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Chapter 1. Introduction To Computers

This document provides an overview of computer fundamentals, including its components, advantages, and disadvantages, as well as the significance of computer literacy in today's society. It outlines the objectives of understanding computer usage, the information processing cycle, and the impact of computers on various sectors. Additionally, it discusses the importance of networks and the Internet, highlighting their roles in communication and resource sharing.

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Ceejay Badua
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
31 views41 pages

Chapter 1. Introduction To Computers

This document provides an overview of computer fundamentals, including its components, advantages, and disadvantages, as well as the significance of computer literacy in today's society. It outlines the objectives of understanding computer usage, the information processing cycle, and the impact of computers on various sectors. Additionally, it discusses the importance of networks and the Internet, highlighting their roles in communication and resource sharing.

Uploaded by

Ceejay Badua
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 41

This section covers the fundamentals about computer such as its concept,

its components, the different advantages and disadvantages of using computer, e


th
n etwork and internet, computer software, the categories of computers, comput er
u sage and the computer applications in society.

Objectives
After this lesson, you should be able to:
1. Explain why computer literacy is vital to success in today's world
2. Describe the five components of a computer: input devices, output device s,
system unit, storage devices, and communications devices
3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages that users experience when
working with computers
4. Discuss the uses of the Internet and the World Wide Web
5. Distinguish between system software and application software
6. Differentiate among types, sizes, and functions of computers
7. Explain how home users, small office/home office users, mobile users,
pow er
users, and enterprise users each interact with computers
8. Discuss how society uses computers in education, finance, government,
health care, science, publishing, travel, and manufacturing
9. Appreciate the importance of computers in the different aspects of user’s lif e.

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Chapter
Introduction to Computers
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Lesson

1.1 What is Computer?

In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Define what is Computer Literacy;


2. Define what is Computer;
3. Illustrate and discuss the Information Processing Cycle;
4. Appreciate the value of Computer Literacy

Questions to Ponder:

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1. What is the impact of computers in our current situation?


2. Did you find it useful nowadays?

Computers are everywhere: at work, at school, and at home (Figure 1.1).


Mobile devices, such as many cellphones, often are classified as computers.
Computers are primary means of local and global communication for billions of
people. Employees correspond with clients, students with classmates and teachers,
and family with friends and other family members.

Figure 1.1 People use all types and sizes of computers in their daily activities.

Computer Literacy
It is also known as digital literacy, it involves having a current knowledge and
understanding of computers and their uses.
Because the requirements that determine computer literacy change as
technology changes, you must keep up with these changes to remain computer
literate.
Computer Literacy is vital to success.

Computer
It is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in
its own memory, that can accept data, process the data according to specified rules,
produce results, and store the results for future use.

Data and Information


Computers process data into information. Data is a collection of unprocessed
items, which can include text, numbers, images, audio, and video while Information,
conveys meaning and is useful to people

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Figure 1.2 A computer processes data into information.

As shown in Figure 1.2, computers process several data items to print information in
the form of a cash register receipt. In this simplified example, the item ordered, item
price, quantity ordered, and amount received all represent data. The computer
processes the data to produce the cash register receipt (information).

Information Processing Cycle


Computers process data (input) into information (output). Computers carry out
processes using instructions, which are the steps that tell the computer how to
perform a particular task. A collection of related instructions organized for a common
purpose is referred to as software. A computer often holds data, information, and
instructions in storage for future use. Some people refer to the series of input,
process, output, and storage activities as the information processing cycle. Recently,
communications also has become an essential element of the information processing
cycle.

Figure 1.3. The Information Processing Cycle

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Answer the following questions in two or three sentences. Write your answer
on the space provided after the questions.
1. Why computer literacy is vital to success?

2. Illustrate and discuss the information Processing Cycle.

Assignment
Research about the five components of computer and give at least three examples
in each components

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Lesson

1.2 The Components of a Computer

In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Enumerate the five components of a computer;


2. Describe what is an input, output, storage and communication
devices and a System;
3. Appreciate the
importance and uses of the different devices;

Computer has 3 elements, the hardware, software and the peopleware. A


computer contains many electrical, electronics, and mechanical components known
as hardware. These components include input devices, output devices, a system

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unit, storage devices, and communications devices. Figure 1.4 shows some
common computer hardware components.

Figure 1.4 Common computer hardware components include the keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanner, Web
cam, printer, monitor, speakers, system unit, hard disk drive, external hard disk, optical disk drive(s), USB flash
drive, card reader/writer, memory cards and modem.

Components of a Computer System 1. Input Devices

It refers to any hardware component that allows you to enter data and
instructions into the computer. Five widely used input devices are the keyboard,
mouse, microphone, scanner, and Webcam (Figure 1.4).
Computer keyboard - it contains keys you press to enter the data into the
computer.

Mouse - it is a small handheld device. With the mouse, you can


control the movement of a small symbol on the screen,
called the pointer, and you can make selections from the
screen.
Microphone - it allows a user to speak into the computer.
Scanner - it converts printed material (such as text and pictures) into
a form the computer can use.
Webcam - it is a digital video camera that allow users to create
movies or take pictures and store them on the computer
instead of on tape or film.

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2. Output Devices
It refers to any hardware component that conveys information to one or more
people. Three commonly used output devices are printers, monitors, and speakers
(Figure 1.4).
Printer - it produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as
paper.
Monitor - it displays text, graphics, and videos on a screen.
Speakers - it allows you to hear music, voice, and other audio (sounds).

3. System Unit
It refers to a case that contains electronic components of the computer that
are used to process data (Figure 1.4). The circuitry of the system unit usually is
part of or is connected to a circuit board called the motherboard.

Two main components on the motherboard:


1. Processor - also called the CPU (central processing unit), is the electronic
component that interprets and carries out the basic
instructions that operate the computer.

2. Memory - consists of electronic components that store instructions waiting to


be executed and data needed by those instructions. Most memory keeps data
and instructions temporarily, which means its contents are erased when the
computer is shut off.

4. Storage Devices
It holds data, instructions, and information for future use. For example,
computers can store hundreds of millions of customer’s names and addresses.
Storage holds these items permanently.
A computer keeps data, instructions, and information on storage media.
Examples of storage media are USB flash drives, hard disks, optical discs, and
memory cards. A storage device records (writes) and/or retrieves (reads) items to
and from storage media. Storage devices often function as a source of input
because they transfer items from storage to memory.

Examples of storage media:


a. USB flash drives - a portable storage device that is small and lightweight
enough to be transported on a keychain or in a pocket (Figure 1.3). The
average USB flash drive can hold about 4 billion characters.
b. Hard Disk - provides much greater storage capacity than a USB flash
drive. It can hold more than 320 billion characters. It enclosed in an airtight,
sealed case. It is portable hard disks are either external or removable.

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c. Optical Disc - it is a flat, round, portable metal disc with a plastic coating.
CDs, DVDs, and Blu-ray Discs are three types of optical discs.
CD - can hold from 650 million to 1 billion characters.
DVDs - can store two full-length movies or 17 billion characters
Blu-ray Discs - can store about 46 hours of standard video, or 100 billion
characters
d. Memory cards - used by some mobile devices, such as digital cameras, as
the storage media.

5. Communications Devices
Refers to the hardware components that enables a computer to send (transmit)
and receive data, instructions, and information to and from one or more computers
or mobile devices. A widely used communications device is a modem (Figure 1.4).
Communications occur over cables, telephone lines, cellular radio networks,
satellites, and other transmission media. Some transmission media, such as
satellites and cellular radio networks, are wireless, which means they have no
physical lines or wires.

Identification. Identify the following devices if it is an input, output, storage, system


unit or communication device. Write I if it is an input, O if it is an
output, SU if it is belongs to System Unit and CD if it is a
communication device. Write your answer on the space provided
before the number
___ 1. Satellite
___ 2. Memory Cards

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___ 3. Memory
___ 4. Scanner
___ 5. Printer
___ 6. Mouse
___ 7. Trackball
___ 8. Telephone lines
___ 9. Hard Disk
___ 10. Web Cam

Lesson Advantages and Disadvantages of


1.3 Using Computer
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In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Enumerate the advantages and disadvantagescomputers


of using
2. Cite different examples or scenarios how computer users benefited
in using it.
3. Explain the impact of using computers.
4. Appreciate the benefits of computer when it is being used properly.

Society has reaped many benefits from using computers. A user is anyone
who communicates with a computer or utilizes the information it generates. Both
business and home users can make well-informed decisions because they have
instant access to information from anywhere in the world. Students, another type of
user, have more tools to assist them in the learning process.

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Advantages of Using Computers


The benefits from using computers are possible because computers have the
advantages of speed, reliability, consistency, storage, and communications.
1. Speed
When data, instructions, and information flow along electronic
circuits in a computer, they travel at incredibly fast speeds. Many
computers process billions or trillions of operations in a single second.

2. Reliability
The electronic components in modern computers are dependable
and reliable because they rarely break or fail.

3. Consistency
Given the same input and processes, a computer will produce the
same results-consistently. Computers generate error-free results, provided
the input is correct and the instructions work.

4. Storage
Computers store enormous amounts of data and make this data
available for processing anytime it is needed.

5. Communications
Most computers today can communicate with other computers,
often wirelessly. Computers allow users to communicate with one another.

Disadvantages of Using Computers 1. Violation of Privacy


In many instances, where personal and confidential records stored
on computers were not protected properly, individuals have found their
privacy violated and identities stolen.

2. Public Safety
Adults, teens, and children around the world are using computers to
share publicly their photos, videos, journals, music, and other personal
information. Some of these unsuspecting, innocent computer users have
fallen victim to crimes committed by dangerous strangers.

3. Impact on Labor Force:


Although computers have improved productivity and created an
entire industry with hundreds of thousands of new jobs, the skills of millions
of employees have been replaced by computers.

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4. Health Risks
Prolonged or improper computer use can lead to health injuries or
disorders. Computer users can protect themselves from health risks
through proper workplace design, good posture while at the computer, and
appropriately spaced work breaks.

4. Impact on Environment:
Computer manufacturing processes and computer waste are
depleting natural resources and polluting the environment. Green
computing involves reducing the electricity consumed and environmental
waste generated when using a computer.

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A. Write TRUE if the statement is correct, otherwise write the word FALSE on the
space provided before the number.
______ 1. A computer can process data in a billions or trillions of operation in
a minute.
______ 2. Technology overload occurs when someone becomes obsessed of
using computer.
______ 3. Computer can store enormous amount of data for future use.
______ 4. Computer can generate same input and output.
______ 5. Computer addiction is an example of behavioural health risks.

Assignment:
Examine your computing practices and determine ten ways that you can use to less
power on your computing equipment at home, work and school. Write a 50 – word
summary of green computing practices in your life.

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Lesson

1.4 Network and the Internet

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In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Define what is network and internet


2. Differentiate internet and world wide web
3. Enumerate different reasons why people used internet
4. Appreciate the importance of internet in the present time

What is Network?
It is a collection of computers and devices connected together, often
wirelessly, via communications devices and transmission media.
It allow computers to share resources, such as hardware, software, data, and
information. Sharing resources saves time and money.

What is Internet?

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It is a worldwide collection of networks that connects millions of businesses,


government agencies, educational institutions, and individuals (Figure 1.5).

Figure 1.5 The Internet is the largest computer network, connecting millions of computers and devices
around the world.

Reasons why people use internet?


 to communicate with and meet other people;
 to conduct research and access a wealth of information and news;
 to shop for goods and services;
 to bank and invest;
 to participate in online training;
 to engage in entertaining activities, such as planning vacations, playing online
games, listening to music, watching or editing videos, and books and
magazines;
 to share information, photos, and videos;
 to download music and videos; and to access and interact with Web
applications;
 to exchange information with others around the world;
 to make a telephone call

Instant messaging - you can have a live conversation with another


connected user. (In a chat room, you can
communicate with multiple users at the same time
— much like a group discussion.)
Access Providers - refers to businesses that offer access to the
Internet for free or for a fee. (By subscribing to an
access provider, you can use your computer and
a modem to connect to the many services of the

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Internet.)
Web (World Wide Web) - it is one of the more popular services on the
Internet. It contains billions of documents called
Web pages.
Web page - it can contain text, graphics, animation, audio, and
video. It often have built-in connections, or links, to
other documents, graphics, other Web pages, or
Web sites.
Web site - it is a collection of related Web pages. Some Web
sites allow users to access music and videos that
can be downloaded, or transferred to storage
media in a computer or portable media player.
Social networking Web site or online social network
- it refers to online communities, where members
can share their interests, ideas, stories, photos,
music, and videos with other registered users.
Blog - is an informal Web site consisting of time-stamped
articles in a diary or journal format.
Podcasts - are a popular way people verbally share information
on the Web.
Microblog - such as Twitter, allows users to publish short
messages, usually between 100 and 200
characters, for others to read.
Podcast - is recorded audio stored on a Web site that can be
downloaded to a computer or a portable media
player such as an iPod.
Web application - is a Web site that allows users to access and
interact with software from any computer or device
that is connected to the Internet.
Web 2.0 sites - refers to Web sites such as social networking Web
sites, blogs, and Web applications.
Web 2.0 - refers to Web sites that provide a means for users
to share personal information (such as social
networking Web sites), allow users to modify the
Web site contents (such as some blogs), and/or
have software built into the site for users to access
(such as Web applications).

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Matching Type. Match the term on Column A to its corresponding word /s on


Column B. Write the letter of your choice on the space provided before the number.

COLUMN A COLUMN B

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___ 1. It refers to the worldwide collection of networks a. Network


that connects millions of b. Internet
businesses, government agencies, educational c. Web 2.0
institutions, and individuals. d. Microblog
___ 2. It allows users to publish short messages, e. Web
usually between 100 and 200 characters, f. Web applications
for others to read.
___ 3. It contains billions of documents called Web
pages.
___ 4. It is a Web site that allows users to access and
interact with software from any computer or
device that is connected to the Internet.
___ 5. It is a collection of related Web pages.
(Website)

Lesson

1.5 Computer Software

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In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Define what is software


2. Differentiate
application and system software
3. Identify what type of software will be used for different purposes.
4. Appreciate the uses of different software

What is Software?
It is also called a program. It is a series of related instructions, organized for a
common purpose, that tells the computer what task(s) to perform and how to perform
them. Users interact with a program through its user interface.

Software today often has a Graphical User Interface (GUI).


GUI (pronounced gooey) - allow users to interact with the software using text,
graphics, and visual images such as icons.

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Icon - is a miniature image that represents a program, an instruction, or some


other object. You can use the mouse to select icons that perform operations
such as starting a program.

Two Categories of Software


1. System Software
It consists of the programs that control or maintain the operations of the
computer and its devices. System software serves as the interface between
the user, the application software, and the computer’s hardware.

Types of system software:


a. Operating System. An operating system is a set of programs that
coordinates all the activities among computer hardware devices. It
provides a means for users to communicate with the computer and
other software.

b. Utility Program. A utility program allows a user to perform


maintenance-type tasks usually related to managing a computer, its
devices, or its programs.

2. Application Software
It consists of programs designed to make users more productive and/or
assist them with personal tasks.

Web browser - a widely used type of application software related to


communications which allows users with an Internet
connection to access and view Web pages or access
programs.

Other popular application software:


Word Processing Software
Spreadsheet Software
Database Software
Presentation Software

Installing - it is the process of setting up software to work with the computer, printer,
and other.

Software Development

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Programmer (sometimes called a developer) - is someone who develops software


or writes the instructions that direct the computer to process data into
information.

Programming Language - program development tool use by pprogrammers to


create computer programs. Popular programming languages include C++,
Visual C#, Visual Basic, JavaScript, and Java.

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Write TRUE if the statement is correct, otherwise write the word FALSE.
1. Installing is the process of setting up software to work with the computer,
printer, and other.

2. Two types of application software are system software and utility programs.

3. Internet is a widely used type of application software.

4. Operating System is an example of system software.

5. Programmer is someone who develops software.

Lesson

1.6 Categories of Computer

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In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Enumerate the different categories of computer


2. Discuss the concept of the each category of computer
3. Classify devices based on its category
4. Appreciate the uses and functions of each category

Categories of Computer
(Industry experts typically classify computers in seven categories: personal
computers (desktop), mobile computers and mobile devices, game consoles,
servers, mainframes, supercomputers, and embedded computers. A computer’s
size, speed, processing power, and price determine the category it best fits.)

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Figure 1.6. This table summarizes some of the difference among the categories of computers. These should be
considered general guidelines only because of rapid changes in technology.

1.) Personal Computer


It is a computer that can perform all of its input, processing, output, and
storage activities by itself. It contains a processor, memory, and one or more
input, output, and storage devices. It also often contain a communications device.
Types of personal computers:
a. Desktop Computers- it is designed so that the system unit, input
devices, output devices, and any other devices fit entirely on or under a
desk or table. (In some models, the monitor sits on top of the system
unit, which is placed on the desk. The more popular style of system unit
is the tall and narrow tower, which can sit on the floor vertically.)

b. Notebook Computer

2) Mobile Computers and Mobile Devices


A mobile computer is a personal computer you can carry from place to place.
Similarly, a mobile device is a computing device small enough to hold in your
hand. The most popular type of mobile computer is the notebook computer.

Notebook Computer
The most popular type of mobile computer. It is also called a laptop
computer. It is a portable, personal computer often designed to fit on your lap.

Netbook
It is a type of notebook computer. It is smaller, lighter, and often not as
powerful as a traditional notebook computer.

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Tablet PCs
It is a special type of notebook computer you can interact with by
touching the screen with your finger or a digital pen.

Convertible Tablet - one design of Tablet PC that has an attached


keyboard.
Slate Tablet - another design of Tablet PC, which does not include a
keyboard, provides other means for typing.

Mobile Devices
These devices are small enough to carry in a pocket, usually store
programs and data permanently on memory inside the system unit or on small
storage media such as memory cards.
Some mobile devices are Internet-enabled, meaning they can connect
to the Internet wirelessly.

Popular types of mobile devices:


a. Smart Phones - an Internet-enabled phone that usually provides personal
information management functions such as a calendar, an appointment
book, an address book, a calculator, and a notepad. It is a smart phone
allows you to send and receive e-mail messages and access the Web —
usually for an additional fee.
b. E-Book Readers - also known as electronic book reader or e-reader is a
handheld device that is used primarily for reading e-books.

E-book (digital book) - is an electronic version of a printed book,


readable on computers and other digital devices.

c. Handheld Computers - sometimes referred to as an Ultra-Mobile PC


(UMPC), it is a computer small enough to fit in one hand.

d. Portable Media Players - refers to mobile devices on which you can store,
organize, and play digital media.

e. Digital Cameras - refers to devices that allow users to take pictures and
store the photographed images digitally, instead of on traditional film.

3) Game Consoles
A game console is a mobile computing device designed for single-player or
multiplayer video games. Standard game consoles use a handheld controller(s)
as an input device(s); a television screen as an output device; and hard disks,
optical discs, and/or memory cards for storage.

Three popular models:

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 Microsoft’s Xbox 360,


 Nintendo’s Wii (pronounced wee),
 Sony’s PlayStation

4) Servers
A server controls access to the hardware, software, and other resources on a
network and provides a centralized storage area for programs, data, and
information.
People use personal computers or terminals to access data, information, and
programs on a server.
Terminal - is a device with a monitor, keyboard, and memory.

5) Mainframes
A mainframe is a large, expensive, powerful computer that can handle
hundreds or thousands of connected users simultaneously.

Features of Mainframes:
 Store huge amounts of data, instructions, and information.
 Most major corporations use mainframes for business activities.
 Enterprises are able to bill millions of customers, prepare payroll for
thousands of employees, and manage thousands of items in inventory.

6) Supercomputers
It is the fastest, most powerful computer — and the most expensive. It is also
the fastest supercomputers are capable of processing more than one quadrillion
instructions in a single second.

Uses of Supercomputers:
 Applications requiring complex, sophisticated mathematical
calculations  Large-scale simulations and applications in:
 medicine
 aerospace
 automotive design
 online banking
 weather forecasting
 nuclear energy research
 petroleum exploration

7) Embedded Computers
An embedded computer is a special-purpose computer that functions as a
component in a larger product.

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A variety of everyday products contain embedded computers:


 Consumer electronics
 Home automation devices
 Automobiles
 Process controllers and robotics
 Computer devices and office machines

Multiple Choice. Write your answer on the space provided before the number.
___ 1. A type of computer that can handle hundreds or thousands of
connected users simultaneously.
a. Supercomputers
b. Mainframe
c. Servers
d. Personal computers

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___ 2. A handheld device that is used primarily for reading e-books.


a. Smart phones
b. Mobile phones
c. E – book readers
d. Handheld computers
___ 3. A special type of notebook computer, where you can interact by touching
the screen.
a. Notebook computer
b. Netbook
c. Mobile phones
d. Tablet PCs
___ 4. A computer that can fit in one hand. a.
Smart phones
b. Mobile phones
c. E – book reader
d. Handheld computers
___ 5. It is a mobile computing device designed for single player or multiplayer.
a. Game console
b. Servers
c. Mainframes
d. supercomputer

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Lesson

1.7 Computer Usage

In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Enumeratethe different categories of computer users


2. Identify the type of computers that can be used by the users according
to their category.
3. Determinewhat the different categories of computer users can do and
benefit in using their computers.
4. Appreciate the benefits of using computers

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Computer Usage
Every day, people or users around the world rely on different types of
computers for a variety of applications.

Five Categories of Users:


1. Home User
In an increasing number of homes, the computer is a basic necessity. Each
family member, or home user, spends time on the computer for different reasons.
These include personal financial management, Web access, communications, and
entertainment.

On the Internet, home users:


 access a huge amount of information,
 conduct research,
 take college classes,
 pay bills,
 manage investments,
 shop,
 listen to the radio,
 watch movies,
 read books,
 file taxes,
 book airline reservations,
 make telephone calls
 play games
 communicate with others around the world through e-mail, blogs, instant
messages, and chat rooms
 Share ideas, interests, photos, music, and videos on social networking Web
sites.

2. Small Office/Home Office User


 Computers assist small business and home office users in managing their
resources effectively.
 A small office/home office (SOHO) includes any company with fewer than 50
employees, as well as the self-employed who work from home.
 Small offices include local law practices, accounting firms, travel agencies,
and florists. SOHO users typically use a desktop computer. Many also use
smart phones.

SOHO users access the Internet to:


 look up information such as addresses, directions, postal codes, flights 
package shipping rates

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 send and receive e-mail messages 


make telephone calls.

3. Mobile User

Employees and students are mobile users, who work on a mobile computer or
device while away from a main office, home office, or school

Some examples of mobile users:


 sales representatives
 real estate agents
 insurance agents
 meter readers
 package delivery people
 journalists
 students

Mobile users often have a mobile computer and/or mobile device. With these
computers and devices, the mobile user can connect to other computers on a
network or the Internet, often wirelessly accessing services such as e-mail and the
Web. Mobile users can transfer information between their mobile devices and
another computer. For entertainment, the mobile user plays video games on a
handheld game console and listens to music or watches movies on a portable media
player.
4. Power User
Another category of user, called a power user, requires the capabilities of a
powerful desktop computer, called a work station.

Examples of power users:


 engineers,
 scientists,
 architects,
 desktop publishers,
 graphic artists

Power users typically work with multimedia, combining text, graphics,


audio, and video into one application. These users need computers with
extremely fast processors because of the nature of their work.

5. Enterprise User
An enterprise has hundreds or thousands of employees or customers that
work in or do business with offices across a region, the country, or the world.

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Enterprise User - refers to each employee or customer who uses a computer


in the enterprise.
Enterprise Computing - refers to the huge network of computers that meets
their diverse computing needs.
The network facilitates communications among employees at all locations.
Users access the network through desktop computers, mobile computers, and
mobile devices.

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Classification. Classify the following users below. If it is a Home User, Small Office
/ Home Office Users, Mobile User, Home User and Enterprise User. Write
your answer on the space provided before the number.

____________ 1. Architect
____________ 2. Students
____________ 3. A user who are using handheld game console
____________ 4. Users who pay bills
____________ 5. Graphic artist

Lesson

1.8 Computer Application in Society

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In this lesson you should be able to:

1. Identify the different fields where people interact directly with


computers.
2. Determine how the people in different fields make use of the
computers as tool
a in performing their specific jobs
3. Discuss the impact of computers in the various fields of human
endeavour
4. Appreciate the importance of computers

People nowadays, interact directly with computers in fields such as education,


finance, government, health care, science, publishing, travel, and manufacturing.

Different fields where people interact directly with computers:


1. Education
 Education is the process of acquiring knowledge.
 Today, educators also are turning to computers to assist with education 
Many schools and companies equip labs and classrooms with computers. Some

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schools require students to have a mobile computer or mobile device to access


the school’s network or Internet wirelessly.
 -Students use software to assist with learning or to complete assignments.

2. Finance
Many people and companies use computers to help manage their finances.

Uses of Finance software:


 to balance check books,
 pay bills,
 track personal income and expenses,
 manage investments, and  Evaluate
financial plans.
 track investments and do
 online banking

Online Banking - allow users to access their account balances, pay bills, and
copy monthly transactions from the bank’s computer right
into their computers.
3. Government
 A government provides society with direction by making and administering
policies.
 To provide citizens with up-to-date information, most government offices
have Web sites.

Reasons why people access government Web sites:


 to file taxes,
 apply for permits and licenses,
 pay parking tickets,
 buy stamps,
 report crimes,
 apply for financial aid, and
 Renew vehicle registrations and driver’s licenses.

4. Health Care
Nearly every area of health care uses computers. Whether you are visiting
a family doctor for a regular checkup, having lab work or an outpatient test, or
being rushed in for emergency surgery, the medical staff around you will be
using computers.

Various purposes why health care uses computers:


 Doctors use the Web and medical software to assist with researching and
diagnosing health conditions.

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 Doctors use e-mail to correspond with patients.


 Pharmacists use computers to file insurance claims.
 Robots deliver medication to nurse stations in hospitals.
 Hospitals and doctors use computers and mobile devices to maintain and
access patient records.

5. Science
All branches of science, from biology to astronomy to meteorology, use
computers to assist them with collecting, analysing, and modelling data.
Scientists also use the Internet to communicate with colleagues around the
world.

6. Publishing
Publishing is the process of making works available to the public. These
works include books, magazines, newspapers, music, film, and video.

Special software assists:


 graphic designers in developing pages that include text, graphics, and
photos;
 artists in composing and enhancing songs;
 Film makers in creating and editing film; and journalists and mobile users
in capturing and modifying video clips.

7. Travel
 Many vehicles manufactured today include some type of on-board
navigation system.
 Some mobile users prefer to carry specialized handheld navigation devices
 In preparing for a trip, you may need to reserve a car, hotel, or flight.
 You can order airline tickets on the Web.
 If you plan to drive somewhere and are unsure of the road to take to your
destination, you can print directions and a map from the Web.

8. Manufacturing
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) - refers to the use of computers
to assist with manufacturing processes such as fabrication and assembly.
Often, robots carry out processes in a CAM environment.

Variety of industries that uses CAM


 Oil drilling
 Power generation
 Food production
 Automobile manufacturing

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Matching Type. Match the field to its corresponding applications of computer on


Column B. Write only the letter of your choice on the space provided before
the number.
COLUMN A COLUMN B
1. Education a. On board navigation
2. Finance b. Composing and enhancing songs
3. Government c. Automobile manufacturing
4. Science d. Collecting and analysing data

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5. Health Care e. Permits and taxes


6. Manufacturing f. File insurance claims
7. Travel g. Assist in teaching and learning process
8. Publishing h. Pay bills

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