Chapter 1

Introduction
Why Computers?
Two major factors that stimulate development in any field are the following:
1. Demand of users and potential users
2. Available technology
• Advantages of Computers
• Perform repetitive tasks
• More accurate while dealing with large numbers
• Work at constant efficiency
• Are used in almost every field
• Process millions of instructions in a fraction of a second
• Effective and efficient data storage and retrieval

WHAT IS A COMPUTER?
The word "computer" comes from the word ‘compute’, which means to calculate.
So, a computer is normally considered to be a calculating device.
Computer can be defined as an electronic device for processing data that takes data
input from its user, stores, processes data and generates the required output as per
the processing instructions given to it by the user.

CHARACTERISTICS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM

1. Speed: Computers process data extremely fast, measured in microseconds,
nanoseconds, or even picoseconds, far quicker than seconds or milliseconds.
2. Accuracy: Computers are highly accurate, with their precision depending on their
design, making very few mistakes when performing tasks.
3. Versatility: Computers can handle a wide variety of tasks, from solving complex
math problems to performing different functions effectively.
4. Diligence: Unlike humans, computers don’t get tired or lose focus, allowing them
to work for long periods without errors.
5. Storage Capability: Computers can store vast amounts of data and quickly
retrieve any specific information when needed.
6. Reliability: Modern computers are highly reliable, with components like
microprocessors lasting decades before becoming outdated.
7. Automation: Computers can run tasks automatically without constant input from
users, once the initial setup is done.

CAPABILITIES OF COMPUTERS (Uses of Computers )

Application Area Use of Computers

Scientific Research Used to resolve complex scientific problems accurately in a

short time

Business Used in banks, airports, share markets, hotels, export

houses, Government offices and others for rising business
applications like MIS, Payroll, Inventory, Financial
Accounting etc.

Defense Used to computerize warplanes, ships, radars and many

advanced weapons

Space Used to design computerized space satellites, rockets and

related technology

Data Communication Used to computerize geo-graphically separated offices

through networking

Telecommunication Used in ISDN, E-mail, Internet, Intranet, VSAT,

Videoconferencing, Paging, Cellular phones etc.

Medicine Used in hospitals and nursing homes/clinics for maintaining

medical records, prescription writing, diagnostic
applications and computerized scanning(CAT Scanning)
 Education Used in development of CBT (Computer Based Teaching)/
CAT (Computer Aided Teaching) programs for education

Law & others Used to records data of vehicles

Libraries Used to develop Library Management Systems

Publishers Used for Desk Top Publishing (DTP) for designing & printing
of books

Engineering Used CAD (Computer Aided Designing)/CAM (Computer

Aided Manufacturing) by engineering companies

Emerging Used in Artificial Intelligence (Expert Systems, Robotics etc.)

Technologies and Virtual Reality

COMPUTERS IN BUSINESS
Computer systems perform three vital roles in any type of organization:
Support of Business Operations: Let's take a retail store as an example to illustrate
the important role.
As a consumer, we have to deal regularly with the computer-based information
systems that support business operations at many retail stores where we shop.
For example, most retail stores now use computer-based information systems to
help them record customer purchases, keep track of inventory, pay employees, buy
new merchandise, and evaluate sales trends. Store operations would grind to a halt
without the support of such information systems.

Support of Managerial Decision-Making: Computer-based information systems

also help store managers make better decisions and attempt to gain a strategic
competitive advantage.
For example, decisions on what lines of merchandise need to be added or
discontinued, or on what kind of investment they require, are typically made after
an analysis provided by computer-based information systems.
This not only supports the decision making of store managers but also helps them
look for ways to gain an advantage over other retailers in the competition for
customers.

Support of Strategic Competitive Advantage: Gaining a strategic advantage over

competitors requires innovative use of computers and information technology.
For example, store managers might make a decision to install computerized touch-
screen catalog ordering systems in all of their stores, tied in with computer-based
telephone ordering systems and an Internet-based computer shopping network.

LIMITATIONS OF COMPUTERS
1. No IQ: A computer is not a magical device. It can only perform tasks that a human
being can. The difference is that it performs these tasks with unthinkable speed and
accuracy. It possesses no intelligence of its own. Its IQ is zero, at least till today.
2. No Feelings: Computers are devoid of emotions. They have no feelings and no
instincts because they are machine. Although men have succeeded in building a
memory for the computer, but no computer possesses the equivalent of human
heart and soul. Based on our feelings, taste, knowledge, and experience, we often
make certain judgments in our day-to-day life. But computers cannot make such
judgments on their own.

Career Options
1. IT Consultant: Works with clients to plan, design, install, and improve IT systems
to meet business goals or solve problems.
For example, a company hires an IT consultant to recommend new software and
help them transition from their outdated systems to a cloud-based solution for
better efficiency.
2. Cybersecurity Consultant: Focuses on identifying and preventing risks to data and
information security, helping businesses protect sensitive data.
For example, a bank brings in a cybersecurity consultant to assess their network and
protect customer data from potential hacking threats.
3. Information Systems Manager: Oversees the entire IT system in a company,
ensuring everything runs smoothly, securely, and efficiently, including installations,
backups, and IT support.
For example, an information systems manager ensures that all employees at a
manufacturing firm have secure access to the company’s internal systems and that
data is regularly backed up.
4. Database Administrator (DBA): Manages and secures company databases,
ensuring they run smoothly and maintain data accuracy and integrity.
For example, a database administrator at an e-commerce company maintains the
customer database, ensuring all orders are processed without errors and data
remains secure.
5. Multimedia Programmer: Creates and maintains multimedia products (like
animations, videos, and graphics) using both creative and technical skills.
For example, a multimedia programmer creates interactive 3D models and
animations for a museum's virtual tour, ensuring it works across different devices.
6. Systems Analyst: Designs new IT solutions or improves existing ones to boost
business efficiency and productivity.
For example, a systems analyst works at a retail company to integrate a new
payment system into their existing platform, improving transaction speed and
accuracy.
7. Games Developer: Designs and programs video games for different platforms,
combining creative storytelling and technical programming skills.
For example, a games developer creates a mobile game where users solve puzzles,
focusing on both the character design and the coding behind game mechanics.
8. Technical Writer: Creates manuals and guides to explain how to use products,
often using technical knowledge from fields like software development.
For example, a technical writer develops a user guide for a new smartphone,
explaining how to set up the device and use its features in simple, clear language.