Introduction to Computer
101CSC-3
مقدمة في الحاسب اآللي
يدرس باللغة االنجليزية
2021-1
Jazan University | 20211 Chapter 1 1
Chapter 1
Introduction to the World of
Computers
Chapter 1 2
What Is a Computer and What Does It Do?
• Computer:
A programmable, electronic device that accepts data,
performs operations on that data, and stores the data
or results as needed.
• Computers follow instructions, called programs,
which determine the tasks the computer will perform
Chapter 1 3
What Is a Computer and What Does It Do?
Basic operations
1. Input: Entering data into the computer
2. Processing: Performing operations on the data
3. Output: Presenting the results
4. Storage: Saving data, programs, or output for future use
5. Communications: Sending or receiving data
Chapter 1 4
Data vs. Information
• Data
– Raw, unorganized facts
– Can be in the form of text, graphics, audio, or
video
• Information
– Data that has been processed into a meaningful
form
Chapter 1 5
Computer Generations
• Computer generations: The history of computers.
• First-generation computers (1946-1957)
– Used vacuum tubes
• Second-generation computers (1958-1963)
– Used transistors
• Third-generation computers (1964-1970)
– Used integrated circuits (ICs)
Chapter 1 6
Computer Generations
• Fourth-generation computers (1971-present)
– Use microprocessors
• Fifth-generation (now and the future)
– May be based on artificial intelligence (AI)
Chapter 1 7
Computer Generations
Chapter 1 8
Hardware
• Hardware: The physical parts of a computer.
Chapter 1 9
Hardware
• Input devices
– Used to input data into the computer
– Keyboards, mice, scanners, cameras, etc.
• Processing devices
– Perform calculations and control computer’s operation
– Central processing unit (CPU) and memory
• Output devices
– Present results to the user
– Monitors, printers, speakers, projectors, etc.
Chapter 1 10
Hardware
• Storage devices
– Used to store data on or access data from storage media
– Hard drives, CD/DVD, USB flash drives, etc.
• Communications devices
– Allow users to communicate with others and to
electronically access remote information
– Modems, network adapters, etc.
Chapter 1 11
Hardware
Chapter 1 12
Software
• Software: The programs or instructions used
to tell the computer hardware what to do.
• Types of Software:
1. System software
2. Application software
Chapter 1 13
Software
1. System software: Operating system starts up the computer,
controls its operation and launches programs.
Windows, Mac OS, Linux, etc.
2. Application software: Performs specific tasks or applications
•Creating letters, budgets, etc.
•Viewing Web pages
•Sending and receiving e-mail
•Playing games
Chapter 1 14
Computer Users and Professionals
• Computer users (end users):
People who use a computer to obtain information
• Computer professionals include:
– Programmers
– Systems analysts
– Computer operations personnel
– Security specialists
Chapter 1 15
Computer Categories
• Six basic categories of computers:
1) Embedded computers
2) Mobile devices
3) Personal computers
4) Midrange servers
5) Mainframe computers
6) Supercomputers
Chapter 1 16
1. Embedded Computers
• Embedded computer: Embedded into a product and
designed to perform specific tasks or functions for
that product
• Often embedded into:
– Household appliances
– Sewing machines
– Cars
Chapter 1 17
2. Mobile Devices
• Mobile device: A very small device with some type of
built-in computing or Internet capability
• Examples:
– Smart phones
– Handheld gaming devices
– Portable digital media players
Chapter 1 18
3. Personal Computers (PCs)
• Personal Computer: A small computer
designed to be used by one person at a
time
1. Desktop computers:
Fit on or next to a desk, use tower case or
desktop case.
2. Portable Computers:
Notebook (laptop) computers: Typically
use clamshell design.
Chapter 1 19
4. Midrange Servers
• Midrange server:
A medium-sized computer used to host programs
and data for a small network.
Chapter 1 20
5. Mainframe Computers
Mainframe computer:
Powerful computer used by several large organizations
to manage large amounts of centralized data
– Used in:
hospitals, universities, banks, government offices.
Chapter 1 21
6. Supercomputers
Supercomputer:
• Fastest, most expensive, most powerful type of
computer
Used for:
space exploration, missile guidance, satellites,
weather forecast, oil exploration, scientific research.
Chapter 1 22
