A COMPUTER

A computer is a general purpose electronic machine that receives/accepts, processes

stores, and output data into meaningful information.
OR
A computer is an electronic machine capable of storing vast amount of data and carry out
data processing extremely fast.

The operational speed of a computer is measured in millions of instructions per second

(MIPS) measured in megahertz (MHZ) or gigahertz (GHZ)

DATA AND INFORMATION

1. DATA

Data is defined as raw facts and figures that have less meaning to the end user.

Examples of raw data include;

1. Student’s marks
2. Employee salary and wedges.

2. INFORMATION

Information is a processed data which is meaning full to the end user.

Examples of information

1. A students report
2. Payroll for employees

WHY DO WE STUDY COMPUTER

1. To acquire general knowledge and skills in the use of a computer and related
technologies.
2. To use the knowledge acquired in computer studies to other fields like Banking,
Education etc.
3. To use variety of computer technologies to access, analyze and interpret information.
4. To exhibit basic computer skills for employment.
5. To acquire knowledge as a foundation for further studies in computer technology.

1
 HISTORY & EVOLUTION OF COMPUTERS

Evolution of computers
Evolution is the gradual development of computers in terms of technology and physical
size from the 1st generation to the present generation.

History of Computers

Abacus.

The abacus is also called a counting frame, is a digital calculating

machine used primarily in parts of Asia for performing
arithmetic processes. Before the 17th century the early
Babylonians invented the abacus. It is believed to be the first
computer device. It consisted of columns of beads that can
slide from and to represent numbers.

Napier’s Bones.

This was discovered a round 1614 by a Scott’s man John Napier.

Napier’s bones were rectangular red with readings written on
them that led users to division, multiplication and addition of
numbers.

Slide rule.

In 1620 an English mathematician William oughtered invented

the first mechanical analog device which was known as slide rule.
The slide rule is used primarily for multiplication and division,
and also for functions such as roots, logarithms and
trigonometry, but is not normally used for addition or subtraction.

Mechanical Era (Mechanical computers) 1623-1945

The era of the mechanical computer, was between 1623 and 1942. The mechanical
computers are machines that are characterized with mechanical gears, wheels, moving
parts, electro-mechanical relays, and dials and could use punched cards and tapes for data
storage.

2
Arithmetic Machine/Calculator.

In 1642, a French man Blaise Pascal was given a credit for the
first mechanical adding and subtracting machine that used
a system of gears and wheels. It had digits from one to
nine (1-9) arranged on wheels similar to odometer on
motor car.

Leibniz stepped/calculator

In 1694, Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz a Germany mathematician

improved the Pascal design to create Leibniz’s calculator that
could perform arithmetic operation of addition, subtraction,
multiplication, division and square roots.

Arithmometer.

In 1820, Thomas De Columnor a French man inverted a

calculating machine which he called Arithmometer.
He produced in large numbers and in fact he established an
industry for making a calculating machines. An Arithmometer
was a mechanical calculator that could add and subtract
directly and could perform long multiplications and divisions
effectively by using a movable accumulator for the result.

Jacquard Weaving Loom machine

Joseph Jacquard invented a machine for controlling the

weaving process when making complex pattern. This system
could use metal punched cards with holes for data storage.
The machine could store programs or instructions using the
hole and no hole method.

Analytical engine

In 1832 Charles Babbage invented an “analytical engine”.

The machine could follow program instructions to perform
mathematical operation. This machine combined the concept
of mechanized calculations and stored programs.

Ada Lovelace [The first programmer]

3
A lady called Ada Lovelace was the world’s first computer programmer i.e she came up
with the idea of programming and worked with Babbage and later on developed the idea
of programming loops.

Hollerith’s Tabulator

Herman Hollerith invented a tabulating machine that used

punched cards to store and tabulate data. The USA government
in 1890 census first used this machine. He started a tabulating
machine company and sold the machine over the world.
This merged with others to form the popularly known business
machine IBM (International Business Machine).

Electronic Digital Computers

The first operating digital computer was made in German in 1941 by Konrad Zuse. It was
destroyed during the world war and was not known outside Germany. The first widely
operational computer came in after the world war in 1950’s and they were categorized in
generations.

4
 COMPUTER GENERATION

Computer generation refers to the state of improvement in the development and

advancement of computer technology over years.

OR

Is series of development in technology of computers year after year?

FIRST GENERATION [1944- 1958]

In earliest general purpose computer, most input and output devices were punched cards
and magnetic tapes. They were mainly made up of loops of vacuum tubes and magnetic
drum. They could run only one program at a time.

Examples of first generation computers are;

ENIAC - Electronic Numeric integrator and calculator.

EDISAC - Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Computer

UNIVAC - Universal Automatic Computer. This was used by USA bureau of census from
1953.

Characteristics of First Generation Computers

1. They used vacuum tubes as their active element for internal operations.
2. They were large in size that is they could fill several rooms.
3. They were slow and could run one program at time.
4. They used punched cards and magnetic tapes to input and output data.
5. They used a great quantity of electricity and generated a lot of heat.
6. Programming was done in machine and assembler language.
7. They could not store much information i.e. they had limited primary memory.
8. They were expensive and terminals could be rented.

5
SECOND GENERATION [1959-1963]

By early 1960’s, computers were improved instead of using vacuum tubes they used
transistors which were much smaller than vacuum tubes therefore they reduced in size.

Characteristics of Second Generation Computers.

1. They used transistors as their active element.

2. They were smaller in size than first generation computers.
3. They used less electricity and generated less heat.
4. They became less expensive than first generation computers.
5. They were speedy and reliable since used removable magnetic disc packs as their
storage devices
6. They led to introduction of high programming language e.g. FORTRAN [formula
translation], COBOL [Common Business Oriented Language]
7. They led introduction of super computers e.g. Livermore Atomic Research Computer
[LARC]

THE THIRD GENERATION [1964-1970]

In the third generation, the integrated circuits [I.Cs’] replaced the transistors which are
small electronic components. The IC is so effective because its components do not need to
be wired directly to computer system board. Magnetic discs were used for secondary
storage and computers began to support multi programming and time storing.

Characteristics of Third Generation Computers

1. They used integrated circuit IC as their active element

2. They are smaller than second generation computers in size
3. They have low power consumption
4. They supported capabilities such as multi programming and time storing.
5. They were fast and use parallel processing.
6. They led to introduction of simpler programming language e.g BASIC [Beginners All
Purpose Symbolic Instruction Code]
7. They led to introduction of networking of computers.

6
FOURTH GENERATION

The fourth generation, Large Scale Integrated Circuits [LSIC] and Very Large Scale
Integrated Circuit [VLSIC] were developed whereby a special IC can contain a loop of up to
10,000,000 of transistors. In 1971 Ted Hoff of Intel Company developed a micro processor
which acted as CPU (Central Processing Unit).

Characteristics of fourth generation

1. They use micro processors as their active elements e.g. 386, 486 Pentium 1,2,3,4
2. They are small in size since were made by using LSIC and VLSIC
3. They are fast and reliable.
4. They have a high primary memory.
5. They led to introduction of wide variety of software e.g. windows, Jet audio e.t.c.
6. They led to the development of inter computer communication e.g. internet (is a global
system of interconnected computer networks)
7. The price of computers dropped considerably and affordable

FIFTH GENERATION

The fifth generation is under development whereby, they will be using very large scale
micro processor circuits in a parallel architecture and highly sophisticated operating
system. In this generation, it is believed that computer will be sophisticated to extent that
it may be possible to talk to it in a human like manner.

Conclusion:

Computers are becoming increasingly smaller, more powerful and less expensive.

7
 COMPUTERS TODAY

Characteristics of modern computers

1. SPEED
Computers are quite fast in their operation in that their speed is measured in millions
of instructions per second (MIPs). It is capable of doing work assigned to it within a
short time.

2. ACCURACY
Computers are very accurate machines and they hardly make any mistake. But
mistakes depend on the user. A computer is capable of detecting and correcting the
mistakes made by user. Therefore this applies if wrong data is entered into a
computer, wrong results are expected i.e. Gabbage in Gabbage out

3. STORAGE
For a computer to be able to work, it must have some form of work space where data
is stored before being output to particular devices like hard disk/drive, floppy diskette,
and flash disks e.t.c. A computer can store data temporally during processing and
permanently in its secondary storage devices for future reference.

4. COMPUTERS ARE DILIGENT AND CONSISTENT (ENDURANCE)

Computers have the capacity to perform the same task “over and over” for a long
period of time without getting bored. This is evidenced in industrial robots like in car
assembling company.

5. VERSATILE
A computer is versatile i.e. it has capabilities of performing tasks in many different
ways. They can be used as personal computers, for home uses, for business oriented
tasks, weather forecasting, space explorations, teaching, railways, banking, medicine
etc. All Modern computers can perform different kind of tasks simultaneously.

6. COMMUNICATIVE
A computer is communicative were by information from one computer can be
accessed via another computer.

7. AUTOMOTION
A computer is an automatic electric device which can perform several programmed
routines without supervision e.g. Booting (is the process of powering on and starting
the operating system of the computer)

8. ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

8
 Computers have artificial intelligence i.e. they can respond to requests given to them
and provide solutions to them. They are capable of doing so by use of programs to
make decisions and functions accordingly.

ROLES/USES OF COMPUTER IN THE SOCIETY

1. Industrial use.
Today modern industries use computers in the processing of good, quality control and
inventory management i.e in production planning, scheduling and reporting were by a
computing system will provide real time information on production.

2. Process Control
Computers are widely used in an environment to control chemical and mechanical
processes.

3. Business purposes
Very many businesses have realized the benefits of a computer i.e. stock exchange
(Money markets). You only need to sit in front of your computer and start to trade
shares worldwide without going there physically.

4. Scientific Research
Recent advancement in scientific research have been possible due to the use of
computers i.e. New drugs have been introduced, exploration in space has been
possible and in places where human beings can survive, architectural construction has
been greatly improved through the use of computers. It is possible to look at a plan for
a house you want to build on the outside and inside.

5. Recreation Purpose.
When bored in the office, you can just use your computer to play some games such as
golf, car- racing e.t.c. With this you don’t need to have those big cars to enjoy the sport
probably like Susan Muwonge. All this is possible with computer games. Some which
exist are share ware (Free software)
Shareware programs are supposed to be shared freely while other programs need a
license to be run.

6. Education Purpose.
With the development of a computer the Internet has emerged. Many local institutions
have been linked with those big universities and libraries overseas hence facilitating
education and research. This further led to the creation of virtual universities i.e.
universities with low physical buildings, lecture rooms or homes of residence but off
course giving the necessary lectures on the internet thus the term Virtual Reality.

7. Banking

9
 It is also used in efficiency management control in insurance and banking system to
manage their large volume of task or work. Some other commercial application of
computers is ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) which is used for 24 hours banking
services.

8. Electro-car diagram in screening and monitoring

9. Computers are also used in health line services i.e consultation to expensive foreign
experts without traveling to their premises/countries.

10. Used in Mass Media.

Computers are also used in mass fdmedia by the use of internet. There are various
news media such as BBC, WBS, CNN, and ALJAZEERA.

11. Communications
Computers provide cheap convenient means of communications by use of E-mail
(Electronic Mail).

12. Security and Defense

Police institutions are able to keep data concerning people like finger prints which are
automatically analyzed by computers. Today also iris scan is used to trap criminals;
they are also used to monitor the traffic and also help trap traffic offenders.

12. Employment
Employment opportunities in computing industries worldwide are at an increasing
rate and many countries have developed because of their computing industry.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING COMPUTERS

Moral decay
Today the youth are glued on internet watching immoral Pictures, movies and magazines
etc i.e. pornography and coping western culture.

Forgery
Computers are misused by some people to create or make fake money, certificates,
reports, passports, e.t.c. using sophisticated printers

Power Consumption
Computers are electric devices therefore they need power to operate which is costly and
cannot be afforded by many people.

Computer Virus (Destruction Programs)

10
Computers especially on internet can easily be attacked by computer virus which is so
destructive to useful data and programs. Hence may lead to total loss to
company/organization.

Eye Defects
Computers can affect human eye sight especially to those users who are frequently using
the computer hence they might end up putting on spectacles.

Loss of writing and spellings skills.

Since the computer doesn’t involve the use of a pencil or a pen, it results into loss of
writing skills and spelling skills since it is capable of correcting the user for any mistake
made.

Unemployment
Computers are mainly used by literate people hence cannot be used by illiterate people
hence causing unemployment amongst people in a society.

Body Fatigue
This is as a result of using of improper computer chairs and computer tables when using a
computer.
This comes as a result of bad siting posture

11
COMPUTER CLASSIFICATION
It refers to categorizing computers depending on certain factors as explained below.
There are four categories/classifications of computers namely
1. Classification by process
2. Classification by purpose.
3. Classification by size and capacity
4. Classification by processor power

CLASSIFICATION BY PROCESS:

In classification by process, computers are categorized according to how data is processed

and presented. This classification has three main categorizes namely:
- Digital computers
- Analog computers
- Hybrid computers.

(i) Digital computers:

These perform arithmetic and logical functions. They process data that is represented in
form of discrete values (they are numbers that can be defined like 1, 2, 3, etc)(discreet
values are whole numbers with out points) examples of digital computers include;
- Digital watches,
- Digital calculators.
Most computers are digital.

(ii) Analog Computers

These process data that is in a continuous form or measurable quantities/units, e.g.

voltage, current, length and pressure.
Examples of Analog devices are;
- Hygrometer,
- Thermometer,
- Speedometer, and
- Pressure sensors.

(iii) Hybrid Computers

These are computers that have the combined features of both the digital and analog
computers. The hybrid computers are further classified according to the purpose / the
work that they were designed for.

12
CLASSIFICATION BY PURPOSE:
Computers are also classified according to there purpose. These purposes include
These are categorized in to two classes;
- Special purpose computers.
- General purpose computers.

(i) Special purpose computers

These are designed to handle only a particular task. This form of operation is restricted in
nature. They are designed to perform a particular task and there no other tasks that they
can perform. E.g.
- Digital watches, -ATM machines
- Pocket calculators. – Barcode readers
Currently special purpose computers are employed in devices like missiles; Lifts in tall
buildings also employ special purpose computers.

(ii) General purpose computers:

These are designed to solve a wide range of tasks/ problems. However, they can be
adopted to perform a particular task/solve specific problem by means of a special
program.

In the past, computers used to be classified according to the use they were put to, e.g.
- Word processing computers were used for only word processing,
- Desktop publishing computers for desktop publishing and
- Rational database computer for a database management.
With a trend in technology, this has been reserved (stopped) and now you can have a
single computer with word processing, desktop publishing and database application
capabilities.

CLASSIFICATION BY SIZE
Computer systems can be classified according to their size as follows:
- Micro computers
- Mini computers
- Main frame computers
- Super frame computers

Micro Computers
A micro computer is a single user general purpose computer that can perform all inputs,
process, output, and then storage activities by itself. They can be used by one person at a
time and they are also known as personal computers (P.Cs)

CHARACTERISTICS OF MICRO COMPUTERS

- They are fast in processing data.

13
 - They are small in size.
- There more reliable then modular.
EXAMPLES OF MICRO COMPUTERS INCLUDE;
- Desktop computers
- Tower model computers
- Note book computer (laptop)
- Handheld computers (palmtop)

(i) Laptop
A Laptop is also referred to as a notebook computer. It is a personal computer small
enough to fit on the lap. It has features that are being incorporated.

Characteristics of laptop
- It fast in processing data.
- It consumes less compared to desktop computers.
- It is portable and mainly used for mobility.
- It has limited support of peripheral devices.
Note: A peripheral is any device that can be connected to the computer system unit, like
mouse, keyboard, projector etc.

(ii) Desktop Computers.

These are designed to be stationed at one place probably on top of the desk; you can have
one in the office and one at home. They are the standard computers (PC’s), where by the
monitor is placed on top of the system unit.

(iii) Tower model computer.

This has a tall and a narrow system unit that can be placed adjacent to the monitor or on
flour.

14
(iv) Hand Held Computers.
These are sometimes called palmtop computers. These are small/ portable computers
that can fit in the palm of the user.

They are designed for those users that are always on the move (travelers).

They can easily be put in the shirt pocket and any time one can check on e-mails, take few
notes and keep schedules and appointments with these palmtop computers.

They are also referred to as personal digital assistant (PDA). Modern PDA’s have been
integrated with cellular phones.

MINI COMPUTERS
A mini computer is larger than a micro computer which is powerful enough and widely
used in real time applications e.g. air traffic, factory automation. A mini computer is multi
user computer that support many users at time. It falls in the range of 50-500 users at a
time depending on the model.
E.g. DECS VAX range and IBM AS400 range.

Terminals

Server.

Characteristics of Mini Computers.

15
 - It is physically bigger than the micro computer but smaller than the main frame.
- They can support moderate range of peripherals.
- They are more powerful than micro computers.
- They can support 50 to 500 users at time model.
- They have a large storage than micro computers.

MAIN FRAME COMPUTER

This is the largest computer so far and fast enough with a large storage capacity. It can
support thousands of users at the same time. The main frame computers are used in
banks, airlines, and insurance companies. Each user works separately with a separate
keyboard and monitor but they all use the same processor/ Central Processing Unit (CPU)
E.g. IBM4381, ICL39 series, CDC cyber series.

Characteristics of Main Frame Computers.

- They are large computers with a very large storage capacity.

- They can support 50 to 10,000 users concurrently
- They are more expensive compared to minicomputer.
- They can support a wide range of peripherals.
- They are very sensitive to variations of temperatures, dust, humidity therefore should
be kept in air conditioned room.
- They are faster in data transfer hence they are speedy.
- They require a qualified operator and a programmer for its operation.

SUPER COMPUTER

16
This is the fastest, most powerful, most expensive and highest capacity computer. They
are used for applications that are scientific and complex mathematical computations.
They require a special air conditioned room. They are often used for research, among
other uses are Worldwide weather forecasting and analysis of weather, oil exploitation,
air craft design, Invasion of nuclear weapon system, predications of the spread of
epidemic e.t.c. Unlike a micro computer a super computer has several processors hence
too powerful.

CLASSIFICATION BY PROCESSOR POWER

Because of rapid changes in technology, processor power is also rapidly increasing.

Computers are getting faster and faster each year. The higher the processor power, the
faster the computer. Previous computers had a processing power of less than 0.4 MIPS
but today 15 MIPS is the minimum.

Therefore computers with high processing power require more system resources such as
system memory, hard disk space including modern programs. All these put together
makes computers with higher processing power better productive tools.

The most common types of processors are;-

- 80286, 80386, 80486,
- Pentium Family;- Pentium 1(80586), Pentium pro, Pentium 2, Pentium 3, Pentium 4,
- Core to dual.
- Dual core.

17
COMPUTER SYSTEM

A computer system is a complete apparatus for handling all aspects of information/data

within an organization.

OR

A computer system is a set of independent parts/device that work together to manage

and process data and information.

SYSTEM
A system is a group of many inter related parts which work together to achieve a common
goal.
A COMPUTER

A computer system is mainly composed of the following components:

- Computer Hard ware.

- Computer Soft ware.
- Human ware.
- Data

18
COMPUTER HARD WARE

These are the physical components of a computer that can physically be touched and felt
(tangible). Parts you can see, feel then touch e.g. keyboard, mouse, C.P.U (system unit)

CATEGORIES OF COMPUTER HARDWARE:

- Input devices/hardware
- Output devices/hardware
- Storage hardware /devices
- Processing devices/hardware
- Communication devices/hardware

COMPUTER INPUT DEVICES:

Input devices are hardware that are used to enter/ capture data then convert it into a
suitable form (digital form) for computer processing e.g. keyboard, mouse, scanner, digital
camera, light pen, touch screen, web cam, sensors, joystick, microphone, touch pad.

KEYING INPUT DEVICES

1. KEY BOARD

This is an input hard ware/ device that is used to type and enter instructions into a
computer. It looks like the keyboard of an ordinary typewriter but with some special keys
like:-The control key (CTRL), the Alter key (ALT), the Escape key (ESC), the Arrow keys, and
the function keys ranging from F1 to F12 and each key has its function.

A keyboard consists of the following sections:

1. Typing area that includes the letters of alphabets, numbers, punctuations marks
and other basic keys.
2. Numeric keypad- This is laid out like keys on a calculator. It has two purposes;-
i. When the num keys is off, the numeric keys may be used as arrow keys for
cursor movements and for other purposes such as;
ii. Page up (pg up) and page down (pg dn)

19
POINTING INPUT DEVICES

2. MOUSE

A mouse is an input device that acts as an electronic finger that is used to select icons and
applications on a computer screen (monitor). It complements the keyboard as regards
input of data.

The mouse employs the principle of moving a ball in which turn moves rollers adjacent to
it. The rollers then translate the electrical codes that relocate the pointer or cursor on the
different points or parts of the screen, to select icons.
Icons are graphics or pictures that represent a program or folder or a file on a computer.

TERMS USED WHEN USING A MOUSE

Point
It is to move a pointer to a desired spot on the screen such as over a particular object or
word.

Click
It is to press and quick release the left mouse button. A click often selects an item on
screen

Double click
It is to press and release the left mouse button twice as quickly as possible. Double click
often opens a document or it starts a program.

Drag
It is to press and hold down the left mouse button and move it in different locations on
the screen.

Drop
It is to release the mouse button after drag therefore drag and drop is an activity that
moves item on different positions on the screen.

Right click

20
It is to press the right mouse bottom and release which brings up popup menu with
oppositions to chose from.
ADVANTAGES OF USING A MOUSE

1. A mouse is user friendly for computer beginners.

2. A mouse is easy and convenient to use with a graphical user interface.
3. Using a mouse to select items or move to a particular position on the screen is faster
than using a keyboard.
4. A mouse can be operated by one hand.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING A MOUSE.

1. it is not easy and convenient to input text with a mouse.

2. Issuing commands with a mouse is slower than by using a keyboard.
3. It needs some practice in order to control a mouse properly.
4. A mouse is not accurate enough for drawings that require high precision.
5. A mouse usually requires a flat surface to operate.
6. A mouse needs more desk space to operate when compared with a trackball or a
touchpad.

PROBLEMS THAT AFFECT THE PROPER FUNCTIONING OF A MOUSE.

1. Dirt disrupts motion of ball.

2. Nature of the roll surface.
3. Disconnection of the chord in case the mouse falls on hamps.

WAYS THROUGH WHICH MOUSE CAN BE PROTECTED FROM THE ABOVE PROBLEMS

1. Cleaning the ball and rollers regularly.

2. Providing the correct roll surface or a mouse pad.
3. A void mouse falling or hanging on the chord by tying twists on both the Mouse and
keyboard cables

3. TRACK BALL

This is another pointing device that functions like a mouse. A track ball has a movable ball
on top of stationary device that is rotated with finger or palm of a hand. A track ball is in
built into the key board especially on some portable devices like laptop, phones e.t.c.

21
3. TOUCH PAD
A touch pad is a flat rectangular device that has weak electric fields to sense the touch as
the users moves the finger tips. It used to control the pointer with a finger. The Cursor
follows the movement of the finger on the pad. You can click by tapping the pad surface.

4. JOYSTICK
This is a pointing device that consists of a vertical handle which looks like a gear shift lever
mounted on a base with two buttons. It mainly used in video games in some computer
aided design system and in accomplished robot system.

5. LIGHT PEN
This is a pointing device that can detect the presence of light. These are used in high
technological designs. They have a beam of light that is radiated into different parts of a
specialized screen to input data. These beams of light are very small and sharp and
therefore much précised. They are used in the designing of integrated circuits (I Cs), also
used by health care professionals e.g. doctors and dentists work

6. TOUCH SCREENS
A touch screen is an electronic visual display that can detect the presence and location of
a touch within the display area. The term generally refers to touch or contact to the
display of the device by a finger or hand. Touch screens can also sense other passive
objects, such as a pen.

22
Areas where touch screens are used

- Touch screens are often used for information kiosks located in department.
- Touch screens are also used for ATM machines to allow easy access of bank accounts.
- Touch screens are also used in some places like stores, hotels, air ports, museums.

ADVANTAGES OF TOUCH SCREEN

- No extra peripherals are needed except the monitor.

- Touch screen allows easy access commands, which are usually identified by words or
symbols on the screen

7. DIGITIZER:
This looks like the mouse except that it has a glass with a cross hair in the middle. The
cross hair acts as a guide during the input of data. It is used in conjunction with a digitizing
tablet. It is mainly used in cartography (map making and architectural drawing to
accurately trace the outlines on a map.

8. STYLUS AND GRAPHIC TABLET

A stylus is a pen like pointing device which uses pressure to write texts and drawing.

Graphic Tablet is a flat rectangular electronic plastic board on which a stylus writes and
draws.

A graphic tablet corresponds to a specific location on screen. A graphic tablet can be used
to digitize drawing with great accuracy. Styles and graphics tablet are mainly used for
computer aided design and drafting by architects, map maker, artists and designers.

23
ADVANTAGES OF STYLUS AND GRAPHICS TABLET

- A stylus can be appointed to different positions on the tablet quickly

DISADVANTAGES
- A stylus and graphics tablet normally has to work together and can it work
separately.

SCANNING INPUT DEVICES

These are hard ware that capture images of hard copy and converts them into a digital
form for a computer processing.

EXAMPLES OF SCANNING INPUT DEVICES

9. OPTICAL SCANNERS

This is a device that can read text or illustrations printed on paper and translate the
information into a form the computer can use (digital form). It uses a laser beam and
reflected light to translate hard copy image of text, drawings, and photos in to the
computer in a digital form. The image can then be processed into the computer, displayed
on the monitor and then stored on the storage devices like a flash disk.

10. BAR CODE READER

Bar codes are vertical strips or line marks or striped marks printed on retail products and
other items.

24
A barcode reader is a photo electric scanner that translates the barcode symbols into
digital form of which the corresponding information about the items is relived from store
computer and printed out for a customer as a receipt.

Barcodes

Records of sales are easily input into a computer which in return may be used for
accounting and restocking.
Plac

es where Barcode readers are mainly used

1. medical stores,
2. book shops,
3. departmental stores and
4. supermarkets

ADVANTAGES OF USING A BARCODE READER

1. The process of data entry fast and accurate.

2. Bar codes can be printed by normal printing method.
3. There is no need to write the name of the commodity and its price by use of a pen
and paper.

DISAVANTAGES OF USING A BARCODE READER

1. Bar codes cannot be read directly by people

2. Only numbers can be coded.
3. Barcode readers may misread the barcodes if there is any dirty on the code.

11. OPTICAL MARK RECOGNITION READER (OMR)

25
This is scanning technology that reads pencil marks and converts them to the computer.
OMR readers are often used for making multi choices, answer sheets; capturing data from
questionnaires, interviewed environment forms, mark sheets etc

ADVANTAGES OF OMR READER

- O M R has a better recognition rattan and fewer mistakes are made by machines to
read marks than OCR.
- A large volume of data can be collected easily and quickly without the need of trained
staff

DISADVANTAGES OF OMR READER

- Documents for O M R are complicated to design.

- The OMR reader needs to be reprogrammed for each new document flow
- Any folding or dirty on the form may prevent it from being read correctly

12. OPTICAL CHARACTER RECOGNITION READER (OCR)

It uses a scanning technology that reads special pre – printed characters and converts
them into a computer in a digital form. OCR readers are often used to turn around
documents e.g. electricity bill. OCR can also recognize hand human characters but
generally must be block printed

Pre-printed
Characters

ADVANTAGES OF OCR

- Written and printed data can be read but some time

- Documents can be read directly in computer without reprinting it
- The input character can be edited by word processing soft ware

DISAVANTAGES OF OCR

26
 - It doesn’t work well with hand written character or those unusual fonts.

13. MAGNETIC INK CHARACTER RECOGNITION READER (MICR)

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) is a technology that allows details from bank
cheques to be read into a computer quickly and accurately. The cheque number and bank
account number are printed at the bottom of each bank cheque in special magnetic ink using
a special font. These numbers can be detected by an MICR reader.

Special font
Used on the cheques

ADVANTAGES OF MICR READER

- The error rate for the magnetic scanning of a typical cheque is smaller than with
optical character recognition system.
- The use of magnetic printing allows the characters to be read reliably even if they
have been overprinted or obscured by other marks, such as cancellation stamps.
- The "can't read" rate is usually less than 1% while the substitution rate (misread rate)
is in the order of 1 per 100,000 characters.

DISADVANTAGES OF MICR READER

- M I C R reader is very expensive.
- The system only accepts few character sets

14. MAGENATIC STRIP READER

Magnetic strips readers are used to read information contained on magnetic strips on
cards (credit cards). A magnetic strip detects the pattern of magnetic ion and converts it in
to numeric data.

ADVANTAGES
- Reading accurate and fast

27
DISADVANTAGES
- The amount of data that can be stored on strips is limited.
- The magnetic strips can be damaged by exposal to a strong magnetic field
15. VOICE RECONITIION DEVICE

Voice recognition, speech recognition is a computer capability to distinguish spoken

words. Voice recognition programs don’t actually understand speech; they only recognize
vocabulary of reprogrammed words. Voice recognition programs are speaker dependent
or speaker independent.

Voice
recognition
on Samsung
phone

ADVANTAGES OF VOICE RECOGNITION

- No typing of data is necessary.
- The system can be used by people whose hands are occupied or disabled.
- Voice recognition systems are also ideal for blind or visually impaired users.

DISADVANTAGES OF VOICE RECOGNITION

- Error rate is still high at the moment.
- Recognition of words is slow.
- Words sound the same e.g. see and sea can’t be distinguished.
- The system is not suitable for use in noisy places
- The software must be trained to recognize specialists of technical words.
- Many people find it difficult to speak in writing style.

16. A DIGITAL CAMERA

A digital camera is an input device that takes video or still photographs, or both, digitally
by recording images via an electronic image sensor. It stores the images on a flash
memory card or compact disc (C.D) or micro drive

ADVANTAGES OF DIGITAL CAMERA

- It saves money and time since it doesn’t require a film and time to develop the film.
- The image taken can be viewed and even edited

28
 - unwanted image taken can be deleted quickly
- Photographic images can be digitized directly without using a scanner
- Digital cameras are best for 3 dimensional objects while scanners are best for
dimensional objects

DISADVANTAGES OF DIGITAL CAMERA

- Digital cameras are normally more expensive than ordinary film cameras with similar
functions
- Photo printing cost for digital cameras generally higher than the of ordinary film
cameras.

17. WEB CAMERA (webcam)

This is a video camera whose output displays on a web page.

18. MICROPHONE
A microphone is an input device that allow user to speak to the computer to enter data
and instructions into the computer

19. MIDI DEVICE

MIDI (Musical instrument Digital Interface) is an electrical music industry’s standard that
defines how sound are represented electronically by digital musical devices. MIDI devices
connected to the sound card of the computer. Examples of MIDI devices include the
following;
- Electronic Piano keyboard.
- Synthesizer or drum machine

29
20. SENSOR & REMOTE SENSOR
A sensor is an input device that detects external changes in an environment. An external
change includes; levels of light, temperature, Sound, position PH value and humidity. The
data received can be processed indirectly to influence the out of the system. When
sensors are located at some distance from the computer system they are known as
remote sensors.

Remote sensor

Examples of sensor application include;

- Freezers and chiller cabinets which are used in supermarkets to monitor temperature.
- Smoke sensors that are used in builds to detect any fire outbreak.

21. CCTV (Closed-Circuit Television) CAMERA

CCTV cameras can produce images or recordings for surveillance purposes, and can be
either video cameras, or digital stills cameras. Marie van Brittan Brown was the inventor
of the CCTV camera.

22. BIOMETRIC SCANNERS

Biometrics consists of methods for uniquely recognizing humans based upon one or more
intrinsic physical or behavioral traits.
 Physiological Traits are related to the shape of the body. Examples include, but are not
limited to fingerprint, face recognition, DNA, Palm print, hand geometry, iris
recognition, which has largely replaced retina, and scent.
 Behavioral traits are related to the behavior of a person. Examples include, but are not
limited to typing rhythm, gait, and voice. Some researchers have coined the term
behaviometrics for this class of biometrics

30
COPUMTER OUTPUT DEVICES

These are computer hardware that converts processed data into a usable form. The
outputs are mainly categorized as printed output. (By use of Printers and plotters)
examples of outputs include; screen displays, speech output e.t.c.

Examples of output devices include the following;

1. DISPLAY DEVICE (monitors & Projectors)

i) MONITIORS

These are devices which are used to display the computer output. Information on a
display device is called a “soft copy” because it exists electronically. There are two
types/kinds of monitors which include
- Monochrome (One color)
- Color monitors

ADVANTAGES OF USING COLOURED MONITORS

1. They make the screen display more attractive.

2. They can be used to highlight error massages and menu options.

DISADVANTAGES OF USING COLOURED MONITORS.

1. Screens with a lot of colors take longer time to process.

2. More money is required for colored display.

CATEGORISES OF MONITORS (DISPLAY DEVICES)

- CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) monitors.

- LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) monitors.
- Plasma

CRT (CATHODE RAY TUBE) MONITORS.

These works like a standard television, a CRT monitor is made of small picture elements
called pixels. It grows at varying intensities to produce colored images.

31
ADVANTAGES OF CRT MONITORS

- They can produce fast and reach color sights.

- They can be viewed from a very wide angle.
- They are cheaper than LCD monitors.

DISVANTAGES OF CRT MONITORS

- They emit more EMR (Electro Magnetic Radiations) than LCD monitors.
- They consume more electricity than LCD monitors.
- They occupy more space.
- Doesn’t break easily

LCD (LIQUID CRYSTAL DISPLAY)

LCD of flat panel screen use liquid and crystals to create images on the screen normally
used on portable computers such as Laptops, digital watches, Calculators, phones e.t.c

ADVANTAGE OF LCD MONITORS

- They consume less power.

- They occupy less space.
- The radiation emitted is negligible.
- They are weightless hence portable
- Displays sharp excellent images

DISADVANTAGES OF LCD MONITORS

- Usually more expensive

- Can only be viewed from a narrow angle
- Can easily break

32
A PLASMA DISPLAY

A plasma display is an emissive flat panel display where light is created by phosphors
excited by a plasma discharge between two flat panels of glass. The gas discharge contains
no mercury a mixture of noble gases (neon and xenon) is used instead. This gas mixture is
inert and entirely harmless.

MONITORS VIDEO CARD VGA (VIDEO GRAPHICAL ARRAY)

A video card is required to display colour on monitor. It converts digital output from the
computer in to analog video signal that is sent through cable to display devices. The
number of colors that a video card displaces is damaged by its BIT depth

TYPES OF VIDEO ADAPTORS

1. CGA color graphical adaptor Displays 320×200 pixels in 4 colors

2. EGA (Enhanced colour Graphics Adapter)
-640X480 pixels in 16 colours.
-220X200 pixels in 256 colours.
3. Video Graphic Array (VGA)
4. SVGA.
5. MDA- Monochrome Display adaptor

33
ii) PROJECTORS

A projector is an output device that takes the image on a computer screen and cast it on
to a large screen for audience to see it clearly.

OR

Is a device that receives a signals from the computer and projects the corresponding data
signal on a projection screen using a lens system.

There are two types of projectors which include the following:

i) DLP (Digital light Processing) PROJECTORS

DLP projectors use thousands of tiny mirrors on a small chip, along with a spinning color
wheel, to project the image.

ii) LCD PROJECTOR

It uses liquid crystals display technology to produce a low quality image only.

iii) CRT PROJECTORS

These are the original and, arguably, still offer the best picture. CRT projectors use three
large tubes to project the image, in a way similar to your TV.

34
3. PRINTERS
A printer is an output device that produces texts and graphics on a physical medium such
as paper. The printer information output on a physical medium is called hard copy which
is more permanent than screen display (soft copy)

PRINTING MECHANISM

i) CHARACTER PRINTER

These are low speed printers that mimic the action of type writers by printing one
character at a time. The characters are output on the print heads directly. This means the
character font type cannot easily be modified e.g.
- Daisy wheel printer
- Thimble printer
They are relatively cheap and are commonly found in small business systems

ii) LINE PRINTER

These also use the same principle during printing just like the characters except that these
are much faster unlike character printers. Line printers print the whole line of characters
at once i.e. they print on one end of the paper to the other end of the line hence line
printers.

iii) PAGE PRINTER

This is prints the whole page at a time. They are relatively expensive and intend to deal
with very large volume of print out put in large organization. They are versatile whereby
they can print wide rage characters including graphics

THE CLASSIFICATION OF PRINTERS

Printers are classified into two:
1. Impact printers
2. Non impact printers

IMPACT PRINTERS

35
These are printers that produce a hard copy output with the print mechanism/heads
physically touching the print media.

Print Medias include;

- Papers
- Transparences
- Cloth
They work like an ordinary type writer.

Examples of Impact printers include;

- Dot matrix printers
- Daisy wheel printers
- Ball printer printers.

DOT MATRIX

A dot matrix printer is an impact printer that produces printed images which a print head
striking mechanisms

ADVANTAGES OF DOT MATRIX

1. Dot matrix printers can multi part forms

2. They can with stand dirty environment vibrations and extreme temperatures.
3. They can print on continuous paper or multipart document.
4. They are the only printers which can use stencils
5. They are relatively cheaper compared to other printers.

DISADVANTAGES OF DOT MATRIX

1. They are generally noisy because of the striking mechanism

2. Print quality of dot matrix printer is not as good as those from ink jet printer of laser
printers.
3. They are generally noisy because of the striking mechanism.
4. They are not readily available on the market
5. They are not easily serviced because they are based on old technology.
6. The colour print is limited to two (black and red)
7. They are relatively slow.

DIASY WHEEL

This is an impact printer that uses a wheel as a printer head

ADVANTAGES OF DIASY WHEEL

36
 - Can print latter quality characters

DISADVANTAGES OF DIASY WHEEL

- Printing speed is very slow
- Cannot print graphics

BALL PRINTER

This is an impact printer that uses a rotating ball as a printer as a print head.
Impact printers have direct contact with the paper and non impact printers don’t have
direct contact with the paper.

NON IMPACT PRINTER

Non-impact printers are those printers that produce a hard copy output without the print
head touching the printing surface.

They use techniques such as ink spray, heat, xerography or laser to form printed copy.

Examples of non impact printer are;

- Laser printer.
- Inkjet printer.
- Thermal printer.
- Bubble jet.

INK JET
An inkjet printer is a non impact printer that forms characters and graphics by spreading
tiny drops of liquid ink on to a piece of paper

LASER PRINTER
The mechanism of a laser printer is similar to that of photo copier. Laser printers are also
known as page printers because they process and store the entire page before they
actually print it.

ADVANTAGES OF LASER PRINTER

1. They are generally quiet and fast during printing.

2. They can produce high quality output on an ordinary papers
3. The cost per page of toner cartridges is lower than other printers.

DISADVANTAGES OF LASER PRINTER

37
 1. The initial cost of buying laser printers is high compared to other printers
2. They are more expensive than dot matrix printers and ink jet printers.

THERMAL PRINTERS
It generates images by posting electrically heated pins against a heat sensitive paper.

ADVANTAGES OF USING MONITORS OVER PRINTERS.

1. They are generally quite.

2. No need of paper.
3. Output can be modified or changed easily.
4. Transmission to another device is faster e.g. on a LAN.
5. Time taken to display the image is fast.
6. Screen display can include text, graphics and colour.
7. Scrolling enables focus on a particular or part of the document.
4. PLOTTER
A plotter is a sophisticated printers used to produce high quality drawings that can be
quite large (e.g. width up to 60 inches)

ADVANTAGES OF PLOTTER
1. Information produced is permanent

DISADVANTAGES OF PLOTTER

1. The time to get the print output is slow when compared with display devices
2. Paper is wastage for obtaining out put
3. They are generally nosier than displays devices

COMMON FACTORS CONSIDER WHILE BUYING A PRINTER

1. Page per minute print out put

2. Memory of at least two mega bytes
3. Price of the cartridge or toner
4. A availability of the toner or cartridge
5. Purpose for which the printer is going to be put to use

38
 6. Printer drivers. Most printer drivers are installed on a computer in order to enable
the printer to communicate with a computer and can carry out printing.

5. FACSIMILE \FAX MACHINE

This is advice that transmits and receives documents on telephone lines. Documents sent
or received via fax machines are known as faxes.
A fax modem is a communication device that allows a user to store received electronic
documents as fax.

ADVANTAGES OF FAX MODEM

1. I t saves paper.
2. It allows the user to store received faxes on a computer received faxes can be
emailed to others.

ADVANTAGES FAX MACHINE

1. Hard copies are produced

DISADVANTAGES FAX MACHINE

1. Sending a big document via takes a lot of time (slow)

2. It wastage of paper when a jack fax is sent.

6. MULT I FUNCTION MACHINE

This is a single piece of equipments that provides the functioning of printer, screen, photo
coping machines and fax mail

ADVANTAGES

39
 1. A multi functioning device takes up less space than having a separate printer, scanner
, copy machines and fax machines
2. It is also significantly less expensive than purchasing each device separately

DISADVANTAGES
1. If a malfunctioning machine breaks down it loses all its functions

7. TERMINAL
A terminal is a device with a monitor and key board. The term terminal can also refer to
any device that sends and receives computer data.

Kinds of terminals include;-

1. DUMB TERMINAL
It has no processing power and cannot act as a standalone computer and must be
connected to server to operate

2. INTELLIGENT TERMINAL
It has memory and processor so it can perform some functions independent of host
computer.

Uses of terminals
i) An EPOS (electronic point of sell)
Terminal is used to lead purchase at the point where the consumer purchases the
produce or services

ii) EFTPOS (electronic fund transfer point of sell)

Terminal are able to transfer funds from a customer bank account direct to a retile out
lets account after reading the customer debit card. Automatic teller machines attached
to host computer through a telephone network

8. HEADPHONES.
These are a pair of small speakers, or a single small speaker, used to output sound from
the computer. They are similar to speakers, except they are worn on the ears, so only one
person can hear the output at a time.

40
9. SPEAKERS.
These are output used to output sound from the computer. Most of PCs have small
internal speaker that output only low quality sound. Users who need high quality sound
out put may use a pair of speakers for example Sub woofer connected to parts on so card

ADVANTAGES
1. They are ideal for visually impaired people

DISAVANTAGES
1. They are not suitable for use in noisy environment
2. No permanent copy is produce

COMPUTER STORAGE DIVICES

Storage refers to a media on which data, instructions and information are kept.

STORAGE DEVICES

These are physical materials on which a computer keeps data, instructions for later
retrieval or for future references

UNITS OF DATA

BIT Bit refers to binary digit which is the basic unit of

data. Bit is represented by either 0s or 1s
NIBLE One nibble consists of 4 bits e.g. 0100

BYTE One consists of 8 bits e.g. 011100010

WORD One ward consists of a least 16 bits or 2 bytes

41
Summary;
1 Character = 8 bits
1 byte = 8 bits
1 Kilobyte = 1024 bytes
1 Megabyte = 1024 kilobytes
1 Gigabyte = 1024 Megabytes
1 Terabyte = 1024 Gigabytes

Note: - The 1024bytes are approximated to 1000byte

1,000,000 Bytes = 1000 Kilobytes = 1 Megabyte

1 Billion Bytes = 1000 Megabytes = 1 Gigabyte
1 Trillion Byes = 1000 Gigabytes = 1 Terabyte

1,000,000 Bytes = 1 Megabyte

Example1. Therefore; 1byte = MB
Convert 128bytes to kilobytes

Solution 128bytes = x 128 MB

1kilobyte (KB) = 1000bytes

= 0.000128MB
Therefore; 1byte = KB
Therefore 128bytes = 0.000128 MB

128bytes = x 128 KB

Example3
128bytes = KB How many bytes are in name NUSIFAH?

= 1.28KB Solution

From; 1 character = 8 bits

Therefore 128bytes = 1.28kilobytes.
A name NUSIFAH has 7 characters

Example2 Therefore; 7 characters = (7 X 8) bits

Convert 128byte to Megabytes
= 56 bits
Solution

42
Then we have to convert the bits to
bytes

But 1byte = 8 bits

1bit = bytes

Then 56bits = x 56 bytes

= 7bytes

Therefore; from the above example

1character is equal to 1 byte.

Example 4
Convert 0.000127 MB to bytes (KB)
Solution

1 Megabyte = 1,000,000 Bytes

0.000127 MB = (0.000127 X 1,000,000)

Bytes

= 127 Bytes

43
CONVERTING DATA UNITS TO BINARY BASE
Exampel1
Convert 128 to binary base

Solution
Base Number Remender
2 128 0
2 64 0
2 32 0 Therefore 128ten = 10000000two
2 16 0
2 8 0 CONVERTING BINARY BASE TO DECIMAL BASE
2 4 0 (BASE TEN)
2 2 0
1 Example 1
Convert 10000000two to base ten

Solution

1706050403020100two = (1 x 27)+(0 x 26)+(0 x 25)+(0 x 24)+(0 x 23)+(0 x 22)+(0 x 21)+(0 x 20)

= 128 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 0 +
0

= 128ten

CONVERTING BINARY BASE TO ANY BASE LIKE BASE FOUR

Example 1
Convert 10000000two to base ten

Solution
Here you have to convert the binary base to decimal base then to a desired base in this case
base four

1706050403020100two = (1 x 27)+(0 x 26)+(0 x 25)+(0 x 24)+(0 x 23)+(0 x 22)+(0 x 21)+(0 x 20)

= 128 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 0 + 0 +
0

= 128ten
Base Number Remender
4 128 0
4 32 0
4 8 0
2
 128ten = 2000four

Therefore 10000000two = 2000four

TYPES OF STORAGE DEVICES

There are two types of storage devices namely primary storage devices, secondary
storage devices

PRIMARY STORAGE DEVICES

Primary storage is the main memory which is also referred to as the internal
memory.
This is a type of memory/ storage on a computer which can immediately be accessed
by the computer’s CPU.

The primary memory is divided into two namely;

- RAM (Random Access Memory)
- ROM (Read Only Memory)

RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is the working area during the processing of data. The data and instructions are
temporally held in RAM during processing and after processing and it disappears
when you turn off the power of computer hence RAM is volatile.

NB: You always save regularly to avoid your work \ data to be wiped off when power
is off
Saving is process of transferring data\information from RAM to a secondary storage
device. Execution is the process of carrying out the interpreted commands.

TYPES OF RAM

1. SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory)

2. DDRSDRAM (Double Data Rate Synchronous Dynamic RAM)
3. RDRAM (Rambus DRAM)
4. DIMMs (Double in-line memory module)
5. SIMMs (Single in-line memory module)
 6. RIMMs

ROM (Read Only Memory)

ROM chips contain programs or instructions that are built on the computer at the
time of manufacturing. Some special instructions that are built include;
1. The execution instructions when you turn on the computer.
2. Instructions or information that is recorded permanently by the manufacture is
known as fire ware.

ROM CHIP

Examples of data in ROM include:-

• The date when the computer was manufactured
• Manufacturer of the computer.
• Model name and model number of the computer,
• Predetermined configurations for some of the hardware that will be added onto
the computer.

ROM CHIPS

It is also called firm ware which is a term used for software permanently stored on a
chip.
ROM chips in micro computer contain instructions used to transfer information
between keyboard, screen, printer, and other peripherals and the processor. These
instructions are called ROM BIOS (Basic Input Output System)

There are three ROM chips used in a special situation

PROM – Programmable Read Only Memory.

It is a blank chip on which the user/buyer can write a program on it with a special
equipment once is written it can’t be modified or changed.

EPROM – Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

This is a chip or a content that can be written on it and erased once using special
equipment.

EEPROM – Electronically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory

These are ROM chips that are designed to be modified by the user for more than one
time.
DIFFERENCES BETWEE RAM AND ROM

RAM (Random Access Memory) ROM (Read Only Memory)

1. It is volatile It Is non volatile
2. It is temporarily It is permanent
3. It is read and write It is read only
4. it can be increased or changed or It is normally not increased or changed
altered or altered
5. it boosts instructions It pauses instructions

Note: Volatile means that it is not permanent and can be change. It needs power
supply to keep the data stored in it

READING
Is the process of transferring information, data instructions from device into RAM
OR
Reading is the process of transferring information from memory (RAM) to storage
media i.e. using a save command.

SECONDARY STORAGE (auxiliary storage)

This is also known as auxiliary storage which are designed to retain data and
instructions and programs in a relatively permanent form.

There are two main types of secondary storage.

1. Magnetic storage devices.

2. Optical storage devices.

EXAMPLES OF STORAGE DIVICES

1. Floppy disks.
2. Hard disks.
3. Magnetic tapes.
4. Flash memory.
5. Punched cards.
6. MP3 player and MPEG player.
7. Zip disk.
8. iPod.
9. Compact disks.
EXAMPLES OF OPTICAL STORAGE DISKS
Compact disks e.g. CD-ROM, CD-R, CD- RW, DVD-ROM, DVD-R, DVD-RW.

There are two methods of which information is transferred from the computer and
written to a storage device namely;

(i) Sequential storage

It means data stored is in sequential tape flow, in the category of sequence
storage Data/ Information must be accessed in a sequential order.

(ii) Direct access storage

Also called Random Access Storage (is a storage medium that allows
computer to go directly to the information you want)

MAGNETIC STORAGE DEVICES

These are secondary storage devices that have magnetic writing on the disc surface
(tapes) for storing data as magnetic spots.

EXAMPLES MAGNETIC STORAGE DEVICES

MAGNETIC TAPE.
This is a thin plastic tape that has been magnetically watting for storing data as
magnetic spot and large computer tapes are used only in a cartilage. Since tapes a
sequential access media using them for pad up a slow process.

FLOPPY DISKATTE.
This is also called a diskette. It is a removable secondary storage medium that
consists of a thin, circular flexible plastic disc with a magnetic coating enclosed in a
square shape plastic shell.

A diskette is called a floppy because the plastic disc is flexible and not rigged. There
are mostly four types of diskettes but the common ones are;
 - 3.5 (1/2) inch of a storage capacity of 1.44MB (Megabytes)
- 5.25 (51/4) inch,
- 8 inch
- 2 inch (which is now the latest version for the laptops.)

Each size works only with a device made for its size.
Some diskettes are referred to as low density (single sided version). The single sided
are designed such that the data can be only recorded on one side.

Some diskettes are referred to as high density (Double sided version). The high
density diskettes are double sided and data can be recorded or stored on both sides
hence high density accommodates or stores more data.

FLOPPY DISC DRIVE

A floppy disc drive is a slot (an opening) on the computer system unit where a
diskette is inserted in order to read from and write to it. The drive is labeled “A:”
If the computer has two floppy disc drives, the second one becomes “Drive B:”

CHARACTERISTICS OF FLOPPY DISCKETTES

Diskettes have the following characteristic;

Tracks and sectors,

Tracks are concentric rings which are invisible. Each track is divided into sectors
under intersection of tracks and sectors setup the file allocation table (FAT) where
data is located.

Right protect feature.

Diskettes have features to prevent someone from accidentally write, erase or

making changes to the program files. To right protect the diskette press or push
towards the edged of the diskette and the hole opens.

Data capacity,
Not all diskettes hold the same amount of data, diskettes capacity depends on its
recording density e.g. the bytes per inch that can be written on the surface of the
diskette e.g. High density (HD) diskette can store 1.44MB

Formatted Diskettes,

Unformatted diskettes are manufactured without tracks and a sector therefore

“Formatting” is a process of preparing a diskette so that the operating system can
write information on it. This process includes defining the tracks and sectors on the
disk as well as setting up FAT (File Allocation Table)

NOTE: If you reformate a diskette with data already written on it, all the data will be
lost during the reformatting.

Steps followed while formatting a floppy diskette;

Step 1:
Insert 3½ inch floppy diskette into the drive

Step 2:
Click on Start and select My Computer

Step 3:
In the Window which appears, right click on
3½” floppy (A)

Step 4:
From the shortcut menu which appears, select Format

Step 5:

From the Window which appears, click the Start

Button to allow the program to start formatting
TAKING CARE OF THE FLOPPY DISKETTE

- Don’t touch the diskette surface; don’t touch anything visible through the
protective case such as the data, accessed area on the disc surface.
- Handle the disc gently, i.e. don’t throw diskettes into your pockets or back
pocket because the protective plate can easily slide away from the plastic case.
- Don’t put weights on floppy diskettes.
- Don’t try to bend them.
- Don’t use floppy diskettes for coffee and soft wastes because moisture can spoil
and damage the disc surface.
- Avoid risks with physical environment e.g. heat
- Don’t expose the disc in to direct sunlight
- Don’t expose the floppy diskettes to chemical substances such as cleaning
solvents and alcohol
- Always keep the floppy diskette in its jacket.
- Do not expose it to an X- RAY.
- Do not insert or remove it from its drive when the drive active light is on.
- Do not force it into its drive. It should slip in with little or no resistance.
- Do not scrub a diskette to label it
- Don’t leave a floppy diskette into the drive. Take the diskette from the drive
because if you leave it in the drive, the read and write head remains resting on
the surface.
- Keep diskettes away from magnetic fields i.e. near radio speakers, on top of the
system unit case, near electric motor etc-
- Store the disks in their boxes after use.

ADVANTAGES OF FLOPPY DISKETTE

- It is potable and flexible.

- Data on floppy diskettes can be right protected from being changed
accidentally.
- It can be used to transfer date from one computer to another.
- Its storage capacity is wide considerably bigger.
DISADVANTANGES OF FLOPPY DISKETTE

- It’s not durable due to dusty and magnetic fields.

- The access time of a floppy disc is slow.
- A storage capacity of a floppy is limited only to 1.44MB.

HARD DISC

It’s made up of inflexible material and consists of several rigged metal discs called
platters. Platters are covered with substance that allows data to be held in form of
magnetized spot. Data can be recorded on both sides of the disc platters.

The hard disc is also tightly sealed and enclosed in the system unit to prevent any
foreign matter which may result into head crush

ADVANTAGES OF HARD DISCS OVER FLOPPY DISCS

HARD DISCS FLOPPY DISCS

Has a large storage capacity Has a small storage capacity
It fixed in to the system unit Not fixed into the system unit hence
portable
It takes less access time i.e. it takes less It takes more access time in saving and
time in saving and retrieving of retrieving of information.
information.
It is sealed into the system unit hence It’s exposed to natural hazards.
not exposed to environmental hazards.
It’s usually more reliable It is not reliable
Data is stored on combination of tracks Store data in a combination concentric
of several platters caged cylinders track rings called a track and sectors

DISADVANTAGES OF A HARD DISC COMPARED TO FLOPPY DISC

- Hard disc is not portable accept removable hard disc which is very expensive.
- Data becomes less secure if left on the hard disc
- Hard disc can easily crush due to extreme shock contaminators.
- The disk is fixed inside the computer and cannot easily be transferred to
another computer.
OPTICAL DISCS
This is a removable disc on which data is written and read by means of a laser beam.
The most optical discs are CD-ROM. Examples of optical disks include;

i) CD-ROM It stands for Compact Disc-Read Only Memory.

Definition: it is an optical disc format used to hold software or programs and data
such as prerecorded text, graphics and sound lick music. It referred to as “read
only” because the content was recorded at a time of manufacture and it cannot be
erased or written on by the user.

ii) CD-R It stands for Compact Disc Recordable.

This is a CD format that allows the user to write data only once i.e. once data is
recorded, it can’t be changed/written over again e.g. photo CD

iii) CD-RW This stands for Compact Disc Writeable.

This is a CD format that allows the user to erase data so that the disc can be used
over and over again. A CD-RW acts as a floppy disc since it allows re-writing on it
multiple times.

ADVANTAGES OF A CD OVER A HARD DISC

- A CD is more portable than a hard disc.

- A CD is used to transfer data from one computer to another easily.

ADVANTEGES OF A CD OVER A FLOPPY DISC

- A CD has a large storage capacity than a floppy disc

 - The access time of a CD is faster than a floppy disc

DISADVANTAGES OF A CD

- A mere crack can easily fail the CD from writing or reading

- Some kinds of CDs are read only hence the user cannot change or add data on
it.
- The access time of a CD is slower compared to the hard disc.

iv) DVD is an abbreviation for Digital Versatile Disk.

A computer version of a DVD is called a DVD-ROM disk which has exactly high
capacity capable of storing from 4.7GB to 17GB. Other versions of DVDs include
DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-R e.t.c.

CARE OF COMPACT DISKS OR DVDS

- Always store a DVD or a CD in a jacket or jewel box if not in use.

- Always hold a CD by its edge.
- Never touch the underside of the CD.
- Never stuck disc on top of each other.
- Never expose the disc to excessive heat or sunlight.

OTHER TYPES OF STORAGE MEDIA

Magneto-Optical Disk (MO)

This combines the basic features of magnetic and optical disk technology. MO disk
has a high storage capacity like an optical disk and can be written on over and over
like a magnetic disk.

SMART CARD
It is similar in size to ATM or credit cards, it stores data on a thin micro processor
embedded in the card. When it inserted in the card reader the information on it can
be read and up to date.
APPLICATION OF SMART CARDS

- Storing prepaid dollar amount e.g. prepaid telephone cards.

- Storing patient records and other health care communications.
- Tracking customers and employee information.

ZIP DISK.

It is slightly larger and about twice as thick as a floppy disk. A Zip disk can be of
100MB, 250MB, and 700MB of storage capacity.

ONLINE STORAGE

It is also called internet hard drive. It is a service on the web that provides the user
with storage for free or for minimal monthly fee.

FLASH DISK (MEMORY STICK)

It is also a USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive typically a removable and a
rewritable disk. It has a high storage capacity to several gigabytes (GB). The capacity
of a flash disk is always indicated on it.

ADVANTAGES OF FLASH DISKS

- They are more reliable and durable due to their lack of moving parts.
- They are faster in their access time

DISADVANTAGES OF USING FLASH DISK

- Data can easily be lost due viruses.

- Its storage capacity is limited to 32GB.

COMPUTER PROCESSING DEVICE

The computer control centre is made up of processing and main memory devices
which are housed in a computer system unit or system cabinet.
A system unit contains a CPU, Motherboard e.g. adaptors like network card, VGA
card.
PROCESSOR

A processor consists of two main parts which include the following;

1. Control Unit (CU)
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

The two components are connected by a kind of electronic path called a BUS.

STRUCTURE OF A PROCESSOR (CPU)

1. Data to be processed is input from input devices or secondary storage in RAM

2. Data to be processed goes to the registers(Main tore) in ALU from RAM
3. The control unit tells the ALU which logic or arithmetic operation to perform.
4. Processed results Arrives in RAM and then output or stored to the storage device.

PARTS OF THE CPU

Control Unit

This is a part of the CPU that tells the rest of the computer system how to carry out
programs instruction, i.e. directs the movement of electronic signals between RAM
and input and output devices.

Arithmetic Logic Unit

It performs arithmetic operation e.g. addition, subtraction, multiplication and
division and logic operations ALU compares two data items to see whether one is
equal to, greater than, or less than the other. The other includes;
>= Greater than or Equal to
<= Less than or equal to
< > Less or Equal

NOTE: ALU & CU contain register that connects to the main memory (RAM) by the
bus. Registers are temporary storage holding processed and unprocessed data. It also
provides working area for processing.

FUNCTIONS OF THE MAIN MEMORY (RAM)

It holds data for processing.
It holds functions for processing the data.
It holds data after it processed
It aids the booting process of the computer.

RAM CAPACITY

The main memory capacity is stated in bytes i.e. megabytes (MB) however, the RAM
capacity of the main frame computers and super computers is measured in gigabytes
(GB) and Terabytes (TB)
1KB – 210
1MB – 220
1GB - 230
1TB – 240

WORD SIZE
This refers to the numbers of bytes a processor can hold in its register during the
processing; therefore a 64 byte word processor is faster than a 32bit can process a
byte in the same given time.

PROCESSING SPEED
Computers with large word size can process more data in each instruction cycle,
micro computer speed are measured in megahertz. The speed of large computers
are measured in millions of instruction per second (MIPS) and Floating Point
Operation Per Second (FLOP)

KINDS OF MICRO PROCESSORS

1. Intel Chips; Intel makes chips for personal computers such as Compaq, Dell,
Gateway, Toshiba. INTEL used to identify its chips by numbers 8086, 8088, 8286,
8386, 8486, 8086 family series
2. Motorola Chips; Motorola produces the family of apple, Macintosh computers.
 3. The Intel succession to x86 chips is the Pentium family. The list of Pentium
family from the slowest to the fastest from Intel are Pentium1, Pentium MMX,
Pentium Pro, Pentium 2, Pentium 3, Pentium 4
4. Today the most popular micro processers are CORE 2 DUE & DUAL2CORE.

SYSTEM UNIT
This is a box or cabinet containing the electrical component that carry out
computer’s processing, it contains the following;

i) Power Supply

It is a device that converts power from Alternating Current (AC) to Direct current DC
to run the computer.
ii) Motherboard

It is a system board which is the main socket board that can hold chips such as
processor, ROM, RAM and expansion slot. OR it is a circuit board where all computer
peripherals (input/output/communication/Memory and storage devices) are
connected.
CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semi-conductor).

The CMOS battery has the following functions;

- Keeps the System Date and Time;

The CMOS battery stores the system time and settings that most be loaded
when you turn the system on. Older computers reset to a date of 1-1-1980.
Computers running Windows XP or later will set the system date to the date of
the last saved system restore point.

- Allows System Settings to be called up;

A few additional settings are stored by the system. The CMOS battery allows
these settings to be loaded into system memory when the computer boots.

Ports
These are connecting sockets outside a computer processing unit that are connected
to the main board (motherboard). Ports are of several types and they include the
following;

1. Parallel Ports.

They are also called female ports.

They transmit 8 bits simultaneously.
They are mainly used to connect printers.

2. Serial Ports
They are also called male ports.
They transmit one bit at a time. They
are used mainly to connect mouse,
scanners, modem e.t.c.

3. Video Adaptor Port

It is used to connect a video display

(Monitor) outside the computer to the
video adaptor card on the motherboard
inside the computer.

4. SCSI
(Small Computer System Interface)
It is used to transfer data at high speed especially for external hard disk, magnetic
tapes, CD-ROM, Scanner.

5. Game Port
It is used to connect a game playing device such as joy stick on system unit.

6. USB Port (Universal Serial Bus)

This is a type of port that allows a user to connect up to 120 devices using one port
and it is supports most of the new devices.