Computer Fundamental & Office
Automation
What is a Computer?
A computer is an electronic device that processes
data and performs tasks according to a set of
instructions (programs). It takes input, processes it,
stores information, and produces output.
Input and Output Devices in a Computer
1. Input Devices
Definition: Input devices are hardware components used to enter data and commands
into a computer system.
Examples of Input Devices:
1. Keyboard – Used for typing text and commands.
2. Mouse – A pointing device to control the cursor.
3. Scanner – Converts physical documents into digital format.
4. Joystick – Used for gaming and controlling movements.
5. Microphone – Captures audio input for recording or communication.
6. Webcam – Captures video input for live streaming or video calls.
7. Touchscreen – Allows direct interaction by touching the screen.
2. Output Devices
Definition: Output devices are hardware components that display or project the
processed data from a computer.
Examples of Output Devices:
1. Monitor (Screen/Display) – Displays images, videos, and text.
2. Printer – Produces hard copies of digital documents.
3. Speaker – Outputs sound and audio signals.
4. Projector – Displays images or videos on a larger screen.
5. Headphones – Provides private audio output.
Types of Memory (Primary & Secondary)
1. Primary Memory (Volatile Memory)
• Used for fast access to data while the computer is running.
• Losable when power is turned off.
Types of Primary Memory:
1. RAM (Random Access Memory):
a. Temporary storage used by programs and the OS.
b. Two types: Static RAM (SRAM) (faster) & Dynamic RAM
(DRAM) (commonly used).
2. Cache Memory:
a. Small, high-speed memory in the CPU for quick data
access.
3. Registers:
a. Ultra-fast memory inside the CPU for immediate data
processing.
Secondary Memory (Non-Volatile Memory)
• Used for long-term storage of data.
• Retains data even when power is off.
Types of Secondary Memory:
1. HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Stores large amounts of data permanently.
2. SSD (Solid-State Drive): Faster and more durable than HDD.
3. Pen Drive (USB Flash Drive): Portable storage.
4. CD/DVD (Optical Discs): Used for media and software storage.
5. Memory Cards (SD Cards): Used in mobile devices and cameras.
What is an Algorithm?
An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or set of rules used to solve a problem or
perform a task. It provides a systematic approach to problem-solving in programming and
real-life scenarios.
1. Types of Number Systems
Number Base Digits Used Example
System
Decimal 10 0-9 345₁₀
Binary 2 0, 1 1011₂
Octal 8 0-7 57₈
Hexadecimal 16 0-9, A-F 2F₁₆
A. Decimal to Other Bases
1. Decimal to Binary
a. Divide the decimal number by 2, record the remainder.
b. Continue until quotient = 0.
c. Read remainders from bottom to top.
Example: Convert 25₁₀ to Binary.
25 ÷ 2 = 12, remainder = 1
12 ÷ 2 = 6, remainder = 0
6 ÷ 2 = 3, remainder = 0
3 ÷ 2 = 1, remainder = 1
1 ÷ 2 = 0, remainder = 1
Binary: 11001₂
2. Decimal to Octal
a. Divide the decimal number by 8, record remainders.
b. Read from bottom to top.
Example: Convert 45₁₀ to Octal.
45 ÷ 8 = 5, remainder = 5
5 ÷ 8 = 0, remainder = 5
Octal: 55₈
3. Decimal to Hexadecimal
a. Divide the decimal number by 16.
b. Convert remainder values (10-15) to A-F.
Example: Convert 255₁₀ to Hexadecimal.
255 ÷ 16 = 15, remainder = 15 (F)
15 ÷ 16 = 0, remainder = 15 (F)
Hexadecimal: FF₁₆
B. Binary to Other Bases
1. Binary to Decimal
a. Multiply each bit by powers of 2 and sum up.
Example: Convert 1101₂ to Decimal.
(1 × 2³) + (1 × 2²) + (0 × 2¹) + (1 × 2⁰)
= (8) + (4) + (0) + (1)
= 13₁₀
2. Binary to Octal
a. Group binary digits in sets of 3 from right to left.
b. Convert each group to its octal equivalent.
Example: Convert 101101₂ to Octal.
101 101 → (5) (5)
Octal: 55₈
3. Binary to Hexadecimal
a. Group binary digits in sets of 4 from right to left.
b. Convert each group to its hex equivalent.
Example: Convert 11110110₂ to Hex.
1111 0110 → (F) (6)
Hexadecimal: F6₁₆
What is an Algorithm?
An algorithm is a step-by-step procedure or set of rules used to solve a problem or
perform a task. It provides a systematic approach to problem-solving in programming and
real-life scenarios.
What is a Flowchart?
A flowchart is a graphical representation of an algorithm or process using different
symbols to illustrate the flow of steps. It visually represents decision-making, loops, and
sequential execution in a structured manner.
what is MS Windows?
Microsoft Windows is a widely used operating system with a
graphical user interface (GUI) that provides various features for
ease of use and efficiency.
Control Panel?
The Control Panel is a system management tool in Windows that
allows users to configure and control various aspects of the
operating system, such as hardware, software, security, and system
settings.
what is Windows Applications?
Windows Applications refer to the built-in software programs that come pre-installed
with the Windows operating system. These applications offer essential functionality and
help users perform various tasks on their computer. Windows applications are user-
friendly and provide access to basic utilities, multimedia tools, productivity apps, and
more.
Icons in Windows
In Windows, icons are small graphical representations that are used to represent files,
folders, applications, and system objects. They are a key part of the graphical user
interface (GUI) and provide a visual way for users to interact with their computer, making it
easier to identify and open programs, documents, and settings.
What is paint?
Microsoft Paint, often referred to as MS Paint, is a simple graphics editor and drawing
application that has been included with Microsoft Windows for many years. It is a basic
tool for creating, editing, and manipulating images. Despite being a basic program, it offers
essential tools for quick and simple image editing tasks.
