IT APPLICATIONS

IN BUSINESS
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SYLLABUS
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 BASICS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

COMPONENTS OF IT SYSTEMS
1. Hardware: This includes physical components such as computers, servers,
and network devices like routers and switches.

2. Software: This refers to the programs and applications that run on the
hardware, such as operating systems, databases, and software applications like
word processors or accounting software.

3. Network: This is the connection infrastructure between all hardware and

software components. It includes wired and wireless networks, switches,
routers, firewalls and other connectivity devices.

4. Data: This refers to all of the information that is stored, manipulated, and
used by the system. It could include customer data, inventory information,
financial data, and more.

5. People: This includes both users and technical personnel who operate and
maintain the system. Users interact with the system, while technical personnel
ensure the system is running smoothly and efficiently.

6. Procedures: These are the policies, processes, and protocols that govern how
the system is used and maintained. This includes security procedures, backup
policies, maintenance schedules, and more.

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 BASICS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS
Computers have several characteristics that make them essential tools in
today’s society. Below are some noteworthy characteristics of computers:

1. Speed: Computers can process large amounts of data and perform

calculations at incredible speeds. Modern computers can perform billions of
calculations per second.

2. Accuracy: Computers can perform calculations and data processing with

great accuracy, minimizing the risk of errors or inconsistencies.

3. Storage: Computers can store vast amounts of data, which can be quickly
retrieved and used as needed. With the advent of cloud computing, the storage
capacity of computers has grown exponentially.

4. Versatility: Computers can be programmed to perform different tasks and

execute different applications. They can be used for a wide range of functions
from simple data processing to complex simulations and analytics.

5. Connectivity: Computers can be connected through networks, enabling

communication and information sharing across different locations and systems.

6. Automation: Computers can automate routine and repetitive tasks, freeing

up humans to focus on more complex or specialized work.

7. Reliability: With proper maintenance and care, computers can be very

reliable, minimizing downtime and improving productivity.

8. Scalability: Computers can be easily expanded through hardware and

software upgrades to accommodate growing or changing needs.

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 BASICS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

INPUT-OUTPUT DEVICES
Input-output devices are essential components of computer systems that
enable users to interact with the computer and perform various tasks. Below
are examples of input-output devices and the types of software, human ware,
firmware and hardware they may use.

1. Keyboard: This is an input device that allows the user to type and enter data
into a computer. The software drivers for the keyboard enable the operating
system to recognize the keystrokes. Humanware, such as the user's typing skills,
also affect its performance. Firmware, such as the keyboard controller chip,
controls the keyboard's operations, and hardware components include the
keys, switches, and cables.

2. Mouse: Mouse is an input device that enables users to point and click on the
screen to select, move, and manipulate objects. The software drivers for the
mouse enable the operating system to recognize the movements and clicks.
Humanware, such as the user's hand-eye coordination, affects its performance.
Firmware, such as the controller chip within the mouse, control its operations,
and hardware components include the buttons, sensors, and cables.

3. Printer: A printer is an output device that produces hard copies of

documents, images, and other materials. In software, printers use drivers to
communicate with the system and the printer's firmware. In hardware, printers
consist of various components, like the toner/ink cartridges, paper feeders,
spools, and motors, which are interconnected to produce printed outputs.

4. Monitor: A monitor is an output device that displays information on the

screen. The operating system works with the software drivers to measure the
characteristics and performance of the monitor. In addition, the humanware -
the user's vision and preferences - have a significant impact on how the
monitor is perceived. The monitor hardware includes the screen, backlighting,
and other components.

5. Speakers: Speakers are output devices that produce sound. Operating

systems work with the software drivers to manage the audio properties, while
humanware, such as hearing acuity and preferences, affects the audio quality.
Hardware components of speakers consist of the speaker drivers, amplifiers,
and cables, among others.

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 BASICS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS
Computers can be classified into several categories based on their
characteristics and capabilities. Below are the main categories of computers:

1. Supercomputers: Supercomputers are the most powerful and largest

computers available. They are used in scientific research, such as climate
modeling, physics simulations, and complex system analysis. Supercomputers
process vast amounts of data and perform complex mathematical calculations
with incredible speed.

2. Mainframes: Mainframes are large, powerful computers used for enterprise-

level computing tasks, such as database management, transaction processing,
and storage. Mainframes have high processing power, memory, and storage
capacity and are designed for multi-user applications.

3. Minicomputers: Minicomputers are smaller than mainframes but larger than

personal computers. They are designed for smaller organizations or businesses
and can handle more extensive applications than personal computers.

4. Personal Computers: Personal computers (PCs) are the most commonly used
type of computer. They have single users and are used primarily for general-
purpose computing and internet browsing. PCs can run various software and
applications, from simple word processors to complex video editing tools.

5. Workstations: Workstations are similar to personal computers, but they have

higher processing power, memory, and graphics capabilities. They are used
primarily in fields such as engineering, architecture, and graphic design, where
high-performance computing is essential.

6. Embedded computers: Embedded computers are special-purpose

computers used mainly in embedded systems, such as industrial controls,
medical devices, and vehicles. They are designed to perform a specific function
or task and are typically integrated into larger systems.

7. Handheld computers: Handheld computers, such as smartphones and

tablets, are portable devices with built-in computing capabilities. They are
primarily used for communication, entertainment, and general-purpose
computing tasks.

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 COMPUTER MEMORY

TYPES OF MEMORY
There are several types of memory, each with its specific purpose and
characteristics. Below are the most common types of memory in computer
systems:

1. RAM (Random Access Memory): RAM is the primary memory in a computer

system. It is used to store data temporarily while the computer is running. RAM
is volatile, which means it loses its stored information when power is turned off.

2. ROM (Read-Only Memory): ROM is a type of non-volatile memory that

permanently stores data and instructions required to start the computer. ROM
stores the BIOS, which boots the computer and finds the operating system
stored on other storage devices.

3. Cache Memory: Cache memory is a small amount of high-speed memory

used to store frequently accessed data and instructions. It's located on the
processor chip and is designed to reduce the time required to access memory
by keeping critical data closer to the processor.

4. Virtual Memory: Virtual memory is a technique used by computer systems to

extend the computer's memory capacity beyond its physical limits. It allows the
operating system to use hard disk space as if it were RAM, which enables the
system to run more extensive applications and perform multiple tasks at once.

5. Flash Memory: Flash memory is a type of non-volatile memory commonly

used in various digital devices such as smartphones, cameras, and USB flash
drives. It is used for storing data, software, and firmware.

6. Magnetic Disk Storage: Magnetic disks, such as Hard Disk Drives (HDDs) and
Solid State Drives (SSDs), are storage devices used to store data for long term
use. HDDs use magnetic disks and rotating platters to store data, while SSDs
use flash memory to store data and have no moving parts.

7. Optical Storage: Optical storage devices, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray
disks, use lasers to store data on the disk's surface. They are used primarily for
long-term archiving of data and software distribution.

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 COMPUTER MEMORY

STORAGE DEVICES
Storage devices can be classified into two main categories: primary storage
devices and secondary storage devices.

Primary storage devices are used to temporarily store data and are directly
accessible by the CPU.

Secondary storage devices are used for long-term storage of data and are
not directly accessible by the CPU.

1. Hard Disk Drives (HDDs): HDDs are mechanical devices that use magnetic
disks to store data. They are commonly used in personal computers and server
systems, providing large amounts of storage at relatively low costs.

2. Solid State Drives (SSDs): SSDs use flash memory instead of magnetic disks,
making them more reliable, faster, and quieter than HDDs. SSDs are commonly
used in laptops and tablets.

3. USB Flash Drives: USB flash drives use flash memory to store data and can be
easily connected to a computer’s USB port. They are small and compact,
making them convenient for storing and transporting data.

4. Memory Cards: Memory cards are small, portable storage devices commonly
used in digital cameras, smartphones, and tablets. They use flash memory to
store data and can be easily removed and inserted into different devices.

5. Optical Discs: Optical discs, such as CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray discs, use laser
technology to read and write data on the disc’s surface. They are commonly
used for distributing software and data.

6. Magnetic Tape Drives: Magnetic tape drives use magnetic tape, similar to
those used in cassette tapes, to store data. They are commonly used for long-
term data backups in enterprise environments.

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 COMPUTER MEMORY

MASS STORAGE SYSTEMS

Mass storage systems are devices used to store a large amount of data at a
centralized location, making it easily accessible by multiple users or systems.
These systems are commonly found in enterprise environments and data
centers, where large amounts of data need to be stored, managed, and
accessed efficiently. Below are the most common types of mass storage
systems:

1. Network Attached Storage (NAS): NAS is a type of mass storage system that
is connected directly to a network. It is designed to provide shared access to
data for multiple users, making it an ideal solution for small to medium-sized
businesses. NAS devices can be easily managed and monitored using various
software tools and can be scaled up to meet the growing storage needs of the
organization.

2. Storage Area Networks (SANs): A SAN is a dedicated network used to

connect multiple storage devices to a server or network. SANs are commonly
used in enterprise environments to provide high-speed access to large amounts
of data. SANs are highly reliable, scalable, and can be easily managed using
various software tools.

3. Tape Libraries: Tape libraries are specialized mass storage systems used for
long-term data backup and archive storage. They use magnetic tapes to store
data and can hold large amounts of information. Tape libraries provide an
affordable and reliable solution for managing massive amounts of data over
extended periods.

4. Cloud Storage: Cloud storage is a type of mass storage system that stores
data on remote servers accessible over the internet. Cloud storage provides
scalable and cost-effective storage solutions for small to large businesses. Cloud
storage services can be easily accessed from anywhere, making it an ideal
solution for remote workers or distributed teams.

5. Object Storage: Object storage is a type of storage that stores data in the
form of objects. Each object includes not only the data but also the identifier
and metadata. This metadata can be used to easily locate and retrieve the
object. Object storage is highly reliable, scalable, and cost-effective.

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 COMPUTER MEMORY

CONCEPT OF CLOUD COMPUTING

Cloud computing is a service delivery model that allows users to access
computing resources over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis. These
resources can include servers, storage, databases, applications, and other
services. Cloud computing enables businesses and individuals to leverage
technology without having to invest in and maintain expensive hardware or
software.

The cloud computing model is divided into three main categories:

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), Platform as a Service (PaaS), and Software as a
Service (SaaS).

Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS): IaaS provides users with access to virtualized

computing resources, including servers, storage, and networking infrastructure.
The user has control over the operating system, applications, and data hosted
on the infrastructure.

Platform as a Service (PaaS): PaaS provides a complete platform to develop,

run, and manage applications without having to worry about the underlying
infrastructure. The user has control over the application they develop and the
data generated by it.

Software as a Service (SaaS): SaaS provides users access to software

applications over the internet without having to install the application on their
computer. The software is hosted on a remote server and can be accessed from
anywhere using a web browser.

Cloud computing provides many benefits, including scalability, flexibility,

and cost-efficiency.

Users can quickly scale up or down their computing resources as needed,

based on their business requirements.

Additionally, users only pay for the resources they use, eliminating the need
to invest in expensive hardware or software.

With cloud computing, users can also access their data and applications
from anywhere, making it an ideal solution for remote workers and
distributed teams.

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