CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
What is Computer?
a programmable electronic device that accepts raw data as input
and processes it with a set of instructions (a program) to produce
the result as output.
Compute = to Calculate
Could solve arithmetic and scientific problem at very high
speed
Could perform task such as accepting, sorting, selecting,
moving, and comparing various types of information
Can perform arithmetic and logical operations on various types
of information
Basic functions of computer
Computer - is a fast and accurate data processing system that:
- INPUT (accepts data)
- PROCESS (performs various operations on the data)
- STORE (can store/save the data)
- (OUTPUT) produce the results based on a detailed step by
step instructions given to it.
Basic functions of computer
1. Input Function
Theinput computer function accepts data from input devices
and sends it to the computer processor.
2. Data Processing Function
Data processing is the most basic function of a computer.
This function is performed by the central processing unit (CPU), which
consists of electronic circuits that can read and execute code instructions
to perform a wide range of tasks, from performing complex mathematical
calculations to sorting the entries in a database.
3. Data Storage Function
One of the most useful functions of a computer is data
storage. Besides storing data that has been input through
peripherals, computers also need a way to save the
results of data processing.
4. Output Function
The process of producing the useful information for the
user after processing input data
To store data and information, a computer uses two
types of storage components: temporary and
permanent.
Temporarystorage components are used to store
data temporarily.
Permanentstorage components are used to store
data permanently.
Computer System
It is a collection of entities (hardware,
software and humanware) that are
designed to receive, process, manage and
present information in a meaningful
format.
COMPONENTS OF COMPUTER SYSTEM
Computer hardware – It consists of internal and
peripheral devices. The physical components that a
computer system requires to function.
Computer software - also known as programs or
applications. It gives “intelligence” to the computer.
They are classified into two classes namely - system
software and application software
Humanware – it is the person who operates computer.
The user commands the computer system to execute
on instructions.
Categories of Software
SYSTEM SOFTWARE
These are general programs designed for performing
tasks such as controlling all operations required to
move data into and out of the computer.
APPLICATION SOFTWARE
It is a type of software that performs task to directly
benefit or assist the user.
Types of System Software
1. Operating System
It is software that controls and monitors the
running of applications
Examples: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android,
iOS, Unix, Google Chrome OS, Ubuntu
2. Utilities Programs
This are small, powerful programs with a limited capability,
they are usually operated by the user to maintain a smooth
running of the computer system.
Examples: Antivirus-Avast, Avira, AVG, Norton, Kaspersky,
McAfee
File compression-WinRAR, 7-Zip, WinZip
3. Device Drivers
Specialized programs that allow communication between a
device and the computer.
Examples: Printer driver, USB driver, Display driver/Graphics
driver, Keyboard driver, Audio/Sound Driver, Mouse driver
APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Examples of Application Software
Word Processing software - Use this kind of tool
to create worksheets, type letters, and type
papers.
Examples: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, WPS Writer.
Desktop Publishing software - Use this software
to make signs, banners, greeting cards, illustrative
worksheets, newsletters, etc.
Examples: Adobe InDesign, Microsoft Publisher,
Canva.
Spreadsheet software - Use this kind of tool
to compute number-intensive problems such as
budgeting, forecasting, etc.
Examples: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets,
LibreOffice Calc.
Database software - Use this software to store
data such as address, membership and other
text information.
Examples: Microsoft Access, Oracle Database,
MySQL.
Presentation software - Use this software to
create multimedia stacks of cards/screens that
can effectively present a lesson or a sales pitch.
Examples: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides,
Prezi.
InternetBrowsers - This software allows one to
surf the Web. Often they can read email and
create Web pages too.
Examples: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox,
Microsoft Edge, Safari, Internet Explorer, Opera
Email programs - These programs send and
receive email.
Examples: Microsoft Outlook, Gmail app,
Thunderbird.
Graphics Programs (pixel-based) - This
software allows one to touch up photographs
and create graphics from scratch.
Examples: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, Corel
PHOTO-PAINT.
Graphics Programs (vector-based) - This
software creates graphics that are similar to
illustrations or cartoon drawings.
Examples: Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW,
Inkscape.
Communications software - This software
allows two computers with modems to
communicate through audio, video, and/or
chat-based means.
Examples: Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype,
WhatsApp, Telegram
