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Computer Fundamentals

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Computer Fundamentals

Uploaded by

haryana.ala.jaat006
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Computer Fundamentals

1. Evolution of Computers through Generations:


○ First Generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes, large, slow, high power
consumption.
○ Second Generation (1956-1963): Transistors, smaller, faster, less power.
○ Third Generation (1964-1971): Integrated circuits, more reliable, multitasking.
○ Fourth Generation (1971-Present): Microprocessors, personal computers,
graphical interfaces.
○ Fifth Generation (Present & Beyond): AI, advanced parallel processing.
2. Characteristics of Computers:
○ Speed, accuracy, automation, storage, versatility, diligence.
3. Strengths and Limitations:
○ Strengths: Fast processing, high accuracy, multitasking.
○ Limitations: Lacks thinking, requires electricity, dependent on instructions.
4. Classification of Computers:
○ By Size: Micro, mini, mainframe, supercomputers.
○ By Purpose: General-purpose, special-purpose.
5. Functional Components:
○ Input, processing, output, storage, control unit.
6. Applications in Various Fields:
○ Education, healthcare, banking, business, communication, entertainment,
science.

Types of Software

1. System Software: Manages hardware and basic functions (e.g., operating systems).
2. Application Software: User-specific applications (e.g., word processors, games).
3. Utility Software: Maintenance tools (e.g., antivirus, disk cleanup).
4. Shareware: Trial software with limited features.
5. Freeware: Free software with all features.
6. Firmware: Software embedded in hardware.
7. Free Software: Open-source, free for modification.

Memory Systems

1. Basic Concepts:
○ Bit: Smallest unit.
○ Byte: 8 bits.
○ Word, Nibble: Word is the computer's basic unit, nibble is 4 bits.
○ Measuring Units: KB, MB, GB, TB.
○ Access Time: Time to retrieve data.
○ Memory Hierarchy: Register > Cache > RAM > Disk Storage.
2. Primary Memory:
○ RAM: Volatile, temporary storage.
○ ROM: Non-volatile, read-only.
○ PROM/EPROM: Programmable, erasable ROM.
3. Secondary Memory:
○ Magnetic Tape: Sequential access.
○ Hard Disk: Non-volatile, large storage.
○ Optical Disk: CD, DVD, laser-based storage.
○ Flash Memory: Non-volatile, USB, SSD.

I/O Devices

1. I/O Ports: Connect external devices.


2. Device Controller: Manages device communication.
3. Device Driver: Software enabling hardware communication.
4. Input Devices:
○ Keyboard, Mouse, Touch Pad, Trackball, Joystick, Scanner, Digital Camera,
Microphone.
5. Output Devices:
○ Monitor: Display.
○ Printer: Laser, inkjet, dot-matrix.
○ Speaker: Audio output.
○ Plotter: Large-scale printing.

Operating System

1. Definition: Software managing hardware and software resources.


2. Functions: Memory management, file management, security, user interface.
3. Features: Icons, taskbar, shortcuts, control panel, My Computer.
4. Basic Components: Desktop, recycle bin, folders, files, start menu.

The Internet

1. Introduction to Networks:
○ Internet: Global network.
○ Intranet: Private organizational network.
○ Extranet: Limited access for external users.
2. Modes of Connecting: Wi-Fi, broadband, mobile data, dial-up.

Electronic Mail (Email)

1. Introduction: Electronic communication.


2. Advantages: Fast, accessible, low-cost.
3. Disadvantages: Spam, privacy issues.
4. Components: User IDs, passwords, email addresses, message composition.
5. Browsers: Software for accessing the web.
6. Search Engines: Tools for finding online information.

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