable, voice- and motion-controlled Android device that resembles a pair of eyeglasses and
displays information directly in the user's field of vision. Google Glass offers an augmented reality (AR)
experience by using visual, audio and locationbased inputs to provide relevant information to users.
The glasses have built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and a camera for taking photographs and videos.

Uses of Google Glasses

1. For taking photos and videos and then share them through Google Hangouts.
2. Searching for information on the internet through the glasses, using Wi-Fi or a smartphone's data connection.
3. For both voice and video calls.
4. Responding to emails and text messages using voice dictation.
5. It provides step-by-step directions with a map displayed on the screen.
E-Paper (Electronic Paper)
Electronic paper or e-paper is a technology that makes it easy to read text on an electronic gadget. It is a display
technology that mimics the appearance of ordinary ink on paper to produce a low-power, paper-like display. E-
paper display does not need electricity to sustain the displayed text and image.

The displays can hold static text and images for months without electricity. That is, it can retain text and images
even when power is off.

Advantages of E-Paper Display

1. Consumes less power
2. Display stays for a long time without power
3. It is available in multiple sizes
4. It is a high-definition and paper-like appearance display.

Disadvantages of E-Paper Display

1. Display is slow to update
2. Not suitable for animation or fast-changing displays
3. It is expensive as compared to LCD and other similar size displays.
4. It has less memory

E-Book (Electronic Book)

An e-book, short for electronic book, is a digital form of a printed book designed to be read on devices like
computers, tablets, or smartphones. It is a non-editable text that is converted into a digital format and read on
an electronic device.

E-Book Reader
An e-reader, also called an e-book reader or e-book device, is a device that is specially designed for reading
electronic books. It is an electronic version of a physical book that can be read on a screen or a handheld device
specifically designed for reading (known as e-book reader).

Kindle is the first portable hardware computer released in the U.S. for reading e-books by Amazon. Any device
that can display text on a screen may act as an e-reader; however, specialized e-reader devices may improve
portability, readability, and battery life for this purpose.

Examples of e-book readers Examples of E-Reader Apps or software

1. Amazon Kindle 1. Amazon kindle app

2. Sony reader 2. Kobo books
3. Kobo 3. Apple books
4. Barnes and Noble Nook 4. Adobe Reader
5. Tablet 5. epub reader
6. Smart Phone 6. Wattpad
7. OverDrive

Advantages of Using E-Books

1. E-books are portable.
2. E-books are affordable compare to printed books.
3. E-books are environmentally friendly. No cutting of trees to produce papers.
4. Unlimited access to books anytime anywhere.
5. E-book saves space, with all books on one device.

Disadvantages of using E-Books

1. Piracy is the number one concern for both publishers and authors of e-book.
2. There are health issues while reading during night time mostly on tablets.
3. E-books require power source. As a result, if battery is not charged and power source is not available, reader
cannot have access their e-books.

STORAGE SYSTEMS
Storage System holds data, instructions, and information for future use. Every computer system store system
software, application software and user files. As we have already discussed the various storage devices and their
uses in basic 7 and 8, we will look at other types of storage systems such as cloud storage, smart cards,
holographic storage and server storage systems in this section.

Cloud Storage
Cloud storage is the technology of saving data in a remote computer that can be accessed through the Internet
from any device. Cloud storage is an Internet service that provides storage to computer users.
Types of services offered by cloud storage providers vary. Some provide storage for specific types of files, such
as photos or e-mail messages, whereas others store any type of file.

Examples of Common Cloud Storage (Cloud Storage Providers)

1. Google Drive
2. One Drive
3. Dropbox
4. iCloud
5. Amazon cloud drive

Advantages (Pros) of Using Cloud Storage

1. Backup your data to the cloud
2. No more external hard drive is needed.
3. Remotely update and sync your files
4. Keep your files encrypted
5. Stores your data for a lifetime.

Disadvantages (Cons) of Using Cloud Storage

1. You need an internet connection to access your data.
2. Extra storage space comes at a cost.
3. Security and privacy concerns with some providers.
Smart Cards
Smart card is a plastic card with a built-in microprocessor, used typically to perform financial transactions. A
smart card is a card that is embedded with either a microprocessor and a memory chip or only a memory chip.
The microprocessor card can add, delete, and otherwise manipulate information on the card, while a memory-
chip card (for example, pre-paid cards) can only undertake a pre-defined operation. Smart card can be used to
store and process information and to control access, either to a physical location or to data.

Examples of Smart Cards Includes:

1. ATM cards (debit and credit cards)
2. ID cards (Ghana card and SSNIT card)
3. Passports
4. SIM cards
5. Pre-paid cards

Uses or Application of Smart Cards

1. Banking & Retail
2. Healthcare
3. Transportation.
4. ID verification and access control
5. Mobile communications
6. Computer and network security

Holographic Storage
Holographic Storage It is a computer storage device that uses beams of light to store three-dimensional digitally
created data.
Holography is the use of light, typically two distinct beams of light or energy, to produce recording of n image
or data that can then be retrieved through the use of light t later time. . Holographic storage can access the bits
of data in a parallel manner, through the beam of light, rather than one bit at a time, making data recording and
retrieval significantly faster than other media.

THE USE OF THE DESKTOP

DESKTOP PERSONALISATION: Personalization is the process by which a user customizes a desktop, or interface
to suit personal preferences. It is always nice to personalize your computer to make it work best for you. Here
are some ways to personalize Windows 10:
1. Change the desktop background
2. Change the desktop icon
3. Change the mouse pointer
4. Customize the taskbar
5. Change the accent colour and theme

How to Change Desktop Icon

1. Right-click on desktop and select Personalize.
2. Click on Themes at the left pane of the window.
3. At the right pane, locate Related Settings and click on Desktop Icon Settings
4. In the Desktop Icon Settings window, select the desktop icon you want to change and click Change Icon.
How to change Folder Icon:
1. Right-click the folder and select Properties in the context menu.
2. Choose Customize and click Change Icon in the Properties window.
3. Choose a new icon from the list or click Browse to input an icon and tap OK.
4. Click on Apply and then Ok

How to Change the Mouse Pointer

1. Right-click on the desktop and select Properties
2. Click on Themes at the left pane of the window.
3. Locate and select Mouse
Cursor at right pane of the window.
4. In the Mouse Properties dialog, select the Pointers tab,
5. Select your desired mouse pointer size and colour from the drop-down list under
Scheme.
6. Click Apply and then Ok to apply the changes.

To change the mouse pointer's size and colour back to its default state, just click the Use Default button.

FILE MANAGEMENT TECHNIQUES (DRIVERS AND HARDWARE)

A device driver is a special kind of software program that controls a specific hardware device attached to a
computer.
Device drivers are system programs responsible for proper functioning of devices. Every device, whether it is a
printer, monitor, mouse or keyboard, has a driver program associated with it for its proper functioning.
Whenever a new device is added to the computer system, a new device driver must be installed before the
device is used.

Types of Device Driver

Drivers can be broadly classified into two types. These are:
1. Kernel-mode Device Driver
2. User-mode Device Driver

Kernel-mode Device Driver: Kernel-mode device driver includes some basic hardware that loads with an
operating system as part of the OS. These are BIOS, motherboard, processor, RAM and some other hardware
that are part of the operating system.

User-mode Device Driver: They refer to device drivers that users may install and use on their system. When
using a system, users may have their own external devices that they bring to use, such as mouse, keyboard,
sound card, printer and mobile phones. These devices also require drivers to function.

Common Device Drivers and Their Functions

1. Sound Drivers - Audio driver is the software that helps your operating system to communicate with audio
devices such as internal sound cards, speakers, headsets, and microphones.
2. Graphic Drivers - The software that links the operating system to a particular graphics card. Aside higher
resolution graphics, graphics driver can also speed up your PC and boost your computer's performance, not only
for gaming but for any multimedia application.
3. Network (LAN) Drivers - A network driver is a software program that controls a device used to connect a
computer to a network.
 Plug-and-Paly Device
Plug and play (PnP) refers to a computer's ability to detect and configure hardware automatically without
requiring the user to install any device drivers.

Drivers are required for plug and play devices to work, but they are automatically installed when the device
connects to a computer. The operating system detects the device and installs the necessary drivers. There is no
need to manually install separate drivers for a plug and play device.

Examples of plug and play devices

There are many different plug and play devices available for computers. Below is a list of common ones.

1. External hard drive 4. Mouse

2. Gamepad or joystick 5. USB flash drive

3. Keyboard 6. Webcam

How to Install, Update and Delete Drivers

Driver installation or updates for devices, such as network adapters, monitors, printers, and video cards, are
automatically downloaded and installed through Windows Update. But if you want to manually install, update or
reinstall (delete) a driver, here is how to do it.

To Install, Update or Delete (uninstall) Driers on windows 10:

1. Right-click on the Start menu

2. Locate and select Device Manager

3. Search through the devices and double-click on the device that you want to update or delete drivers from the Device
Manager dialog box. This will load the drivers below the device name.

4. Select any of the options from the pop-up menu to update, disable or uninstall the selected drivers.

5. To update drivers, select Search automatically for drivers or Browse my computer for drivers

Note: Some drivers may require you to restart your computer after an installation, update or uninstallation of drivers.

TECHNOLOGY INT HE COMMUNITY (COMMUNICATION)

Demonstrate the Use of Technology in the Community

 Evaluate problems in the community that can be solved with technology

 Propose solutions to the problems identified
 Design the solution selected
ACTIVITY
PROJECT WORK

Activity 1: Problems in the community that can be solved with technology

Students are to discuss problems in the community that can be solved using technology. Work in pairs.

Activity 2: Propose solutions to the problems identified. Present technological solutions to the problems identified in
activity 1

Activity 3: Design the solution selected. Design the solution selected. Present the solution designed to class.

HEALTH AND SAFETY IN THE USE OF ICT TOOLS

At the end of this content, learners will be able to:

 Evaluate health issues at workstations

 Evaluate Safety Risk Reduction at issues at workstations

Ergonomics refers to the process of arranging a workplace, systems, and equipment in a way that makes it easy safe for
people to use them.

Ergonomic workstation is one that supports your body in a neutral position and can reduce the risk of discomfort or
pain cause to our bodies. To reduce risks and injuries at workplace, workstations should be design with ergonomic tools
or equipment.

Ergonomics workstation setup

There is a wide variety of ergonomically designed equipment available, including chairs, adjustable-height desks,
monitor arms, alternative mouse devices, keyboards, document holders, headsets, and anti-fatigue mats.

Chair

Chairs selected should meet the following requirements:

1. Easy-to-use control mechanisms

2. 5-point base to prevent tipping or slipping

3. Castors for carpet; braked castors for hard surfaces

4. Fully adjustable to accommodate different size workers

5. Conform to the lower back curve of the user

6. No arms, or if necessary, arms must be adjustable in height and direction so that they do not prevent you from
getting as close to the desk as possible.
Keyboard

1. Place directly in front of the body to avoid twisting the neck or torso

2. Position yourself in front of the computer monitor with the letters G and H approximately in line with your navel. This
is particularly good positioning when doing a lot of keyboard work

3. Position yourself so that you can reach the keyboard with your elbows in a neutral position by the side of the body

4. Arms should be parallel to the floor when fingers are placed gently on the keyboard. The seated elbow height should
be a little higher than the height of the keyboard. Raise or lower your chair to achieve this position

Mouse

Ensure the mouse is not too large so that the wrist is in

a neutral position during use.

1. Take the hand off the mouse at frequent intervals

2. Use keyboard shortcuts where possible.

3. Position the mouse directly to the right or left-hand side of the keyboard

4. Mouse operation can alternate from left-handed to right-handed to minimize strain on one hand

Headset

If you use a telephone frequently or use your computer when on the telephone:

1. Consider using a headset to prevent awkward neck postures

2. Position the telephone on your non-dominant side within easy reach.

Paper / Document Holders

If you read from documents whilst typing, consider using a document holder/stand, located either in line with the
keyboard or to the side of the monitor on an angle.

Good lighting System

A crucial component to setting up your workstation is your ighting, which can be associated with vision problems
(eyestrain, dry eyes, itchy /irritated eyes), health problems, and reduced work performance. Computer work can be
particularly visually demanding. Ergonomics experts recommend good lighting to reduce eye strain and avoid stretching
out your neck at an unnatural angle.

SAFETY RISK REDUCTION AT WORKSTATION

Many who use computers, printers, routers and other electronic device at work or home may be unaware of
workstation situations that can increase their risk of development of injury. In this lesson, we will assess the possible
heat that machines generates and how to reduce the excess heat.
How to reduce excess heat from electronic devices

As the days get warmer, make sure to keep your computer and other electronic gadgets nice and cool. Extreme heat can
potentially damage your expensive machine. Excess heat may be managed through the following ways:

1. Allow for Airflow: Make sure there is enough space around your devices; about

2-3 inches, and make sure the vents are clear and that there are no loose items that could obstruct airflow around your
electronic devices.

Most printers, computers, routers and other electronic devices have vents located on the back or on the side. This
configuration allows cool air to be pulled in to the device from the front or from the sides and for the hot air to be
forced out through the back or to the sides.

2. Position Electronics Away from Heat: Never place your computer by a window under direct sunlight. Move the
computer to a cooler and cleaner area. It is best to position it along the path of airflow from a fan or air conditioner

3. Do not stack them: Electronic devices get hot enough on their own. Stacking them on top of each other produces and
conducts even higher temperatures. Keep your devices spread out and use shelves whenever possible.

4. Keep It Clean: Dirt in the form of dust, human or pet hair, etc. may slow down the fan and eventually cause it to stop.
Blow the dust away from all of your gadgets. Remember to keep all of the vents clean and unobstructed.

5. In Case of Emergency, Shut Down: If one of your gadgets begins to overheat and malfunction during the hot summer
months, shut it down and disconnect its power supply. Let it sit and cool down until the casing is no longer hot