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 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
Roger Powley, CD PhD
Wilhelmina Louw
Glenda Gaye

Introduction to Computers 1
Course Name: Introduction to Computers
Course Author:
Roger Powley, CD PhD – Commonwealth of Learning Consultant
Wilhelmina Louw – Namibian College of Open Learning
Glenda Gaye – University of the West Indies

Commonwealth of Learning
Edition 1.0

____________________

Commonwealth of Learning © September 2011

Any part of this document may be reproduced without permission but with attribution to
the Commonwealth of Learning using the CC‐BY‐SA (share alike with attribution).

http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by‐sa/3.0

Commonwealth of Learning
1055 West Hastings Street, Suite 1200
Vancouver, British Columbia
Canada V6E 2E9
Telephone: +1 604 775 8200
Fax: +1 604 775 8210
Web: www.col.org
E‐mail: [email protected]

Introduction to Computers 2
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The Commonwealth of Learning wishes to acknowledge the contributions of the course

authors and the support of the University of Lesotho in the creation of this course.

Introduction to Computers 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ________________________________________________________ 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS __________________________________________________________ 4
COURSE OVERVIEW ___________________________________________________________ 9
Introduction _____________________________________________________________________________ 9
Course Goals _____________________________________________________________________________ 9
Description ______________________________________________________________________________ 9
Required Readings ________________________________________________________________________ 9
Major Assignment _________________________________________________________________________ 9
Assessment _____________________________________________________________________________ 10
Course Schedule _________________________________________________________________________ 10
Hardware and Software ___________________________________________________________________ 10

STUDENT SUPPORT __________________________________________________________ 11

Academic Support ________________________________________________________________________ 11
How to Submit Assignments ________________________________________________________________ 11
Technical Support ________________________________________________________________________ 11

UNIT 1: IMPACT AND HISTORY OF COMPUTERS ____________________________________ 12

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 12
Unit Objectives __________________________________________________________________________ 12

Topic 1 – Computer Technology – An Introduction _______________________________________ 13

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 13
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 13
Introduction to Computer Technology ________________________________________________________ 13
Computer Technology is Everywhere _________________________________________________________ 16
Generating Information ___________________________________________________________________ 16
Accessing Information_____________________________________________________________________ 17
Surveillance _____________________________________________________________________________ 18
Changing the Way We Communicate _________________________________________________________ 18
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 19

Topic 1.2 – Information Technology (It) – The Concepts ___________________________________ 20

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 20
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 20
What Is Information Technology? ___________________________________________________________ 20
Impact Of Information And Communication Technology (ICT) On Society ____________________________ 22
Threats to Information Systems _____________________________________________________________ 23
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 25

Topic 3 ‐ Computer technology in Work and Play ________________________________________ 26

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 26
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 26
Science, Medicine, Health and Technology ____________________________________________________ 26

Introduction to Computers 4
 Education and Technology _________________________________________________________________ 29
Business and Technology __________________________________________________________________ 30
Social Interactions and Relationships _________________________________________________________ 31
Man‐Machine Connection _________________________________________________________________ 32
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 33

Unit 1 Summary ___________________________________________________________________ 34

UNIT 2: COMPUTER HARDWARE _______________________________________________ 36

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 36
Unit Objectives __________________________________________________________________________ 36

Topic 1 – The Evolution Of Computer Technology ________________________________________ 37

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 37
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 37
Computer Generations ____________________________________________________________________ 37
The First Generation Computer (1940s‐1950s) _________________________________________________ 38
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 43

Topic 2 – Computer Hardware And Peripherals__________________________________________ 44

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 44
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 44
Input Devices ____________________________________________________________________________ 44
Output Device ___________________________________________________________________________ 46
Process and Storage Devices _______________________________________________________________ 47
Storage Devices __________________________________________________________________________ 48
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 53

Topic 3 ‐ Computers and Computing __________________________________________________ 55

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 55
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 55
General Purpose Computer Systems _________________________________________________________ 55
Embedded Computer Systems ______________________________________________________________ 56
Computer System – How It Works ___________________________________________________________ 57
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 61

Topic 4 – Processing Data ___________________________________________________________ 62

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 62
Processing Data and Computer Memory ______________________________________________________ 62
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 65

Recommended Unit Readings ________________________________________________________ 66

Unit 2 Summary ___________________________________________________________________ 67

UNIT 3: SOFTWARE __________________________________________________________ 69

Introduction ______________________________________________________________________ 69
Topic 1 ‐ Operating Systems, Utility Programs and Language Translators _____________________ 71
Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 71

Introduction to Computers 5
 Operating Systems _______________________________________________________________________ 71
Types of Operating Systems ________________________________________________________________ 73
Functions OF AN Operating System __________________________________________________________ 74
User Interface ___________________________________________________________________________ 76
Utility Programs _________________________________________________________________________ 78
Language Translators _____________________________________________________________________ 79
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 80

Topic 2 – Applications Software ______________________________________________________ 81

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 81
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 81
Personal Productivity Applications ___________________________________________________________ 81
Word Processing Features _________________________________________________________________ 83
Workgroup Applications ___________________________________________________________________ 83
Enterprise Applications ____________________________________________________________________ 83
Application Software Development __________________________________________________________ 84
Spreadsheet Features _____________________________________________________________________ 84
Presentation Software Features _____________________________________________________________ 85
Proprietary versus Open source software _____________________________________________________ 85
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 86

Recommended Unit Readings ________________________________________________________ 87

Unit 3 – Summary _________________________________________________________________ 88

UNIT 4: FILE AND DATA MANAGEMENT __________________________________________ 91

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 91
Unit Objectives __________________________________________________________________________ 91

Topic 1 ‐ Disk and File Management Operations _________________________________________ 92

Introduction ____________________________________________________________________________ 92
Objectives ______________________________________________________________________________ 92
File Management ________________________________________________________________________ 92
Root Folders and Subfolders ________________________________________________________________ 92
Creating and Deleting Folders_______________________________________________________________ 95
Disk and File Management Operations _______________________________________________________ 96
Topic Summary __________________________________________________________________________ 97

Recommended Unit Readings ________________________________________________________ 98

Unit 4 ‐ Summary __________________________________________________________________ 99

UNIT 5: INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES ___________________________________________ 100

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 100
Unit Objectives _________________________________________________________________________ 100

Topic 1 ‐ Keyboard and Pointing Input Devices _________________________________________ 101

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 101
Objectives _____________________________________________________________________________ 101
Data Input _____________________________________________________________________________ 101

Introduction to Computers 6
 The Keyboard __________________________________________________________________________ 102
Pointing Devices ________________________________________________________________________ 103
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 106

Topic 2 ‐ Data Entry at the Source ___________________________________________________ 107

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 107
Objectives _____________________________________________________________________________ 107
Source Data Entry _______________________________________________________________________ 107
Biometrics _____________________________________________________________________________ 107
Scanners ______________________________________________________________________________ 108
Barcode Reader _________________________________________________________________________ 109
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR) __________________________________________________ 110
Magnetic Strip Reader ___________________________________________________________________ 110
Optical Mark Reader _____________________________________________________________________ 110
Audio Input ____________________________________________________________________________ 112
Digital Input ____________________________________________________________________________ 112
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 113

Topic 3 ‐ Softcopy Output Devices ___________________________________________________ 114

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 114
Objectives _____________________________________________________________________________ 114
Softcopy Output Types ___________________________________________________________________ 114
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 116

Topic 4 ‐ Hardcopy Output Devices __________________________________________________ 117

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 117
Objectives _____________________________________________________________________________ 117
Hardcopy Output – An Overview ___________________________________________________________ 117
Other Types of Printers ___________________________________________________________________ 119
Terminals – As Input and Output Devices ____________________________________________________ 119
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 120

Topic 5 ‐ Storage Devices___________________________________________________________ 121

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 121
Objectives _____________________________________________________________________________ 121
Overview ______________________________________________________________________________ 121
Categories of Storage Devices _____________________________________________________________ 122
The Storage Hierarchy____________________________________________________________________ 125
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 125
Recommended Unit Readings______________________________________________________________ 126
Unit 5 – Summary _______________________________________________________________________ 127

UNIT 6: COMMUNICATIONS AND CONNECTIVITY _______________________________________ 129

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 129
Unit Objectives _________________________________________________________________________ 129

Topic 1 ‐ Communicating Using Technology____________________________________________ 130

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 130

Introduction to Computers 7
 Objectives _____________________________________________________________________________ 130
Communications ________________________________________________________________________ 130
Transaction Processing ___________________________________________________________________ 131
Information Retrieval ____________________________________________________________________ 131
Electronic Mail and Electronic Messaging ____________________________________________________ 132
Efficient and Effective Communication ______________________________________________________ 132
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 133

Topic 2 ‐ Connecting Computers _____________________________________________________ 134

Introduction ___________________________________________________________________________ 134
Unit Objectives _________________________________________________________________________ 134
Communication System Components _______________________________________________________ 134
Network Topologies _____________________________________________________________________ 135
Local Area Networks (LANs) _______________________________________________________________ 136
Peer‐to‐Peer Networks ___________________________________________________________________ 137
Client‐Server Networks ___________________________________________________________________ 137
Wide Area Network (WAN) ________________________________________________________________ 137
Connecting to the Internet ________________________________________________________________ 138
Dial‐up Internet Connection _______________________________________________________________ 138
Other Internet Connections _______________________________________________________________ 138
Search Engines _________________________________________________________________________ 140
Topic Summary _________________________________________________________________________ 142
Recommended Unit Readings______________________________________________________________ 143

Unit 6 – Summary ________________________________________________________________ 144

COURSE SUMMARY _________________________________________________________ 146

Final Assignment Description ______________________________________________________________ 148
Course Summary ________________________________________________________________________ 148

APPENDIX ONE – SUGGESTED RESPONSES _______________________________________ 149

Unit 1 Activities And Responses ______________________________________________________ 149
Unit 2 Activities And Responses ______________________________________________________ 154
Unit 3 Activities And Responses ______________________________________________________ 158
Unit 4 Activities And Responses ______________________________________________________ 160
Unit 5 Activities And Responses ______________________________________________________ 161
Unit 6 Activities And Responses ______________________________________________________ 165

Introduction to Computers 8
COURSE OVERVIEW
Course Title: Certificate 03 ‐ Introduction to Computers.

INTRODUCTION
The Introduction to Computers course will prepare future entrepreneurs to operate
computer hardware and software applications. Participants will gain an understanding of
computer hardware, operating systems, office applications and networks. It will ensure the
entrepreneur is able to apply the concepts of networks, the Internet, World Wide Web, and
mobile technologies and how they could potentially support a successful business
operation.

COURSE GOALS
Upon completion of the Introduction to Computers course you will be able to:

1. Examine the impact of computer technology on society, education, industry,

government and business.
2. Operate a personal computer and computer peripherals.
3. Explain effective computer practices such as backup, updating, troubleshooting,
etc.
4. Explain the differences between network software, operating software and
application software.
5. Produce simple documents and presentations using Microsoft Word and
PowerPoint.
6. Describe a typical network and network hardware.
7. Explain the difference between the Internet and World Wide Web.
8. Explore and search the World Wide Web using a browser to research information.

DESCRIPTION
This course is the first of two course discussing information technology and its use in the
creation and growth of a business. The second course “Business Information Systems”
builds upon this course and provides the details of how to use information systems to
ensure business success.

REQUIRED READINGS
Recommended readings are provided at the end of each unit. Most readings will require
access to the Internet to review the online articles and web sites.

MAJOR ASSIGNMENT
The major assignment for this course is to produce a detailed analysis of the hardware,
software and network requirements for a small business and its growth over three to five
years. The assignment will require the participants to produce the following:

1. Three to five page report using a word processor of your choice (e.g. MS Word,
Open Office Word, etc.).

Introduction to Computers 9
 2. Presentation of five to ten slides that describes the technology solutions reflected
in the written report. The slides must incorporate graphics. The participant may
select the presentation software to be used to produce the project presentation.

3. The third part of the assignment is to create a spreadsheet that illustrates to cost of
the equipment and the annual operation of the technology support required by the
business. You should include the creation of a web site as part of the marketing
solution. Participants may select the spreadsheet software to be used to produce
the budget.

4. All three files should be emailed to your instructor for feedback and review.

More details are provided in the Course Summary.

ASSESSMENT
Assessment and grading will be established based on the instructor’s additional
requirements and the institutional policies guiding course assessment.

COURSE SCHEDULE
The instructor will provide a proposed course schedule based on the length of the semester
and any additional assignments or activities that he or she requires of the course
participants.

HARDWARE AND SOFTWARE

Computer Requirements: This course requires that you have access to a printer and
computer with Office software that is connected to the Internet. Your institution may
provide access to their computer lab or you may use your home or local community
computer resources.

Software Requirements: Each student will be required to have access to Microsoft Office
or Open Office that includes a word professor, presentation software, spreadsheets and
data base program. Open Office is an open source equivalent of Microsoft Office and can
be downloaded free from the Internet.

Introduction to Computers 10
STUDENT SUPPORT
Note: This section should be customized based on the services provided by each
institution’s capabilities.

ACADEMIC SUPPORT
<Insert the following information if relevant>

 How to contract a tutor/facilitator (Phone number, email, office hours, etc.).

 Background information about the tutor/facilitator if he/she does not change
regularly. Alternatively provide a separate letter with the package describing your
tutor/facilitator’s background.
 Description of any resources that they may need to procure to complete the course
(e.g. lab kits, etc.).
 How to access the library (either in person, by email or online).

HOW TO SUBMIT ASSIGNMENTS

<If the course requires that assignments be regularly graded, then insert a description of
how and where to submit assignments. Also explain how the learners will receive
feedback.>

TECHNICAL SUPPORT
<If the students must access content online or use email to submit assignments, then a
technical support section is required. You need to include how to complete basic tasks and
a phone number that they can call if they are having difficulty getting online>.

Introduction to Computers 11
UNIT 1: IMPACT AND HISTORY OF COMPUTERS
INTRODUCTION
Technology influences different areas of society and business, whether it is a particular age
group or gender, or the entire population. We may be resistant to its influences, whether in
the long or short term, until we are more aware on how this change impacts our lives,
families, work, entertainment, or daily living.

This unit explains terms associated with computer technology, explains its influence, and
contributions to various aspects of work and play. Then it briefly reviews the development
of the technology and explains the different categories of computer systems.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Define terms and explain characteristics associated with computer technology.

2. Discuss the influence of computer technology in a society.

3. Discuss the contributions of computer technology to education.

4. Discuss the contributions of computer technology to business.

5. Discuss the contributions of computer technology to everyday living.

This unit is divided into three topics:

Topic 1: Computer Technology – An Introduction

Topic 2: Information Technology – The Concepts

Topic 3: Computer Technology in Work and Play

Introduction to Computers 12
TOPIC 1 – COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY – AN INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
Computer Technology is now part of our everyday life, and almost every task we encounter
involves the use of computer technology. This Topic will first help you to understand
computer technology and its impact in society.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Explain terms associated with computer technology.

2. Explain features of computer technology.

3. Explain features of computer technology.

4. Discuss the extent to which computer technology has increased access and
flexibility.

5. Discuss the extent to which computer technology has changed the communication
landscape.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

Let us start by understanding the concept of computer technology. Quickly, in 30 seconds,
calculate the answer to 12 + 54 + 23.65 + 12.89 + 23¼ + 90 + 12 + 980 + 234 + 567 in your
head or on paper. Did you complete it in time? See the next page for the answer.

You may be surprised to learn that people were the first computers! The term computer
means someone who computes or performs calculations. Centuries ago, people were
called computers. They were usually women who worked out mathematical problems such
as tidal charts or navigational tables, and so ‘Computer’ was actually a job title.

However, as you can imagine, performing mathematical tasks every day, every week, every
month would eventually cause boredom which would cause errors in the calculations.
Therefore, the computer became a machine which automated these repetitive tasks.

A computer therefore is a machine which:

 accepts data (called INPUT);

 follows instructions given on what to do with the data (called PROCESSING);

 stores the results for future use (called STORAGE); and

Introduction to Computers 13
  display the results (called OUTPUT).

Answer: 2008.79

By applying technology to different problems and work environments we can enhance

situations or events that would have been almost inconceivable without it. For example,
voice mail, satellite television or cell phones are all examples of technology that use a
computer to operate the system. Computer technology therefore involves any machine,
tool or piece of equipment that is essentially controlled by a computer chip that is able to
make calculations.

The role of computers and computer technology is the ability to manipulate data into
information or commands. Data can be in many forms, such as text, pictures or sound and
can also be retrieved from the environment. An air conditioner which monitors the
temperature in a room to keep it cool at a specific temperature, or turning on lights outside
a building at dusk are both examples of a computer controlled environment that requires
input to produce a specific result or output.

Air Conditioner Automated Lights

Input Current Temperature Dusk

Desired Temperature
Output AC adjusts temperature to Lights On
desired temperature

Activity 1.1 ‐ Consider why it is essential that data and information must have the
following qualities:

 Relevant

 Complete

 Accurate

 Clear

 Reliable

 Concise

 Timely

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 14
Introduction to Computers 15
COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY IS EVERYWHERE
Information has become very important as a result of the computer technology which
provides it. Computer driven technology is an integral part of our daily routines, however
we tend not be aware of its presence. Many of our daily tasks are automated; such as our
answering machines, televisions, cable boxes, vehicles that use this technology. Similarly,
as a cashier prints out our receipt for a purchased item or the mail we receive that was
stamped by a machine, computer technology supported the creation of the receipt or the
delivery of our mail automatically.

We therefore say that computer technology is ubiquitous, or everywhere (almost!) once

information is present. To summarize, many utility companies are now recording our usage
to prepare monthly bills, which will be printed by a machine, while a local or overseas
phone companies record voice messages and the calls we missed. Also, our banks’
automated systems are automatically charging us every time we use the debit or credit
card. The automated systems are controlled by a computer process based on the input
from your retailer, the machine itself or from the scanner.

Activity 1.2 ‐ Describe how computer technology is integrated in the following sectors:

 Agriculture

 Education

 Theatre or the Arts

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

GENERATING INFORMATION
Remember that computers store the results or output of processing the data. Well
computer technology has enabled us to access information at our "finger tips"; from many
places, in many places, at any time, and in many different forms whether printed or stored.
Hence as more information is requested, more information is generated and more data
stored. It seems like a never ending cycle of information growing exponentially!

Activity 1.3 – Think of some specific examples, that you could use to explain what is
meant by the phrase:

“… computer technology has enabled us to access information … from many places, in

many places, at any time…’

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 16
Unfortunately, there is a drawback to generating information on every transaction.
Imagine how one minor error can mushroom into major problems because of your
computer technology, and this can have a negative impact on businesses and customers
alike. In addition, most people who are not in the computer field may believe that whatever
the computer produces is correct. Consider the consequences of transposing (switching)
two digits in a bank account number or entering the wrong data in payroll system. This can
cause embarrassment to the persons involved if deposits are made to the wrong account or
employees do not receive the correct pay. Even so, it is also more difficult to locate
someone who is willing to accept responsibility for an error made by a computerized
system. This lack of accountability for the error would be better addressed if the software
glitch was corrected as soon as possible!

We should also realize that since information is constantly generated, then it should be
possible to store it over a long period of time. It is reasonable to assume therefore that
information cannot be entirely destroyed or lost.

Activity 1.4 ‐ Describe two procedures or methods that should be implemented to ensure
that information is not lost or destroyed.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

ACCESSING INFORMATION
Much of the computer information that is generated and held in a database is available on‐
line. For example, customers can use the telephone or Internet to access current bank
balances and perform transactions. Access to your banking information can be made from
almost anywhere in the world. This has led to a new work ethic where computer
technology has enabled employees to work from various geographic locations, or time
zones. Computer technology has provided people with increased mobility while talking with
someone on the phone, or receiving a fax.

Information can be retrieved and sent in many forms including text, voice, graphics, photos
and video. Additionally, the "information superhighway" has increased the availability of
these forms of information delivery methods. One major concern of the recording industry
is the ability to reproduce digital material such as video tapes and DVDs, which are
indistinguishable from the original. This technology has caused headaches to the industry’s
composers and performers since any digital file can be easily duplicated and shared.

Activity 1.5 ‐ How would you explain the term "information superhighway" to a family
member? When considering your explanation highlight some characteristics that are
implied in the term.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 17
With access to information, and digital voice and smart technologies automated voices
have replaced operators who traditionally greeted customers and initially responded to
their queries. It is now commonplace to call businesses and hear an automated switching
system and voice‐mail system instead of an actual person who can assist you.

Activity 1.6 ‐ Think of three companies in your country that have automated responses to
transfer you to an extension or department. Consider how hearing an automated
response or a human voice personally affects you, and what these effects are.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

SURVEILLANCE
Computer technology has certainly allowed surveillance or the gathering of information for
different of purposes. Surveillance software allows individuals, companies and government
to monitor you in a variety of locations including other countries. Surveillance equipment
such as cameras and key pads now include transactional data which is collected from
virtually all types of transactions, including cash purchases and the acquisition of services to
analyze trends. One example is the use of Google Earth to capture topographical pictures
of different locations on the earth and more recently Google has released their street view
software that allows you to wander the streets of your city using 3D technologies. Take a
look at it by clicking here.

Activity 1.7 ‐ After viewing Google Street View, consider why investigators would want to
use surveillance to analyze pedestrian traffic in a town, or weather patterns in a particular
area of the country.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

CHANGING THE WAY WE COMMUNICATE

With the use of the computer and its technology used extensively throughout our society,
you are probably aware of how computer technology has changed the way we
communicate with another person or among groups of people. The use of email, instant
messenger and text messages have modified the usual visual and verbal signs when
communicating with someone else. This of course can be both a benefit and a detriment to
the communication process. For example, the use of computer tools such as email, instant
messenger and text messages mask features such as gender, race, age, and physical
disability, social or marital status.

Even distance learning has changed the way people are educated, as this manual and your
online activities illustrate! Your relationship with the facilitator is remote and you may only

Introduction to Computers 18
hear a voice or read the words on a page written by your instructor. Much of the distance
or blended learning materials and content are delivered though the use of databases, audio
or video feeds and other means such as Moodle or Blackboard. This has become a reality
for many who wish to further their education while employed full‐time or those who are
unable to access a physical campus at a local institution..

Activity 1.8 ‐ Identify:

Different symbols that are used to represent emotions in email messages, instant
messenger and text messages.

Think of different words or phrases that have been shortened or modified in email
messages, instant messenger and text messages

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

TOPIC SUMMARY
During the review of this topic we learned that computers impact every aspect of our life.
As a future entrepreneur you must learn to recognize the potential of computer
technologies and how to incorporate them into your business environment and business
plan. Consider the type of information you need access to, the type of information your
customers need and how to communicate this information to your target audience. The
next topic discussion on “Information Technologies” will help you better understand the
concepts related to computer and information technologies and provide another
perspective on how IT impacts our lives.

Introduction to Computers 19
TOPIC 1.2 – INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT) – THE CONCEPTS
INTRODUCTION
As noted in Topic 1.1 computers play a major role in our daily lives. Business demands the
use of computers to support business operations. As an entrepreneur it is important that
you understand and use computer technologies effectively to help grow your business.
Before exploring the details of a business computer environment, you need to understand
what we mean by information technology and how it influences society.

OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this lesson you will be able to:

1. Define information technology.

2. Explore the main uses of computers in society.
3. Describe the impact of computers on society, education, industry, government and
business.

WHAT IS INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY?

Let’s first look at some key terms before we define the concept information technology.

Let’s start with the term information. Information refers to data that has been put into a
meaningful and useful context.

Information systems refer to a set of people, procedures and resources that collects,
transforms, and disseminates information in an organization. Information systems are
implemented within an organization for the purpose of improving the effectiveness and
efficiency of that organization.

As an entrepreneur you will need to use a system to provide for the flow of information
within your business. Computers is playing a vital part in obtaining, processing and sharing
information within a business which means that an entrepreneur will have to make use of a
computer‐based information system.

This requires that you must have an understanding technologies used in computer‐based
information systems – use of hardware, software and people resources to transform data
resources into information.
Back to our question: What is meant by Information Technology?

Information Technology (IT) is the area of managing technology and spans a wide variety of
areas that include but are not limited to things such as processes, computer software,
information systems, computer hardware, programming languages, and data constructs. In
short, anything that renders data, information or perceived knowledge in any visual format

Introduction to Computers 20
whatsoever, via any multimedia distribution mechanism, is considered part of the domain
space known as Information Technology (IT) (Wikipedia).

TechAmerica defines IT as the study, design and implementation of computer based

information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware. IT deals
with the use of electronic computers and computer software to convert, store, protect,
process, transmit and securely retrieve information (www.answer.com).

The discipline of Information Systems can best be described as the effective analysis,
design, construction, delivery, management and use of information and information
technology in organizations and society. An Information System, per se, is an organized
collection of people, procedures, data, machines and services that work together to deliver
information (http://www.is.ru.ac.za/?q=content‐2 ).

So we can conclude that:

Information technology (IT) refers to the different ways (electronic computers and
computer software) of obtaining, processing, storing, and transmitting data in the form of
voice, pictures and words.

The term Information Technology (IT) is also known as Information Communication

Technology (ICT), and we shall continue to use that term henceforth because it combines
computing and communications. The computer is a key feature of ICT and the key to an
effective business is how the entrepreneur uses his or her ICT resources to grow and
manage the business.

It is clear from our brief discussion that computer technology plays a vital role in everyday
life. Now take a few minutes to complete the following activity.

Introduction to Computers 21
Activity 1.9 ‐ You have no doubt have come across a computer of some kind in your
everyday tasks, be it directly or indirectly. Do you agree?

In Column A, list five places where computers can be used in operating a business or in your
local community and in Column B suggest how the entrepreneur can use these computers
to support ICT.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

PLACE USE

You might have referred to places such as schools, businesses, government institutions and
the individual at home. Work through the following information and compare it with your
answers for this activity.

IMPACT OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY (ICT) ON SOCIETY

Today’s society is referred to as the ‘digital age’. Computers and ICT devices have become
an integral part of our lives and are used everywhere. Be it the desktop computers, laptop
computers or more recently tablet computers, all contribute to the activities we experience
in our daily life. We use these devices in schools, at home, hospitals, institutions,
businesses and even in government offices.

In general the impact of computers on society and how we live our lives is as follows:

 You can use computers to communicate with your family and friends, create a
household budget, book travel and movie tickets, or manage your business. The
internet has also tremendously increased people’s ability to communicate with
others from all over the world efficiently and relatively cheaply.

Introduction to Computers 22
  In business and industry, you use computers to maintain accounts, create personnel
records, track inventory, prepare presentations and reports, manage projects, and
communicate by e‐mail. You can use computers to design any type of publication
ranging from simple newsletters to fashion magazines, marketing materials, books,
or newspapers.

 In the field of education, trainers can use computers to deliver training through
audio‐visual learning aids, maintain student records to track performance, search
for information on different topics, and create or submit assignments.

 In government organizations, you use computers to organize information by storing

and updating records. Computers are also used for providing services to citizens. For
example, you can view information on current policies and government issues on a
computer.

 In the field of medicine, doctors use computers to review medical records of

patients. Doctors also use computers to find information about the latest drugs
available to treat a disease. Doctors can also use computer technology to discuss
and share information about various diseases.

 You can use computers to view the details of your bank account. Traders use
computer technology to get instant information on stock markets, to trade stocks,
and to manage investments.

 Scientists use computers for scientific research, and to gather and analyze
information. For example, they use computers to view images from space and to
publish information on their recent research.

 You can also use computers to create drawings and paintings. Photographers use
computers to edit and enhance pictures. Writers use computers to write content for
their books and to also create illustrations. By using computers, writers can make
changes in the content easily and save a lot of time.

 In the field of entertainment, you can use computers to listen to music, watch
movies, store and print photographs, send greetings, and play games.

[Source: Microsoft Corporation]

THREATS TO INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Computer‐based information systems are much more vulnerable to crime and abuse,
natural disaster, and even human error than manual systems that they have replaced.

A Computer Crime

Introduction to Computers 23
 Computer Crime ranges from the use of information technology to commit an act that
would be criminal no matter how committed (such as the theft of money or other
property) to activities more specifically related to computers, such as the unauthorized
access and use of information systems, theft of computer and telecommunications
services, and the theft, intentional alteration, or destruction of data or programs. The
protection of customer data and business confidential information is an issue that faces
all entrepreneurs.

B Theft of Money
As financial institutions become more and more reliant on computers, new
opportunities have arisen for criminals to use computers to steal or siphon off money.
Password protection and other security tools must be used to protect bank accounts,
investments and other financial resources.

C Theft of Computers and Computer Parts

As computers and the various computer parts have become smaller and smaller, it have
become easier to steal. Microprocessor chips, memory chips, motherboards, modems,
disk drives, and power supplies are all frequent targets. They can be removed relatively
easily and sold to a readily available underground market. Physical security and
effective inventory control measures should be implemented.

D Alteration or Destruction of Data and Programs

Another form of computer crime involves the alteration or destruction of data and
programs. Motives for this crime may include monetary gain, revenge or just being
malicious. This tie in with computer viruses, which are a set of illicit instructions
implanted within a program that passes itself onto other programs with which it comes
into contact. Appropriate software must be used to protect your business files, data and
other online resources from external and internal attacks by cyber criminals and
hackers.

E System Disasters
In addition to computer crime, information systems are susceptible to natural disasters
(Rain, earthquakes, fire and floods), terrorist attack, electrical power and
telecommunications line failure, hardware and software malfunction, even human error.
Off‐site backups and in some cases backups to computers in another island or nation is
recommended when your region is subjected to regular national disasters.

Introduction to Computers 24
Now do the following activity to test your understanding of the positive and negative
impact of computers and ICT on society.

Activity 1.10 ‐ Read the following case and reflect on the information before you look at the
questions that follow. In 1999, heavy rains collapsed the roof of a computer centre in

Pretoria, knocking out computers that handled transactions for over 4000 ATMs nationwide.
As a result, over 1 million cardholders were temporarily deprived of their access to their
funds through other teller networks, but because those networks lacked data about account
balances, cash withdrawals were limited to R100 a day to reduce fraud.

Hint: Think of examples of how technology impact (both positively and negatively) your life
personally and how it will impact the entrepreneur in his business.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

It is advised that you share your ideas/answers with fellow students by engaging in face‐to
face discussion, via e‐mail or use social media such as Facebook and Skype.

This brings us to the end of topic 1. Hope you did well in doing the activities. Let’s
summarise what we have discussed.

TOPIC SUMMARY
In this topic we have learned that:

 Information technology refers to the different ways (electronic computers and

computer software) of obtaining, processing, storing, and transmitting data in
the form of voice, pictures and words.
 Computer technologies directly and indirectly impact society, business and
industry, education and government.
 Individuals and different organisations use computer technology for
communication, to provide services to citizens, to record transactions, do
banking, listen to music, and do drawings and paintings, to do research and
many more functions.
 IT also poses threats to society. Threats include computer crime, theft, system
disasters and alteration/destruction of data and programs.

Now as we are through with defining information technology let’s move on to the next
topic where we will discuss the basics of computer in detail.

Introduction to Computers 25
TOPIC 3 ‐ COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY IN WORK AND PLAY
INTRODUCTION
Now that we have understood some terminology and features of computer technology, let
us look more closely at various aspects of work and play, and how technology affects each
one.

This section will allow discussion on some of the impacts in the last, and thoughts on the
next decade.

Inventions already introduced into society through computer technology, have caused the
society to change, with the cellular phone (or cell phone) being the most recent to reach
the populations. It is now an everyday occurrence to reach anyone, anywhere with the use
of a cellular phone. Not as openly known, but still commonplace however, is the use of the
smart prosthesis on someone who previously could not walk after an accident. Simulations
of people walking or running for example have furthered the invention of essential types of
prostheses.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Identify the advantages and disadvantages of computer technology in various

aspects of society.

2. Discuss the man‐machine connection.

SCIENCE, MEDICINE, HEALTH AND TECHNOLOGY

Simulation and simulators are often used in scientific research to mimic the event that is
being studied. These programs quickly perform number crunching calculations, so that the
event can be accelerated, slowed or changed to help predict and test certain outcomes.
Therefore programs can assist with the simulation of training in dangerous situations,
without using expensive resources.

Activity 1.11 ‐ Consider the benefits of simulations in each of the following:

 Space travel

 Weather

 Disaster prevention and recovery

 Loss of limbs

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 26
Since health care matters to everyone, it is not surprising that computer technology has
become a natural part of our health and wellbeing, but its use and relevance has
implications in everything we do…and not do! If you would like to explore how medical
organizations are using simulation and other computer technologies to provide professional
development to health care professionals and support science education in the schools go
to the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Bio‐interactive site.

Computer technology is integral part of the health and wellness sector. CTI scanners and
other diagnostic tools are driven by computer technology. Our health records are placed
into databases to be used and retrieved when you visit the hospital or your local doctor.

Science has had an incredible impact within the last century. Toffler in his book “The Third
Wave” has identified computer technology as a new phase in the evolution of society.
Technology has made the following medical procedures possible. Many of these
procedures have generated considerable debate about the ethics of these procedures.
Some of these procedures include the use of technology to support:

 test tube babies;

 organ transplants;

 cloning;

 nuclear radiation;

 limb replacement;

 gene therapy; and

 nerve regeneration.

Telemedicine

Some of you may have previously seen or heard the terms teleconferencing or
telecommuting. The Greek word 'tele' means ‘distance’, so teleconferencing provides
opportunities to have a conference without all persons having to be in the same room, city
or country. Similarly telecommuting or the less popular term, ‘tele‐working’, was first
offered in the 1960s by the information technology industry. This arrangement allowed
employees to work at home and communicate with the office by methods such as phone,
fax and computer.

So we now have yet another term ‘telemedicine’, where ‘medicine’. Telemedicine involves
telecommunications, where medical personnel and their patients are separated by some
physical distance but are connected through technology so the professional can complete a
medical procedure. Some of the services offered by telemedicine include medical

Introduction to Computers 27
diagnoses, pathology, radiology, and consultation, so that expertise can be made available
in rural and remote areas.

Medical Self‐Diagnoses

Many people are using knowledge‐based database systems to research cures and
symptoms of ailments, probably for self‐diagnoses. These database systems, called expert
systems perform tasks that would otherwise be performed by someone with expertise in
the field. Expert systems can be used, not only to diagnose human illnesses, but also to
make financial forecasts, and schedule routes for delivery vehicles. However it is important
to note that while some expert systems replace human experts, there are others designed
to assist them.

Having a medical complaint which is embarrassing should not be the sole reason to avoid
consulting a doctor. Although there are well‐documented and researched medical expert
systems (such as WebMD) being able to access a website on the Internet to diagnose
symptoms does not automatically validate the authenticity or correctness of the online
diagnosis. Only a doctor can do this.

Activity 1.12 ‐ Why would you and others want to perform self‐diagnosis using an Internet
medical search engine? Think about the precautions that you must consider when using
such search engines.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Database technologies are now used to store dental records, x‐rays, medical insurance
forms and other records for administrative, management and cross referencing. Here are
some further examples of the development of database systems with associated
technologies which are used as expert systems and have become tools for medical
research.

Research

Research on genetics has discovered entire sets of genetic instructions in the cells of
our body, their sequences and any possible unique features or abnormalities. Using
computer technology has afforded:

The discovery of a gene which has the pre‐disposition to develop colon cancer can save a
life if genetic screening is done early. In contrast, persons in the early 1970s were either
denied insurance coverage or were asked to pay increased premiums if they carried the
gene for sickle cell anemia.

Introduction to Computers 28
Forensic personnel used computer technology to assist in the identification of people
missing at the World Trade Centre. Tools were used to compare the victims’ DNA with an
item used by the victims, such as a toothbrush.

Activity 1.13 ‐ Consider the moral and ethical implications for using computer technology
to search databases for screening employees DNA; for other diseases such as HIV/AIDS; or
for conducting criminal background checks.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

EDUCATION AND TECHNOLOGY

Computer technology has moved the classroom from a teacher using a ‘chalk and
blackboard’ to deliver passive instruction to student centred, discovery learning
environments that employ a variety of computer and Internet technologies. Computer
technology has allowed disenfranchised students in places like rural areas who at one time
could not participate in traditional instruction to benefit from an anywhere, anyplace
philosophy for the delivery of educational programs.

In Barbados, technology is now becoming a part of the classroom with the assistance of a
government sponsored educational initiative called Edutech 2000. This programme is
providing training in Information and Computer Technologies (ICTs) for teachers and
students alike in order to develop the country’s future workforce and ensure the country
has suitable skills to compete in the international market.

In most countries today the typical public school program includes some instruction in
computer technology, computer literacy skills and software familiarization. Most public
schools throughout the Caribbean and parts of Africa have access to computers within their
schools. Technology is being used to support instruction and increase student and teacher
technical knowledge and skills.

The introduction of computers to support classroom instruction has met mixed reactions.
Some teachers embrace it, but many resist it because they don’t have the pre‐requisite
skills to properly employ the technologies. Change will take time, resources and more
teacher professional development. The Commonwealth of Learning is supporting the Open
School Movement and the use of ICT to support instruction and student learning. Check it
out.

Computer technologies and the advent of the Internet have allowed online universities to
flourish. Examples of fully online universities include Indira Gandhi National Open
University, National Open University of Nigeria, Athabasca University and the Open
University of the United Kingdom Online universities and similar organizations around the
world provide opportunities for millions of students to study anywhere and at any time.

Introduction to Computers 29
Working professionals are now able to further their education without having to travel
while maintaining full‐time employment and an appropriate quality of life.

There are some disadvantages however with online activities, which include the lack of
opportunity for human interaction and socialization. Many online students experience the
feeling of isolation. Although the inclusion of online discussion forums and chat capabilities
have somewhat alleviated this problem, there is still an issue with misinterpretation and
miscommunication associated with text messages and phrases.

The online learning environment is slowly embracing new technologies like Podcasts, social
networking software like Facebook, instant messaging technologies like Skype and web
conferencing systems like Elluminate. Web 2.0 tools are helping close the social divide and
providing more opportunities to interact with peers learners and others in the educational
communities.

Activity 1.14 – Based on your own experiences with distance education, think about the
potential impact that an online university has on its students.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY

Computer technology has had a major impact on day to day business operations. Today
companies that have failed to incorporate technology are viewed as being ‘not‐up‐to‐date’
or archaic. Today organizations must have a presence on the Internet. Their company’s
goods and services must be marketed online. Prolific use of electronic mail (or email) and
electronic forms have replaced paper based forms and traditional snail mail (letters mailed
through a post office). It is now the norm for business professionals to use technology to
produce every memo, envelope, label and document using a word processer. Effective
marketing materials require the use of graphic software and more to create and produce
the layouts. Business presentations are created using computer software and delivered via
laptop computers and projectors. Electronic payments and business banking accounts
require the use of e‐commerce software and secure Internet connections. The computer
revolution has allowed traditional businesses to reduce infrastructure costs by allowing
their employees to work from home. In North America over 40 million employees work
from home using different types of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs).

As traditional business practices become automated business leaders and HR personnel

now demand that their current and future employees be computer literate. In the many
parts of the developing world it is proving to be a challenge for those who are unable to
reach the required standard thus impacting their employability.

Introduction to Computers 30
 Activity 1.13 – Consider the following and if you have opportunity discuss it with others.

What statement best reflects your belief about computer technology and the automation
of tasks in the workplace.

1. ICT increases productivity in the workplace.

2. ICT hinders productivity in the workplace.

3. ICT has had no impact on workplace productivity.

SOCIAL INTERACTIONS AND RELATIONSHIPS

The ability to text chat in a real time environment with your peers is known as Internet
Relay Chat (IRC). IRC tools to support chat are available through your cell phone provider or
on the Internet. Some of the more popular real time chat tools include Microsoft Live
Messenger, Yahoo Messenger and others. These tools are becoming the norm for social
interaction (especially among younger computer users) and it challenges in how people
have traditionally interacted with each other – face to face discussions vice text chats with
its own sub‐culture language.

As the cartoon below illustrates texting has become part of our culture.

I suspect there were smiles as you read the cartoon, but has the cartoon become a reality
today? Are people unknowingly hiding behind the technology in order to minimize
communicating with each other? Do people speak more freely with the use of technology
or in person?

Over the years the Internet has evolved from a deliverer of static information text based
technology to a platform that encourages social networking, idea exchange, collaborattion
and online community building. Tools like Facebook, Yahoo Groups and others allow

Introduction to Computers 31
individuals to connect with individuals of like minds and create their own virtual network of
friends and colleagues. Tools like YouTube and Blogger have allowed everyone to create
and share their own information. Everyone has opportunity to contribute to the world
knowledge base and provide their own interpretation of personal, local, regional or national
events.

This form of the Internet is known as Web 2.0 and has democratized our virtual space.
Everyone is now equal and can post personal messages for the world to read.

Activity 1.16 – Search the Internet and see if you can discover other social
networking sites that you would like to participate in or share with your peers. If
you have a course web site or email list feel free to share you link with others and
describe why you think your site reflects the values of community building, social
collaboration and knowledge sharing.

MAN‐MACHINE CONNECTION
I would hope by now that you would agree much of the world cannot live without having
some form of computer technology in their lives. Does this mean that we are controlling
computer technology or is the technology controlling us? During the late 1980s and 1990s,
the Internet invaded our lives. Movies and TV shows included the Internet and
sophisticated computers to entertain us. Some interesting ones were the 1982‐1986 weekly
television crime fighter series ‘Knight Rider’ which portrayed a modern‐day hero who drove
a high‐tech smart car equipped with artificial intelligence. Sandra Bullock’s 1995 movie
‘The Net’, involved an Alfred Hitchcock style drama about having her identity electronically
erased and replaced with a stranger’s information. Then in 1998, there is Will Smith
starring in ‘Enemy of the State’ which speaks about the use of satellites to track people, as
well as in ‘I Robot’ in 2004 about a ‘humanoid’ robot that is suspected to have murdered its
creator. Whether you have seen these movies or not, the implicit use of computer
technology in each of them sends the message that whether to help or hinder, that
technology is everywhere. Today it is digitally generated 3D movies and animations like
Avatar have caught our attention. These movies would not be possible without computer
generated images and human machine interactions to capture life like character
movement.

Technology has advanced so fast that more and more computers have an incredibly high
fault tolerance, with robots automating the repair process, without any human
intervention. One example are the robots that are used by NASA to repair the International
Space Station. Seriously, we are not that far away from computers repairing themselves.
Let us now consider computer logics. Do “they” have the capability of handling complex
thought processes like human ones? Almost!

Introduction to Computers 32
An Example – Man Machine Practical Application

In 1998, a technology entrepreneur in northeastern Washington was implanted wtih a

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip into his hand in order to experiment with the
technology. The chip and supporting computer technology was used to gain keyless entry
to his car and home, turn on lights, logon to his and other remote and repetitive
applications. The experiment was successful and led to other applications for RFID
technology..

An implantable RFID chip is a minuscule capsule containing a microchip and an antenna, all
enclosed in glass. The chip is about the size of a grain of rice. RFID chips work by storing a
unique identification number in the microchip. This number can be retrieved by a special
RFID reader that is held within close proximity. Today there are most often implemented in
animals to track their whereabouts and to include owner information that can be retrieved
by a scanner used by a vet or other animal agency

Although RFID technology is relatively old, it is still considered a controversial technology.

Privacy advocates fear that the technology might be abused by governments and used to
track people. Microchip implants have been used for years for tracking lost pets. Further
European research in the area was recently dealt a blow when the European Group on
Ethics in Science and New Technologies made a presentation to the European Union raising
privacy concerns over the potential for such chips to be used to track members of the
public.

When employing different technologies we must be aware of not only the technical issues,
but issues of privacy, morality, society norms and ethical practices.

TOPIC SUMMARY
This topic discussed the impact of technology on society. It demonstrated that ICT and
computer technologies are an integral part of everyday life. It drives our businesses,
entertains us, educates us, and helps ensure our health and wellness. As an entrepreneur
you must stay abreast of technological innovations. You must consider how they can help
you do your business and more importantly how you can use them to support or create
new products and services.

Introduction to Computers 33
UNIT 1 SUMMARY
After reviewing this unit, reading the suggested articles and exploring the different links you
should have concluded that:

 It seems that computer technology is largely responsible for the ‘emergency’

attitude of modern society. The perception that everything must be done faster,
arrive sooner, or be available immediately has pushed services and information to
be frequently available on a 24‐hour basis.

 With computer technology, the types of negative impacts and the number of
people directly affected by a single system error has grown enormously to where
millions can be directly affected.

 There is unprecedented accessibility to information and communications, available

to large numbers of people from nearly anywhere we happen to be.

 A computer is a machine which accepts data (called input), follows instructions

given on what to do with the data (called processing), stores the results for future
use (called storage) and displays the results (called output).

 The main role of computers and computer technology is the ability to manipulate
data into information

 Computer technology is ubiquitous, or (almost) everywhere.

 Computer technology has enabled us to access information at our ‘finger tips’, from
many places, in many places, at any time, and in many different forms whether
printed or stored.

 Information can be retrieved in many forms such as text, voice, graphics, and video

 Computer technology has allowed surveillance to be made easier with the

additional software that can monitor locations in other countries.

 Computer technology has changed the way we communicate with another person
or among groups of people

 Computer technology can improve our lives in health and medicine such as
research in cures for diseases

 Teleconferencing provides opportunities to have a conference without all persons

having to be in the same room, city or country

 Telecommuting allows employees to work at home and communicate with the

office by methods such as phone, fax and computer.

Introduction to Computers 34
  Telemedicine involves telecommunications, where medical personnel and the
patient are separated by some physical distance

 Expert systems perform tasks that would otherwise be performed by someone with
expertise in the field

 Databases are now used to store dental records, x‐rays, medical, insurance and
other records for searches and purposes of cross referencing

 Computer technology has not completely replaced previous inventions; rather it is

enhancing and improving on previous ones

 Businesses have felt most of the impact of computer technology, such that if there
is little technology incorporated then the business may be frowned upon as being
‘not‐up‐to‐date’ or archaic.

 Internet relay chat (also known as messenger), is a common method of chatting

with someone either next to you in class, or is a local phone call away

 Many of us cannot live without having some form of computer technology in our
lives

This unit introduced the general ideas associated with the impact of technology on different
sectors of our society. Are you explored these impacts, you should have noted that they
range from the practical and necessary to what may be regarded as leading edge or radical.
However in all eras of human history, (a subtle change from ‘revolution’, as in the Industrial
Revolution!), our different societies have been faced with change in almost every aspect of
their life. This change has been accelerated by the intervention and adoption of computer
technologies. It is hoped that this unit caused you to reflect upon the advantages and
disadvantages of technology and how it impacts all of us.

Introduction to Computers 35
UNIT 2: COMPUTER HARDWARE
INTRODUCTION
This unit discusses the evolution of computer hardware, provides an introduction the basic
components of computer system and explains how a computer processes data that
executes different computer instructions.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Explore the history and evolution of computer technology.

2. Explain the events that occurred in different the computer generations

3. Evaluate the various types of computer systems that have evolved since 1985.

4. Describe the basic components of a computer system.

5. Explain how a computer processes data.

This unit is divided into three topics:

Topic 1: The Evolution of Computer Technology

Topic 2: Computer Hardware and Peripherals

Topic 3: Computers and Computing

Topic 4: Data Processing

Introduction to Computers 36
TOPIC 1 – THE EVOLUTION OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
Today many jobs mainly depend on the either the creation or collection, and distribution of
information. This topic addresses the different advancements in computer technology and
the various types of computers and their critical components.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe the major developments in each generation of computer development.

2. Evaluate the need for different types of computer systems

COMPUTER GENERATIONS
As each new computer generation improves on its previous generation, there have been a
corresponding reduction in size (or miniaturization) of computer circuitry. In contrast to this
miniaturization, the speed, power, and memory of computers have proportionally
increased. Although this Topic will describe the major developments of each computer
generation, it is more important to consider how the technology has influenced the
development of current computer systems.

The computer generations are summarized in Table 2.1 below:

Generation Denoted by Approximate

range of years
1 Vacuum tube 1940s‐ 1950s

2 Transistor Mid 1950s – early 1960s

3 Integrated circuit Early 1960s – Early 1970s

4 Very Large Scale Integration/Microprocessor Early 1970s – Mid 1980s

5 Parallel processing Mid 1980s – Early 1990s

6 Reduced Instruction Set Chip (RISC) and more Mid 1990s to Present
inventions to date

Introduction to Computers 37
THE FIRST GENERATION COMPUTER (1940S‐1950S)
Vacuum Tubes

These early computers comprised huge vacuum tubes (similar to light bulbs) whose main
purpose was to strengthen weak signals for transmission. The vacuum tubes acted as
switches to start and stop the instant flow of electricity. The concept underlying the on/off
switch was the idea of ones and zeros. The combination of ones and zeros or on and off
created a type of machine language that could be used to process information.

The first computer, the Mark 1, was so huge that it filled a typical stadium field and was
said to have used more than 500 miles of wire. Its success however was its processing
power, such as a mathematical problem that normally took 40 hours to solve, only took the
Mark 1, 20 seconds to produce a result. It was used by the U.S. Navy during World War II, to
help solve strategic military mathematical problems such as cracking secret codes and
creating complex fire tables for naval guns and artillery. Scientists used the computer to
predict weather patterns and for analyzing problems in airplane design. As noted earlier
the language of this first generation was called machine language, which comprised zeros
and ones for programming the computer.

The next computer, the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was an
improvement on the Mark 1, since its processing power was about 1,000 times faster. The
ENIAC was about 80 feet (24.4 m) long by 3 feet (0.9 m) wide, and used about 18,000
vacuum tubes. Unfortunately, the tubes were very hot, had to be replaced frequently, and
were costly in using much electricity to keep them cool. The UNIVAC (Universal Automatic
Computer) soon replaced the ENIAC by containing a compact 5000 tubes, a reduction from
the 18,000 used in the ENIAC.

The Second Generation Computer (Mid 1950s – early 1960s)

Transistors

During this generation the significantly smaller transistors (a new technology) eventually
replaced vacuum tubes as the processing component of the computer. This allowed
engineers to dramatically reduce the size and space needed to house a computer.
Transistors proved to be cheaper to produce and emitted no heat, thus reducing the costs
of manufacturing and making the technology more reliable since they conducted electricity
faster vacuum tubes and failed less often.

This generation was noted for making space travel possible, and for the development of
more sophisticated programming languages that allowed programmers to use short specific
terms (e.g. ADD) to represent certain computer processing instructions. Higher level
programming languages such as FORTRAN, ALGOL and COBOL, which use short English‐like
words, were developed during this generation. During this generation computer hardware

Introduction to Computers 38
and software was created that allowed users to store and retrieve programming
instructions.

The Third Generation Computer (Early 1960s – Early 1970s)

Integrated Circuits

This generation improved on the previous one by miniaturizing the transistor and building
several onto a single chip of silicon. This compacting of millions of transistors in a small
space, also called an integrated circuit, greatly increased the power of computer, the
processing speed, lowered its production costs even more and reduced the size of the
computer.

During this generation the creation of new input and output devices were created.
Keyboards, monitors, and the mouse made the computer a more user friendly environment
and eliminated the need for huge stacks of punch cards to input data into a main frame
computer. Output of the computer calculations could be read on screen vice printing out
large amounts of paper with graphic symbols on them

The Fourth Generation Computer (Early 1970s – Mid 1980s)

The Microprocessor

Again an improvement on the previous generation, this generation continued to reduce the
size of the silicon chip comparable to the size of a pencil eraser while vastly increasing its
computational speeds. This single chip with the components and processing speeds of a
computer was called a micro‐processor and was initially intended for use in calculators, not
computers.

During this generation the silicon chip technology was harnessed by the chip manufacturer
Intel. Intel in partnership with IBM created the first microcomputer, or personal computer.
A few years later Apple in partnership with Motorola introduced the Macintosh to compete
against the IBM personal computer. Only recently has Apple recognized the need for
standardization and has embraced the Pentium technologies currently supported by Intel.

During this periods new and more powerful programming languages developed. This
included Pascal, C and compilers which converted the program to a lower level language
that the machine could process. The UNIX operating system was also developed during this
time to manage system resources.

Introduction to Computers 39
The Fifth Computer Generation Computer (Mid 1980s – Early 1990s)

Artificial intelligence and Parallel Processing

The goal of this generation is to develop devices that are capable of responding sensibly to
a user’s natural language and also capable of learning and self‐organization. It is
characterized by the introduction of computers with hundreds of processors that could be
assigned to work on different sections of a single program. This is called parallel processing,
and is being used to develop communication between a computer in natural spoken
language and its user, through access to a vast knowledge database to make intelligent
inferences and draw logical conclusions in the way that humans do.

Several programming languages known as artificial intelligence (AI) languages have been
developed simply because they are used almost exclusively for AI applications. The two
most commonly used languages are LISP and Prolog.

The linking of computers together, called computer networks, and the increasing use of
workstations (explained in table 2.1) were also developed during this generation.

Activity 2.1 ‐ Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the development of artificial
intelligence in this generation

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

The Sixth Generation (Mid 1990s to Present)

Computers and Video Games

This era refers to the generation of computer and video games which became popular
around 1998. The Nintendo Game Cube, Sony PlayStation 2, and Microsoft's Xbox are noted
to have dominated game playing in all age groups.

Introduction to Computers 40
 Figure 2.1: General Timelines of Computer Generations

G6: Game Playing

G5: Parallel

G4: Microprocessor

G3: Integrated Circuit

G2: Transistor

G1: Vacuum Tube

1940 1950 1960 1970 1980 1990 2000 2010+

Years

Activity 2.2 – Reflect upon what facilitated the increase in speed, power or memory in
each of the computer generations.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Types of Computer Systems

In the past computers were classified as microcomputers, minicomputers, or main‐frame

computers, based on their size. Today these distinctions are rapidly disappearing as the
capabilities of even the smallest units rival that of their earlier big brothers. Today’s
microcomputers are faster, more powerful and more versatile than the minicomputers and
the main‐frame computers were a few years ago. Table 2.X describes the terms used to
classify today’s of computers and computing devices.

Type of Brief Description

Computer System
Desktop Computer A PC that is expected to be placed on the top of a computer or other
desk. Desktops usually are powerful and have reasonably large
secondary storage. Desktops require a number of input and out
devices to make them useful.

Laptop Compared to the desktop, laptops are portable computers that have
their monitor, keyboard, and other memory and storage devices all
included in a packages that is up 17 inches in size and is powered by
a special battery. Laptops are also called notebooks.

Introduction to Computers 41
 Type of Brief Description
Computer System
Mainframe Mainly associated with large companies, that process millions of
transactions calculations from multiple sources at one time,
mainframes previously filled large rooms, but today consist of a
number of linked components that allow the different processors to
communicate with one another and share their total computing
power.

Minicomputer Minicomputers are powerful and can support many users at once.
Their size is between microcomputers (PCs) and mainframes.

Palmtop More commonly called Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). They are
compact computers that often use special secondary flash memory
instead of a typical hard drive for storage. Palmtops usually have
optional keyboards but mainly use touch screens for input. They are
typically the size of a paperback novel or even smaller and are very
lightweight and use battery power.

Personal Computer Personal Computers (PC) was designed to be used by individuals for
general use. The PC is not usually associated with the Apple Mac
although it is a PC. Often the term desktop and PC are used
interchangeably.

Server A computer that has been optimized to provide services to other

computers over a network. Servers usually have powerful
processors, lots of memory and large hard drives. They often
provide custom services such as an e‐mail server, a backup server, a
database server, etc.

Supercomputer Supercomputers have the world’s fastest processors and are able to
perform millions of computations a minute. Supercomputers are
normally comprised of multiple high performance computers
working in parallel as a single system. The best known
supercomputers are built by Cray Supercomputers.

Wearable This is the latest trend in computing where common computer

computers applications such as electronic mail, are integrated into watches,
cell phones, visors and even clothing.

Workstation A workstation is a desktop computer with a more powerful

processor, and more memory for performing a special functions,
such as 3D Graphics

Introduction to Computers 42
 Activity 2.3 ‐ Explain, with reasons, which computer system(s) would be most appropriate
in the following examples:

1. Business executive who travels often

2. Student who needs to prepare a History project report

3. A multi‐million dollar company with six branches in the country and three in other
countries

4. Banking system with many tellers who access the same customer database

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

TOPIC SUMMARY
Since the 1940s when computer technology was used to support the creation of firing
tables for the artillery and to the introduction of the World Wide Web network of
computers in the 1980s computer technologies have become a large part of our everyday
life. The use of computers is accelerating. They are now in our cars, our phones, our
refrigerators. Almost every type of electronic device has a computer chip in it. Each chip
relays on commands. Commands must be input using different devices. The next topic will
examine some of these input and output devices.

Introduction to Computers 43
TOPIC 2 – COMPUTER HARDWARE AND PERIPHERALS
INTRODUCTION
This topic presents a brief discussion on computer and their components and other basic
concepts you need to familiarise yourself with before using the computer.

OBJECTIVES
Upon completion of this lesson you will be able to:

1. Distinguish between different hardware components of a computer.

2. Explain the functions/uses of the different components.

We have briefly looked at the different types of computer systems in Topic 1. We will
discuss the different hardware components that make up different computer systems. The
hardware and peripherals can be categorized as either Input, output, process or storage
devices.

INPUT DEVICES
You use input devices to provide information to a computer, such as typing a letter or giving
instructions to a computer to perform a task. Some examples of input devices are described
in the following list.

Mouse: A device that you use to interact with items

displayed on the computer screen. A standard mouse
has a left and a right button.

Trackball
This is an alternative to the traditional mouse and
is favoured by graphic designers. It gives a much
finer control over the movement of items on the
screen.

Other screen pointing devices are pointing stick,

touch pad, joystick, light pen, digitizing table.

Keyboard: A set of keys that resembles a typewriter

keyboard. You use the keyboard to type text, such as
letters or numbers into the computer.

Introduction to Computers 44
 Scanner: A device that is similar to a photocopy
machine. You can use this device to transfer an exact
copy of a photograph or document into a computer. A
scanner reads the page and translates it into a digital
format, which a computer can read. For example, you
can scan photographs of your family using a scanner.

Barcode Readers: When used in a business barcodes

provide a lot of information. Made up of columns of
thick and thin lines, at the bottom of which a string of
numbers is printed.

 Multimedia devices
This is the combination of sound and images with text and graphics. To capture sound
and image data, special input devices are required.

Microphone: Voice input, for instance, can be recorded

via a microphone. A device that you can use to talk to
people in different parts of the world. You can record
sound into the computer by using a microphone. You can
also use a microphone to record your speech and let the
computer convert it into text.

Webcam: A device that is similar to a Digital cameras record photographs in

video camera. It allows you to capture the form of digital data that can be
and send the live pictures to the other stored on a computer. These are often
user. For example, a webcam allows your used to record photographs on identity
friends and family to see you when cards.
communicating with them.

Take a few minutes to reflect on the content discussed so far.

Self‐Reflection Activity

Look around in your immediate environment (shops, government institutions, at home, etc)
and see if you can recognise any of the above discussed input devices. Can you remember

Introduction to Computers 45
the functions of each of the devices that you have identified?

Let’s continue our discussion by looking at the second type of computer hardware.

OUTPUT DEVICE
Output devices in the computer system are the equipment whereby the result of a
computer operation can be viewed, heard or printed. You use output devices to get
feedback from a computer after it performs a task. Some examples of output devices are
described in the following list.

Monitor: A device that is similar to a television. It is used to

display information, such as text and graphics, on the
computer.

Printer: A device that you use to transfer text and images

from a computer to a paper or to another medium, such as
a transparency film. You can use a printer to create a paper
copy of whatever you see on your monitor.

Plotter: A plotter is an output device similar to a printer,

but normally allows you to print larger images. It is used for
printing house plans and maps.

Multimedia Output Device: The most common

multimedia output is sound, including music. The
audio output device on a computer is a speaker.
Headphones can also be used to receive audio output.

Take note

One of the things that you need to make sure of is that you get the right printer.
How do you know what printer to get?

There are various types of printers available and these vary considerably in the quality of
their production.

Introduction to Computers 46
Impact Printers

Dot matrix printers are an example of impact printers. They form

characters from patterns of dots. They are inexpensive, but the
output can be difficult to read.

Non‐impact Printers

Inkjet printers work by shooting a jet of ink in the shape of the

character required, they provide god, low‐cost colour printing.

Laser printers – a laser beam is directed at an electro‐statically

charged surface, creating a template of the page to be printed.
This template is then used to transfer the ink to the page. Toner
sticks to the light images and is transferred to paper.

PROCESS AND STORAGE DEVICES

The system unit is the name given to the main computer box that houses the various
elements as illustrated in the picture below.

CPU
Motherboard
Extension cards
Drivers
Connection ports

How do we get the different computer parts to work together so that your computer can
work? Let’s start of our discussion with the process devices.

Introduction to Computers 47
Motherboard

Inside the systems unit is a circuit board with tiny

electronic circuits and other components which is
called a mother board. It is sometimes called a
system board. The motherboard connects input
(keyboard, mouse and scanner), output (monitor,
speakers, and printer), processing (CPU, RAM and
ROM) and storage (hard drive, CD‐ROM/DVD‐ROM
and flash drives) components together and tells the CPU how to run (Lubbe and Benson,
2010:18). Other components on the motherboard include the video card, the sound card,
and the circuits that allow the computer to communicate with devices like the printer.

Expansion Cards

Yes you can play music and video files on your computer. But how is it possible?

Inside the computer system box you also find an expansion card which is another circuit
board that can be attached to the motherboard to add features such as video display and
audio capability to your computer. Expansion cards are also called expansion boards that
enable your computer to use the multimedia devices. An expansion card either improves
the performance of your computer or enhances its features. Examples of expansion cards
that can be added include:
 Video Card: It is connected to the computer monitor and is used to display
information on the monitor.
 Network Interface Card (NIC): Remember we’ve explained computer networks in
Unit 1. The NIC allows the computer to be connected to other computers so that
information can be exchanged between them.
 Sound Card: It converts audio signals from a microphone, audio tape, or some
other source to digital signals, which can be stored as a computer audio file. Sound
cards also convert computer audio files to electrical signals, which you can play
through a speaker or a headphone. The microphone and the speakers or the
headphones connect to the sound card.

STORAGE DEVICES
All computers need to store and retrieve data for processing. The CPU is constantly
using memory from the time that it is switched on until the time you shut it down.
There are two types of storage devices as illustrated in the flow chart below.

Introduction to Computers 48
Primary Storage is also called main memory or immediate access store (IMAS). This
is necessary since the processing unit can only act on data and instructions that are
held in primary storage. Primary storage consists of two types of memory chips:

Random Access Memory (RAM)

Read Only Memory (ROM)

Random Access Memory (RAM) is the main

working memory. RAM is only filled after a
computer has been turned on and is given
something to do. It holds data and instructions
temporarily while processing takes place. RAM
is volatile – this means that if the power is
turned off or the computer reboots (start up
again) all the information held in RAM will be
lost. RAM is measured in MB (megabytes) and
most entry level computers will have 1024 MB
RAM but you also find some computers having
up to 3 GB RAM. RAM chips are expensive and
the price of a computer is determined by the
amount of RAM space in the chip.
Read Only Memory (ROM) holds data and
instructions necessary for starting up the
computer when it is switched on. These
instructions are hard‐wired at the time of
manufacture. ROM is permanent and cannot
be deleted but can only be accessed or read,
hence the name Read Only Memory. Data
stored in ROM is non‐volatile – meaning that
memory will not be lost when power is turned
off.

Introduction to Computers 49
So we can compare the features of the two memory types as below:

Fig. 2.1 Comparing RAM and ROM

RAM ROM

Needs power Does not need power

Data can be changed Data can’t be changed

Data will be lost if power is turned off Data will not be lost if power is turned off

Volatile Non‐volatile

Stores data currently being processed Fixed instructions is stored

[Source: Lubbe and Benson, 2010:20)

Units of Storage

The memory of all digital computers is two‐state (bi‐stable) devices. Computers

operate using a binary number system – and therefore use binary digits (bits).
Bits have only two values by 0 and 1. A bit is the smallest unit of storage in a
computer.

The amount of data and instructions that can be stored in the memory of a
computer or secondary storage is measured in bytes.

A byte is made up of a combination of eight (8) bits and has the storage power to
represent one character (a character is a letter or symbol or punctuation mark or
blank space).

Units of Storage
1 byte 8 bits
1 kilobyte (K) 1024 bytes
1 megabyte (MB) 1000 kilobytes (approx. 1 million bytes)
1 gigabyte (GB) 1000 megabytes (approx. 1 billion bytes)
1 terabyte (TB) 1000 gigabytes (approx. 1 trillion bytes)

Secondary Storage Devices

PCs use a simple method of designating disk drives to store data. These drives are
assigned letters of the alphabet.

Introduction to Computers 50
 A Drive Floppy drive. Still found in older computers

C Drive Internal hard drive (hard disk drive) situated inside the system case.

D Drive Usually the CD‐ROM/DVD‐ROM drive although can also be used for another
virtual or physical hardware if a second one is deployed.

E Drive Usually use for any other disks, such as CD‐writer, USB flash drive, external
or hard drive, etc.
Higher

Data and information stored on a permanent basis for later use. Secondary storage is
cheaper to purchase and access. Hard disks, Zip drives, Optical disks (CD’s and DVD’s)
are all examples of secondary storage.

Internal Hard Disks are rigid inflexible disks

made of highly polished metal. Data is stored
magnetically. They can contain a single disk or
two or disks stacked on a single spindle. They
come in a variety of sizes but all have a very high
storage capacity compared to floppy disks. An
average computer has a hard disk of about 80 ‐
250GB. It provides direct access to information.
External hard Disks/Drive ‐ same features as the
internal hard disks, but are external to the
system unit and therefore can be carried around.
USB port is used to connect the external hard
drive to the
Optical Disks are disks that are read by laser
beams of lights. The three main types are CD‐R,
CD‐RW and DVD.
 CD‐R or CD‐ROM (Compact Disk – Read Only
Memory) are so called because you can only
red the information on the CD‐ROM. They
are particularly useful for storing multi‐
media (texts, graphics, sound and videos),
application software packages
(encyclopaedias, training programs etc).
 CD‐R or Compact Disk Recordable allows you
to write information onto the disk only once
using a CD recordable burner.

Introduction to Computers 51
  CD‐RW or Compact Disk Rewriteable, allows
you to write and erase information from the
disk many times. They are used to store
large volumes of information such as texts,
graphics, sound and video.

 DVD disks or Digital Versatile Disks are

specifically created to store movies. A typical
DVD disk can hold between 4.7GB and 17GB
of information.

USB flash drive – consists of a flash memory data

storage device integrated with a USB (Universal
Serial Bus) interface. USB flash drives are
typically removable and rewritable. They come
in a variety of sizes to include 128MB, 256MB,
512MB, 1G, 2G, 8G etc.

Memory Card ‐ Use mainly with digital cameras,

cellular phones and music players (MP3, MP4
and iPods). They offer high‐re‐record ability and
fast and power‐free storage. Data can be access
by linking the card to a computer using a USB
cable or a memory card reader.

Now that you have a basic understanding of the hardware components of a computer take
some time and do the following activity.

Activity 2.4

A. Test your knowledge. Say whether the following statements are true or false.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

T F

1. RAM is memory where fixed instructions is being stored

2. Data is another word for information

3. A byte of memory can store an entire word

4. DVD’s are used mainly for storing movies

5. Data on CD‐R disks can be erased and rewritten

Introduction to Computers 52
 6. Back up files are usually created on hard disks

7. The smallest unit of data is a bit

8. ROM is volatile memory

9. Trackballs, pointing sticks and touch pads do the same function as a

mouse
10. Input devices take raw data and turn it into information

B Answer the following short questions.

1. What is the main purpose of a CPU

2. Distinguish between RAM and ROM.
3. Define input and output devices and give examples of each.
4. Name one device that can function as both and input as well as an output device.
5. What does ‘bits’ stands for?

Did you do well in answering the questions? Please work through the unit again if you feel
that you did not master the content yet. Let’s summarise what we have discuss in this
topic.

TOPIC SUMMARY
In this topic we have learned that:

 Computer hardware consists of input, output, process and storage devices.

 You use input devices such as keyboard, mouse, scanner and multimedia devices to
provide information to a computer.

 Output devices are use to get feedback from a computer after it performs a task.
Examples include monitor, printer and multimedia devices.

 CPU takes raw data and turns it into information. The CPU is made up of Control
Unit, Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) and the main memory.

 Storage devices are divided in primary and secondary storage devices.

 Primary/main memory is subdivided into ROM and RAM.

 Random Access Memory (RAM) is the main memory and allows you to temporarily
store commands and data.

 Read Only Memory (ROM) retains its contents even after the computer is turned
off.

Introduction to Computers 53
  A bit is the smallest unit of storage in a computer.

 The amount of data and instructions that can be stored in the memory of a
computer or secondary storage is measured in bytes. A byte is made up of a
combination of eight bits and has the storage power to represent one
written character.

 Hard disks, CD‐R, CD‐RW and DVD are secondary storage devices.

This brings us to the end of topic 2.1. We’ve said earlier that for you to be able to use your
computer you will need the programmes to operate the computer. Let’s move on to the
next topic where we can look at how the computer hardware processes information.

Introduction to Computers 54
TOPIC 3 ‐ COMPUTERS AND COMPUTING
INTRODUCTION
This topic explores the types of computer systems (vice individual computers), their
purpose, their structure and it provides a technical description of the components of a
generic computer system.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Distinguish between a computer and a computer system.

2. Explain the term general computer system.

3. Explain the term embedded system.

4. Show diagrammatically the components of a computer system.

5. Describe a central processing unit (CPU).

6. Explain arithmetic and logic unit (ALU).

7. Define primary memory and how it functions.

GENERAL PURPOSE COMPUTER SYSTEMS

When you look at a desktop computer, it comprises a monitor, keyboard, mouse, and a
vertical or horizontal box called a system unit. It is acceptable to refer to all of these
components as a computer. Technically the systems unit houses the actual ‘computer’ or
programmable machine (hardware, firmware and software), which executes (carries out) or
responds to a sequence of program instructions. A computer system then is a collective
term for a computer (housed within the system unit), as well as these other components
that are attached to it to allow the user to input data and view output using different
devices. Some of these components include a monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, disk
drives, scanners, microphones, and speakers, which are also referred to as peripherals. The
peripherals work together to help the user accomplish a given task effectively. Therefore, as
an example, when you perform a calculation, the keyboard – a peripheral device‐ is used to
input the data. It is the system unit that accepts and processes the data, and generates the
results. Other peripheral devices such as the hard drive store the data and results, which
can be viewed on the monitor.

Introduction to Computers 55
The peripheral devices mentioned above are collectively called hardware devices, since
they can be physically attached to the computer. However, computer systems also include
software, or programs that are integral in the functioning of some of these peripheral
devices and are necessary to make the computer operate. Every computer system, for
example, requires an operating system. An operating system is a program that establishes
communications with the various peripherals and acts as a bridge to other application
specific software programs. An operating system is like the command centre of the ship. It
makes all of the decisions about how the computer will function and work with others.

EMBEDDED COMPUTER SYSTEMS

The typical personal computer or laptop described in the last discussion is categorized as a
general‐purpose computer system. This section will explore a special type of computer
system called an embedded system. Embedded systems are designed to perform a very
small number of very specific functions. For example a GPS computer in a car only provides
driving instructions. It cannot perform any other computing function. A typical embedded
system also uses certain types of hardware, and limited resources, such as small keyboards,
screen and reduced memory. These systems are also actually built into the device they are
controlling.

Compared to a typical computer, embedded systems are often smaller in size, tend to be
cheaper, and as a result many are mass‐produced. Embedded systems range from small
portable devices to large complex systems. The major difference is that they are single
purpose devices with only one form of input or output. Some may also have simple user
interfaces or displays which include buttons, or touch screens, while others have none at
all.

Introduction to Computers 56
Table 2.1 ‐ Examples of systems and devices which comprise embedded systems

Portable devices Large complex systems

Digital watches Traffic lights

MP3 players Systems controlling nuclear power

plants
Microwave ovens
Controllers used in remote
Washing machines machine operation
Television sets Navigation Systems
DVD players Military Weapons Systems
Air conditioners

Sprinklers

Security monitoring system

Handheld computers

Thermostats

Activity 2.5 – Try and think of other examples of embedded systems that you typically
use in your day to day activities but have never thought of them as embedded computer
systems.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Mobile (cellular) phones and handheld computers may be categorized as embedded

systems, but since these devices can be enhanced with the addition of other applications
and peripherals, they are better suited to the category of general purpose computer
systems and not really embedded systems.

COMPUTER SYSTEM – HOW IT WORKS

The major components of a computer system include input and output devices as well the
important processor or central processing unit (CPU). The CPU comprises a set of electronic
circuits kept within the system unit. The CPU is the brain of a computer system and is
responsible for processing the data that is input from a peripheral device and output to

Introduction to Computers 57
another peripheral device. Figure 2.2 illustrates the major components of a system unit that
is attached to an input and output device.

Figure 2.2: Central Processing Unit

The Central Processing Unit (CPU), also known as the processor or microprocessor has
components that control the operating system and other software installed on the
computer. The CPU also sends commands and data to the peripherals attached to the
computer, such as the monitor or printer. Therefore the speed (how fast the electrons
move around the chip) at which the CPU executes its tasks (or commands) determines how
quickly you can view or hear the output from the command; such as printing a page or
allowing you to view a letter on the monitor. This speed is called ‘clock speed’, and is
measured in megahertz (MHz). A computer system that responds to commands quicker
means that its clock speed is working faster to execute these commands. Table 2 compares
some common CPUs and their clock speeds. Different CPUs use different silicon chips to
execute the commands and process data. Different types of chips have different clock
speeds based on the technology that was used to create them. Some examples are
provided below.

Introduction to Computers 58
 Table 2.1 Typical CPU Speeds Based on Chip Type

Name of CPU Average CPU Speed

Intel Celeron 500 MHz ‐ 800 MHz 1

Intel Pentium II 233 MHz ‐ 450 MHz

Intel Pentium III 450 MHz ‐ 1 GHz 2

Intel Pentium 4 1.4 GHz ‐ 2 GHz

Intel Core i7 3.6 Ghz

AMD Athlon XP 1.4 GHz ‐ 1.8 GHz

Macintosh G4 733 MHz

Now let’s look deeper into the operation of the CPU. All computer systems have a CPU
which comprises (1) a control unit and (2) arithmetic and logic unit (ALU).

The Control Unit (CU)

The control unit is similar to an efficient manager. It is responsible for directing other parts
of the computer system in order to carry out the instructions for the task required. The
control unit (CU) must interact with the arithmetic and logic unit (ALU) and memory to
complete its tasks. As instructions are fetched from memory, the CU interprets the
instruction. The CU then sends commands to other components to gather data that may be
needed to complete the instruction, even if it involves a transfer of data from other
components and devices. The CU than determines where to send the result. This may

1
Mhz = Megahertz ‐ It is a measure of the transmission speed of electronic devices, including
channels, buses and the computer's internal clock. A one‐megahertz clock (1 MHz) means some
number of bits (16, 32, 64, etc.) are manipulated one million times per second.
2
Ghz = Gigahertz ‐ A one‐gigahertz clock (1 GHz) means one billion times. MHz and GHz are used to
measure the speed of the CPU. For example, a 1.6 GHz computer processes data internally
(calculates, compares, etc.) twice as fast as an 800 MHz machine. However, the doubled clock speed
of the CPU does not mean twice as much finished work gets done in the same time frame. Internal
cache design, bus speed, disk speed, network speed and software design all contribute to the
computer's overall processing speed and performance (overall throughput).

Introduction to Computers 59
include activating the printer, showing the result on the monitor or playing a sound on the
speakers.

Activity 2.6 ‐ Explain why the control unit is regarded as an efficient manager.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)

The Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU) is the part of the CPU which performs all arithmetic and
logic operations this involves arithmetic calculations including addition, subtraction and
multiplication. As calculations are required, the Control Unit sends them to be performed in
the ALU which sends the result back to the Control Unit. It also performs logic operations
such as comparisons of numbers or letters to test for, such as equal‐to (=), less‐than (<),
greater‐than (>) and other combinations, such as less‐than or equal‐to (<=).

Activity 2.7 ‐ In a test for the equal‐to condition, the arithmetic/logic unit compares two
values to determine if they are equal. For example: If the number of tickets sold
(Num_Tickets) equals the number of seats in the auditorium (Num_Seats), then the
concert is declared sold out. This can be represented as:

Num_Tickets = Num_Seats ?

The result can be:

 True or Yes, indicating that the concert is sold out or

 False or No indicating that the concert is not sold out.

Write the corresponding representation for the following examples:

1. Credit card limit is greater than $3000

2. Votes for Candidate A are less than the votes for candidate B

3. Test mark is greater than or equal to 50

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Memory

Primary memory is necessary to store instructions and data for processing, but they are not
part of the CPU. Memory are separate chips stored on a mother board which connects all
the hardware together. Program instructions or data are kept in primary memory for only
as long as the program currently using them. In human terms this would be considered

Introduction to Computers 60
“short term memory”. The original instructions and data are lost once the computer is
turned off; therefore primary memory is deemed volatile. In later units we discuss those
non‐volatile devices which allow data and instructions to be permanently stored in a
computer system for use later on. Primary memory is also as – memory, main memory,
primary storage, main storage, internal storage, computer memory and RAM (Random
Access Memory).

Activity 2.8 ‐ Explain what is meant by the phrase “primary memory is deemed volatile”

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

TOPIC SUMMARY
The internal workings of a computer are very similar to the internal workings of the brain.
The CPU represents the brain. Both are used to store and process information. Both carry
out complex algorithms to store and combine crucial information. Both control the
external operation of the body or in the case of the computer the peripherals and other
attached devices. How this is done will be explored in the next topic on data processing.

Introduction to Computers 61
TOPIC 4 – PROCESSING DATA
INTRODUCTION
Processing data is the most important activity in the computer, and so the task of the
processor is to interpret and execute program instructions, in order to transform data into
information. The processor is also responsible for interacting with the input, output and
storage devices.

Objectives

After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe the function of the machine cycle.

2. Describe how data moves through the Central Processing Unit (CPU).

3. Define megabyte.

4. Explain the difference between RAM and ROM.

5. Describe the machine cycle.

6. Describe what happens in the instruction and execution phase.

7. Explain the difference between instruction time (i‐time) and execution time (e‐
time).

8. Define memory addressing.

PROCESSING DATA AND COMPUTER MEMORY

Keeping instructions and data in primary memory when a program is not in use is not
feasible for three reasons:

 The processed data may be too much to be held in primary memory.

 Generally primary memory only stores data and instructions while the computer is
turned on, but once the computer is turned off, the data and instructions are lost.

 If more than one program or application is opened at the same time, then, a single
program should not exclusively use all the memory; some memory should be
available for the other programs to use.

The amount of memory available to hold the data and instruction is measured in
megabytes or MB. A personal computer with a minimal amount of memory of say less than
512 MB may not be able to perform efficiently and may be rather slow in executing the
applications. Memory is also loosely known as RAM which is an acronym for Random Access

Introduction to Computers 62
Memory. It should be noted there that the word random implies that data can be retrieved
quickly, and in the same length of time, regardless of where the data is located (that is, the
address of the data).

Read Only Memory (ROM)

Read‐only memory or ROM is an integrated circuit, programmed with specific data when it
is manufactured. It is used in computer systems and other electronic devices. RAM and
ROM are different since data stored in ROM cannot be modified easily. In other words,
ROM is ideally suitable for storing a set of data for the life of the device, and is therefore
non volatile.

Modern types of ROM include such as Programmable ROM (PROM), Erasable

Programmable ROM (EPROM), Electrically Erasable Programmable ROM (EEPROM) and
flash memory can be erased and re‐programmed many times, although they are still called
ROM because the reprogramming process is usually rarely done. Many ROM chips are often
identified by the prominent circular ‘window’ which allows ultraviolet (UV) light to enter
and erase its contents.

Flash memory (or simply flash) is a modern type of EEPROM which can be erased and
rewritten faster than EEPROM. Flash memory is mainly used in memory cards, USB flash
drives, memory stick, flash stick and jump drive), which are used for general storage and
transfer of data between computers and other digital products.

Function of the Machine Cycle

Consider a user who needs to add two numbers, 10 and 15. These numbers may be input at
the keyboard and the results shown on a screen. The processing of this simple addition is
carried out in the CPU.

Let us examine how a single instruction is executed or carried out in the central processing
unit. Of course, computers today generally execute one instruction at a time, although as
quickly as a fraction of a second.

In order to carry out an instruction, the program instructions and data must be moved into
memory from either an input device or a secondary storage device. Once in memory, the
control unit and ALU in the CPU work together to perform the following four steps (fetch,
decode, execute, and store) for each instruction. These steps are collectively known as the

Introduction to Computers 63
machine cycle or the processing cycle. This machine cycle has two phases, the instruction
cycle (instruction time, or I‐Time) and the execution cycle (execution time or E‐Time). Let us
examine these cycles in more detail.

Phase A: Instruction Cycle

1. Fetch Instruction: The control unit fetches (gets) the program instruction from
memory.

2. Decode Instruction: The control unit decodes the instruction (decides what it
means) and then moves the necessary data from memory to the ALU.

Phase B: Execution Cycle

3. Execute Instruction: The ALU performs the requested action, by executing the
arithmetic or logical instructions on the data.

4. Store (write) Result: The ALU writes or stores the result of this operation in
memory or in a temporary register.

Once these two phases are complete, the control unit instructs memory to send the result
to an output device or a secondary storage device. The figure below illustrates how these
cycles interact to produce a result.

Activity 2.9 ‐ Describe briefly the four basic operations that comprise a machine cycle or
instruction cycle.

Explain the difference between instruction time (i‐time) and execution time (e‐time).

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 64
We have already noted that the Control Unit is ideally the brain of the CPU, and must be
very organized. For all instructions to be processed the Control unit must have the data
ready and the cycles working like, well, like clock work! If the control unit is regarded as the
brain, then the clock is regarded the heart of the computer. Every operation in the
processor takes place like the ticking of a typical old‐fashioned mechanical clock. Each ‘tick’
may indicate the beginning and each ‘tock’ the end of a basic interval of time in the
processor during a clock period. During this beginning and end phase, data moves as
directed from the CU.

We have discussed instructions, data, and memory, as well as the machine cycle functions
in two phases. Let us now briefly mention how the control unit is able to retrieve the
correct data and instructions from memory. This is done by giving each instruction and
each piece of data an address, just as persons have an address for their home. So the
addresses say the same, but just as people move to new addresses, different instructions
and data are moved to new addresses or locations when the old data is no longer needed in
memory. Just like a mailbox for an address can hold so many letters and packages, similarly
each memory location can also only contain a fixed amount of data. Finally as mailboxes
may have a label or number affixed to it, so do memory addresses have representative
address names such as Hours, Age, or Name.

Activity 2.10 ‐ Explain in simple terms, what is understood by a memory address

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

A memory address is simply a unique number that identifies the location of a particular
byte in memory.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

TOPIC SUMMARY
This topic explored how data is processed, calculated and stored in a computer.
Understanding this process will help you better understand the type of systems and system
software that you need to support your business.

Introduction to Computers 65
RECOMMENDED UNIT READINGS
After you have completed your review of each Topic and its related activities, it is
recommended you read at least one of the following online articles and consider the
related reflective questions as you read the materials.

Kopplin, J. (2002). An Illustrated History of Computers. Computer Science Lab. Retrieved

November 10, 2007 from:
http://www.computersciencelab.com/ComputerHistory/History.htm.

There are four parts to this article. Kopplin demonstrates that computers are not a new
invention. Devices to perform calculations have existed for over two thousand years. The
four parts provide a pictorial history of our early computers. When reviewing the Kopplin
article consider:

“The history of mankind is one of innovation, revolution and change”. How does the
evolution of computer devices support this statement?

Beach, T.E. (2004). Hardware. In Computer Concepts and Terminology. University of New
Mexico at Los Alamos. Available at:
http://www.unm.edu/~tbeach/terms/hardware.html.

This article is part of a larger tutorial on computer concepts presented by Dr. Beach. Feel
free to review other parts of his tutorial. When doing so consider:

What is the basic configuration of the computer that you are currently working on. Can you
identify the different components and the capabilities of each component?

Introduction to Computers 66
UNIT 2 SUMMARY
The following concepts were covered in this unit:

 A computer is a device that accepts data, uses a program to process the data, and
generate results.

 A computer system is a collective term that includes a computer and all peripheral
devices attached to it, such as a monitor, keyboard and mouse.

 An embedded system is a special‐purpose computer system designed to perform a

dedicated function

 The main components of a computer system include the Central Processing Unit
(CPU), primary memory, input and output devices, and secondary storage.

 The Central Processing Unit (CPU) comprises the Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)
and the Control Unit (CU).

 The ALU is the part of the CPU which performs all arithmetic and logic operations
this involves arithmetic calculations including addition, subtraction and
multiplication, as well as comparison of numbers and text.

 The control unit is responsible for directing other parts of the computer system in
order to carry out program instructions

 Both primary memory and secondary storage are also necessary to store
instructions and data for processing, but they are not part of the CPU

 Each new computer generation improves on its previous generation, by reduction

in size (or miniaturization) of computer circuitry

 First Computer Generation is characterized by the huge vacuum tubes whose main
purpose was to strengthen weak signals for transmission, and used switches to
start and stop the instant flow of electricity

 Second Computer Generation replaced vacuum tubes by a much smaller transistor.

 Third Computer Generation produced and compacted millions of transistors on to

an integrated circuit.

 Fourth Computer Generation is instrumental in the invention of the

microcomputer, also known as a personal computer

 Fifth Computer Generation is developing communication between a computer in

natural spoken language and its user

Introduction to Computers 67
  Sixth Generation refers to the generation of computer and video games

 Primary storage is used to temporarily hold data and instructions

 Primary memory is known by other terms which are used interchangeably –

memory, main memory, primary storage, main storage, internal storage, and RAM
(Random Access Memory).

 In order to carry out an instruction, the program instructions and data must be
moved into memory from either an input device or a secondary storage device

 The control unit and ALU in the CPU work together to perform the following four
steps (fetch, decode, execute, and store) for each instruction

In this unit, the evolution of computer systems through a number different generations was
considered. Although it may have appear to many as simply a historical perspective, it is
important to view this history as clues for the underlying trend that brought computer
systems to what they are today. This trend illustrates the reduction in size at each stage
which also coincided with increased speed of the system designed to handle the many tasks
required of it in this latest generation.

We also explored the distinction between a computer and a computer system along with
introducing the concept of special–purpose computer systems. We also explored the
components of a general computer system and their inter‐connections and reliance on each
other. Finally a description of how a computer processes data was explained.

Introduction to Computers 68
UNIT 3: SOFTWARE
INTRODUCTION
This unit discusses the two categories of software that are used to actually have the
computer complete specific tasks and that communicate with the hardware and other
peripherals. The two categories of software are: systems software and applications
software.

System software comprises a collection of programs with instructions that work together
with the hardware components of a computer (including peripheral devices), to accomplish
its tasks efficiently and effectively. System software acts as a mediator between the
hardware resources and the application programs. In addition, system software monitors
the activities of the computer (like memory and file storage) so that it functions efficiently.

Three major categories of system software are:

 Operating systems (OS),

 Utility programs, and

 Language translators.

Application software allows the computer user to create documents, produce graphics,
capture and manipulate photographs, create databases and treat the computer as a tool for
a variety of tasks.

The difference between the two can be summarized as follows: application software is
what users require to complete their tasks while system software is the software that
interfaces between the hardware to perform what is requested by the application software.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Explain the purpose of system software.

2. Distinguish among the three major categories of system software.

3. Explain the interaction between the user and the computer and the role of system
software to support this interaction.

4. Explain the different types of useful application software.

5. Explain the word processing document life cycle.

6. Explain the purpose of spreadsheets in business.

Introduction to Computers 69
 7. Describe a statistical application that is used to analyze data.

This unit is consists of two topics:

Topic 1 ‐ Operating systems, utility programs and language translators.

Topic 2 ‐ Application software.

Introduction to Computers 70
TOPIC 1 ‐ OPERATING SYSTEMS, UTILITY PROGRAMS AND LANGUAGE TRANSLATORS
INTRODUCTION
There are three different types of software that are part of all computer systems and that
ensure that the hardware and application programs can effectively communicate with each
other. This software is classified as operating systems, utility programs and language
translators.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe the purpose of system software.

2. Explain the purpose of the different operating systems.

3. Describe the various user interfaces.

4. Explain the purpose of utility programs.

5. Describe characteristics of language translators.

6. Show diagrammatically basic file and data management structures.

7. Carry out basic file and data management operations.

OPERATING SYSTEMS
A computer cannot work without an operating system! The operating system comprises a
set of coded programs that work with the peripheral devices and computer hardware to
control and organize the general operating functions of the computer. Some of these
functions include:

 Starting the computer (also called ‘booting’),

 Managing and monitoring other programs, memory management, communications

management and the management of peripheral devices,

 Enabling interaction between the user and the computer system through the use of
external input devices, and

 monitoring and security of access to data and applications.

Starting the Computer

Starting the computer, also called booting, is the process of loading the operating system
into the computer’s memory so it can execute the different operations and mange the
hardware devices. When the power button on the computer is turned on to load the

Introduction to Computers 71
operating system, this process is called a cold boot. If the computer system is already on
and the system needs be re‐started for a number of reasons (like the hardware stops
operating or the user gets an error message), then the process of reloading the operating
system is called a warm boot (because the computer was already on) A warm boot in a
Windows based PC is normally done by holding down the CTL‐ALT‐DEL keys at once.

Managing Other Programs

The computer system needs to manage the programs that the computer user needs to
complete business or personal tasks such as a word processing, Internet research,
spreadsheet production and others. The operating system must therefore be able to
manage one or more software application programs at the same time. This is known as
multi‐tasking and the computer is considered a multi‐tasking operating environment. For
example, multitasking operating systems run more than one application program at a time.
Suppose a user has a word processing program, Internet browser and a spreadsheet are
open at the same time and the computer user currently typing a report, using the word
processing program. The word processing program is called the active program, since it is
the current program in use while the other programs – the Internet browser and
spreadsheet – are called inactive programs since they are running in the background and
are not currently in use.

Since computers use primary memory to increase processing efficiency, the operating
system allocates memory spaces for each running program so that the individual programs
do not interfere with each other. In order to accomplish this, the operating system uses
‘virtual memory’ or secondary storage, as an extension of random access memory (RAM).
This is illustrated in the figure 3.1. Sometimes, if there are too many applications opened,
then the operating system is unable to allocated adequate memory to each application.
When this happens, none of the applications may appear to work and the computer system
may need a warm boot.

Introduction to Computers 72
 Figure 3.1 – Memory CPU Interaction

TYPES OF OPERATING SYSTEMS

Now that the purpose of an operating system has been explained, let us examine some
operating systems that were developed for specific purposes.

The Macintosh (or Mac) and the IBM personal computer operate with hardware and
software configurations. This is known as the platform. The platform of a computer system
is the underlying hardware and software that it allows it to function. For example, the
Apple computer was developed with a Mac platform using Motorola chips and unique
operating software called “Mac OS” The original IBM computer uses Intel chips and
originally employed an operating system called “DOS” or Disk Operating System. Today’s
PCs now use a Windows based operating system that incorporates many of the original
concepts in DOS. Operating systems differ in functionality, flexibility and ease of use. Today
there are a number of different operating systems in use. They can be classified as either
personal operating systems, network (client/servers) operating systems and handheld
operating systems. A representative list of different operating systems is described below.

Operating Type Main Purpose or Major Development

System
(OS)
UNIX Network These are network operating systems that are powerful.
Runs on many types of PCs, mainframes and
workstations; is the primary operating system for
Internet servers; first multitasking system, widely used
by large corporations

Introduction to Computers 73
 Operating Type Main Purpose or Major Development
System
(OS)
Linux Network Uses a command line interface; more stable than
Windows, but applications using Linux are rare.

Macintosh Personal First operating system to be developed that used a

(MAC) OS X graphical user interface. Also considered the easiest
system for beginners

Microsoft Both Capable of Internet browsing, and multimedia support.

Windows 95, 98 personal & None of these earlier versions of Windows are
and XP network supported by Microsoft.

Microsoft Network Also network operating systems that were designed

Windows specifically for corporate and other large businesses,
NT/2000 and were also known as client/server systems (one
computer ‘serves’ provides applications for many users
‘clients’).

Offered enhanced security, and remote access to

computer systems among other features

Microsoft Handheld Supports handheld devices and smartphones. Supports

Windows and Cell integration with other Microsoft software.
Mobile 7 Phone

Microsoft All Types The current Microsoft operating system with a number
Windows 7 of variants which can be used in all types of computer
environments.

FUNCTIONS OF AN OPERATING SYSTEM

Birbal and Taylor, (2004: 39‐40) summarise the functions of an operating system as follows:

1. Managing computer resources

The operating system allows application software programmes such as word processing,
spreadsheet and database packages to communicate with the computer’s hardware. For
example if you work on a document in Excel and you want to print the document, you just
press the print button on the toolbar. Excel will direct the operating system to select a
printer to print the document. The operating system then notifies the computer to begin
sending data and instructions to the appropriate program to get the document printed.

Introduction to Computers 74
The operating system therefore acts as an interface between the application programmes
and the hardware.

2. Managing files and memory

The operating system manages all files on a computer. It keeps tracks of the locations
where programmes and data are stored within the computer’s memory. For example,
when you open a file that has been saved to the hard drive, you are first instructing the
computer to find the file, and then to open it. The operating system also allows you to
easily find files stored in secondary storages devices. Other file management functions
include copying, erasing, renaming and backing‐up files.

3. Maintaining security

In networks and larger computers each user is given a user name or ID and password to
gain access to the computer system. The operating system keeps a register of all these
names so that only persons with valid usernames and passwords can access the system.
This prevents access by hackers and unauthorised persons.

The operating system also keeps a log which records users logged in, the length of time
each user stayed on the system, and heat they did. Administrators can check the log to
look for security breaches and abuse of resources.

A hacker is a person who tries to gain access to a computer system without

authorisation. Hacking is illegal in most countries.

4. Managing tasks

A computer can perform many tasks simultaneously. One way of doing this is multi‐tasking
– ability of the computer to run more than one programme at the same time. For example,
a user can listen to music on his/her computer whilst at the same time typing a document
or typing an e‐mail while another e‐mail is being sent. In the case of networks the multi‐
user operating system allows more than one user to access the same data at the same time.

5. Providing a user interface

Many operating systems functions are never apparent on the computer’s display screen.
What you do see is what is called the user interface. The interface helps the user to interact
with the computer.

Introduction to Computers 75
 Activity 3.1 – Consider the following:

1. Identify a number of tasks that are carried out by all operating systems.

2. Describe at least one task that a multi‐tasking operating system would be able to
execute.

3. Describe at least one task that a multi‐user operating system would be able to
execute.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

USER INTERFACE
In order to interact with the computer, a user uses a part of the operating system called a
user interface. The functions of the user interface are to start application programs,
manage secondary storage, such as hard disks, as well as manipulate files and folders, and
finally shut down the computer safely.

The three principal types of interfaces include:

 Graphical User Interface (GUI),

 menu‐driven interface, and

 command‐line interface.

The Graphical User Interface (GUI) uses graphics or icons which represent various tasks. For

example the icon to print is a small picture of a printer which when clicked with a
mouse, will invoke the printing dialog box. Once the printer dialogue box is opened you can
pick other commands that will be used to send your document to the printer. A GUI is a
user‐friendly interface that eliminates the need to remember complex computer
commands or programming languages.

Introduction to Computers 76
 Figure 3.2 – Graphical User Interface Example

The menu‐driven interface is used to show all of the options available to the user in the
form of pull‐down or pop‐up menus. An illustration of a pull‐down menu is shown in figure
4.2. Many menu interfaces now include the GUI icons with text menu options.

Figure 3.2 – Menu Driven Interface Example

Introduction to Computers 77
The command‐line interface requires the user to type keywords or commands at a prompt,
in order to enter data or execute commands. You can experience this type of command
when you open the “Run” interface to input DOS based commands to execute an operating
system task. This interface is the most difficult one for the average computer users to
learn. They are often used in programming applications or in support of systems software.

Figure 3.3 – Command Line Interface Example

Activity 3.2 ‐ Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are found on many computers.

Why do computers need a user interface?

Think of other input devices, other than a keyboard, that can be used with a
graphical user interface.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

UTILITY PROGRAMS
Utility programs are tools that help the operating system manage the computer system’s
secondary or non‐priority jobs. These jobs are repetitive in nature. Some examples of
utility programs include antivirus software, backup software, disk defragmentation, disk
scanning; file compression software, file management programs, and searching software.
Often are automatically loaded into member when the system is booted and they operate
in the background at the same time as the application program. Often you do not know
they are working until they send you a message like “Virus detected, click here to
eliminate”. Only then does the user need to engage some form of interface to take the
appropriate action.

Introduction to Computers 78
Table 3.1 – Examples of Utility Programs

Utility Program Description

Antivirus Protects the computer from computer viruses. Examples are

software Norton and Zone Alarm.

Backup software Used to copy data from the hard disk to another storage
medium.

Disk Re‐organizes data on a storage device to improve

Defragmentation performance.

Disk Scanning Involves disk‐scanning utilities to detect and fix errors on

storage devices, or disk cleanup utilities that remove unused
or unnecessary files that are no longer needed.

File Compression Reduces the size of a file, folder or directory. Popular utility is
WinZip.

File Stores files in a hierarchical structure, to enable various tasks

Management such as creating, deleting, copying and moving files, folders,
and directories

Search programs Used to find files, folders or directories on storage devices.

Activity 3.3 ‐ You share a computer with four other family members. Over the last
three months, you notice an increase in files, and folders from the various projects
and assignments. There are also quite a few files which have been downloaded from
the Internet. Think about which utility programs would be appropriate, not only to
organize the many files and folders, but to generally use on this computer.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

LANGUAGE TRANSLATORS
Language translators convert the data in a program (source code) into machine language
code (object code) so that the computer can then process. The main purpose of translating
source code to object code is to create a program in machine language so that the
computer can produce the desired results. An example of different types of language
translators are compilers and interpreters. The compiler is a computer program or in some
cases a set of programs that translates another program’s source code into object code all

Introduction to Computers 79
at once, while the interpreter is a set of programs that translate the application program’s
source code, one line at a time while the program is running.

TOPIC SUMMARY
While the CPU is the brain of the computer, it needs instructions to work effectively. It
uses electronic instructions or binary signals in bits and bytes to communicate with other
parts of the system. Software, specifically operating software, provides specific instructions
to the peripherals and the various systems attached to the computer including network
operations. Application software provides the creative portion of the brain. It allows you
to use the computer to create and communicate. We will now explore application
software.

Introduction to Computers 80
TOPIC 2 – APPLICATIONS SOFTWARE
INTRODUCTION
Application programs assist the user in completing workplace tasks, personal tasks or
research when using the computer. They are the programs that a regular users sees and
manipulates. This includes word processing, spreadsheet, graphic presentations software
and others. .This Topic discusses some categories of application software, including their
strengths that enhance a user’s productivity.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Give examples of application software.

2. Explain the difference between application software and system software.

3. Compare different types application software.

4. Explain the word processing document life cycle.

5. Identify general word processing features.

6. Explain the mail merge process.

7. Explain the types of spreadsheet data.

8. Demonstrate the usefulness of functions and formulas.

9. Describe the features of presentation software.

10. Demonstrate how to produce a simple presentation.

11. Describe the characteristics of statistical software.

12. Demonstrate how to extract results from quantitative data using statistical
software.

PERSONAL PRODUCTIVITY APPLICATIONS

Personal productivity applications serve the needs of various users and have several sub‐
categories. Generally, personal productivity software includes word processing,
spreadsheet, presentation, and database programs. Another area, Internet applications,
includes Web browsers and electronic mail programs. Multi‐media or graphics applications
use desktop publishing, as well as editing of photos and graphics, while home and
educational applications include personal finance programs, tax preparation programs,
reference software and game playing software.

Introduction to Computers 81
These personal productivity programs are usually stand‐alone programs which do not
depend on other application software to function. However, there are some applications
whose interfaces are the same, and also share data and resources with each other. These
applications together are called software suites, and some examples are Microsoft Office ‐
which is the most popular, Corel WordPerfect Office, and Lotus SmartSuite.

Word Processor

Database Spreadsheet

Table 4.6 Some useful application software

Types Description

Financial Software Provides automated assistance for tax preparation and

submission. An example is Turbo Tax.

Accounting Software Provides assistance for personal accounting and cheque

writing. Examples are Quicken and QuickBooks

Word Processing Provides assistance in formatting, printing documents. Some

Software examples are Microsoft Word, and Corel WordPerfect

Spreadsheet Software Provides built‐in functions to perform calculations and

graphics. Some examples are Microsoft Excel and Lotus

Introduction to Computers 82
 Types Description

Database Software Stores, manipulates and retrieves data. Some examples are
Microsoft Access, dBase and FoxPro

WORD PROCESSING FEATURES

All word processing software is designed based on the document life cycle. The word
processing document life cycle, includes creating a document, editing or modifying the
document, formatting the document, saving and finally printing to provide a hard copy.

Editing the document allows sections of text to be deleted, moved, or re‐typed, and text
can also be searched and replaced. Formatting the document enhances its appearance,
using various features include using different font types and sizes, line spacing, colours and
borders.

Mail merge is one of the powerful features of word processing software. This feature makes
it easy to create personalized letters and reports, as well as print addresses on envelopes
and mailing labels. With a bit of creative thinking, mail merge can be used to simplify many
routine tasks such as personalizing invitations, preparing flyers, making certificates, labeling
file folders, and preparing name tags.

Activity 3.4 – Open your own word processing software program and investigate the
different formatting options it provides. Try and create a document than modify its
format using the templates and formatting features.

Hint: Some word processors have extensive help features and/or tutorials. Review some
of the tutorials.

WORKGROUP APPLICATIONS
These applications are used by two or more users who work as a team to achieve a
common task. The programs therefore should support the sharing of information and
sections of the work or a project, scheduling group meetings, group electronic mail services,
group decision making and conferencing. Some examples of this software are project
management software, groupware like Microsoft Sharepoint and collaborative software like
WIKIs (an example of a WIKI is Wikipedia).

ENTERPRISE APPLICATIONS
These applications are used by personnel to support the company in its interaction with
customers and employees. Some of the activities include entry of orders, billing, payroll,
human resource management, and general reporting activities. Enterprise applications are
specialized or tailor made to the specific activities of the company. Examples of enterprise
software include PeopleSoft a complete package of company operations and Banner an

Introduction to Computers 83
enterprise system used by universities and colleges to support records management,
financial management, course management, student management, etc.

APPLICATION SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT

Some applications, are developed ‘in‐house’ specifically for use in the company. Other
applications are developed via a contract by technology companies that specialize in
producing custom application software for their customers. One example of custom
software development would the book ordering process for Amazon.com. Finally, there are
off the shelf application software packages which, as the name implies, can be purchased
and used without the ability to customize the software.

Activity 3.5 – Consider the different tasks that you can complete with project
management software. Also provide the name of one project management application
package

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

SPREADSHEET FEATURES
Electronic spreadsheets organize data in a grid of rows and columns. Spreadsheet
programs are considered a simple database that can be used to manipulate data in the
form of numbers, percentages, etc.

The benefits include the elimination of much of the tedious tasks of performing the
calculations manually, so that the calculations are generally error‐free. Data is automatically
recalculated when one value or calculation is changed. What‐if analysis allows users to
change one value and have the results instantly recalculated. This is very useful in financial
forecasting.

The intersection of a row and column is called a cell. A cell is known by its address which
consists of a column letter, followed by row number, for example B7. Cells contain:

 a label, which provides text information or headings of the entries in the

spreadsheet,

 a value, which is an actual number that is entered into a cell

 a displayed value which is what is displayed in the cell. This displayed value can
represent:

 a formula – an instruction to the program to calculate a number, such as 10% of a

value, or

 a function – a pre‐programmed formula, such as SUM to add some numbers

Introduction to Computers 84
 Spreadsheets produce graphs based on the data given in a visual, easily understood
format. Analytical graphs are designed to help users analyze and understand specific data
using simple line, bar, and pie chart graphs.

Activity 3.6 – Open your own spreadsheet software and investigate how spreadsheets
can be used to create different types of graphs or chart such as line, bar and pie charts.
Try and enter some data and create a graph.

Hint: Some spreadsheet programs have extensive help features and/or tutorials.
Review some of the tutorials.

PRESENTATION SOFTWARE FEATURES

The use of pictures, photos and other graphics in a lecture can help the audience remember
and understand what is being presented. This is why electronic presentations have become
popular in the oral delivery of many topics. Presentation software is also effective for
training purposes since video clips can also be included to illustrate certain topics.
Presentation software programs such as Microsoft PowerPoint presents information,
usually in point form on many pages called a ‘slides’. Presentations can be projected and
enlarged using a projector. Indeed the presentation can be published on the Internet as
well as printed as outlines or scaled slides on paper.

The usefulness of presentation software includes the easy updating or re‐arrangement of

the slide content, the inclusion of multi‐media to enhance the audience’s understanding of
the content, the content can be viewed be a larger audience since the presentation can be
magnified as necessary, and the presenter can use links within the presentation to link to
other documents, files and web resources.

PROPRIETARY VERSUS OPEN SOURCE SOFTWARE

Proprietary software is computer software licensed under exclusive legal right of the
copyright holder. The licensee is given the right to use the software under certain
conditions, but restricted from other uses, such as modification, further distribution, or
reverse engineering. The distributors of this type of software limit the number of
computers on which software can be used, and prohibit the user from installing the
software on additional computers. Restricted use is sometimes enforced through a
technical measure, such as product activation, a product key or serial number, a hardware
key, or copy protection.

Public domain software is not subject to copyright and can be used for any purpose. This
includes free software, licensed by the owner under more permissive terms and open
source software.

Introduction to Computers 85
 Shareware is software that is copyright protected, but may be downloaded and used
for free, for a limited time, after which the user is asked to voluntarily send the
author/creator a small payment and register the product. Shareware can be
downloaded from the internet, but it might also be available on CD.

Freeware is copyrighted software that can be copied, used and distributed at no charge.
This software may not be sold or used in any way for commercial purposes. It is mostly
downloaded from the internet. Users cannot change this software.

Open Source is software that can be use or modified without restriction, and made
available for use without restriction. Open source software is generally available
without charge, but can have a small fee and can be downloaded from the internet.
This software may not be sold or used in any way for commercial purposes. It is mostly
downloaded from the internet.

Take note: In practice, for software to be distributed as open source software, the
human‐readable form of the program (the source code) must be made available to the
recipient along with a notice granting the above permissions. Such a notice either is a
free software license, or a notice that the source code is released into the public
domain.

Commercial Software Open Source Software

TOPIC SUMMARY
You should now be familiar with the relationship of hardware and software. You should
now realize how critical each part of a computer system is. As an entrepreneur you must
decide the type of hardware and software you will need to ensure your business operates
efficiently.

Introduction to Computers 86
RECOMMENDED UNIT READINGS
After you have completed your review of the topics in this unit it is recommended you read
at least one of the following online articles and consider the related reflective questions as
you read the materials.

Microsoft Corporation. (2006). Windows History. Available at:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/WinHistoryDesktop.mspx.

This Microsoft article describes the evolution of their Windows Operating System. As you
read it consider the following question:

How has the creation of the Windows operating system impacted the use and evolution of
the computer?

McLean, P. (2007). Road to MAC OS X: Safari 3.0. Appleinsider. Available at:

http://www.appleinsider.com/articles/07/10/18/road_to_mac_os_x_leopard_saf
ari_3_0.html&page=1

This article explores the evolution of a the web browser from the prespective of Apple’s
Safari. But it does explore the evolution of other web browsers including Windows Explorer
and Firefox. As you read the article consider the following question:

What impact has the invention of the web browser had on our social, economic cultural and
education systems?

Reimer, J. (2005). A History of the GUI. Ars Technia. Available at:

http://arstechnica.com/articles/paedia/gui.ars/1.

The author of this article explores the evolution of the graphical user interface. As you read
the article consider the following question:

How has the invention of the graphical user interface impacted how the computer has been
used? What is the next step in GUI development?

Introduction to Computers 87
UNIT 3 – SUMMARY
The major systems software concepts discussed in this unit were:

 System software monitors the activities of the computer so that it functions

efficiently.

 The operating system comprises a set of programs that work with the peripheral
devices and computer hardware to control and organize the general operating
functions of the computer.

 Operating systems differ in functionality, flexibility and ease of use.

 A platform of a computer system is the underlying hardware and software that it

allows it to function.

 The functions of the user interface are to start application programs, manage
secondary storage, such as hard disks, as well as manipulate files and folders, and
finally shut down the computer safely.

 The Graphical User Interface (GUI) uses graphics or icons which represent various
tasks.

 The command‐line interface requires the user to type keywords or commands at a

prompt, in order to enter data or execute commands.

 Utility programs are tools that help the operating system manage the computer
system’s secondary or non‐priority jobs.

 Language translators are these systems programs convert the data in a program
(source code) into machine language code (object code) that the computer can
then process.

 Windows Explorer is a tool for organizing files on disk and uses several important
components to manage drives such as disks (floppy disks, CDs, DVDs, and memory
sticks), folders and files.

 Files are a collection of information, data, or program files.

 Folders are used to organize where the files are located, so that a particular folder
may contain all spreadsheet files, while another folder can contain all word
processing files.

 A disk is a secondary storage device such as a floppy disk, CD, DVD, or memory
stick, where folders and files can be stored.

Introduction to Computers 88
  The root folder is the main or general folder found on all disks.

 Folders created within the root folder, are called subfolders.

 Deleting folders also removes files and any subfolders in that folder.

The application software concepts discussed in this unit were:

 Application software is what users require to complete their tasks, while system
software is the software that interfaces between the hardware to perform what is
required by the application software.

 Personal productivity software programs are usually stand‐alone programs which

do not depend on other application software to function.

 The word processing document life cycle, includes creating a document, editing or
modifying the document, formatting the document, saving and finally printing to
provide a hard copy.

 Mail merge is one of the powerful features of word processing software which
makes it easy to create personalized letters and reports.

 Workgroup applications are used by two or more users who work as a team to
achieve a common task.

 Enterprise applications used by personnel to support the company in its interaction

with customers and employees, such as entry of orders, billing, or payroll.

 Electronic spreadsheets organize eliminate much of the tedious tasks of performing

numerical calculations manually.

 Spreadsheets produce graphs based on the data given in a visual, easily understood
format.

 The usefulness of presentation software includes the easy updating or re‐

arrangement of the slide content, and the inclusion of multi‐media to enhance the
audience’s understanding of the content.

 SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) is a software application that
manages data in a systematic way in order to perform statistical analysis on a set of
data.

System software plays an important role in the proper functioning of a computer system.
This unit explained the three main programs that comprise system software, namely
operating systems, utility programs and language translators. Of course different types of
system software are necessary for the different types of operating systems available. The

Introduction to Computers 89
user interface was also discussed as a mediator between the user and the computer
system, to ensure that the computer system performs certain complex or other mundane
tasks for the user.

This unit also introduced personal productivity software or applications software which are
stand‐alone programs that do not depend on other applications to function. Some popular
application software programs discussed were for word processing, spreadsheet analysis,
presentations, and statistical analysis. Some other applications such as workgroup and
enterprise applications were also introduced, since they are also widely used in the day‐to‐
day tasks in many businesses.

Introduction to Computers 90
UNIT 4: FILE AND DATA MANAGEMENT
INTRODUCTION
This unit explains how a computer file and data management system operates and is
accompanied by some practical activities which are useful in helping understand how files
can be organized on secondary storage devices into multiple folders and sub‐folders.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Illustrate the movement of files, folders to organize information in a meaningful

way.

2. Explain different disk and file management operations.

This unit consists of one Topic which describes disk and file management operations and
then is supported by some practical exercises that students are encouraged to complete.

Introduction to Computers 91
TOPIC 1 ‐ DISK AND FILE MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS
INTRODUCTION
This Topic uses Microsoft Windows Explorer as a tool for organizing files with data and
information into manageable areas called folders.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe a computer the operation of a computer file management system.

2. Show diagrammatically basic file and data management structures.

3. Carry out basic file and data management operations.

FILE MANAGEMENT
In Microsoft Windows operating system, Windows Explorer is a tool for organizing files on
disk and uses several important components to manage drives such as disks (floppy disks,
CDs, DVDs, and memory sticks), folders and files. When Explorer is started, you will see the
directory window, which displays the contents of a specified folder on a selected drive.
Files, folders and disks must interact to organize information in a meaningful way.

Files are a collection of information, data, or program files. For example, an application
software program such as a spreadsheet or word processor is a program file, while the
document created using the spreadsheet or word processor is called a data file.

Folders are used to organize where the files are located, so that a particular folder may
contain all spreadsheet files, while another folder can contain all word processing files.

A disk is a secondary storage device such as a floppy disk, CD, DVD, or memory stick, where
folders and files can be stored. Consider a disk to be like a filing cabinet with the folders
similar to physical folders or drawers in the filing cabinet. These folders can therefore
contain files or rather paper files! So you can have many folders in a file, and the folders can
contain many files! Also, just as your filing cabinet can become full of files, your disk
(storage device) can also become full.

ROOT FOLDERS AND SUBFOLDERS

Two terms need to be explained before beginning the practical Topic. A root folder is the
main or general folder found on all disks and is identified with the disk drive letter followed
by a backslash (\ ). A root folder is often known as a drive or storage device. Table 4.2
illustrates some other designated disk drive letters. So the root directory of the floppy drive
is designated A:\

Introduction to Computers 92
Table 4.2 Designated Drive Letters

Disk Drive Name Designated Drive Letter

Floppy Drive A:\

Another Floppy drive B:\

Hard Disk Drive C:\

Another Hard Disk Drive Can be given another letter such as D:\ or more depending
on the number of installed hard‐drives on the computer.

Memory Stick (also If there are two hard drives on the computer, then it is
called Flash drive) designated E:\

Another Memory Stick F:\ ‐ Assuming you have a second one.

A Network Drive H:\ or higher ‐ Note network drives do not physically reside
on your desktop or laptop computer. To connect to a
Network Drive your computer must be installed on a local or
wide area network.

Once you create folders within the root folder, then these folders are called subfolders. So
if the root folder contains another folder called WORD, then the folder is identified by its
name preceded by the name of the root. Therefore we have in our example, A:\WORD
which indicates that the subfolder WORD is in the root folder of the A: drive. Folders can
have more folders within them. So if ASSIGN1, is created within the WORD Subfolder, then
A:\WORD\ASSIGN1 indicates that the ASSIGN1 subfolder is within the WORD subfolder
contained in the root folder of the floppy disk. Another way to describe the hierarchical
nature of the above example is below:

 Root Folder (e.g. C:\)

 Sub Folder (e.g. C:\WORD)

Sub‐Sub Folder (c:\WORD\ASSIGN1)

Introduction to Computers 93
 Activity 4.1 ‐ Using the Directory Window

Launch Windows Explorer by right‐clicking the Start button and selecting Explore. Then

maximize the resulting window.

Double‐click on the icon located in the left panel. (you may not see
the numbers before the C:. A list of folders will be displayed in the right panel. Double‐
click the WINNT or WINDOWS folder depending on the system you are using. (You may
get a message telling you that these files are hidden for security reasons. Simply click the
on the Show Files option.) You can also double‐click on any folder for this activity; the
Explorer title will be updated to reflect the name of the folder that you have opened.

Double‐click the Desktop folder in the left panel, or in the file list (in the right panel), and
notice the files change to reflect those in the desktop folder.

You should now select and click the View pull‐down menu, and notice how the Explorer
panels change with each option. Try the four options in the Arrange Icon option and
Details option to see the result.

Introduction to Computers 94
CREATING AND DELETING FOLDERS
You can also create and delete folders in Explorer. To create a new folder, you first need to
know WHERE your folder will be located, such as the desired drive, and then the directory
from the tree (left panel). Select the disk and folder that you want to create this new
subfolder within, and select File New Folder from the menu bar.

You need to be careful when deleting or removing folders, since you may remove a folder
with important files still within it. Deleting folders also removes files and any subfolders in
that folder. Click to select the folder, and then select File Delete from the menu bar.

Activity 4.2 ‐ Creating and deleting folders

Launch Explorer and put your floppy disk in the floppy drive. Click on the Floppy Drive
icon.

Select File New Folder. Alternatively you can right click in the right pane and select
the New Folder Option

Type DISTANCE and press [ENTER]. The new folder has been added under the A:\ root
directory. Double‐click the folder DISTANCE and select File New Folder (or once again
right click and select New Folder). Type ACTIVITY. Your directory tree for the floppy
disk is shown:

If you have other folders, then they will also be shown.

Click on the DISTANCE folder. To delete this folder (and all its contents), select File
Delete from the menu, or press DELETE. Click OK when the Confirm Delete dialog box
appears.

Introduction to Computers 95
DISK AND FILE MANAGEMENT OPERATIONS
Windows Explorer allows the management of files such a wide range of file activities
including copying, moving, deleting and renaming.

Copying Operation ‐ In order to copy one or more files from one folder to another, these
file(s) should be first selected from the directory list. Multiple files can be selected from the
folder by clicking on the first file (remember, do NOT double click as this will open the
document and not select it), then hold down the CONTROL key while clicking on each
individual file. If the files are located together, then first hold down the SHIFT key and then
click on the first and then the last file. All files between the first and last will be selected. A
file can be de‐selected by clicking on the file a second time. After selecting the file(s) use
the Edit Copy command, or hold down the CTRL key and tap the letter C on the keyboard.
Click in the destination folder on the desired drive, and select Edit Paste. Your files should
be copied to the desired folder.

Moving Operation ‐ To move one or more files, first select the required files, as in the
copying operation above. With the files selected or highlighted, click and hold on the
selected files. Then drag the mouse pointer onto the destination folder name in the tree
and release the mouse button. You should check to see that the files were actually moved
to the desired location. Alternatively, files can be moved by first selecting the files and using
Edit Cut, to remove the files from the first location. Then click in the destination folder on
the desired drive, and select Edit Paste to move the files to this folder.

Renaming Operation ‐ Renaming files is accomplished by selecting the desired file and then
choosing File Rename from the menu. Simply type in the new filename and press Enter.

Activity 4.3 ‐ Disk and File Management Operations

First create the following tree structure on your floppy disk, or memory stick
(removable disk)

Use Start, Programs, Accessories, and Paint to create the four bitmap files and save
those files with a Monochrome Bitmap file format. Use WordPad or Notepad to create
and save the four text files shown. You do not need to type anything in the file. Save
these files in the root folder of your disk. Also make sure your files are arranged by
type in Explorer.

Introduction to Computers 96
 Copy all bitmap files from the root (Distance) to the Graphics folder. To do this:

Click on the first file Assign1 Graphic, hold the SHIFT key down and click or select the
Assign4 Graphic to select all of the graphic files.

Select Edit Copy from the menu, or hold down the CTRL key and tap the C key. Click
on the Graphics folder in the directory structure (left panel). Select Edit Paste, or CTRL
V to copy the files. A dialog box will show you the files as they are copied.

Move the text files to the folder Assignments.

Click on the first file Assign1, hold the SHIFT key down and click or select the Assign5
text file to select all of the text files.

Select Edit Cut from the menu, or hold down the CTRL key and tap the C key. Click on
the Assignments folder in the directory structure (left panel). Select Edit Paste, or
CTRL V to copy the files. A dialog box will show you the files as they are copied.

Delete the remaining files from the root. Select all files in the root and tap the DELETE
(DEL) key. Select YES when the Confirm Multiple File Delete dialog box appears.

Rename files. Click on the System Software folder in the Tree. Select File Rename
from the menu, and type in the new file name: Operating Systems. Press ENTER.

Click on the Application Software folder and press DELETE. What happens? Since you
do not actually want to delete this folder, what should you do?

TOPIC SUMMARY
In this topic we explored how to create a file and data management system that will ensure
you are able to effectively store and retrieve information from your computer system. An
effective business will treat its data like gold. You must know how to protect, how to store
it and how to back it up.

Introduction to Computers 97
RECOMMENDED UNIT READINGS
After you have completed your review of the topic and its related activities, you should
review the resources available at the site described below. As you are reviewing the
information in the University consider the related reflective questions as you read the
materials.

University of Virginia. (2007). Resources: File Management. Information Technology

Centre. Available at: http://itc.virginia.edu/desktop/docs/fms/.

Instructions: As minimum review the two tutorials (Windows File Management and
Macintosh File Management) and the Best Practices in File Management PowerPoint
slideshow. Consider the following question:

How can I use the best practices and tips and tricks presented in the tutorials and slideshow
to better manage the files and data on my own computer?

Introduction to Computers 98
UNIT 4 ‐ SUMMARY
The following concepts were explored in this unit:

1. Windows Explorer is a tool for organizing files on disk.

2. Files are a collection of information, data, or program files.

3. Folders are used to organize where the files are located.

4. A disk is a secondary storage device such as a floppy disk, CD, DVD, or memory
stick, where folders and files can be stored.

5. The root folder is the main or general folder found on all disks.

6. Once you create folders within the root folder, then these folders are called
subfolders.

7. To create a new folder, you first need to know WHERE your folder will be located.

8. You need to be careful when deleting or removing folders, since you may remove a
folder with important files still within it.

This unit explained the difference among terms such as disks, files, folders and sub folders
and root folder. It also noted the various disk drive letter designations when performing
data and file management tasks.

Introduction to Computers 99
UNIT 5: INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES
INTRODUCTION
This unit builds upon earlier descriptions of computer hardware and provides detailed
descriptions of the devices needed by systems users to input information and how to view
the output of processed data and applications programs.

As note earlier hardware input devices are integral in processing data into meaningful
information. Different hardware devices enable data to be input in a form that the
computer can process and translate into an understandable form for humans to interpret.

Output devices are peripheral devices that enable us to view, hear or store the result of the
computer’s processed data. Note that output of processed data is different from storing the
processed data before it is output. Storage of data and the associated storage devices are
discussed in Topic 5 of this unit, however in this Topic, we describe the need for output
devices and explain why some output devices are more suited for certain applications than
others.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Describe the various types of manual input devices.

2. Describe the various types of direct input devices.

3. Distinguish between the types of output devices.

4. Describe the types of terminals.

5. Describe different storage devices.

This unit is divided into four topics:

Topic 1: Keyboard and Pointing Input Devices.

Topic 2: Direct Input Devices.

Topic 3: Softcopy Output Devices.

Topic 4: Hardcopy Output Devices.

Topic 5: Storage Devices.

Introduction to Computers 100

TOPIC 1 ‐ KEYBOARD AND POINTING INPUT DEVICES
INTRODUCTION
Computers need raw data to process into meaningful information. This Topic introduces
devices used for getting raw data into the computer. Some software applications require
different devices with certain characteristics for data entry. These will also be discussed in
this Topic.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe the purpose of an input device.

2. Give examples and characteristics of direct input devices.

3. Match an input device with the most appropriate situation.

4. List the types of keyboards.

5. List the pointing devices and the advantages and disadvantages of each.

DATA INPUT
Before we can use the computer for various tasks, including surfing the Internet or as part
of our daily work, computer systems need to convert data into meaningful information or
representations that are familiar to the user. Data can be obtained in various forms for
input into the computer. Actions by computer users are the most common way of inputting
data. Other ways input data into a computer for processing is through is the transfer of data
(or files) from other storage devices (such as a hard‐drive, memory stick or CD ROM) and
transfer of data from another network computer.

Data is input from different devices in the following forms:

 Raw data, such as words, numbers, pictures, symbols, graphics, or sound which
needs to be processed into meaningful data.

 Software programs that give the computer its instructions and therefore need to be
transferred from an external storage device to the computer’s internal memory.

 Commands that instruct the computer to do a specific task. Examples include

special keywords or typed commands that are either entered from a keyboard, or a
left click from a mouse, or even a touch on a screen using a pointing device.

 Responses or prompts either through sound or visual boxes requiring the user to
usually provide some typed response, reply or feedback, such as OK, Cancel, Yes or
No.

Introduction to Computers 101

 Activity 5.1 – Consider the following questions.

1. Explain what is meant by a user.

2. List two ways in which data can be inputted into the computer.

3. Give two examples of the type of data that can be input into a computer.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Hardware devices are used to translate data into a form that the computer can process can
be placed in three general categories: Keyboard, Pointing and Source Data Entry. The
devices in these categories used to get this data input to the computer are described below.

THE KEYBOARD
A computer keyboard is the most common method of
inputting data into a computer’s memory directly. The
keyboard is an improvement on the typewriter and
comprises keys of letters, numbers, some punctuation
marks and other symbols as well as some pre‐defined
keys called function keys. The user can type words and
other commands which are converted into electrical
signals (ones and zeros) and input into a computer’s
memory.

Keyboards are either connected to the computer by a cable or by a wireless

transmitter/receiver. Cordless keyboards use infrared beams and low frequency signals to
transmit their data from the keyboard to the computer. Wireless keyboards that use
infrared beams to transmit data require a clear line of sight between the device and the
infrared port on the computer. Wireless keyboards that use low frequency signals to
transfer data need to be in close proximity to the computer and may experience
interference from other wireless or electrical devices.

Keyboards are produced in various shapes and sizes to suit users’ specific needs. Today
keyboards that are ergonomically designed are popular to present injuries such as carpal
tunnel syndrome or other repetitive hand and wrist injuries. Keyboards have also been
created to support individuals with different physical disabilities. These include Braille
keyboards for those that are blind, one handed keyboards for those users who can only use
one hand, keyboards for special purpose devices (such as a Personal Digital Assistant or cell
phone) and digitally projected keyboards that allow a keyboard to displayed in a variety
locations.

Introduction to Computers 102

POINTING DEVICES
Pointing devices are used to move a cursor on the monitor corresponding to the movement
of the pointing device. The computer mouse is the most widely used pointing device. It fits
snuggly inside the palm of your hand, and allows the user to send commands to the
computer. As you move the pointing device to the left, its movement is mirrored on the
monitor display in the same direction, with a corresponding pointer () on the screen.

A mouse can provide input in a number of different ways. Specific actions that are included
in all mouse pointing devices include:

 A single‐click of the left or right mouse button is

used for selecting an item or option on the screen.

 Double‐clicking opens a program or special screen

called a dialog box.

 Click and drag involves holding down the left

mouse button while dragging or sliding the mouse.
This allows the user to drag, move and reposition
items/information anywhere on the screen.

A recent addition to the design of the mouse is a rotating wheel which, when scrolled up or
down, correspondingly scrolls the page up or down with a text document. The cordless
mouse gives added flexibility to the user, by removing the connection of the cord to the
computer; however the mouse must remain in sight of a receiver to work.

The mouse allows the user to quickly move the cursor on the screen instead of typing
commands on the keyboard to move data around the screen. However the use of the
mouse requires constant hand and wrist movement and like the keyboard may result in
wrist injuries.

There are a number of other pointing devices that have evolved since the mouse was
invented. Many of them have capabilities that are similar to the mouse. These specialized
pointing devices add additional features that support customized software applications that
can react based on the input devices. Some of the more common pointing devices are
described in table 5.1.

Introduction to Computers 103

Table 5.1 – Common Pointing Devices

Pointing Device Description Advantage Disadvantage

Trackball and Some look like an Uses less space Again requires much ball
track point inverted mouse for movement control using a finger or
with the ball on than a mouse thumb. Also using same
the top or side of would, and so is wrist muscles is tiring and
the trackball for not as tiring as can also cause injuries.
the user to roll. using the
The track point is mouse.
more commonly
found embedded
in the keyboard of
laptops

Touch Screen The user makes The natural Reaching out to touch the
selection by just tendency to areas on the screen can
touching the touch an object become tiring if there are
screen is a distinct many choices to be made.
advantage of the The screen must also be
touch screen. large enough to
accommodate the several
choices since fingers pads
are bigger than the thin
cursors.

Pen Input Used generally in Apart from its Device must be trained to
Personal Digital small size, it can recognize user’s
Assistants (PDA)or imitate handwriting. Also the user
Tablet PCs. handwriting can lose the pen since it is
Functions like a instead of typing not usually attached to the
mouse with using keyboard. device
clicking replaced
by tapping the
screen.

Introduction to Computers 104

 Pointing Device Description Advantage Disadvantage

Touch Pad Uses a touch Similar to the The constraints of the size
sensitive pad for touch screen of the touch pad can be
controlling the restrictive, and constant
cursor. Cursor reaching for the touch pad
follows sliding can also be tiring
finger movement
across the pad.
Buttons allow for
clicking, or tap on
the pad with a
finger.

Game Devices: Cursor motion Gives a more More expensive and

controlled either natural‐feeling much bigger than other
Joy stick by a stick for the control for devices.
joystick or arrow motion in flying
buttons for the or driving games
game pad.

Game Console

Activity 5.2 – Consider the following questions:

1. Explain one common problem that can result from constant use of pointing
devices

2. Can you identify those persons who will not be able to use pointing devices?

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 105

TOPIC SUMMARY
In earlier units we explained how important data was and how it was managed internally by
a computer system. During this topic discussion you reviewed a number of different ways
of getting raw data into a computer and how to get processed data out of your computer.
In the next topic you explore some more exotic means of data entry and retrieval.

Introduction to Computers 106

TOPIC 2 ‐ DATA ENTRY AT THE SOURCE
INTRODUCTION
As the term implies, these devices enable the data to be entered or captured from its origin
or source with minimal or no interference from the user. The advantages for this method
are to eliminate extra handling and save time in the user entering the data, thus lowering
labour cost, and reducing errors.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe a source data entry device.

2. Explain biometrics.

3. List the various input devices.

SOURCE DATA ENTRY

Source data entry minimizes any mistakes that may occur during data input, and avoids
having to re‐enter the data. Data is feed directly from a storage device, application
program or via a networked device that is attached to the computer. Some examples of
devices that use source data entry methods are: an air conditioning unit that monitors the
temperature of a room; a device that maintains a consistent environment in an incubator;
an altimeter in an airplane; automated downloads for different application programs;
devices that are used in a controlled environment o maintain the humidity, or devices that
test the water in a pond for acidity or alkalinity.

Activity 5.3 ‐ A weather station uses SENSORS to take various readings or measurements
which are stored or logged for later use.

1. State the general name for the type of input that is required to take these
readings.

2. State are the advantages of using these devices to log the data compared to a
human being taking the measurements.

3. Explain the kinds of readings that could be taken by the weather station.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

BIOMETRICS
Biometrics is a human‐biology input device, which uses a user’s body characteristics as
input to a computer system. These characteristics include fingerprints, face structure and
hands to the patterns in the eye's iris.

Introduction to Computers 107

The federal government has made biometrics part of its post‐Sept. 11 security measures.
Since October 2004, the USA Department of Homeland Security has been gathering and
comparing biometric data on all foreign travelers to the country against database records of
criminals and terror suspects. Thus travelers are required to provide two digital index finger
images and have a passport with a digital photograph in order to gain entry to the country.
To date, the following biometric devices have been used to capture the following physical
characteristics to verify a user’s identity:

Physical Characteristics Illustration Description

Facial Recognition Measures factors such as the

Systems distance between facial features
(pupil to pupil, for example) or
the dimensions of such features
(such as the width of the mouth)

Finger Scans Measures characteristics such as

changes in the individual lines of
the finger pad

Hand Geometry Scans Measures factors such as the size

of the palm and the length and
width of the fingers

Retina Scanning Uses a beam of light to scan the

pattern of veins in the eye's
retina

Voice Recognition Analyze the human voice through

Systems computerized pattern‐ matching
programs

SCANNERS
The scanner is like a photocopying machine. A document is placed on a glass plate and a
light emitting diode is passed over the document and the content of the document is
converted to a digital image. Scanning software allows the users to take the captured

Introduction to Computers 108

digital image and convert it to a graphic image or a text based document that can be edited
using a typical word processing program. The software that is used to convert a scanned
image to a text document is known as Optical Character Recognition software. Most
scanners are packaged with OCR software An example of OCR software is OmniPage.
Check it out.

The majority of scanners are large

enough to scan full sheets or entire
pages of books. Others are small
enough to scan a row of numbers of
a product. These smaller devices are
known as hand scanners or portable
scanners. Today many multi‐
purpose printers include the ability
to scan documents, print documents
and fax documents all using the
same printer.

BARCODE READER
Barcodes are different groups of vertical bars that
represent specific types of data that can be read by a
barcode reader. A barcode reader is a specialized type of
scanner that captures the bar code and passes the data to
a specialized application or data base for interpretation
and output to a specific hardware device. Businesses such
as supermarkets and clothing stores now use printed bar
codes on products and letters to track inventory and
calculate the sale at the checkout counter. Post offices
and courier services use bar code readers and forms with
bar codes to track and sort mail and packages.

Barcodes make it easier for a business to track their inventory and maintain their stock
balances in a way that supports just in time sales and distribution. Barcodes generally
contains product details such as product name, size, manufacturer, country of origin. They
can be customized to show location, time in, time out, etc. As each product bar code is
scanned, the symbols in the bar code are translated or converted into digital code. At the
same time, the stock value is automatically reduced by one.

Introduction to Computers 109

MAGNETIC INK CHARACTER RECOGNITION (MICR)
The ‘computerized looking’ numbers
printed at the bottom of your bank
cheques are made of a special magnetic
ink so that can still be scanned even if
the cheque has been folded or has dirty
marks on it. These numbers represent
the account number, bank sort codes as
the amount on the cheque, which banks
use a special Magnetic ink character
reader (MICR) to scan the numbers for input.

MAGNETIC STRIP READER

Many credit cards, debit cards and other
loyalty plastic cards have magnetic strips on
the back of the card. The strip contains some
of the card owner’s personal information.
When the user inserts the card into the
magnetic strip reader, and inputs their
Personal Identification Number (PIN), the data
stored on the strip is scanned and transferred
to the computer system for further processing
according to the user’s request.

OPTICAL MARK READER

An optical mark reader scans pre‐printed forms, such as lottery tickets. In education,
universities, colleges and some secondary schools use pre‐printed forms for their
examinations. The forms act as the answer sheet for multiple choice questions in the
examination booklet. Learners enter their proposed answer on the pre‐printed answer
sheet using a pencil. When put through a scanner with appropriate software the pencil
marks to digital form and the digital input is compared to an electronic answer key that
automatically marks the examination and puts data in the student information system
reflecting the results for each student.

Introduction to Computers 110

 Activity 5.4 ‐ Choose the most appropriate response for each of the following
questions on input devices

The most suitable input device for creating a short report would be a:

1. Mouse
2. Scanner
3. Keyboard
4. Joystick

The most suitable input device for selecting (highlighting) text on a screen would be
a:

1. Joystick
2. Mouse
3. Keyboard
4. Touch Screen

In order to create a digital image from a paper photograph you would first need to
input it using a:

1. Scanner
2. Joystick
3. Digital Camera
4. Touch Screen

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition is often used on:

1. Receipts
2. Photographs
3. Cheques
4. Barcodes

Multiple choice answers on a test paper can be input using:

1. Barcode Reader
2. Optical Mark Reader
3. Magnetic Ink Character Recognition
4. Magnetic Strip Reader

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

A variety of other miscellaneous input devices are now in use to capture just about any
form of input available. Let us examine a few of these input devices.

Introduction to Computers 111

AUDIO INPUT
A very useful device for enabling audio input into computers is a microphone and speech
recognition software. This type of input enables the computer to recognize words spoken
into a microphone through the use of special software. The words are inserted into a word
processing document. Recent technology is perfecting continuous speech recognition
where the user does not have to pause between words. A popular speech recognition
package is Dragon Naturally Speaking.

Voice recognition software is also used by the disabled to input commands to voice enabled
application software. For example The Windows 7 operating system has the capability to
control all menus via voice input. If you have a Window based computer check out the
“Speech Recognition” icon located in the “Control Panel”.

Today many vehicles employ voice recognition systems to

input hands free commands to the driver’s GPS, cell phone,
radio, iPod and to control the car’s internal systems.

DIGITAL INPUT
Digital cameras are quickly replacing film cameras. Instead of waiting for the film to be
developed, pictures can be taken and re‐taken, previewed before they are stored. You can
choose to print what pictures you wish to print, you can delete unwanted pictures and with
the add of photo editing software, you can change the look of your pictures. The images
are transferred to a computer using special software and a USB
cable or digital flash card (called an SD card). The printed picture
depends on both the quality of the paper and printer. Or you can
choose to email your pictures to photo production companies
that will print the selected photos and return them to you.

If you want to capture motion than there are two different

technologies. Digital Video cameras use a special technology to
record video images while a Web Cam, a tiny video camera can
be attached to the computer to feed pictures directly to the
computer. Web cams are popular for video conferencing over the Internet, as well as
documenting just about anything such as weather or traffic flows. Digital video cameras
provide better quality movie output and is easier to use when moving from place to place
to capture your pictures.

Today’s smart cell phones have both a digital video and still camera capabilities. Transfer of
photos or videos can be easily accomplished using a digital SD card or by attaching the
phone to a computer using a USB connection.

Introduction to Computers 112

Digital piano keyboards and other digital instruments can input music to your computer.
The output of what the musician plays is captured by the computer so that the artist can
play it back later or modify and enhance it using media production software.

TOPIC SUMMARY
Many of the input devices explored in this topic discussion are used by many retail and
information processing businesses. You must consider the different methods of data input
and the types of input devices you will need to support your business environment.

Introduction to Computers 113

TOPIC 3 ‐ SOFTCOPY OUTPUT DEVICES
INTRODUCTION
There are two different types of computer output called: softcopy and hardcopy output.
Softcopy output is intangible. It is not a physical object like a print‐out. Softcopy out can
only be heard or seen through different output devices. In this section we will discuss the
different softcopy out devices.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Describe the purpose of a softcopy output device.

2. Give examples and characteristics of visual output devices.

3. Give examples and characteristics of audio output devices.

4. Match an output device with the most appropriate scenario.

5. Explain what a terminal is and list the different types of terminals.

SOFTCOPY OUTPUT TYPES

Softcopy output can be further sub‐divided into visual output and audio output.

Softcopy ‐ Visual Output

Visual output of text, graphics, or video is usually displayed on a monitor. A monitor is

another peripheral device which uses a video card connected to the computer, to display
output on the screen. The video card is the device that interprets the digital content and
turns them into picture elements called pixels. Pixels allow an image to be displayed on
visual devices through a number of individual dots on the screen that create a visual image.

The resolution is the number of pixels (individual dots)

measured as horizontal pixel number × vertical pixel
number. So a 640 x 480 resolution means that the
screen is 640 pixels wide by 480 tall. That means a
monitor with this resolution can display 307,200 pixels
or individual dots on screen. The more pixels on screen
the greater the clarity and contrast of the visual output.
For example a resolution of 800 x 600 displays 480,000
pixels or over 50% more pixels than the lower 640 x 480
resolution and thus provides a better picture.

The level of resolution depends on two hardware components: the monitor and the video
card. Monitors are made to support different video resolutions and video cards are made

Introduction to Computers 114

to output a maximum number of pixels. Even if you have a monitor that can out 1024 x 768
resolution, the video card must also support this level of resolution. The maximum visual
output is based on the capabilities of the lower quality piece of hardware, so make sure
these two pieces are equal in resolution output.

Monitors are made in various sizes, and these sizes are measured diagonally from one
corner to the opposite corner in inches (e.g. from bottom right corner to top left corner
reflects the size of the monitor). Therefore the size of a monitor includes the case around
the viewing area of the screen. Common monitor sizes range from 15 to and 21inches.

Although monitors come in various sizes, the quality of the output on the screen is also
important. The resolution and refresh rate also determine the quality of the monitor
display. We have discussed resolution, now lets look at refresh rate.

Refresh rate is the number of times per second the pixels are recharged, so that the image
on the screen remains consistent, and not flicker. The faster the refresher rate the better
the picture. Refresh rates are measured in hertz (HZ) and based on how fast the horizontal
and vertical resolution is completed. A typical refresh rate is 70 to 90 HZ. The higher the
number the better. Like resolution, refresh rates are tied to the capabilities of both the
monitor and the video card. Video cards can only refresh the screen as fast as the monitor
will allow it.

Activity 5.5 ‐ Briefly explain why a user would need a smaller or even a larger monitor size,
than a standard 15 or 17 inch monitor.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Today there are two types of monitor technology. The older cathode ray (CRT) monitor
looks very much like an older CRT television. It uses old technology and is slowly being
replaced by Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) monitors which use digital input vice analogue
input. The LCD monitors will soon replace the CRT monitors because:

 Higher quality output on LCD monitors.

 LCD monitors are lighter and take up less space on the desk.

 LCD monitors use less energy.

 LCD monitors create less heat.

The one advantage of CRT monitors is that they are cheaper than LCD monitors.

LCD monitors come in a variety of types and sizes that include: passive (monochrome or
one colour), active, gas plasma, and field emission display screens, which are all beyond the
scope of this course.

Introduction to Computers 115

 Activity 5.6 ‐ Explain whether a CRT monitor would be a good choice for a portable
computer display.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Activity 5.7 ‐ You are a student who has saved some money to purchase a second hand
computer to produce your assignments, and to access your course work on the Internet.
Explain, with valid reasons what type of monitor you would purchase.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Softcopy ‐ Audio Output

Audio output enables the computer to output sound using two components of the
computer system. The first component is a sound card, which is a separate card or board
installed on the computer system unit. A sound card is necessary to listen to a sound file,
play a recording or receive audio feedback from the operating system or other application
programs.

Audio output also requires speakers or head phones to be

connected to the sound card so that you can hear the audio
output. In laptops, speakers are embedded in the computer unit.
In PCs and some MACs you need external speakers that can be
attached to the computer’s audio card.

Audio quality is dependent very much on the quality of the

sound card and the quality of the speakers. Today high quality
sound cards can produce Dolby Digital sound and surround
sound experiences. You can also purchase surround speakers
with sub‐woofers that sound as good as any stereo system. It
all depends on how much money you want to spend.

TOPIC SUMMARY
Often data is in the form of audio or highly detailed graphics, animations or video. If your
business requires audio, animation or detailed graphics output you need to consider using a
computer system with an appropriate audio or video card. In the next topic we will discuss
output devices like printers and other hard copy outputs.

Introduction to Computers 116

TOPIC 4 ‐ HARDCOPY OUTPUT DEVICES
INTRODUCTION
A printer is yet another peripheral device. However this device produces a physical copy or
hard copy of the computer’s output as opposed to the temporary or softcopy output
displayed on a monitor or through a speaker.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Match printer requirements with the most appropriate situation.

2. Explain what a terminal is and list the different types of terminals.

HARDCOPY OUTPUT – AN OVERVIEW

Printers output documents in the form of characters, text or graphics, and the output
quality is measured in dots per inch (dpi). The more dpi on single page the higher the
quality of the printout. A typical printer today prints at 600 dpi and a photo quality printer
prints at 1200 dpi or higher.

There are two general types of printers: impact and non‐impact.

 Impact printers strike a special hammer or wheel with the letter or character
against ribbon that has ink on it, thus leaving an image of the letter on the paper.
Examples include the dot‐matrix printer.

 A non‐impact printer produces the characters and images without having to hit the
paper. These printers use either jets to spray the ink on the paper or lasers to burn
the ink onto the paper. Since there is no hammering against the paper, these
printers cannot print copies of the document using carbon paper. Examples include
laser, inkjet, plotters and multi‐function printers.

Introduction to Computers 117

 ustrates the differences among some common printers.

Printer Non‐Impact Printers Plotter

rix printer Ink jet printer Laser printer Plotter

(or Bubble‐Jet)

character on a Makes characters by Laser printer works like a copier Uses a pen that moves over a
gainst paper. spraying dots of ink onto large revolving sheet of paper.
ally useful for multi‐ paper It is used in engineering,
bon copy forms) drafting, map making, and
plicate copies are seismology.

e pins, the Letter‐quality printouts Very high quality output Determined by dots per inch
er‐looking the (dpi) produced
Graphics of low
f possible at all.
able Color printers available at Colour laser printers are available Color printers available
cheaper than laser printer but very expensive
sive Cost of printer is Depending on size, cost ranges Expensive initial costs but
inexpensive but ink is from reasonable to very costly. cheaper to operate per page
costly Running costs are higher than
impact printers but lower than
most ink jet printers.
low Slow, one page may take Very fast. Typical home laser Fast, but it depends on the
up to 10 minutes printers can print 8 pages per size of the file being printed.
minute (ppm).
OTHER TYPES OF PRINTERS
There are two other types of printers that act as an output device for personal and office
use.

Thermal printers use wax and heat to burn images on special paper.
Some older fax machines that use rolls of papers are considered
thermal printers. These printers are expensive to buy, and the paper is
expensive compared to plain paper. Thermal printers are used by
organizations, like publishers, who require top quality output.

Multifunction printers are output devices that can print, scan, copy
and fax a document using the same platform. Most look like a
photocopier but can perform these other functions. However, if one
component malfunctions, than the other components cannot be used
since the entire printer must be sent out to be repaired.

TERMINALS – AS INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES

It is probably best to discuss terminals here now that input and output devices have been
explained. A terminal enables a user to communicate with a computer and is generally a
combination of a keyboard and output screen. Some users only need keyboards and
monitors for the most basic task of simply input of data and output the data to verify that it
is what the user entered.

Three types of terminals exist:

 Intelligent Terminal ‐ This is another term for a typical computer system, with its
own micro‐processor, memory and storage devices. Examples of these terminals
are automatic banking machines (ABMs) or Point of Sale terminals found mainly in
supermarkets.

 Smart Terminal ‐ This type of terminal comprises a monitor that displays features
such as bold characters as well as characters that blink on the screen. This monitor
therefore has its own processor. This is an older term, and today all PCs and
laptops would be considered smart terminals.

 Dumb Terminal ‐ This terminal is simply an output device that has a monitor to
display information from a server or mainframe computer. It also has a keyboard
for simple data entry, but more importantly it has no means of storing any data
input and has no processing capabilities, A dumb terminal needs to be networked
and data input into a server or smart terminal.

Introduction to Computers 119

 Activity 5.8 ‐ Choose the most appropriate response for each of the following questions
on output devices

The most suitable output device for producing a few colour brochures cheaply would be

(a) an inkjet printer (b) a laser printer

(c) a dot matrix printer (d) a plotter

The most suitable output device for producing a wage slip where the details need to be
printed through multi‐part (carbon) paper would be

(a) an inkjet printer (b) a laser printer

(c) a dot matrix printer (d) a plotter

The most suitable output device for an architect to produce large plans would be

(a) an inkjet printer (b) a laser printer

(c) a dot matrix printer (d) a plotter

The most suitable output device to quickly produce a large amount of high quality black
and white printouts would be

(a) an inkjet printer (b) a laser printer

(c) a dot matrix printer (d) a plotter

An ink‐jet printer is an example of a(n)

(a) Laser printer (b) Impact printer

(c) LCD printer (d) Non‐impact printer

TOPIC SUMMARY
We have now explored a variety of output devices. Almost all business environments will
need printers and monitors to review the data in hard or soft form. But some businesses
may require speciality devices to print receipts, share visuals, or support data sharing in
different ways. You must consider your data formatting and output requirements as part of
your business planning process.

Introduction to Computers 120

TOPIC 5 ‐ STORAGE DEVICES
INTRODUCTION
Secondary storage is used to save your data when the computer is turned off and is cheaper
than primary memory. Secondary storage, also known as mass media, auxiliary storage, or
simply storage refers to the various media on which a computer system can store data.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Explain the purpose of a storage device.

2. Describe the characteristics of storage devices.

3. Explain how storage devices access data.

4. Distinguish between magnetic storage devices and optical storage devices.

5. What is the difference between sequential access and random access.

6. List the various types of compact disks.

7. State the levels of the storage hierarchy.

OVERVIEW
Storage devices typically hold programs and data in manageable blocks or units called files.
It is the primary memory that is used together with secondary storage to temporarily
transfer the contents of a file between the two while the file is being used.

Some of the advantages of using secondary storage include:

 a vast amount of data or files can be stored in one location;

 reliable and safe storage of data and information;

 easy and quick access to data; and

 cheaper cost in storing data compared to using multiple filing cabinets.

Activity 5.9 ‐ A school has 200 students who are learning Information Technology for an
external exam. The administration of the school generally keeps records of the students,
as well as the teachers’ payroll information and the alumni association.

Consider the types of storage devices are would be necessary in the day‐to‐day work for
the students, teachers and administration. If the school needs to backup all data, due to
the threat of a hurricane, then explain if any secondary storage devices would change

Introduction to Computers 121

 from the day‐to‐day tasks.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

CATEGORIES OF STORAGE DEVICES

Storage devices are categorized in the following ways:

 Access method for data and information.

 Storage technology.

 The Storage Hierarchy.

Let’s examine each one.

Method of Access

The method of access is further sub‐divided into two sections, sequential access and
random access.

Sequential storage devices (also called serial storage devices) are those
that must start from the beginning of the data to be read from or
written to, and proceed through each unit after the other in a
sequence, until it reaches the required point. Therefore locating data
using sequential access takes different lengths of time, depending on
where in the list the data is located. Examples of sequential storage
devices are cassette tape drives, where the drive forwards or rewinds
the tape until it reaches its required target.

Random access storage devices can access data immediately without having to read data
from the beginning through to where the data is located. They search data based on a
table of contents for the data located on the device. Examples of these storage devices are
floppy drives and hard disk drives. These devices are also known as machine access, and
direct access storage devices.

Floppy disks are still common with students who are now beginning to learn Information
Technology, since they are relatively cheap. But these storage devices are quickly being
replaced by portable flash drives and CD ROM and DVD disks. The future of the floppy disks
is going the same way as beta tape recorders. Students who have projects small enough to
store on a floppy, can transfer these files from one computer (possibly at home) to another
(computer at school), while working on the project.

Introduction to Computers 122

Storage Technologies

Again, storage devices can be further sub‐divided into magnetic and optical devices.

Magnetic Storage Devices

If a storage device used disks (diskettes) or tapes, then it is categorized as a magnetic

storage device. This is because disks and tapes are coated with iron oxide, a magnetically
sensitive material used for storing the data.

The benefits of using magnetic storage devices such as 3 ½” floppy disks, hard disks and
magnetic tape is that they can cheaply store large amounts of data. Magnetic tapes are also
similar to those previously used to record music, and are popular for use in the backup of
data.

A hard disk is a storage device which can retrieve data very quickly and can also store large
amounts of data, many times more than a floppy disk or cassette tape. They contain
multiple metal disks called platters, with read/write heads for each side of each disk.

The time taken to retrieve data includes the time taken to find the data on the disk (called
access time) and the time taken to transfer the data from the disk to primary memory. The
average hard disk has an average access time of 12 kps (Kilo‐bytes per seconds). A fast hard
drive is considered 8 kps.

If a storage device uses laser technology, then it is categorized as an optical storage device,
since it uses laser beams to read data etched into plastic disks. Simplistically the surface of
the disk will contain tiny indentations called pits. As a light‐sensing device scans the surface,
it picks up signals to interpret the data. For example, it receives no light from the pits, or
light if no pits are scanned, thus sending a series of signals to the computer. The compact
disk, more commonly called a CD, is the general term for these storage devices.

Optical disk storage also stores a larger amount of data than floppy disks, and are usually
categorized according to they ability to read or write or both read and write data to the
disk. They are generally used for mass distribution of information such music, video, or
computer programs. Standard CDs can store approximately 80 minutes of music.

Introduction to Computers 123

Table 6.1 Categories of Compact Disks (CDs)

Optical Meaning Description

Disk Type

CD‐ROM Compact Disk‐ The drive can only read data from and not write data to
Read Only the disk. Stores up to approximately 700 MB of data on
Memory. one disk. Primarily used for distribution of many types of
software They are used for storing large application
programs, and multimedia programs.

CD‐R Compact Disk‐ Can be read from and written to. Note however that disks
Record (once) can be written to only ‘once’ Disk can be read by either a
CD‐ROM or CD‐R drive.

CD‐RW Compact Disk‐ Disks can be read and written to many times and are
Re‐Writable therefore erasable. CD‐RW drives are capable of reading,
writing, and erasing data. Note that the write operation is
much slower than the read operation, and hence not as
popular as the others.

DVD‐ Digital Video Mainly used for video storage (DVD‐Video) but can also
ROM Disk‐Read hold audio. DVD‐ROM device is used for computer data
Only storage.

Table 5.2 Comparison of storage capacity and access speed among storage devices

Storage device Storage Capacity Access Speed

Hard Disk varies 1000 Kb/s

CD‐ROM ~650 MB (~451 floppy disks) 100 Kb/s

DVD ~ 4.7 GB (~7 CD‐ROMs) 100 Kb/s

Floppy Disk 1.44 MB 36 Kb/s

Solid State Storage Devices

Solid state storage devices are electronic and have no moving parts like the other
mechanical storage devices such as the hard drive. Examples include flash memory sticks
for storing general files, memory cards for video game consoles, and other devices used in
digital cameras, disks in laptops. Flash memory is a type of EEPROM chip but it used more
as a hard drive for data storage. These popular memory stick or flash drive is quite similar in

Introduction to Computers 124

use to floppy disks but contain much more data, so that it offers potential advantages over
other portable storage devices. They are however more compact, generally faster, hold
more data, and are more reliable than floppy disks. Memory cards are also similar to the
memory stick. However they are for use in devices such as portable music players, personal
digital assistants (PDAs), digital cameras, camcorders, mobile phones and computer
systems.

Activity 6.2 ‐ The floppy disk was previously used as the typical method for distributing
software adopted by software houses and developers.

Describe one occasion where it would still be sensible to use a floppy disk for software
distribution. (2)

State two different ways, other than by floppy disk, in which software can be distributed.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

THE STORAGE HIERARCHY

Data is stored according to how quickly it is available to the computer system. The three
main storage levels are compared in table 6.3

Table 6.3 – Description of Storage Hierarchy

Online storage This is primary storage. These storage devices are readily
available computer system, and there the user is not required to
issue any instructions.

Near‐online storage This is secondary storage. The user usually needs to insert a disk
in order to access the data implying that some intervention from
the user is required to make the data available to the computer
system.

Offline storage This is also tertiary storage or archival storage, since this is not
usually available to the computer system. A tape backup unit for
archiving is an example.

TOPIC SUMMARY
Data storage is critical to any business. You must protect your data and store in a way that
if anything happened to the computer system that it could be restored on another similar
system. Critical data should be stored off site and backup systems should be in place to
save data on a regular basis.

Introduction to Computers 125

RECOMMENDED UNIT READINGS
After you have completed your review of each Topic and its related activities, you should
read at least TWO of the following online articles and consider the related reflective
questions as you read the materials.

Soojung‐Kim Pang, A. (2002). Mighty Mouse. Stanford Magazine. Available at:

http://www.stanfordalumni.org/news/magazine/2002/marapr/features/mouse.html.

This article explores the evolution of the mouse as an input device.

Hersh, J. (1998). The Tyranny of the Keyboard. FAQ Typing Injury. Available at:
http://www.tifaq.org/articles/keyboard_tyranny‐feb98‐jay_hersh.html.

This article explores the evolution of the keyboard as an input device.

Murat, J.K. (2007). How Do Laser Printers Work. Ezine Articles. Available at:
http://ezinearticles.com/?How‐Do‐Laser‐Printers‐Work?&id=747072.

A short article on the inner workings of a laser printer.

After reviewing one or more of the above articles consider:

How have input and output devices facilitated humankinds need to capture, store and
create new knowledge?

Brain, M. (ND). How Hard Disks Work. HowStuffWorks.com. Available at: from:
http://www.howstuffworks.com/hard-disk.htm.

Tyson, J. (ND). How Flash Memory Works. HowStuffWorks.com. Available at:

http://www.howstuffworks.com/flash-memory.htm.

After reading the two articles consider the following question:

What type of storage device is appropriate for my personal use? Is my storage needs the
same as others?

Introduction to Computers 126

UNIT 5 – SUMMARY
This unit discussed the following concepts in relation to input devices.

 Input includes software, data, or information that is entered into the computer’s
memory.

 Input devices such as the keyboard, mouse, and trackball enable the user to enter
data into the computer’s memory.

 A pointing device enables the user to control movements of a pointer on a screen.

 Speech recognition software enables a user to enter data into a computer by

speaking into a microphone.

 Video and images can be entered into a computer through using digital cameras or
scanners.

 The following diagram illustrates a number of input devices that can be attached to
a computer in the keyboard, pointing and source data entry categories.

Summary of Output Devices

The following concepts related to output devices was discussed in this unit:

 Two general types of output are softcopy and hardcopy output.

 Monitors enable the user to view the computer’s processed data. The output is
known as soft copy.

 Softcopy output can be further sub‐divided into visual output (on screens) and
audio output (from speakers).

 Two types of monitors are the cathode ray tube (CRT) and the liquid crystal display
(LCD).

 A monitor’s quality is measured by screen size, resolution, and refresh rate.

 Printers produce permanent copies (hard copies) of the computer’s output.

 Visual output of text, graphics, or video is usually displayed on a monitor.

 A terminal enables a user to communicate with a computer and is generally a

combination of a keyboard and output screen.

Input devices can be categorized by keyboard, pointing and data entry from the source.
Each category has its own advantages and disadvantages although some users are
somewhat inclined to use some types over others. The main concern with input devices is

Introduction to Computers 127

the health concern with regard to keyboards and the constant typing, which has led to the
creation of the input devices which capture the data from the source.

Output devices are either softcopy or hardcopy output. Softcopy is usually temporary
output while hardcopy output can be printed and stored for future use. The various types
of soft‐ and hard‐copy output must depend on the appropriateness of the application.

The concepts related to storages devices that were discussed in this unit included:

 Secondary storage is used to save your data when the computer is turned off and is
cheaper than primary memory

 Storage devices typically hold programs and data in manageable blocks or units
called files.

 Storage devices are categorized by the method of access to data (sequential or

random‐access), type of technology (magnetic, optical, or solid state), preference of
storage (online, near‐online, or offline) and type of operations that are performed
(read‐only or read/write)

 A hard disk’s performance is measured by its positioning performance and transfer

rate.

 Optical storage devices include, CD‐ROM (Read‐only), CD‐R (Record once), CD‐RW
(Erasable, write repeatedly), DVD‐ROM (Read‐only), and DVD‐R (Read/write).

 Solid state storage devices include PC cards, flash memory cards, and smart cards

Secondary storage is very important in the long‐term storage of data and information.
However the appropriate use of these devices depend on the method of access to data, the
type of technology, the user’s preference of online or offline storage as well as the type of
operations that are to be performed.

Introduction to Computers 128

UNIT 6: COMMUNICATIONS AND CONNECTIVITY
INTRODUCTION
This unit is an interesting, but technical one where the discussion expands to the
connection of more than one computer to meet various needs. It also discusses how these
computers can be connected and the accompanying reasons or purpose for their
connections. The popular topic of the Internet is also introduced with its intriguing services
and benefits, and the different methods of connecting to the world wide web.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
At the end of this unit, you should be able to:

1. Describe the various uses of telecommunications.

2. Evaluate the different communication media.

3. Define a network.

4. Describe and illustrate the various types of networks.

5. Describe types of networks.

This unit is divided into two topics:

Topic 1: Communicating using Technology

Topic 2: Connecting Computers

Introduction to Computers 129

TOPIC 1 ‐ COMMUNICATING USING TECHNOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
Computers are linked together to exchange data and share resources as said to be
networked. Networks allow users communicate with others once there is access to a
computer. Networks come in a variety of forms and support a variety of different
asynchronous and synchronous communications methods.

OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. Explain how telecommunications has expanded the presence of the computer.

2. Evaluate telecommunications’ use in various activities.

COMMUNICATIONS
In our day to day lives we regular communicate with others through talking, writing, and
actions. Computer networks communicate by first becoming linked to each other, so that
data and resources can be shared. For example, two or more computers can be connected
to each other, along with one printer (a resource), so that each computer is able to print
form this one printer. This is known as a simple network and you are sharing output
devices via the network.

Activity 6.1 ‐ Discuss one other advantage and one disadvantage of sharing (a)
data and (b) resources, in a network.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Computer communication is achieved when signals are sent and received among and
between different computers. This exchange of signals allows users to collaborate with
other online users in different countries. Individuals can share and retrieve information and
files they can exchange electronic mail and participate in electronic messaging with others
from all over the world.

Collaboration and Sharing

Computer communication has provided contact among users from different cultures,
continents, and time zones. Indeed, telecommunications technologies such as land lines,
satellite, cable, the Internet and cell phone technology have made communication possible
and affordable over long distances. Many business organizations and individuals have taken
advantage of teleconferencing and videoconferencing – conferencing available on the
Internet, and through you telephone, cable and satellite providers. Today people do not
have to travel for meetings or conferences. Telecommunications technologies allow

Introduction to Computers 130

employees to work from home, or away from the office, while still interact with the others
in the company through computer communications. They are able to send and receive
documents, share schedules, send messages and talk directly with their co‐workers. This
‘work away from the office, is known as telecommuting.

Activity 6.2 ‐ Discuss advantages and disadvantages of using telecommunications

and teleconferencing among small, medium and large businesses.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

TRANSACTION PROCESSING
In previous years data and information were stored in a central location, and many users
would simultaneously access this single location to retrieve data required for a transaction,
or other reasons. This caused problems, as not everyone was able to access data in a timely
fashion. Large numbers of requests to a central processor or storage location takes time
taken to send and retrieve the large or small amounts of data or information. The volume
of data moving through the system often slowed the system down and at times even
crashed or shut down the system. With computer communication systems now available,
data and information (and indeed the workload) can now be dispersed (or distributed) to
various sites, subsidiaries or branches of the business in other areas of the building or
country.

Activity 7.3 ‐ Give a disadvantage of having all of a company’s data and

information stored in one location. Explain the measure(s) should this company
implement to secure its data and information.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Indeed many large corporations link some parts of their systems with the systems of their
major customers. This inter‐organizational system link also allows the corporation’s systems
to link to suppliers for electronic data interchange (EDI). This facilitates speedy order
processing and other transaction processing.

INFORMATION RETRIEVAL
Information retrieval is important for decision making in business, industry, research
organizations, and even for entertainment. Various types of information (such as music,
text, sound) can now be stored in private or public databases. Once these databases are
made available online, they can be accessed by select persons either through the use of the
Internet, or an internal company network, called an Intranet.

Introduction to Computers 131

 Activity 6.4 ‐ ‘Ring tones’ and current music clips can be accessed through online
databases and downloaded from the Internet. Identify some of these websites. Also
identify websites where you can locate the following items:

1. size 8 brown shoes (you choose whether male or female shoes and the style!).

2. 185/14 Dunlop (or Michelin) car tyres.

Notice that as you search for the item, you are accessing large databases, and narrowing
the search each time until you find your item

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

ELECTRONIC MAIL AND ELECTRONIC MESSAGING

Electronic mail and electronic messaging are one of the most popular methods of
communicating among persons of all ages. Messaging includes text messaging using cellular
phones, online messaging using programs such as MSN and Google talk. Paging, sending
and receiving sending faxes and the use of voice mail are also methods of electronic
messaging. Electronic mail (e‐mail) and online messaging also enables persons to send and
receive softcopy documents as attachments.

Activity 6.5 ‐ Electronic messaging has become an integral part of many cellular phone
users’ daily communication. Discuss the difficulties in written communication that may
arise from employees’ continued daily use of slang, such as ‘u’ for ‘you’, ‘4’ for ‘for’, and
AFAIK for ‘As far as I know’.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

EFFICIENT AND EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

In order for computer communication to be effective and efficient, many agencies must be
involved. These include the telecommunications telephone, cable and satellite companies
in the various countries, as well as the many Internet Service Providers who provide access
to the Internet. Indeed the number of businesses that are involved in the operation and
management of Information and Communications Technologies (ICTs) include: software
providers; hardware providers; custom development companies; online communications
and collaboration companies; and others. Finally governments must create legislations that
governs the access to data and the use of data and provides oversight of the
telecommunications industry.

Introduction to Computers 132

TOPIC SUMMARY
In the 21st Century communications is critical to any business operation. As you begin to
build your business enterprise you must consider the type of communications you need to
communicate to your potential clients, your providers and to others engaged in your
business.

Introduction to Computers 133

TOPIC 2 ‐ CONNECTING COMPUTERS
INTRODUCTION
This Topic is a bit technical as it describes the media that are used to connect computers
together in order to share data and peripheral devices. There are also different ways in
which computers are connected and it discusses the advantages and disadvantages of each.
The Topic also includes a brief discussion on the services and benefits of the Internet, and
the various methods for connecting to the world wide web.

UNIT OBJECTIVES
After studying this topic, you will be able to:

1. State the components that link communication systems.

2. Differentiate among the network topologies.

3. Describe the differences between local area networks (LANs) and wide area
networks (WANs).

4. Explain the services and benefits of the Internet.

5. Discuss methods for connecting the Internet.

COMMUNICATION SYSTEM COMPONENTS

Wired or wireless media are used to allow communications among computers. Wired
media include twisted‐pair, coaxial and fibre optic cable. Twisted‐pair cable and coaxial
cable transmit data by means of electric frequencies. These cables therefore need to be
protected against water and electromagnetic waves. Fibre optic cable is an improvement
on the previous two cables. A fibre optic cable consists of glass or plastic tubes which
transmit data over longer distances at a faster speed, using reflection of light. Fibre‐optic
cables are more secure and much thinner and lighter than other metal wires, and they are
not affected by electromagnetic noise such as radios, motors and others cables. Although
fibre‐optic cables are very costly and difficult to install, they are extremely popular with
telephone companies, banks, and television companies replacing their existing telephone
and coaxial cables with more efficient fibre‐optic cables.

As the term implies, wireless media in a telecommunications network connects nodes

without the use of wires. Wireless network systems incorporate cellular technology which
uses satellites, radio and other signals, to allow for communication over land and sea across
the world. Wireless networks are very useful in sending and sharing data quickly within
small offices or among business across the world. More importantly they are relatively
inexpensive in connecting to the Internet, especially in countries where there are scarce
resources or poor infrastructure. Wireless networks therefore eliminate the maze of cables,

Introduction to Computers 134

while offering more mobility. However the disadvantage of wireless media is interference
from other networks that might block the radio signals from passing through.

NETWORK TOPOLOGIES
The physical layout of a network is called a topology. The four main topologies will be
discussed in this section.

A network is a collection of computers which are connected together. When sketching the
topology, each computer workstation, file server or other peripheral is generally called a
node. A network topology therefore, is the arrangement of the network, whether physically
(the actual layout including cable installation), or logically (the actual operation of
transferring data), according to the requirements of the network. This Topic will discuss
four general network topologies.

Bus Topology

This linear bus topology is one of the simplest of the four network topologies to use, in its
most basic form it is simply a case of running one cable called a backbone, from the
computer or peripheral device at one end of the network to the last peripheral device or
computer at the other end. Other computers, scanners, printers or other peripheral devices
are then attached to the backbone anywhere between these two end computers.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Bus Topology

Of course from the simple description above, it seems relatively easy to connect a
computer or peripheral to this topology. It also requires less lengths of cable than the other
topologies, so it can be economical.

Since all computers and peripherals depend on this single cable or backbone, the entire
network will not work if there is a break in the backbone. This will also prove difficult to
identify where the problem or break is located, if the entire network is not working. This
topology is also not intended to be used as the only network arrangement where numerous
computers and peripherals are to be connected. Finally it has the lowest fault tolerance,
that is, a single problem in the network with a bus topology can halt all of its activities.

Introduction to Computers 135

Star Topology

A star topology connects computers and peripherals to a central device called a hub.
Physically the topology looks like a star. So that when a node is sending data to another
node, the data passes through the hub before continuing to its destination node. The hub
therefore manages and controls the network.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Star Topology

A new node is relatively easy to install by adding a cable from the new device to the hub.
Installing and even removing nodes do not cause any disruptions to the network, so this
topology has high fault tolerance when troubleshooting to detect faults and to remove
nodes.

Of course if the hub fails, then all nodes attached to the network are disabled. It is also
more expensive than the bus topology because of the cost of installing the cabling and
configuring the hub.

Ring Topology

The nodes in a ring topology are connected to the nodes on its left and right, so that data
passes from one node to the next. Of course fault tolerance is non‐existent since failure of
one node cripples the entire network. This is why the physical ring topology is rarely used.
Adding a new device to an existing physical Ring network can be complicated as any new
device needs to go in‐between the existing devices.

LOCAL AREA NETWORKS (LANS)

A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that functions within a specific
geographical area, such as a building, school or campus. The network links the computers
located within the building. In the case of a campus, the computers are linked throughout

Introduction to Computers 136

the various buildings using wired cables or wireless communication using radio and other
signals. Access to the LAN is privileged and controlled by a network administrator. Once
access is authorized, users can access most of the software, data, and peripherals
connected to the LAN. The main uses of LANs include the sharing of expensive devices such
as printers and scanners, as well as the provision of internal Intranet and electronic‐mail
services. Public telephone exchanges such as PBXs are also examples of LANs which use
telephone systems in many organizations.

In order for a LAN to function, a network interface card (NIC) must be installed in the
computer to provide the connection between the computer and the network. The main
operating system software that supports networking are UNIX, Linux, Windows, and Mac
OS. Two types of LANs are peer‐to‐peer and client‐server, which employ a bus or ring
topology.

PEER‐TO‐PEER NETWORKS
All computers on a peer‐to‐peer network are configured similarly with no specific computer
designated as a file server. Also the users in this type of network determine which files and
peripherals attached to their computer that they wish to share. This is why peer‐to peer
networks are simple to set‐up as home businesses, and are not appropriate when there are
many computers.

CLIENT‐SERVER NETWORKS
Client‐server networks can be set up using various topologies, and are appropriate in large
corporations. The network requires file servers which contain the many application
programs. The clients are the networked computers which access the server to obtain and
use the programs, data, and to access peripherals.

WIDE AREA NETWORK (WAN)

Wide area networks (WANs) effectively connect LANs which are located at different
geographical locations – a few miles or thousands of miles away. This way, a large
corporation or banking institution can share, and exchange data and information, as well as
perform transactions among its branches using one wide area network system.

Introduction to Computers 137

Internet Services and Benefits

The Internet is a network of networks, which link local, regional, national and international
computer networks to exchange data and process tasks. In order to efficiently process
these tasks and exchange data, a standard called TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/
Internet Protocol) comprises a set of rules which must be followed. The telecommunication
links among the networks of the Internet are built and maintained by major
telecommunications companies around the world. Each computer connected to the
Internet is recognized by a unique number, officially known as an ‘IP Address’. Data travels
the Internet from origin computer to destination computer in small chunks called ‘Packets’,
with the help of ‘routers’.

CONNECTING TO THE INTERNET

Users can connect to the Internet through a dial‐up connection or other more sophisticated
connections. Irrespective of how users connect, companies called Internet Service Providers
(ISP) maintain telecommunications equipment so as to provide Internet access to individual
users, as well as users involved in business and large organizations. An ISP is responsible for
providing each user with Internet access by connecting your computer to the Internet,
much like a telephone company connects your phone to the telecommunications network.
To get access to the Internet, a user needs an optional local telephone number, a unique
identification and password for access, and one or more email addresses. This is usually
accompanied by a stipulated fee monthly, quarterly, yearly or simply a block of hours.

Activity 6.6 – Identify some of the local Internet service providers in your country, and
visit their web sites. Compare the costs of dial‐up and faster Internet connections, as well
as speeds of connectivity for each one.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

DIAL‐UP INTERNET CONNECTION

A dial‐up connection requires a device called a modem, which converts your computer’s
digital signals into a type of signal that can travel over phone lines. The maximum speed for
dial‐up is 56Kbps, or 56,000 bits per second.

OTHER INTERNET CONNECTIONS

Other Internet connections provide data transfer speeds much faster than that of a dial‐up
connection, although they both must be in close proximate to a telephone port. An
Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) provides data transfer speeds of 128K, while a
Digital Subscriber Line (DSL) is a general name for a family of high –speed Internet links,
including ADSL, SDSL, and DSL lite. These provide data transfer speeds up to 125 times
faster than dialup.

Introduction to Computers 138

 Activity 7.7 ‐ Explain the meaning of the terms as well as any differences among ADSL,
SDSL, and DSL.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

Web Browsers

Just as you would use a software program such as a word processor, web browsers are also
software programs that are also installed on your computer. Their purpose however is to
allow you to access one or more web pages. In simpler terms, a web browser is just a way
to help you get around the Internet, so whenever you type in an address for distance
education to access your notes, for example, you are using a browser. Browsers are also
useful for downloading files from databases stored on the Internet, and linking you to other
pages from a main home page. Each browser keeps a list of the pages you have viewed on
the Web, so that you can return to that site, even if you visited it days ago.

A typical web page contains mostly text, with some pictures, and even media such as
movies or other small programs. Your browser translates the HTML language that was used
to create each web page into a presentable form that users can understand. Figure 5.1
shows a typical browser while figure 5.1 shows the html code that was used to create the
web page.

Introduction to Computers 139

It is important that browsers provide efficient ways to manage bookmarks, cookies, tabbed
browsing, pop‐up blocker as well as have ample security options. Users may even prefer
auto‐fill capabilities for web‐based forms.

Activity 7.8 ‐ Write short notes to explain the purpose of bookmarks, cookies, tabbed
browsing, pop‐up blocker, security options, auto‐fill capabilities for web‐based forms, as
they relate to Internet Browsers.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

There are many different browsers available, although the popular one is Internet Explorer
(or IE). However all browsers should be able to load web pages without much difficulty and
at about the same speed.

SEARCH ENGINES
Search engines access many web sites which match your request, and then show a list or
sample of the web pages so that you can select those that you are interested in. generally,
search engines carry out some of the following tasks. Gather a list of web pages:

 Based on a user’s search for a word, phrase, web page or similar option.

 Through listing each page that contains the search word or similar words.

 If the search word is an embedded link on a web page, then the search engine
peruses that link also.

Introduction to Computers 140

  Rank the search results by web pages that contain or link to that search term most
frequently.

Problems with Searching

Search for a word or phrase in a browser window, will produce those web pages that are
relevant to what you are searching for. However, words and phrases differ in context, so
you may also see other listing which do not relate to what you need. In addition, you may
also see duplicate listings since the search will list the web page with your search term, as
well as all of the links from the same web page that also contain the search term.

Activity 6.9 ‐ Internet cookies or web cookies are used to collect basic information on
users as they visit web sites. Perform a search on the Internet for the term ‘cookie.
Note how many pages of results are produced. Also peruse two or three pages and
note how many web sites show results that may be relevant to the search term.
Remember you are looking for the sites based on cookies relating to the Internet! Make
a note any web sites that have no relation to the search term.

Turn to Appendix One for Suggested Response

World Wide Web Basic Terminology

Link A button or interaction that allows you to navigate to related

documents.

Web Page A collection of hypertext documents and links (or hyperlinks).

Web Server A computer that stores and distributes web pages.

Web Site A collection of web pages with an Internet address.

HTML (Hypertext A language to create web pages. The file extensions used are
Markup Language) .htm or .html

HTTP ( Hypertext The communications standard that is used to transport web

Transfer Protocol) documents over the Internet.

Hypertext Text, video, pictures.

The Web (or World A collection of files that are interconnected through of
Wide Web) hypertext.

URL (uniform resource The internet address of a web site.

locator)

Introduction to Computers 141

TOPIC SUMMARY
As you grow your business you will hire employees, engage contractors and seek out a wide
variety of providers to support your business growth. As noted in earlier topic discussions
communications and data sharing are critical to the success of any business. At some stage
of your business growth you will need to create your own network. This can be in the form
of a virtual network using the Internet or creating your own internal LAN or WAN. This will
allow those engaged in your business to communicate and share in a timely, controlled and
secure manner.

Introduction to Computers 142

RECOMMENDED UNIT READINGS
After you have completed your review of each topic and its related activities, you should
read the following online article and consider the related reflective questions as you read
the materials.

NCI Frederick Communications. (2005). Networking Introduction. Available at:

http://comm.ncifcrf.gov/networking/networkintro.html.

After reviewing the article think about the complexity of the networking environment and
consider:

Can organizations, businesses and governments afford to continue to develop corporate,

regional and national networks? What is the potential impact on society if they do not?

Introduction to Computers 143

UNIT 6 – SUMMARY
The concepts in this unit include:

 Computer networks communicate by first becoming linked to each other, so that

data and resources can be shared.

 Computer communication allows for collaboration among users in different

countries, transaction processing, retrieval of data and information, electronic mail
and electronic messaging from all over the world.

 Wired or wireless media are used to allow communications among computers.

 Wired media transmit data by means of electric frequencies.

 Wireless media connects computers without the use of wires.

 The physical layout of a network is called a topology.

 Linear bus topology is one of the simplest of the four network topologies to use.

 Star topology connects computers and peripherals to a central device called a hub.

 Ring topology are connected to the nodes on its left and right, so that data passes
from one node to the next.

 A Local Area Network (LAN) is a computer network that functions within a specific
geographical area, such as a building, school or campus.

 Wide area networks (WANs) connect LANs which are located at different
geographical locations.

 The Internet is a network of networks, which link local, regional, national and
international computer networks to exchange data and process tasks.

 Web Browsers are also software programs that are also installed on your computer.

 Search engines access many web sites which match your request, and then show a
list or sample of the web pages so that you can select those that you are interested
in.

In the previous units we explored the input, processing, storage and output of individual
computers. This unit introduced communication among computers once they were linked
together in different ways to form a network. It thus enabled the user to engage in
telecommunication, teleconferencing and then telecommuting.

Introduction to Computers 144

In addition, access to data located on other computers, called servers, allowed for faster
retrieval, and thus the introduction of electronic mail and electronic messaging, and the
development of the Internet. Users are now able to search for any item whether it is a
product, a plant or a planet!

Introduction to Computers 145

FINAL ASSIGNMENT
The final assignment is a self‐paced self‐learning project that will require participants to
have access to word processing, presentation and spreadsheet software. If you are not
familiar with the office software you should work through the help sections/tutorials that
are available in most office software. There

The major assignment for this course is to produce a detailed analysis of the hardware,
software and network requirements for a small business and its growth over three to five
years. The assignment will require the participants to produce the following:

1. Three to five page report using a word processor of your choice (e.g. MS Word,
Open Office Word, etc.). The report should include:

a. Three references from the Internet with title and URL.

b. Reflect the use of word processor template with Title and Headings.

c. At least two graphics embedded into the report.

2. Presentation of five to ten slides that describes the technology solutions reflected
in the written report. The participant may select the presentation software to be
used to produce the project presentation. The layout of the presentation should
include:

a. Graphics or simple animations to illustrate major points (minimum three

required).

b. Use of different transitions.

c. Includes a title slide and summary slide.

3. The third part of the assignment is to create a spreadsheet that illustrates to cost of
the equipment and the annual operation of the technology support required by the
business. You should include the creation of a web site as part of the marketing
solution. Participants may select the spreadsheet software to be used to produce
the budget. The spreadsheet should:

a. A detailed list of costs.

b. Costs should be represented as either Capital costs (one time only) and
Annual Operating costs (spent over a period of 12 months).

c. Should include costs related to hardware, software, networking, networked

office equipment, Internet connections and operation, web site creation
and any other related technology costs.

Introduction to Computers 146

 d. The spreadsheet should illustrate start‐up costs (what you need to buy right
away) and annual operating costs.

e. Totals by quarter should be represented.

4. All three files should be emailed to your instructor for feedback and review. Your
instructor will provide additional instructions on where and when to submit the
assignment.

Introduction to Computers 147

COURSE SUMMARY
FINAL READING ASSIGNMENT
Before we wrap up this course you should consider the future of computer technology and
what it may be like in ten to twenty years from now. Our knowledge base is doubling every
three to five years. We need ways of storing and sharing this new knowledge than some of
the systems currently in place. Read the article below and consider some of the potential
implications of these new and emerging computer technologies on how we do business in
the future.

Herzog, C. (2006). The Future of Computer Technology. Geeks.com. Available at:

http://www.geeks.com/techtips/2006/techtips‐26nov06.htm.

COURSE SUMMARY
You have now completed this introductory course. It is hoped that the course has given
you a solid understanding about how computer and information technology systems
operate. Today’s entrepreneur must embrace technology and to do so he or she must
ensure they have a good grounding in the basics of ICT. This course will prepare you to
complete the next course in the series “Business Information Systems” in the Business and
Entrepreneurship Diploma programme.

Introduction to Computers 148

APPENDIX ONE – SUGGESTED RESPONSES
NOTE: Before reading Suggested Responses for each activity, attempt to complete them on
your own.

UNIT 1 ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSES

Activity 1.1 ‐ Consider why data and information must have the following qualities:

 Relevant

 Complete

 Accurate

 Clear

 Reliable

 Concise

 Timely

Suggested Response

 Data should be relevant so that educated decisions can be made

 Data should be complete so that the user can make conclusions after analyzing all
the parameters available

 Data should be accurate since errors can results in bad decisions, or even loss of life

 Data must be clear so that it can be interpreted and understood

 Data should be reliable so that users are able to trust its interpretations and
analyses

 Data should be concise because extra, or non‐important data may result in bad
decision‐making, and also increases the time to pick out the important data

 Data must be timely, since out‐of‐date data may result in irrelevant decision‐
making

Activity 1.2 – Describe how computer technology is integrated in the following sectors:

 Agriculture

 Education

Introduction to Computers 149

  Theatre or the Arts

Suggested Response

Trends can analyze the increase/decrease of pests in crops, or the usefulness of certain
insecticides, or types of species of plants and their effect on other crops

Education can be used to simulate how some tasks are done. Videos can show students
various illustrations and examples in some subjects that the students would not otherwise
get to experience

The use of musical scores and video productions are important in many areas of the theatre
or the Arts.

Activity 1.3 – Think of some specific examples that you could use to explain what is meant
by the phrase:

“… computer technology has enabled us to access information … from many places, in many
places, at any time…’

Suggested Response

You should have consider the use of email, fax, cell phones, Voice Over IP phones and
others as good examples that illustrate this phrase.

Activity 1.4 – Think about two procedures or methods that should be implemented to
ensure that information is not lost or destroyed.

Suggested Response

You should consider location, as well as physical and logical prevention methods.

Backing up and even storing the backup data in other locations are two examples of
location methods. Also using appropriate secondary storage devices can be discussed,
illustrating the pros and cons are physical prevention methods, as well as the use of
universal power supplies (UPS) or surge protectors to prevent data loss are good discussion
points. Even the use of antivirus software, which is updated regularly is an example of
logical (software) prevention of data loss.

Activity 1.5 ‐ How would you explain the term "information superhighway" to a family
member? When considering your explanation highlight some characteristics that are
implied in the term.

Suggested Response

You should consider that information needs to be interpreted and analyzed before it can
become useful data. This requires information to move from one spot to another in the

Introduction to Computers 150

digital world. The “Superhighway” is similar to fast moving cars on a highway. So the
analogy can be similar to the movement of data on say, the Internet with the data reaching
its destination in a speedy manner.

Activity 1.6 ‐ Identify three companies in your country that have automated responses to
transfer you to an extension of department. Explain whether hearing an automated
response or a human voice has an effect on you, and what these effects are.

Suggested Response

Many large corporations, hospitals, telephone companies and universities use automated
responses. Occasionally the time taken to be transferred to the person may take a long
time, or the user may be transferred to different extensions and not reach a human voice.
This may result in frustration.

Activity 1.7 ‐ After viewing Google Street View, consider why investigators would want to
use surveillance to analyze pedestrian traffic in a town, or weather patterns in a particular
area of the country.

Suggested Response

To observe the natural patterns so that predictions can be made (in the case of the
weather) or decisions can be made on future changes in traffic flows or pedestrian
crossings. You should have considered such reasons as preventative measures, changes in
trends as communities change, and the type of surveillance used, such as video cameras,
and strips across the roads to check traffic flows on highways and other roads.

Activity 1.8 ‐ Identify:

Different symbols that are used to represent emotions in email messages, instant
messenger and text messages.

Think of different words or phrases that have been shortened or modified in email
messages, instant messenger and text messages

Suggested Response

:‐) smile, :‐( frown are two common ones.

POS ‐ parent over shoulder; FYI – for your information; pls – please; thks – thanks

Introduction to Computers 151

Activity 1.9 –

Activity 1.10 –

Activity 1.11 ‐ Discuss the benefits of simulations in each of the following:

1. Space travel

2. Weather

3. Disaster prevention and recovery

4. Lost of limbs

Suggested Response

Computer models and procedural trainers are used to practice procedural tasks, explore
the impact of decision making, create situations that are too dangerous to do in real life
(e.g. explosive detection). Simulations are used to prepare for a disaster, or help architects
design and test stronger buildings to withstand adverse weather conditions before the
building is created.

Simulations allow us to go places we cannot go at the present time. Simulations are used to
train astronauts and explore potential scenarios for a flight to Mars and the creation of a
permanent human habit on another planet.

Simulation software can also be used to determine how artificial limbs should be fitted and
to help persons adjust to these limbs, and possibly resume certain activities.

Activity 1.12 ‐ Why would you and others want to perform self‐diagnosis using an Internet
medical search engine? Think about the precautions that you must consider when using
such search engines.

Suggested Response

Not all search engines provide accurate or up‐to‐date information and persons may obtain
the wrong information. Also, the source of this information may not be known to
authenticate its accuracy.

Activity 1.13 ‐ Consider the moral and ethical implications for using computer technology to
search databases for screening employees DNA; for other diseases such as HIV/AIDS; or for
conducting criminal background checks.

Suggested Response

Confidentiality and privacy are of utmost importance. There are also moral and ethical
issues involved which can be discussed

Introduction to Computers 152

Activity 1.14 – Based on your own experiences with distance education, think about the
potential impact that an online university has on its students.

Suggested Response

Payment of registration online usually speeds up the registration process, but the user must
possess a credit card, otherwise acknowledgement of payment takes days or weeks.

Registration can be completed online.

If courses are taught online, then there is no need for accommodation. Other fees are
incurred for the accommodation on or off‐campus.

Student culture and activities are non‐existent if users are in an online environment.

Online studies produce varied class structures with generally little interaction among
students in the class. This is also similar in the exchange of ideas. Chatting, whether online
or in person, can be important for exchanging of ideas.

Activity 1.15 – Go to the discussion forum and with your peers discuss whether computer
technology and the automation of tasks has:

 increased productivity in the workplace

 hindered productivity in the workplace

Discuss whether using computer technology has ‘created more jobs’ or ‘helped get the job
done’ within the Caribbean.

Suggested Response

Opposing views can be used in the discussion. Indeed lack of computer expertise could
certainly hinder productivity; laziness, resistance to change.

Activity 1.16 – Search the Internet and see if you can discover other social networking sites
that you would like to share with your peers. Once you find an interesting site than go to
the 1.14 discussion forum, post your link to the forum and provide a brief description of
why you think your site reflects the values of community building, social collaboration and
knowledge sharing.

Suggested Response

None. Tutor to view each site and where appropriate provide a comment.

Introduction to Computers 153

UNIT 2 ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSES
Activity 2.1 ‐ Consider the advantages and disadvantages of the development of artificial
intelligence in this generation

Suggested Response

First, the instructor should obtain applications of artificial intelligence, then the advantages
and disadvantages can each be discussed

Sample of applications

 air traffic control

 medical diagnosis

 simulation of complex instructions/training

 interpretation (speech)

 monitoring (nuclear plant)

 planning (mission planning)

 Factory scheduling

 prediction (weather)

Activity 2.2 – Reflect upon what facilitated the increase in speed, power or memory in each
of the computer generations.

Suggested Response

Each computer generation caters to the speed of processing so that transactions are
completed in the fastest possible time. Also with each generation, more and more
transactions are created to be processed stored and accessed, hence the need for increased
resources.

Activity 2.3 ‐ Explain, with reasons, which computer system(s) would be most appropriate
in the following examples:

 Business executive who travels often

 Student who needs to prepare a History project report

 A multi‐million dollar company with six branches in the country and three in other
countries

Introduction to Computers 154

  Banking system with many tellers who access the same customer database

Suggested Response

 laptop

 desktop

 mainframe

 workstations

Activity 2.4 Test your knowledge.

Suggested Response

Say whether the following statements are true or false.

T F

11. RAM is memory where fixed instructions is being stored X

12.Data is another word for information X

13.A byte of memory can store an entire word X

14.DVD’s are used mainly for storing movies X

15.Data on CD‐R disks can be erased and rewritten X

16.Back up files are usually created on hard disks X

17. The smallest unit of data is a bit X

18. ROM is volatile memory X

19. Trackballs, pointing sticks and touch pads do the same function as a X
mouse
20. Input devices take raw data and turn it into information X

B Answer the following short questions.

6. What is the main purpose of a CPU

7. Distinguish between RAM and ROM.
8. Define input and output devices and give examples of each.
9. Name one device that can function as both and input as well as an output device.
10. What does ‘bits’ stands for?

Introduction to Computers 155

Activity 2.5 – Try and think of other examples of embedded systems that you typically use
in your day‐to‐day activities but have never thought of them as embedded computer
systems.

Suggested Response

Automatic garage doors and some cars with special features such as automatic parking are
examples of devices with embedded systems.

Activity 2.5 ‐ Explain why the control unit is regarded as an efficient manager.

Suggested Response

The control unit has to manage the other components and therefore must be able to
coordinate the other components and their activities in order to arrive at the correct
output. The control unit must therefore be well‐organized and thus efficient.

Activity 2.7 ‐ In a test for the equal‐to condition, the arithmetic/logic unit compares two
values to determine if they are equal. For example: If the number of tickets sold
(Num_Tickets) equals the number of seats in the auditorium (Num_Seats), then the concert
is declared sold out. This can be represented as:

Num_Tickets = Num_Seats ?

The result can be:

True or Yes, indicating that the concert is sold out or

False or No indicating that the concert is not sold out.

Write the corresponding representation for the following examples:

Credit card limit is greater than $3000

Votes for Candidate A are less than the votes for candidate B

Test mark is greater than or equal to 50

Suggested Response

Credit card limit > 3000

Votes for candidate A < votes for candidate B

Mark >= 50

Activity 2.8 ‐ Explain what is meant by the phrase “primary memory is deemed volatile”

Introduction to Computers 156

Suggested Response

Primary memory only holds the data and instructions temporarily, while you are working.
Therefore if power is lost while you are working, then all the data and instructions that
were in primary members will also be lost.

Activity 2.9 – Describe:

 the four basic operations that comprise a machine cycle or instruction cycle; and

 the difference between instruction time (i‐time) and execution time (e‐time)

Suggested Response

Question 1 ‐ Fetching is the process of obtaining a program instruction or data item from
memory.

Decoding is the process of translating the instruction into commands the computer can
execute.

Executing is the process of carrying out the commands.

Storing is the process of writing the result to memory.

Question 2 ‐ Instruction time (i‐time) is the time it takes the control unit to fetch and
decode instruction. Execution time (e‐time) is the time it takes the control unit to execute
the instruction

Activity 2.9 ‐ Explain in simple terms, what is understood by a memory address

Suggested Response

A memory address is simply a unique number that identifies the location of a particular
byte in memory.

Introduction to Computers 157

UNIT 3 ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSES
Activity 3.1 – Consider the following:

Identify a number of tasks that are carried out by all operating systems.

Describe at least one task that a multi‐tasking operating system would be able to execute.

Describe at least one task that a multi‐user operating system would be able to execute.

Suggested Response

Some of the tasks that are carried out by all operating systems include:

Dealing with system security.

Controlling printers.

Running programs.

Starting up the system.

Detecting and installing new hardware or peripheral devices;

Managing memory space;

Dealing with errors;

Communicating with the user;

Managing the loading, storage and transfer of data.

One of the major tasks that a multi‐tasking operating system would be able to carry out is
running more than one application program at the same time.

One of the major tasks that a multi‐user operating system would be able to carry out is
allowing many users to interact with the system to access data and programs at the same
time.

Activity 3.2 ‐ Graphical user interfaces (GUIs) are found on many computers.

Why do computers need a user interface?

Think of other input devices, other than a keyboard, that can be used with a graphical user
interface.

Suggested Response

Introduction to Computers 158

To act as an interface between the user and the computer, or to allow users to
communicate with the computer.

Mouse, microphone & speaker are acceptable devices for GUIs.

Activity 3.3 ‐ You share a computer with four other family members. Over the last three
months, you notice an increase in files, and folders from the various projects and
assignments. There are also quite a few files which have been downloaded from the
Internet. Think about which utility programs would be appropriate, not only to organize the
many files and folders, but to generally use on this computer.

Suggested Response

The file management program would be useful to create folders with each family member’s
name. Then all relevant files can be moved to the respective folders and sub folders. Disk
defragmentation would be subsequently used to improve performance after the files have
be moved and re‐organized.

Since files are being downloaded from the Internet, an Antivirus program would be useful
to monitor and protect the computer from viruses and other attacks.

Activity 3.5 – Consider the different tasks that you can complete with project management
software. Also provide the name of one project management application package

Suggested Response

The purpose of project management software is to plan, schedule, allocate and manage
time, budget and personnel needed to complete a project by a certain schedule. Microsoft
Project is a popular software application. The student should be encouraged to investigate
the features of the application, either through browsing the Internet or by asking a project
manager.

Introduction to Computers 159

UNIT 4 – ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSES
No reflective activities or suggested responses are provided in this section. Students are
required to complete the practical exercises described in the main body of the study guide.

Introduction to Computers 160

UNIT 5 ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSES
Activity 5.1 – Consider the following questions.

Explain what is meant by a user.

List two ways in which data can be inputted into the computer.

Give two examples of the type of data that can be input into a computer.

Suggested Response

A user is someone who uses a computer system, whether directly or indirectly. For
example, a user is one who types a document using a word processor, or performs a
transaction using an automatic teller machine. Also a user may simply swipe a plastic card
to gain entry to a place.

Data can in input manually or through automatic data entry. Manual data entry involves the
use of a keyboard or other peripheral device and a user who enters the data. Automatic
data entry does not directly involve the user, since the data is captured directly from the
source and input into the computer or stored for transfer. For example, the scanning of
merchandise at the supermarket or a store, allows the code to be scanned directly into the
register where the price is noted.

Activity 5.2 – Consider the following questions:

Explain one common problem that can result from constant use of pointing devices

Can you identify those persons who will not be able to use pointing devices?

Suggested Response

Health problems usually with the fingers and hands (Carpal tunnel syndrome), can result
from constant use of pointing devices

Those persons who are physically impaired (missing fingers, hands or arms) or those who
have problems with hand‐eye coordination. Also, those persons with an illness which cause
the shaking of the hands.

Activity 5.3 ‐ A weather station uses SENSORS to take various readings or measurements
which are stored or logged for later use.

State the general name for the type of input that is required to take these readings.

State the advantages of using these devices to log the data compared to a human being
taking the measurements.

Introduction to Computers 161

Explain the kinds of readings that could be taken by the weather station.

Suggested Response

Source data automation is the general name for the type of input.

Source data entry devices remove any possible data entry errors or other human errors that
can occur, thus ensuring that the data is as accurate as possible.

Readings of temperature, humidity, rainfall are appropriate measurements. (other suitable

responses are acceptable)

Activity 5.4 ‐ Choose the most appropriate response for each of the following questions on
input devices

The most suitable input device for creating a short report would be:

Mouse

Scanner

Keyboard

Joystick

The most suitable input device for selecting (highlighting) text on a screen would be a:

Joystick

Mouse

Keyboard

Touch Screen

In order to create a digital image from a paper photograph you would first need to input it
using a:

Scanner

Joystick

Digital Camera

Touch Screen

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition is often used on:

Receipts

Introduction to Computers 162

Photographs

Cheques

Barcodes

Multiple choice answers on a test paper can be input using:

Barcode Reader

Optical Mark Reader

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition

Magnetic Strip Reader

Suggested Responses are in bold

Activity 5.5 ‐ Briefly explain why a user would need a smaller or even a larger monitor size,
than a standard 15 or 17 inch monitor.

Suggested Response

Smaller monitors may be needed for use in, say police cars or small areas where monitoring
is necessary. Large monitors are necessary for persons who may need to view certain
documents or designs on screens bigger than the normal screen.

Activity 5.6 ‐ Explain whether a CRT monitor would be a good choice for a portable
computer display.

Suggested Response

A CRT monitor would not be suitable since it is cumbersome and heavy to move around. A
better choice would be a flat panel or LCD monitor

Activity 5.7 ‐ You are a student who has saved some money to purchase a second hand
computer to produce your assignments, and to access your course work on the Internet.
Explain, with valid reasons what type of monitor you would purchase.

Suggested Response

With limited funds, a cheaper CRT monitor would be best.

Activity 5.8 ‐ State the advantages and disadvantages of the following printers?

Suggested Response

Speed Print Colour Cost to buy Noise

Introduction to Computers 163

 Quality

Laser Very Fast Excellent Yes, but Usually Very quiet

expensive expensive

Inkjet Fast Very good Yes, not as Relatively Some noise

expensive as cheap
laser

Dot Slow Poor Not usually Hard to find, Very noisy

Matrix quality available but relatively
cheap

Activity 5.9 ‐ A school has 200 students who are learning Information Technology for an
external exam. The administration of the school generally keeps records of the students, as
well as the teachers’ payroll information and the alumni association. Discuss the types of
storage devices that would be necessary in the day‐to‐day work for the students, teachers
and administration. If the school needs to backup all data, due to the threat of a hurricane,
then explain if any secondary storage devices would change from the day‐to‐day tasks.

Suggested Response

The students may use floppy disks or the more expensive flash memory sticks for their
work. Teachers and administration may use computer hard drives for maintaining student
and alumni records.

In the event of a hurricane, teachers may use flash memory sticks or CD‐ROMS for their
subject notes and student subject records, while administration may use CD‐ROM.

The instructor may also discuss the use a portable hard drives which use USB ports. These
drives can also serve as a backup storage device.

Activity 5.10 ‐ The floppy disk was previously used as the typical method for distributing
software adopted by software houses and developers.

Describe one occasion where it would still be sensible to use a floppy disk for software
distribution.

State two different ways, other than by floppy disk, in which software can be distributed.

Suggested Response
If the software is dated and only available on floppy disks, or if the program is so compact
that it can be stored on the floppy disk, then there would be no reason to use a bigger
storage device to store the program

Introduction to Computers 164

 Software can be downloaded as well as stored on CD‐ROMs.

UNIT 6 ACTIVITIES AND RESPONSES

Activity 6.1 ‐ Discuss one advantage and one disadvantage of sharing (a) data and (b)
resources, in a network.

Suggested Response

Advantage: Ease in sharing data among users

Disadvantage: Security concerns with sharing data

Advantage: This saves the cost of purchasing a printer for each computer.

Disadvantage: Printer located in an area that allows for others to see the printout

Activity 6.2 ‐ Discuss advantages and disadvantages of using telecommunications and

teleconferencing among small, medium and large businesses.

Suggested Response

Some business may not have the finances to afford the hardware and software for
telecommunications and teleconferencing. There is also the cultural considerations where
body language, tone, facial expressions are misinterpreted. In some instances, one is unable
to ‘reach over’ to show a colleague a comment or item on a document since all persons are
not in the same room physically.

Explain why employees may prefer telecommuting?

Suggested Response

Some employees may prefer quite surroundings and may work well during the night.
Others may be physically impaired and unable to travel to work. Other appropriate answers
can be discussed.

Activity 6.3 ‐ Give a disadvantage of having all of a company’s data and information stored
in one location. Explain the measure(s) this company should implement to secure its data
and information.

Suggested Response

The data and information is at risk of being erased (if say, there is a hardware problem), or
tampered with (by unauthorized persons). Other suitable disadvantages are acceptable.

The data and information should be backed up regularly, and universal power supply (UPS)
on hand in case of power loss.

Introduction to Computers 165

Activity 6.4 ‐ ‘Ring tones’ and current music clips can be accessed through online databases
and downloaded from the Internet. Identify some of these websites. Also identify websites
where you can locate the following items:

size 8 brown shoes (you choose whether male or female shoes and the style!)

185/14 Dunlop (or Michelin) car tyres

Notice that as you search for the item, you are accessing large databases, and narrowing
the search each time until you find your item

Suggested Response

Websites for downloading ring tones include www.ringtone.com, and www.mobile9.com.

For the size 8 brown shoes: www.jcpenny.com, www.sears.com

For the tyres: www.automotiveart.com

Activity 6.5 ‐ Electronic messaging has become an integral part of many cellular phone
users’ daily communication. Discuss the difficulties in written communication that may
arise from employees’ continued daily use of slang, such as ‘u’ for ‘you’, ‘4’ for ‘for’, and
AFAIK for ‘As far as I know’.

Suggested Response

This type of slang becomes part of the users’ language, and may soon be included in written
reports and professional documents. This is not Standard English and is unprofessional in
the official documents.

Activity 6.6 ‐ Find out the names of some local Internet service providers in your country,
and visit their web sites. Compare the costs of dial‐up and faster Internet connections, as
well as speeds of connectivity for each one.

Suggested Response

In Barbados, Caribsurf, and Sunbeach are the more popular ISPs.

Activity 6.7 ‐ State and explain the meaning of the terms as well as any differences among
DSL, ADSL, and SDSL

Suggested Response

The instructor can use the following information to direct the discussion and differences
among the modems.

Introduction to Computers 166

DSL modems provide different maximum speeds, which are only limited by the speed of the
Internet and all the different computers attached to it. DSL doesn't interfere with phone
calls, even though it uses your regular phone line. You can therefore use the Internet and
the phone using the same telephone line, and not have to disconnect from the Internet.
DSL connection is always online and available. There's no need to connect to the modem to
be online, or have problems with line dropping when browsing or downloading files. Also
phone company networks which use DSL are among the most reliable in the world.

Asymmetric DSL (ADSL) reserves more bandwidth for downloading and less for uploading
because users typically download much more data than they send files.

Symmetric DSL maintains both downloading and uploading speeds at the same rate.
Therefore it is suited more to business and companies who have web servers, corporate
networks, where large quantities of data are constantly being processed in both directions
from and to the Internet.

Activity 6.8 ‐ Write short notes to explain the purpose of bookmarks, cookies, tabbed
browsing, pop‐up blocker, security options, auto‐fill capabilities for web‐based forms, as
they relate to Internet Browsers.

Suggested Response

These responses were obtained from http://www.webopedia.com/

Bookmark feature lets you save the address (URL) of a Web page so that you can easily re‐
visit the page at a later time.

The main purpose of cookies is to identify users and possibly prepare customized Web
pages for them.

Tabbed browsing allows users to view multiple pages by loading them into "tabbed"
sections of one page, rather than multiple pages.

A pop‐up blocker refers to any software or application that disables any advertisement
window that appears that you would see while using a Web browser.

Security options check for attacks by viruses, firewalls, and monitoring the type of web
page content that users may be viewing.

Auto‐fill completes an option with the user’s name and other optional terms when the user
begins to type the required information.

Activity 6.9 ‐ Internet cookies or web cookies are used to collect basic information on users
as they visit web sites. Perform a search on the Internet for the term ‘cookie. Note how
many pages of results are produced. Also peruse two or three pages and note how many
web sites show results that may be relevant to the search term. Remember you are looking

Introduction to Computers 167

for the sites based on cookies relating to the Internet! Make a note any web sites that have
no relation to the search term.

Suggested Response

Various responses are expected.

Introduction to Computers 168

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OU, 2013