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LIS 118 Lecture Note

The document outlines a lecture note for an introductory course on computer basics, covering topics such as the definition and history of computers, their classification, major parts and their uses, operating systems, input/output/storage devices, and running applications. It details the evolution of computers through generations, the functionality of components like the CPU and monitor, and comparisons between different operating systems. Additionally, it includes practical demonstrations and examples for better understanding of computer operations.

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Yaqub Nuh Dan
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
29 views3 pages

LIS 118 Lecture Note

The document outlines a lecture note for an introductory course on computer basics, covering topics such as the definition and history of computers, their classification, major parts and their uses, operating systems, input/output/storage devices, and running applications. It details the evolution of computers through generations, the functionality of components like the CPU and monitor, and comparisons between different operating systems. Additionally, it includes practical demonstrations and examples for better understanding of computer operations.

Uploaded by

Yaqub Nuh Dan
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Lecture Note: Introduction to Computer Basics LIS 118

Week 1-2: Introduction to Computers


Learning Objectives:
1. Definition of a Computer:
o A computer is an electronic device capable of receiving data,
processing it according to instructions, and providing output.
o Example: Using a computer to type a document or calculate sums
in a spreadsheet.
2. History and Development:
o Early Mechanical Devices:
 Abacus (2000 BCE "Before Common Era."): The ancient
Romans developed an Abacus the first tools used for
calculations.
 Pascaline (1642): Blaise Pascal (a French mathematical
genius at the age of 19) developed this mechanical calculator
for addition and subtraction.
 Jacquard Loom (1801): The Jacquard machine invented by
Joseph Jacquard used punched cards to control weaving
patterns, influencing future computing.
o Generations of Computer:
 First Generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes for circuitry,
large size, high heat output, and consumed a lot pf power.
Example: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and
Computer).
 Second Generation (1956-1963): Replaced vacuum tubes
with transistors, making computers smaller and faster.
Example: IBM 1401.
 Third Generation (1964-1971): Used integrated circuits,
reducing size and cost while increasing reliability. Example:
IBM System/360.
 Fourth Generation (1971-Present): Introduced
microprocessors, allowing for personal computers (PCs).
Example: Apple II, IBM PC.
 Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond): Focus on
artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and quantum computing.
Examples: Voice assistants like Siri and quantum computers
like IBM Q System.
3. Classification of Computers:
o By Type:
 Analog: Handles continuous data (e.g., thermometers).
 Digital: Processes discrete data (e.g., laptops).
 Hybrid: Combines analog and digital (e.g., medical imaging
systems).
o By Purpose:
 General-purpose: Used for multiple tasks (e.g., PCs).
 Special-purpose: Designed for specific tasks (e.g., ATMs).
o By Size:
 Microcomputers, Minicomputers, Mainframes,
Supercomputers.

Week 3-4: Parts of a Computer and Their Uses


Learning Objectives:
1. Major Parts of a Computer:
o Monitor: Displays output visually, acting as the interface for users.
 Example: Viewing a video or document.
o CPU: The "brain" of the computer that executes instructions.
 Example: Running a program like Microsoft Word.
o Keyboard: Inputs text and commands into the system.
 Example: Typing an email or a search query.
o Mouse: Navigates and selects items on the screen.
 Example: Clicking on icons or selecting text.
2. Uses:
o Monitor: Used for visual tasks like reading, editing, or watching
content.
o CPU: Essential for processing tasks like calculations or running
software.
o Keyboard: Primary input device for writing and commands.
o Mouse: Simplifies navigation in graphical interfaces.

Week 5-8: Computer Operating Systems


Learning Objectives:
1. Definition:
o An operating system (OS) is software that manages hardware
resources and provides services for application programs.
2. Examples of OS Concepts:
o Apple (macOS): Known for user-friendly design and strong
security.
o UNIX: Powerful, multiuser, commonly used in servers.
o DOS: Text-based, requires typed commands.
o Windows: Graphical interface, widely used globally.
3. Description of OS:
o Apple: Supports creative applications like Final Cut Pro.
o UNIX: Used in academic and professional environments.
o DOS: Basic and lightweight for specific tasks.
o Windows: Versatile for both personal and professional use.
4. Comparison:
o Windows offers user-friendliness, while UNIX excels in stability.
o DOS is simple but lacks advanced features compared to macOS.
5. Advantages of Windows OS:
o Example: Installing new software with minimal technical
knowledge.

Week 9-12: Input, Output, and Storage Devices


Learning Objectives:
1. Devices:
o Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone.
 Example: Using a scanner to digitize documents.
o Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers.
 Example: Printing a document or displaying visuals.
o Storage Devices: Hard Drives, USB Drives, Cloud Storage.
 Example: Saving files on a USB drive for portability.
2. Demonstrations:
o Show how to use devices like a USB drive for storing files.
3. File and Directory Operations:
o Formatting a Diskette: Prepares it for data storage.
 Example: Formatting a USB drive to remove all files.
o Directory Management: Create, change, delete directories.
 Example: Organizing files into folders like "Assignments."
o File Management: Create, edit, copy files.
 Example: Copying a document to another folder.

Week 13-15: Running Applications


Learning Objectives:
1. Running Applications:
o Start applications from the menu or command line.
 Example: Opening a browser to access the internet.
2. Using Software:
o MS-DOS: Run programs using commands like dir or start.
 Example: Starting a text editor like Notepad via DOS.
o Windows: Navigate through menus for user-friendly software
access.
 Example: Running Word or Excel from the Start menu.
3. Multitasking:
o Demonstrate running and switching between multiple programs.
 Example: Editing a document while playing music.

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