Overview of Information and

Communication Technology
Introduction to Computers
Elements of a Computer System
Classification of Computers
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
History of Computing
Introduction to computers
 A computer is an electronic device that processes data and performs
tasks according to a set of instructions, known as a program.
 It can store, retrieve, and process information, making it an essential
tool for various applications, including business, education,
communication, entertainment, and more.
 Computers come in various forms, such as desktop computers,
laptops, tablets, and smartphones, and they generally consist of
hardware (physical components) and software (programs and
operating systems).
Introduction to computers
The basic functions of a computer include:

 Input: Receiving data and instructions from input devices like a

keyboard, mouse, or touchscreen.
 Processing: Performing calculations or operations on the data using
the computer's central processing unit (CPU).
 Storage: Saving data temporarily or permanently using memory
(RAM) or storage devices (hard drives, SSDs).
 Output: Displaying or outputting information through devices like
monitors, printers, or speakers.
Elements of a Computer System
A computer system is composed of several key elements, each of which
plays a specific role in the operation and functionality of the system.

1. Hardware - The physical components of a computer that can be touched and

seen.
Elements of a Computer System
Main Components: (Hardware)

Central Processing Unit (CPU): Often referred to as the "brain" of the computer,
the CPU executes instructions from software to perform tasks. It processes data,
performs calculations, and manages the flow of information.

Applications: Performing arithmetic operations, logic operations, and controlling

other parts of the computer system.
Elements of a Computer System
Memory (RAM): Random Access Memory (RAM) is temporary storage that the
CPU uses to store and access data quickly while performing tasks. The more RAM a
computer has, the more tasks it can handle simultaneously.

Applications: Running applications and operating systems smoothly, multitasking,

gaming, and data processing.

Storage: This refers to devices and components that store digital data. Common
storage devices include Hard Disk Drives (HDDs), Solid State Drives (SSDs), and
external storage options like USB drives.

Applications: Storing operating systems, applications, personal files, multimedia

files, databases, and backups.
Elements of a Computer System
Input Devices: Hardware used to enter data into a computer, such as keyboards,
mice, scanners, and microphones.

Applications: Typing, clicking, drawing, capturing images, and voice input.

Output Devices: Devices that output data from the computer in a readable form,
such as monitors, printers, and speakers.

Applications: Displaying visual output, printing documents, and audio output.

Elements of a Computer System
Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects the CPU, memory, and other
hardware components. It facilitates communication between them.

Applications: Integrates all hardware components, allowing them to interact and

function cohesively.

Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts electrical power from an outlet into usable
power for the internal components of the computer.

Applications: Provides power to all components of the computer system.

Elements of a Computer System
2. Software - The intangible components of a computer, consisting of programs
and operating systems that instruct the hardware on what tasks to perform.

Main Types:

Operating System (OS): The software that manages hardware resources and
provides common services for computer programs. Examples include Windows,
macOS, and Linux.

Functions: Managing hardware resources, facilitating user interaction, file

management, and running applications.
Elements of a Computer System
Application Software: Programs designed to perform specific tasks for users, such
as word processors, web browsers, and games.

Applications: Productivity (e.g., Microsoft Office), entertainment (e.g., video

games, media players), internet browsing (e.g., Google Chrome), and specialized
tasks (e.g., photo editing, CAD software).

Utility Software: Helps in maintaining and managing the computer system,

including antivirus programs, disk cleanup tools, and backup software.

Applications: System maintenance, data backup, file compression, and virus

protection.
Elements of a Computer System
3. Data - raw information that is processed by the computer to produce meaningful
output. It includes everything from user input to files stored on a hard drive.

Functions: Data serves as the input for processing tasks. It can be anything from text
and numbers to audio and video files.

Applications: User documents, system files, multimedia content, database records,

and more.
Elements of a Computer System
4. Networking - the practice of connecting multiple computer systems together to
share resources and information.

Main Components:

Network Interface Card (NIC): A hardware component that allows a computer to

connect to a network.

Functions: Enables wired or wireless communication between computers and other

devices.
Elements of a Computer System
Routers and Switches: Devices that manage data traffic within a network, directing
data packets to their intended destinations.

Applications: Home and office networks, internet connectivity, and data exchange
between devices.

Modem: A device that modulates and demodulates digital data for transmission over
telephone lines or cable systems.

Applications: Connecting a computer or network to the internet.

Elements of a Computer System
5. Users - individuals who interact with the computer system. Users can be
categorized based on their role or level of expertise.

Types:

End Users: The people who use the computer for tasks like browsing the web,
creating documents, and playing games.

Applications: Everyday computing tasks, entertainment, communication, and

productivity.
Elements of a Computer System
System Administrators: Professionals who manage and maintain computer systems
and networks.

Applications: Network management, system security, troubleshooting, and

maintenance.

Developers/Programmers: Individuals who write code and create software

applications.

Applications: Developing software, writing code, testing applications, and

debugging.
Elements of a Computer System
6. Procedures - the instructions and rules governing the design, operation, and use
of computer systems. Procedures ensure the system's efficient and effective
operation.

Examples:

Operational Procedures: Guidelines for using and managing the computer system
(e.g., startup/shutdown processes, data backup protocols).

Applications: Routine maintenance, system updates, data recovery, and

troubleshooting.
Elements of a Computer System
Security Procedures: Policies to protect the computer system and data from
unauthorized access or cyber threats (e.g., using antivirus software, setting strong
passwords, data encryption).

Applications: Protecting sensitive information, preventing data breaches, and

ensuring system integrity.
Classifications of Computers
Computers can be classified into various categories based on factors such as size,
power, purpose, and functionality.

Common classifications of computers:

Supercomputers - are the most powerful computers in terms of processing

capability. They are designed to perform complex and high-speed calculations, often
handling millions or billions of instructions per second. Supercomputers are
typically used for specialized, high-computation tasks.
Classifications of Computers
Applications:

 Weather forecasting and climate research

 Nuclear simulations and research
 Cryptography and security analysis
 Computational fluid dynamics for aerospace and automotive design
 Molecular modeling and scientific simulations in physics, chemistry, and biology
Classifications of Computers
Mainframes - are large, powerful computers used primarily by large organizations
for bulk data processing, such as transaction processing, statistical analysis, and
enterprise resource planning. They can handle and process large amounts of data
simultaneously, supporting multiple users and programs.

Applications:

 Large-scale transaction processing in banking and financial services (e.g., ATM

transactions, credit card processing)
Classifications of Computers
 Government and corporate databases (e.g., census data, payroll processing)
 Airline reservation systems
 Enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems for large businesses
 Health care data management

Minicomputers or midrange computers - are smaller than mainframes but larger

and more powerful than microcomputers. They are used for specific tasks within a
business and often serve as servers for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Minicomputers can support multiple users simultaneously and handle moderate
processing tasks.
Classifications of Computers
Applications:

 Servers for small to medium-sized businesses (e.g., web servers, database

servers)
 Manufacturing process control and monitoring
 Telecommunications management and routing
 Small-scale scientific research and engineering calculations
 Data processing and management in academic institutions
Classifications of Computers
Microcomputers - commonly referred to as personal computers (PCs), are the most
common type of computer. They are designed for individual use and are affordable,
versatile, and capable of handling a wide range of tasks. Microcomputers include
desktops, laptops, tablets, and smartphones.

Applications:

 General computing tasks (e.g., word processing, spreadsheets, browsing the

internet)
Classifications of Computers
 Multimedia entertainment (e.g., music, videos, gaming)
 Education and e-learning
 Office productivity (e.g., presentations, email, database management)
 Personal communication (e.g., video calls, social media, messaging)

Workstations - are high-performance computers designed for technical or scientific

applications. They are more powerful than typical personal computers and are
optimized for tasks that require significant computational power, graphics
capabilities, and storage.
Classifications of Computers
Applications:

 Graphic design and video editing

 Computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE)
 Software development and programming
 3D modeling and animation
 Scientific simulations and data analysis
Classifications of Computers
Servers - are computers that provide services to other computers (clients) over a
network. They are designed to manage network resources, host applications, store
data, and perform tasks for multiple clients simultaneously. Servers can range from
small home servers to large data center servers.

Applications:

 Web hosting and content delivery

Classifications of Computers
 Email servers for businesses and organizations
 File storage and sharing
 Database management systems (DBMS)
 Virtualization and cloud computing platforms

Embedded computers - are specialized computing systems that are embedded

within larger devices to perform specific functions. They are usually designed for
real-time applications and are optimized for reliability and efficiency rather than
processing power.
Classifications of Computers
Applications:

 Consumer electronics (e.g., smartphones, digital cameras, smart TVs)

 Home appliances (e.g., washing machines, microwave ovens, refrigerators)
 Automotive systems (e.g., engine control units, navigation systems,
infotainment)
 Industrial machines and robotics
 Medical devices (e.g., pacemakers, diagnostic equipment)
Classifications of Computers
Mobile computers - are portable computing devices that can be easily carried and
used on the go. They are designed to provide users with computing power and
connectivity wherever they are. Examples include smartphones, tablets, and
laptops.

Applications:

 Personal communication (e.g., phone calls, texting, social media)

 Mobile computing (e.g., email, web browsing, document editing)
Classifications of Computers
 Navigation and GPS tracking
 Portable entertainment (e.g., music, videos, games)
 Mobile productivity (e.g., field data collection, remote work)

Hybrid computers - combine the features of both analog and digital computers.
They can process both continuous (analog) and discrete (digital) data. Hybrid
computers are used in applications where both types of data need to be processed
simultaneously.
Classifications of Computers
Applications:

 Medical equipment (e.g., electrocardiograms, ultrasound machines)

 Industrial automation and control systems
 Scientific research equipment that requires real-time data processing
 Aviation and defense systems (e.g., flight simulation, radar systems)
 Robotics and control systems
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Capabilities of Computers:

Speed and Efficiency

Computers can process data and perform complex calculations at incredibly high
speeds, often measured in microseconds or nanoseconds. This makes them far more
efficient than humans at handling large volumes of repetitive tasks.

Example: Computers can perform millions of calculations per second, enabling

quick data analysis, real-time simulations, and rapid processing of transactions in
financial systems.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Accuracy

When programmed correctly, computers provide highly accurate results with

minimal errors. Unlike humans, they don’t get tired or distracted, which helps
maintain precision over long periods.

Example: Computers are used in scientific research to perform precise calculations,

in healthcare for accurate diagnostic imaging, and in engineering for exact
measurements in design.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Storage and Retrieval

Computers can store vast amounts of data and can retrieve it quickly when needed.
This capability is essential for maintaining large databases, archives, and records.

Example: Servers and cloud storage systems can store and manage petabytes of
data, making it accessible to users around the world. This is crucial for applications
like social media, business analytics, and digital libraries.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Automation

Computers can be programmed to perform tasks automatically without human

intervention, which improves efficiency and reduces the need for manual labor.

Example: Automation is used in manufacturing for assembly line operations, in IT

for routine maintenance tasks like data backups, and in customer service for
automated response systems (chatbots).
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Versatility

Computers are capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from simple

calculations to complex simulations, and can run various applications and programs
based on user needs.

Example: A single computer can be used for writing documents, creating

spreadsheets, editing videos, playing games, browsing the internet, and
programming software.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Connectivity

Computers can connect to other computers and networks, enabling communication

and data exchange globally. This capability supports collaboration and access to
information from anywhere in the world.

Example: The internet allows computers to connect, making email communication,

video conferencing, online shopping, and accessing remote databases possible.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Limitations of Computers:

Lack of Understanding

Computers can only perform tasks for which they are explicitly programmed. They
do not understand the context or meaning behind the data they process and cannot
make independent decisions or judgments.

Example: A computer can analyze customer data to detect patterns, but it cannot
understand customer emotions or intent without specific programming and data
inputs.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
No Creativity

Computers cannot create or innovate on their own. They rely on pre-programmed

instructions and cannot think outside the box, generate new ideas, or exhibit
creativity like humans.

Example: While a computer can generate music or art based on algorithms, it cannot
create an original masterpiece with emotional depth or social commentary that a
human artist can.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Dependence on Human Input

Computers require human programmers to create software, enter data, and maintain
systems. They cannot operate independently of human oversight and direction.

Example: Data scientists must design algorithms for machine learning; without
human input, the computer wouldn’t know what data to analyze or how to interpret
the results.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Lack of Emotional Intelligence

Computers lack emotions and cannot understand or respond to human feelings or

social cues. This limitation affects their ability to interact naturally with humans.

Example: A customer service chatbot might provide factual responses but may not
offer empathy or understand the frustration of a customer facing an issue.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Susceptibility to Errors and Failures

While computers are precise, they are not infallible. Errors in programming,
software bugs, hardware malfunctions, and security vulnerabilities can lead to
failures or incorrect outputs.

Example: A minor bug in a software program can lead to system crashes, data loss,
or incorrect calculations, as seen in cases of software glitches in financial systems
causing significant economic impact.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Limited Learning Ability

While artificial intelligence and machine learning enable some level of learning and
adaptation, computers are limited by the data they are trained on and cannot learn
beyond the scope of their programming.

Example: AI models can recognize patterns in data and learn to predict outcomes,
but they require vast amounts of data and may struggle with new, unseen situations
not covered in their training data.
Capabilities and Limitations of Computers
Energy Consumption

Computers, especially large data centers and supercomputers, consume significant

amounts of energy. This can lead to high operational costs and environmental
impacts.

Example: Data centers that power cloud computing services require extensive
cooling and power, contributing to large carbon footprints if not managed with
energy-efficient practices.
History of Computing
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personal-enterprise-workgroup-objectives.html
• https://web.stanford.edu/class/cs101/lecture01.html#/18
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