Bihar STET - Computer Fundamentals Notes
1. Number Systems and Conversions (Binary, Octal, Decimal, Hexadecimal)
Number systems are used to represent data in computers:
- Decimal (Base 10): Uses digits 0-9.
- Binary (Base 2): Uses 0 and 1; fundamental to computing.
- Octal (Base 8): Uses digits 0-7.
- Hexadecimal (Base 16): Uses 0-9 and A-F.
Conversions:
- Decimal to Binary: Divide by 2, record remainders.
- Binary to Decimal: Multiply each bit by 2^position.
- Binary to Hex: Group 4 binary digits = 1 hex digit.
- Octal to Binary: Replace each digit with 3-bit binary.
2. Computer Generations
- 1st Generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes, very slow, large.
- 2nd Generation (1956-1963): Transistors used.
- 3rd Generation (1964-1971): Integrated Circuits (ICs).
- 4th Generation (1971-Present): Microprocessors.
- 5th Generation (Present & Beyond): AI-based systems, quantum computing.
3. Functional Components of Computer (CPU, Memory, I/O Devices)
- CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer; includes:
- ALU: Performs arithmetic and logical operations.
- CU: Controls the operation of all parts.
- Memory: Stores data and instructions.
- I/O Devices:
Bihar STET - Computer Fundamentals Notes
- Input devices: Keyboard, Mouse
- Output devices: Monitor, Printer
4. Primary and Secondary Memory
- Primary Memory:
- RAM (volatile, temporary storage)
- ROM (non-volatile, stores BIOS)
- Cache Memory: Faster, between RAM and CPU
- Secondary Memory:
- Hard Drive, SSDs, Pen Drive, CD/DVD
- Non-volatile, permanent storage
5. Input/Output Devices
- Input Devices: Used to enter data into computer.
- Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone
- Output Devices: Display or provide result to user.
- Examples: Monitor, Printer, Speaker, Projector
6. Operating Systems (Functions, Types)
- Functions:
- Manage hardware and software resources
- File management
- Process and memory management
- User interface
Bihar STET - Computer Fundamentals Notes
- Types:
- Batch OS
- Time-sharing OS
- Distributed OS
- Real-time OS
- Network OS
- Mobile OS (Android, iOS)