INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

DEFINITION
A computer is an electronic device or a set of devices that work under stored programs accepting
DATA and Instructions through the input device and give it out through the output devices as
INFORMATION.

Terms Used In Computers

1. Data are raw facts or figures fed into the computer from the outside world relating to a
certain activity or environment.
2. Information is data that has been processed.
3. Process is the conversion of data into information.
4. Arithmetic operations: these are calculations done by the computer.
5. Logic operations: these are arrangement and re-arrangement of data.
6. Instruction: these are commands issued to the computer to perform logic and arithmetic
operations as the computer readily accept and perform them.
7. Program: it is asset of instruction or procedures, which the computer follows to perform
arithmetic and logic operation.

Qualities of a Computer
1. It’s automatic: It works with little human intervention once supplied with data and
instructions.
2. It’s a data processor: It converts raw data (facts and figures) into information.
3. It’s a storage device: it stores data and information for later use or reference.
4. It’s electrical: Requires power to work or drive it.

Advantages of Using Computers

1. Storage -Stores large volumes of data in limited space, Eases filing system in the office.
2. Speed – works faster than human beings.
3. Accurate – Produces accurate results without mistakes.
4. Consistency – Gives the same results given the same data and instructions.
5. Secrecy – Information or data in computers is fairly protected if the computer system is
well managed.
6. Versatility – Can repeat the same thing over and over again without getting tired.
7. Multitasking – it can handle a variety of tasks even at the same time.
8. Communication – in the case of internet.
9. Entertainment – in case of computer games, music, movies etc.
10. Complexity – can handle very complex arithmetic within a short time.
11. Enhances education through e learning and e teaching
12. Create self-employment

Disadvantages of Computers
1. Computers are expensive to buy and maintain.
2. Cuts down on employment especially when computers are introduced where manual work
existed
3. Need trained personnel who are expensive to train and hire.
4. Health hazard e. g back ache, eye sight etc
5. Volatile; they can lose of huge and crucial information if not well managed.
6. Moral degradation/decay through downloading phonographic movies

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 7. It relay on electrical power.
8. Due to rapid change in computer technology, the computer and related facilities can become
outdated very fast.
9. At times installing or implementing computer systems in an organization ends up replacing
human employees hence joblessness / redundancy.
10. Important data or Company data may be lost in case of virus attack or machine breakdown,
or illegal copying and unauthorized access by hackers (Hacker -someone who gains
unauthorized access to a computer system
11. Addictive especially in games, chatting
12. Computer have encouraged laziness due to over reliance

TYPES OF A COMPUTER
Computer may be classified according to functionality, physical size/power processing, and
purpose:
1. ACCORDING TO FUNTION

1. Analog computers – These computer deal with analog data. Analog data is that which
continuous and progressively changes value over time. These computers respond to natural
occurrences’ such as temperature, speed and pressure.
2. Digital computers – These computers handle digital data. Digital in that is it discrete.
These means the data can be represented as distinct values I.e. 1 or 0, (non-continuous but
countable)
3. Hybrid computers – These kind of computers would handle both analog and digital data

2. ACCORDING TO PURPOSE
Under purpose computer there shall be two of them; general purpose and special purpose
computers.
A) General purpose computer
Designed to perform number of tasks, these computers are installed with programs which will
enable them to handle a variety of duties. For instance, document processing calculation,
accounting etc.
b) Special purpose computer
They are designed to perform only one special task. For instance, robots belongs to this kind of a
computer.

3. ACCORDING TO PHYSICAL SIZE

a) Super computer
They are the biggest in size computers. They are fastest in term of speed, the most powerful terms
of the tasks they can perform at particular nanosecond and therefore the most expensive only a few
nation around the world can afford it. They would be used in complex computer engineering and
also serve other small computers in complex network.
b) Main frame computers
They are also very larger, powerful and expensive but lower than super. They are stationary in the
control room. They perform complex mathematical calculations. They have large storage capacity
and can support a number of peripheral thus require number of people to operate one. They ideal in
banks, airport, government, agencies and large organization

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 c) Mini computers
These are down scaled versions of the mainframe computers. Have less speed, fewer peripherals,
less powerful etc. they can be found in research institution, engineering planes, scientific
laboratories etc.
d) Micro computers
These consists of relatively small, cheap and not so complicated computer. They are also
transferable. They pose small silicon chip that analysis data. They are generally used in day to day
duties in homes, hospitals, schools etc. they are sub grouped into;
i. Personal computer (PC)
PC is operated by one person for most of it peripheral are single e. g mouse, CPU, keyboard etc.
they are usually placed on top of desk when operating thus dubbed desk top computer
ii. Laptop/notebook
These are small convenient and easily portable computer. They are placed on the lap when
operating. Laptops are multicolored and bigger than notebook. Most of these computers are
extremely expensive due to their convenience, portability and manufacturing technology. They are
ideal for use by managers, journalists, researchers etc.
iii. Palmtop computers
These are tiny pockets computers usually placed on the palm when operating. In most cases they
are incorporated into mobile phones. They are ideal for business executive.

GENERATIONS OF COMPUTERS

FIRST GENERATION OF COMPUTERS

During the period of 1940 to 1956 first generation of computers were developed. The first
generation computers used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory, and were
often enormous, taking up entire rooms. The vacuum tube was developed by Lee DeForest. A
vacuum tube is a device generally used to amplify a signal by controlling the movement of
electrons in an evacuated space. First generation computers were very expensive to operate and in
addition to using a great deal of electricity, generated a lot of heat, which was often the cause of
malfunctions .

CHARACTERISTICS
1) First generation computers were based on vacuum tubes .
2) The operating systems of the first generation computers were very slow .
3) They were very large in size .
4) Production of the heat was in large amount in first generation computers.
5) Machine language was used for programming .
6) First generation computers were unreliable .
7) They were difficult to program and use.

SECOND GENERATION COMPUTERS

During the period of 1956 to 1963 second generation of computers were developed. The second
generation computers emerged with development of Transistors. The transistor was invented in
1947 by three scientists J. Bardeen, H.W. Brattain and W. Shockley. A transistor is a small device
made up of semiconductor material like germanium and silicon. Even though the Transistor were
developed in 1947 but was not widely used until the end of 50s. The transistor made the second
generation computers faster, smaller, cheaper, more energy-efficient and more reliable than their
first-generation computers. Even though the transistor used in the computer generated enormous
amount of heat which ultimately would lead to the damage of the computers but was far better than

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vacuum tubes.
Second generation computers used the low level language i.e. machine level language and assembly
language which made the programmers easier to specify the instructions. Later on High level
language programming were introduced such as COBOL and FORTRAN. Magnetic core was used
as primary storage. Second generation computer has faster input /output devices which thus brought
improvement in the computer.

CHARACTERISTICS
1) Transistors were used in place of vacuum tubes.
2) Second generation computers were smaller in comparison with the first generation computers.
3) They were faster in comparison with the first generation computers.
4) They generated less heat and were less prone to failure.
5) They took comparatively less computational time.
6) Assembly language was used for programming.
7) Second generation computers has faster input/output devices.

THIRD GENERATION COMPUTERS

During the period of 1964 to 1971 Third generation computers were developed. The third
generation computers emerged with the development of IC (Integrated Circuits). The invention of
the IC was the greatest achievement done in the period of third generation of computers. IC was
invented by Robert Noyce and Jack Kilby in 1958-59. IC is a single component containing a
number of transistors. Transistors were miniaturized and placed on silicon chips, called
semiconductors, which drastically increased the speed and efficiency of computers.
Keyboards and monitors developed during the period of third generation of computers. The third
generation computers interfaced with an operating system, which allowed the device to run many
different applications at one time with a central program that monitored the memory.

CHARACTERISTICS
1) IC was used instead of transistors in the third generation computers.
2) Third generation computers were smaller in size and cheaper as compare to the second
generation computers .
3) They were fast and more reliable .
4) High level language was developed .
5) Magnetic core and solid states as main storage .
6) They were able to reduce computational time and had low maintenance cost .
7) Input/output devices became more sophisticated.

FOURTH GENERATION COMPUTERS

After 1971 the fourth generation computers were built. The fourth generation computers were the
extension of third generation technology. The fourth generation computers emerged with
development of the VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration).With the help of VLSI technology
microprocessor came into existence. The computers were designed by using microprocessor, as
thousands of integrated circuits were built onto a single silicon chip. What in the first generation
filled an entire room could now fit in the palm of the hand. The fourth generation computers
became more powerful, compact, reliable and affordable. As a result, they give rise to personal
computer (PC) revolution .
For the first time in 1981 IBM introduced its computer for the home user and in 1984 Apple
introduced the Macintosh Microprocessor .

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CHARACTERISTICS
1) the fourth generation computers have microprocessor-based systems .
2) They are the cheapest among all the computer generation .
3) The speed, accuracy and reliability of the computers were improved in fourth generation
computers.
4) Many high-level languages were developed in the fourth generation such as COBOL,
FORTRAN, BASIC, and PASCAL and C Language.
5) A Further refinement of input/output devices was developed .
6) Networking between the systems was developed .

IBM 4341, DEC 10, STAR 1000, PUP 11 and APPLE II are the examples of fourth generation
computers.

FIFTH GENERATION COMPUTERS

Fifth generation computers are in developmental stage which is based on the artificial intelligence.
The goal of the fifth generation is to develop the device which could respond to natural language
input and are capable of learning and self-organization. Quantum computation and molecular and
nanotechnology will be used in this technology. So we can say that the fifth generation computers
will have the power of human intelligence.

CHARACTERISTICS
1) The fifth generation computers will use super large scale integrated chips .
2) They will have artificial intelligence .
3) They will be able to recognize image and graphs .
4) Fifth generation computer aims to be able to solve highly complex problem including decision
making, logical reasoning .
5) They will be able to use more than one CPU for faster processing speed .
6) Fifth generation computers are intended to work with natural language

STEPS TO START A COMPUTER

 Switch on the mains switch
 Switch on the UPS (interruptible power supply) if available
 Switch on the system unit
 Switch the monitor
 Wait for the booting process to take place
 Click the user account
 Type the password if applicable
STEPS TO SHUT DOWN THE COMPUTER
 Save and close all running program
 Log off the user account
 Click the start button
 Click shut down
 Wait for the closure
 Switch of the monitor
 Switch off the UPS if any
 Switch off the mains

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BOOTING OF THE COMPUTER
It is the process by which the computer loads the system file to prepare itself for the user to operate
when power has been run into the system. This process makes the computer undergo power on self-
test (POST) to make sure the computer system is complete- no important hardware or software is
missing.
Types of booting
 Cold booting
This is turning on the computer by pressing the power button on the system unit and turning it on
again.
 Warm booting
This is forcing the computer to restart in order to rectifying minor errors within the system. It is
done by pressing ctrl + alt + Del keys. When this process repeated the computer restart.

There are various choices for closing or suspending a session

SHUT DOWN: Close all open programs and services before powering off the computer,
STANDBY/SLEEP: save the current session to memory and put the computer into minimal power
State, HIBERNATE: save the current session to disk before powering of the computer, LOG
OFF: close all open program and services started under the user account but leave the computer
running, SWITCH USER: log on to another user account, leaving programs and files under the
current account open, LOCK: Secure the desktop while leaving the running programs,
RESTART: close all open programs and services before rebooting without powering down ( a soft
reset)

COMPUTER COMPONENTS/SYSTEM
A computer component is a group of elements that works together to process data into information
Computer components are made up of three major elements
 Hardware (devices)
 Software (programs)
 Org ware/ Live ware (user)
A. Hardware
Hardware consists of all physical or tangible component or parts of a computer system.
When the computer is shut off, the hardware would remain visible. Hardware are sub grouped into
four components namely;
 Input devices
 Output devices
 CPU (processor)
 Memory

Input Devices
These are devices used for entering data and instructions into the computer.
Examples: Mouse, Keyboard, Scanner, Joystick, Character & Mark Reader and bar code Reader.

1. THE MOUSE - it is an input device that enters instruction or retrieves commands out of the
computer, mostly used in windows. It has the following buttons:
 Left mouse button LMB-this is used to issue commands, move items select items &
highlighting text (by holding down the left mouse button &dragging)
 Right mouse button RMB - this is used to retrieve commands &create shortcuts.

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2. KEYBOARD It is another input device used to enter textual data through typing in to the
computer. It can also be used to enter commands and instruction in the computer by pressing the
keys.
The keys of the keyboard can be classified as:
1. Alpha Numeric Keys
These consist of the alphabets I. e (A-Z), the numerals I. e (0-9, the punctuation marks I. e (,.; :”),
the symbols I. e (# @ %), the mathematical operator I. e (+-=/)
2. Numeric Keypad
This is positioned at the extreme right of the keyboard. It consists of the numerals the mathematical
operators and a few special keys. It is deal when dealing with calculations. It is activated or
deactivated by pressing the Num lock key.
3. Functions Keys
They include F1 through F12 and are positioned at the top most part of the keyboard. Their purpose
is to shortcut commands or they can be assigned some special duties. Sometimes they are used
together with keys to attain the duty e. g F1 can retrieve help notes, F7 can be used to check
spelling and grammar, F12 can be used to save, Alt +F4 can be used to close a program
4. Arrow Keys
They are also referred to navigation keys. They are four of them; Arrow Left, Arrow Right,
Arrow Up, Arrow Down. Arrow keys facilitate horizontal and vertical movement to navigate
through the cells; and can be used with other keys to achieve the duty
5. Special Keys
These are meant to perform special duties either singly or used together with other keys e. g
a) Enter key these are two enter keys. Duties are: Executes commands, Acquires the next
line when typing, Explores a folder, Create space between the lines
b) Caps lock Interchanges between uppercase and lowercase and vice versa
c) Space bar It is the biggest key on the keyboard. It creates a single character space
between words.
d) Delete key Delete/ erases characters and spaces at the right of the cursor I. e forwards,
Also erases selected items and text
e) Tab key Creates set intervals between characters, word, text etc. , Navigates through
the cell forwards, Navigates through the dialog box
f) Shift key normally used with other keys e. g, Highlight text (shift + arrow key),
acquires upper character in a double character key. This is a key on the keyboard where
two letters or values are place, momentarily acquires the upper case or lowercase when
typing
g) CTRL (control) key it is always used together with other keys to achieve duties.it has
the biggest combination of keys in Ms. Window e. g Ctrl +A highlight all, Ctrl +C
copies, Ctrl +S saves, Ctrl +P prints, Ctrl +V pastes
h) Alt (alternative) key Also used with other keys e. g Alt +F display file menu, Alt +w
displays window menu, Alt +F4 closes a running program
i) Esc (escape) key Clears a display menu or dialog box displays start menu with ctrl I. e
ctrl + esc
j) Print key
k) Home key Takes cursor to the beginning of the line, Take cursor to the beginning of
document I. e ctrl + home
l) End key Takes the cursor to the end of the line, Takes cursor to the end of the
document I. e ctrl + end
m) Page up Scroll/ moves the page up

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 n) Page down Scrolls/ moves the page down

3. MODEM This device helps a computer to talk online with another computer
4. SCANNER This transfers an image of a photograph or written information to the computer
5. JOYSTICKS This is used in the computer for video games
6. BARCODE READERS Bar code readers are photoelectric devices that convert barcodes trips
into digital code. Barcodes are vertical zebra-striped marks you see on most manufactured retail
products. Figure 15: A barcode reader. This is used in supermarkets for reading prices.
7. MICROPHONE: The microphone converts human speech into digital code. An audio input
device records or plays analog sound and translates it for digital storage and processing.

Output Devices
These are devices used to get information out of the computer to the outside world. Examples are
monitor, printers and speakers
1) Monitor
It looks like a television and referred as a screen used to display what is typed on the keyboard.
Types of monitors
i) Cathode-Ray Tubes (CRTs) -This is the same technology used on TV sets and involves
the use of a vacuum tube. The CRT's screen display is made up of small dots called
pixels. A pixel is the smallest unit on the screen that can be turned on or off or made into
different shades.
ii) Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) -This is a flat panel display that consists of a substance
called liquid crystal whose molecules lineup in a particular way. Under an applied
voltage the molecular alignment is disturbed, which changes the optical properties of the
liquid crystal in the affected area
2) Printers
These helps to get the processed information as a form of a hard copy that is permanent or on a
paper
Types of printers
1) Impact printers
Provide print out by the printing head element coming into contact with the stationary through
inked ribbon which is found between the stationary and the printing head element
The inked ribbon is used to pass the character images on the print element onto the
stationary during the print head impact .e.g. dot matrix printer, daisy wheel printer, thimble printers
and thermal printers
2) Non-Impact printers
Provides print out by the printing head element not coming into actual contact with the stationary
but uses other means like thermal or electrical or electrostatic principal to provide print outs
e.g. laser jet printer.
3) Speaker
It is used to produce the sound/audio information

CPU (central processing unit)

CPU also referred as the processor, is a small silicon chip housed inside the system unit of a micro-
computer which analyses raw data into information. It has been dubbed the computer ‘brain’ for it
coordinates all the activities in the computer. The speed of the CPU is very important for it
determine the time to be taken and the amount of task to be carried out by the computer All input,
output and peripherals must be attached to the CPU via the motherboard of the system unit.
The CPU is sub-divided into three smaller areas;
 Control unit (CU)

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  Arithmetic and logical unit (ALU)
 Main memory

 Control unit (CU)

Receive and analyses/interprets all instruction into the computer. Also delegates duties to all other
parts in the computer
 Arithmetic and logical unit (ALU)
Carries out all arithmetic/calculation in the computer. It also logically compares among the
operations in the computer.
 Main memory (MM)
It is compartment that holds current data & instruction. It is refers to as the primary storage within
the computer. It is sub-divided into;
 ROM (read only memory)
It is the compartment once data has been written can ever be changed through ordinary computer
operation. It is stored permanently .it cannot be upgraded. Information is not volatile I. e it cannot
be lost in case of a black out. For this reason, most system file necessary for computer booting are
stored here.
 RAM (random access memory)
Also referred to as type write and ready memory.it is virtual memory. Information is temporarily
stored and thus volatile I. e it can be easily erased due to black out if not saved. This memory is
upgradeable or expandable thus increasing speed of the computer.

NB: The larger the random access memory the faster and more powerful the computer is.

Secondary Storage (Auxiliary, Permanent Storage)

The following are the devices that store data and information on a permanent basis. Examples are:
Floppy diskettes, Compact disk (Cd), Hard disks and Magnetic Tapes

Normally we have Drive C (for the Hard Disk), Drive A (for the floppy disks) and Drive D(CD
ROM drive).

Disc Capacity
These are units, which are used to measure the storage areas of computer memory and are in form
of units called bytes.
Bits are the smallest unit of measure of the computer memory.
8 Bits = 1 Bytes (b)
1000 bytes = 1 kilo byte (Kb) 8 Bits = 1Bytes
1 million bytes = 1 Mega bytes (Kb) 1000 b = 1 Kb
1 Billion bytes = 1 Giga bytes 1000 kb = 1 Mb
1 trillion bytes = 1 Terabytes 1000 Mb = 1 Gb
1000 Gb = 1Tb
B. Software
Computer software is the intangible logic that guides the computer hardware when performing a
task. A computer has no intelligence of its own and must be supplied with instructions that tells it
what to do and how to do it. Software are generally created by professional software programmers.
This program is used in the computer system to interpret the instruction issued to it in a language
that it can understand.

There are basically 3 types of soft wares namely:

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 a) System
b) Application
c) Firmware
d) SYSTEM SOFTWARE
System software is software designed to allow the computer to manage its own resources and run
the hardware and basic operations. It lets the CPU communicate with the keyboard, the screen, the
printer and the disk drive. Examples of Operating Systems include, DOS and Windows Window
XP, Windows 7, Windows 10, OS/2 Warp, UNIX, Linux, Mac OS, Netware etc
These are the programs concerned with effective performance of computer hardware. They make it
easy for people to handle the computer.
There are several types of system software namely:
1. Operating systems: control and co-ordinate computer operations
2. Language translators: This system software electronically translates one language to
another through a machine. Language is computerized
3. Utilities or service programs: They give important services to the computer. For example
the check and correct errors on the computer disk
4. Communication software: They enable computer to communicate with one another.

e) APPLICATION SOFTWARE:
Application software is the software that is designed to meet the users' specific needs. It performs
tasks to directly benefit the user and increase their productivity and creativity.

Applications software come in four categories;

1.) Basic productivity software -Most of the common applications software packages used today
are productivity software, their purpose is to make the user more productive when performing
general tasks e.g. Word-processing, spreadsheets, personal finance, presentation graphics,
database managements, integrated and web browsing applications.
2.) Specialty tools -This is software designed for application in particular occupation and
businesses. Examples include, desktop publishing, project management, drawing, and painting,
etc.
3.) Entertainment software -this includes computer games.
4.) Educational reference software -This are electronic research and training materials e.g.
Encyclopedias

f) FIRM WARE
These are programs installed on the computer at the time of manufacturing.

3. Human Ware/ Orgware

These are computer experts who have some knowledge in different computer fields.
These are 3 types of org ware namely:
 Computer operator- these are people who have done some computer software packages
and knows how to operate the computer but not in details.
 Computer programmers- these people write computer programs and test them on the
computer to see how best they can do.
 System Analyst/ system designer- They perform the same work as programmer except the
jobs are more detailed and include also installation of software.

Virus
It means vital, information, research under siege

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This is a program designed to duplicate and spread without the knowledge of the user and has a
negative effects to data or programs.
Types of virus
1. File infector virus
2. Trojan horse virus
3. Worm virus
4. Trojan virus
5. Bomb Virus
6. Stealth Virus
7. Polymorphic Virus

Sources of computer virus

1. Pirated software
2. Fake computer games
3. Data transmission from one computer to another
4. Use of Computer networks
5. Freeware and shareware
Symptoms
1. Unusual error message appearing so often
2. Distortion of graphics
3. Date of files changes
4. Change of size of files
5. Programs taking long to load

How virus spread

1. The commonest way that a virus spread is through sharing infected floppy diskette
2. Transmission of data from one computer to another
3. Downloading data from the computer networks

How to protect
1. The common way is by use of anti-virus
2. Avoid downloading from internet
3. Maintain software for your computers without sharing.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS TO THE COMPUTER AND THE LABORATORY

Computer are very sensitive, delicate, volatile and even expensive; therefore it is important to note
some safety precautions when handling them so that may serve longer and better:
1. Proper hardware assembling
2. Proper power management; include an uninterruptible power supply (UPS)
3. Cover your computer system when not in operation to avoid dust, water etc.
4. Do not bang computer devices
5. Do not eat or drink from computer lab
6. Do not run about the computer lab
7. Ensure sufficient ventilation in the lab
8. Protect computer from direct heat
9. Ensure clean environment
10. Burglar proof doors and windows are important to prevent theft
11. Ensure regular servicing to the computer
12. Handle the diskette and CDs carefully

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 13. Do not place gadgets on the edges to avoid falling
14. Do not interfere with computer setup
15. Do not open the computer devices unless you are computer technician
16. Do not entertain foreign hardware and software to prevent virus infection
Data Loss
Causes and precautions
1. Power failure – when power failure occurs, any unsaved data is lost.
Precautions
 Always save your data regularly to minimize the amount of data loss in the event of failure
 Make sure that auto save program is switched on if any.
 Use u.p.s as much as possible.
2. Accidental erasure – this may occurs if the user is not well versed with the software they
are using
Precautions
 Make sure that any person using files or application program have some basic knowledge of
working on it
 Regular backing up of your data
3. Crushing of disk – disk is said to have crushed when it suddenly become unusable caused
by shock when the computer is dropped, viruses or old age.
Precautions
 Perform regular back up on all data.
4. Virus – This is a program designed to duplicate and spread without the knowledge of the
user and has a negative effects to data or programs.
Precautions
 Perform regular back up on all data.
 Install ant-virus

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A COMPUTER

 The processor speed
 The hard disk capacity
 The memory RAM size
 The purpose of the computer user needs
 Warranty
 Portability
 Upgradeability and compatibility
 Documentation (operation manual)
 New or used
 The cost
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING SOFTWARE
 Authenticity
 Reliability and security
 User friendliness
 The purpose of software
 Warranty
 Portability
 Compatibility and system configuration
 Documentation (operation manual)

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  The cost

MICROSOFT WINDOWS
 Window is a multi-user and multi-tasking operating system characterized by the graphical
user interface (GUI). It is multi-user for more than one user can operate at a go; it is multi-
tasking one can open and run several tasks at one particular time.
 GUI means between the user and the computer MS windows bears graphics or pictures that
represent items so as to guide the user. MS Windows is said to be user friendly especially
when compared to other operating system. MS window is designed to operate application
programs such as micro soft word, micro soft excel, micro soft access etc. it also supports a
number of operations and hardware. Version of MS windows have been seen earlier in
introduction.

COMMON FEATURES IN MS WINDOWS

Windows has an outstanding feature known as WIMP; (window, icon, mouse, pull down/pop up
menu)
 Window The working area where the user places data is called window. Each running
program opens with a window which is normally a clear space enclosed by borders.
 The borders (toolbar) provide the user with working tool or technically said commands
 Icon These are pictorial representations of item within the computer. Items involves
file/document. Folders, memory location, drives, windows interface shall be shown by its
icon and a label (name).
 Mouse It is a input devices used to enter data and commands into the computer. It is a
unique feature within MS windows operating system that assists the keyboard in inputting.
 Pull down/ pop-up menus In computer menus are lists commands. Pull down menus are
obtained after clicking a menu at the menu bar. Different command shall be displayed after
different menus are clicked. Pop-up menus are obtain after right click on the space or on a
item. Different commands shall be displayed depending on different places or item right
clicked.
Window has outstanding features like:
 Window This is the working/ typing area. Data (text and graphics) is placed here.
 Title bar It is the uppermost strip of the desktop window. it contain the title of the running
program, the name of the open document/ file and the resizing button.
 Menu bar This strip contain docket/ menus for commands. It is clicked to show a list of
commands whereby one command is chosen and applied at a time e. g file menu, edit menu,
view menu etc. menu bar also contains closing button (X) for the document/ file.
 Status barThis displays the current activities of the running program; for instance if MS
word is running the status bar shall display the current page, section, line, column etc.
 Scroll bar These are two; Vertical scroll bar (VSB) Facilitates up and down movement of
the working area and Horizontal scroll bar (HSB) Facilitates the left and right movement of
the working area
 Tool bars Tool bar are strips that provide the user icons meant to shortcut often applied/
used commands. There could be several toolbar placed on the screen depending on pro
running or the task being performed but are two universal toolbars which are found almost
all the basic application programs.

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  Task bar It is the strip at the bottom of the desk top window. It bears the start button, all
running programs, system calendar, system clock etc.

DIALOG BOX
These are electronic form whereby the computer user is supposed to enter details in order the
computer to complete the duty assigned. This happens when the computer needs the user to choose
from the list of items or aspects

Functions of Operating System

 Job control – loading of programs into the main memory
 Memory management – ensure the proper and organized use of memory by all tasks or
programs.
 Keeps details of all computer recourses – e.g. number of files stored on disk, space
occupied by each file on disk and the available free space remaining on disk.
 Detects and reports errors-during the operation the Operating System checks the process
of operation and if an error is detected it is reported to the operator. In most cases the
Operating System provides recovery procedures.
 Supports multiprogramming-The Operating System schedules and controls the running of
several programs at once.

The Desktop
This is the windows screen displayed after the computer has been successfully started. There are
various elements that can be seen on the Desktop and they include:
 Icons-these are graphics representing items like programs, files, and folders.
 Start Button-used to start most of the operations in the computer.
 Task Bar-This where Start button and clock are placed.
 Clock-Found to the right of the taskbar and displays the current computer time.
 Background-it is made of Wallpaper or Desktop.
 Dialog boxes-electronic form through which users input data and instructions for the
computer to complete a given task.

Examples of Desktop Icons

1. My computer icon –Shows disk drives and hardware connected to computer i.e. when
connecting USB.
2. My document-Contain/stores letters ,reports ,documents and files
3. My Network places –shows shortcuts to websites network computer.
4. Recycle bin-Contains files and folders that you have deleted which you can restore or
delete permanently.
Restoring Files
This is removing deleted files from the Recycle Bin.
Files deleted from the hard disk can always be recovered from the Recycle Bin. When
files are restored they are taken back to the folder from where they had been deleted.
 From the desktop, Double click on the Recycle Bin.(open)
 Select the file that you want to restore by clicking on it
 Click on file on the menu bar
 Click restore

5. Inbox-Helps to receive information from external sources connected to computer/internet.

The Start Button

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On clicking the start button, the pop up menu of listen software appears.
These are:
1. Shut down-shuts down computer/restarts computer.
2. Help and Support-Contains help topics and how to go about anything you don’t
understand on a computer.
3. Find and Search-Helps to find /locate files and folders that an operator doesn’t know
where they are saved.
4. Settings –Display a list of system on which you can change their settings or appearance
/formations.
5. Documents-Displays a list of fourteen or fifteen documents lately dealt with or worked on.
6. Programs-Displays list of programs that you can start with.

Changing Settings
These is a process of configuring the windows appearance in relation to the computer hardware or
software being applied. Item that can be set/ configured include the display (the monitor), mouse,
date and time, user accounts, keyboard etc
 To change any settings, click on start then settings, select control panel, Select the item to
configure, Do the necessary changes by completing dialogue box, click on apply then ok.
Items on the control panel
1. Adding new hardware wizard-used to install new hardware to the system.
2. Add/remove program-used to install programs in the computer.
3. Date/Time-used to change date/time in the computer
a. Open the control panel and then double click on date and time icon
b. Select the month and year in the dialogue box
c. Click on time and set your time
d. Click on apply then ok
4. Keyboard-used to change settings of keyboard e.g. cursor speed.
a. Open the control panel and then double click on keyboard icon
b. Set the keyboard features in the dialogue box
c. Click on apply then ok

5. Mouse-used to change settings of the mouse e.g. mouse pointer.

Mouse function
1. Pointing- used to select items on the computer /identifying location on screen
2. Clicking- pressing the mouse button once
3. Double clicking- Pressing the left mouse button twice in a close succession
4. Dragging- Moving from one place to another
a. Open the control panel and then double click on mouse icon
b. Change the button and speed
c. Then click on pointers and select the scheme from the list given.
d. Change the motion
e. Click on apply then ok

6. Display Settings
These are settings that change the appearance of the desktop e.g. the background (Desktop), screen
saver, appearance etc.
1. Background:
This is made up of the background or wallpaper on the desktop
Do the following once in the control panel.
 Double click on display icon

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  Click on background /Desktop tab
 Select the wallpaper from the given lists
 Click on Apply then Ok

2. Screen saver:
This is made up of the background or wallpaper which appears when the computer is idle.
Functions
1. A screen saver protects the computer screen from unauthorized users.
2. Acts as security to information being denied accessed.
NB: The disadvantage of a password is that you cannot access to your computer once the
screensaver starts running until you enter the right password.

Once in the control panel do the following to set the screen saver.
 Double click on display icon
 Click on screen saver tab
 Select the screen saver from the give list
 Click on Apply then Ok.

3. Appearance:
This changes the appearances of all the windows and other items that are displayed by the
computer. To change the appearance of windows displayed, set the schemes to much your needs.
You can also set the font sizes and color for dialogue boxes.
Do the following once in the control panel.
 Double click on the display icon
 Click Appearance tab at the top
 Select the scheme from the given scheme lists
 Click on Apply then Ok.

USER ACCOUNT
User account is facility that allows the computer user personalize (make private) some item and
operations especially where the computer is shared or operated by more than one user. There are
two types of user account:
 Administrator account
 Limited account
Administer account allow the user to change all the computer setting but the limited account do not.
The prevention/ security is ensured by creating a password to an account
Create a new user accounts
 Click start button
 Click control panel
 Click user accounts
 Click manage another account
 Click create a new accounts
 Type the name of the account
 Choose the type of the account
 Click create account
Create password for an account
 When on user accounts
 Click manage another account

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  Select account to apply the password
 Click create password
 Type password and retype it again to confirm
 Click create password
Delete the user account
 Click the account
 Click delete the account
 Click delete the files
 Click delete the account
Switch between user accounts
 Click start button
 Click log off/switch user
 Click switch user
 Click the user’s name
 Type the password
 Press enter key

Accessories
These are programs that come together with the operating system and can be used to accomplish
some routine tasks e.g.
1. Word pad
2. Note pad
3. Ms paint
4. Calculator

To start any Accessory program, do the following:

 Click on the start button
 Point on programs
 Point on Accessories
 Click on any of your choice

File Menu Contains

1. New – used to create new document
2. Open – used to open exciting document
3. Save – used to save a file for the first time with a name
4. Save As – saves the file in a second time with a new name
5. Print Preview – used to see what you want to print
6. Print – used to get document inform of a hardcopy
7. Page Setup – used to change the layout of the page
8. Exit - Used to close the program

Windows Explorer
This is a program used to explore and organize our files on the storage disks.
The left section displays the drives and the folders on the computer while the right section shows
the contents of the drive or folder selected in the left section.
To start it you:
 click on Start button

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  Point on all programs
 Click on accessories
 Click on Windows Explorers
Or
 Right click on my document then click explore

Folders
They are storage area for files on our disks used to organize our work and appear yellow in color.
They are created on drives, Desktop, My Documents and also within folders.

Creating a Folder
To create a folder using Windows Explorer, follow the steps explained earlier to open it then when
the explorer is open:
In the left window, click on the drive or folder to contain the folder e.g. Drive C, My Documents.
 Click on FILE (on the menu bar)
 Click on NEW
 Click FOLDER (A folder will appear with a temporary name)
 Type the name of your folder.
 Press ENTER key on the keyboard
Or
 Right click on the desktop
 Click on NEW
 Click FOLDER (A folder will appear with a temporary name)
 Type the name of your folder.
 Press ENTER key on the keyboard

Creating a Sub-Folder
This is a folder within another folder.
Do the following to create it:
 Double click on the folder in which you want to create sub-folders.
 Click on FILE (On the menu bar)
 Click on NEW
 Click on FOLDER (A folder will appear with a temporary name)
 Type the name of your folder.
 Press ENTER on the keyboard

FILE AND DOCUMENTS

Files
File is a collection of related data that initially has been created in random access memory and
stored in a particular memory location. File contains basic information for storage from a source
program.
Document
Document is the data within the random access memory before it has been saved
Creating a File
open the program you wish to use when writing the file i.e WordPad, Notepad, Paint
 Open any Accessory program.
 Write the content of your choice on the working area
 Click on FILE (On the menu bar)
 Click on Save
 Locate your Folder

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  Type the name of your File.
 Click on Save or Press ENTER on the keyboard
Renaming a Folder/ File
This is changing the name of a file or folder.
 Click once on the folder or file to be renamed or right click on it
 Click on FILE (on the menu bar)
 Click RENAME
 Click the new name
 Press enter key on the keyboard
Deleting a folder/ File
This is erasing the folder/ file from the disk or from another folder.
 Click once on the folder/ file to select it or right click on it.
 Click on file (On the menu bar)
 Click on delete
 Click on YES to confirm the deletion. (Alternatively select the folder/ file and press the
delete key)
Copying Files
This is the process of making a copy of a file and placing it in another folder.
While on windows Explorer do the following:
 In the left window click on the folder with the file to copy(this opens the folder to
display the files in the right window)
 On the right hand side click on file or files to copy
 Click on edit on the menu bar.
 Click on copy
 On the left hard side select the folder in which to place the file.
 Click on edit
 Click on paste to place the copy in the selected folder.
Creating Shortcuts
 Right click on the Desktop area away from the icons
 Point on new
 Click on shortcut
 Click on browse and select the target of the shortcut
 Click on the item you want to create shortcut for
 Click Ok
 Click on next and give the shortcut name.
 Click on finish
Formatting of Disks
This is used to make TRACK and SELECTS on the diskette for data storage.
A disk cannot be used to store data unless it is formatted.
Steps to follow when formatting
 Insert the unformatted disk on Drive A
 Double click on My computer/ my PC icon on the desktop
 Select the disk i.e. click on 31/2 floppy icon.
 Click on FILE on the menu bar
 Click on FORMAT command
 Select the capacity, labels and type of format e.g. full
 Click on start
After the format is completed click on close

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