McGraw-Hill Technology Education Copyright © 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.

Chapter 1A
Introducing Computer Systems
 The Computer Defined
• Electronic device
• Converts data into information
• Modern computers are digital
• Two digits combine to make data (0, 1)

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 The Computer Defined
• Older computers were analog
• A range of values made data

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 The Computer Defined
• Older computers were analog
• A more manageable type -- the old-fashioned slide rule

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Computers can
be shared by
multiple users
but can be used
by only one
person at a time.

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Although PCs are used by individuals,
they also can be connected together to create
networks.

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Desktop computers
• The most common type of computer
• Sits on the desk or floor
• Performs a variety of tasks

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Desktop computers
• Different design types

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Workstations
• Specialized computers
• Optimized for science or graphics
• More powerful than a desktop

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Notebook computers
• Small portable computers
• Weighs between 3 and 8 pounds

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Notebook computers
• About 8 ½ by 11 inches
• Typically as powerful as a desktop
• Can include a docking station

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Tablet computers
• Newest development in
portable computers
• Input is through
a pen
• Run specialized versions
of office products

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Handheld computers, palm computer
• Very small computers
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDA)
• Note taking or contact management
• Data can synchronize with a desktop

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 Computers for Individual Use
• Smart phones
• Hybrid of cell phone and PDA
• Web surfing, e-mail access, long lasting batteries
• Foldable displays
• 4G, 5G connectivity
• Biometric security
• Touch screen, wireless charging
• Multi lens cameras..

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 Computers for Organizations
• Network servers
• Centralized computer
• All other computers connect

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 Computers for Organizations
• Network servers
• Provides access to network resources
• Multiple servers are called server farms
• Often simply a powerful desktop: Google

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 Computers for Organizations
• Network servers
• Flexibility to different kinds of tasks

Computers for Organizations

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 Computers for Organizations
• Network servers
• Users use the Internet as a means of connecting even if
away from the offices.

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 Computers for Organizations
• Mainframes
• Used in large organizations
• Handle thousands of users
• Users access through a terminal

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 Computers for Organizations
• Mainframes
• Large and powerful systems

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 Computers for Organizations

• Minicomputers
• Called midrange computers
• Power between mainframe and desktop
• Handle hundreds of users
• Used in smaller organizations
• Users access through a terminal

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 Computers for Organizations
• Supercomputers
• The most powerful
computers made
• Handle large and
complex calculations
• Process trillions of
operations per second
• Found in research
organizations

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 Computers in Society

• More impact than any other invention

• Changed work and leisure activities
• Used by all demographic groups
• Computers are important because:
• Provide information to users
• Information is critical to our society
• Managing information is difficult
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 Computers in Society
• Impact of computers
• Like the Impact of automobile

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 Computers in Society
• The benefits of using computers
• As varied as users

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 Computers in Society
• COMPUTERS AT HOME
• Computers are used for
• Business
• Entertainment
• Schoolwork
• Finances
• Gaming
• Socializing

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 Computers in Society
• COMPUTERS IN EDUCATION
• Computer literacy required at all levels
• Virtual learning Environment
• Online courses and degree programs
• Educational Software and Apps
• Digital resource and multimedia
• Online assessments and testing

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 Computers in Society
• COMPUTERS IN SMALL BUSINESS
• Makes businesses more profitable
• Allows owners to manage, sales, marketing, budgeting and profit.

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 Computers in Society
• COMPUTERS IN INDUSTRY
• Manufacturing and automation via CAD and CAM.
• Online and mobile banking.
• Trading and digital wallets
• GPS navigation and route optimization
• Online shopping , inventory management
• Construction and real estate, via 3D modeling
of maps , animations and virtual tours.

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 Computers in Society
• COMPUTERS IN GOVERNMENT
• Necessary to track data for population
• Police officers, Arm forces etc

• Tax calculation and collection

• Governments were the first computer users e.g. NADRA.

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 Computers in Society
• COMPUTERS IN HEALTH CARE
• Medical imaging and diagnosis.
• Telemedicine and remote consultation
• Medical billing and insurance claims
• Surgical robotics and simulation

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 Review Questions

1. What is a computer?
2. Explain a few of the different ways in which
computers can be categorized.
3. List six types of computers that are designed for use by
a single person.
4. Describe the two common designs for desktop
computers.
5. How much do notebook computers typically weigh?
6. List four types of computers that are designed for use
by organizations, and are commonly used by multiple
people at the same time.

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 Review Questions

7. Why are mainframe systems usually limited in the

number of tasks they perform?
8. What is the most popular use for home computers?
9. How are computer technologies used by the military?
10. How are computer technologies being used to train
surgeons?

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Chapter 1A
End of Chapter