EDP PGDCA Mixed Notes
EDP PGDCA Mixed Notes
1. Introduction to EDP
EDP (Electronic Data Processing) means processing data using computers and electronic devices.
In simple terms, it is the automated processing of data through machines to handle data quickly and
accurately.
Purpose of EDP:
Importance:
- Organizing data in various fields like business, education, banking, healthcare, etc.
Examples:
2. Components of EDP
- These are physical devices used for processing data. Examples: computer, keyboard, mouse,
2. **Software**:
- These are programs used to process data. Examples: MS Excel, Tally, ERP systems, etc.
3. **Data**:
- Raw facts that are processed to create useful information. Examples: employees' names, salaries,
4. **Procedures**:
- The rules and methods by which data is processed. Example: The method to calculate employees'
monthly salary.
5. **People**:
- People like system operators, programmers, and users who interact with the EDP system.
The data processing cycle is a series of steps through which data is processed. These steps
include:
This cycle repeats continuously to ensure accurate and up-to-date data processing.
1. **Batch Processing**:
- Data is collected over a period of time and processed together in a batch. Example: Calculating
2. **Online Processing**:
- Data is processed immediately after entering it into the system. Example: Withdrawing money from
an ATM.
3. **Real-time Processing**:
- Data is processed continuously and immediately as it comes in. Example: Air traffic control
systems.
4. **Time-sharing**:
- Multiple users share the same computing resources. Example: Cloud-based systems.
5. Advantages of EDP
1. **Speed**:
- EDP allows faster data processing. Manual processing takes more time, whereas computers do it
much faster.
2. **Accuracy**:
- EDP reduces human errors, as the computer processes the data based on predefined rules and
operations.
- EDP ensures secure storage and access to data, preventing theft or loss.
4. **Efficiency**:
- Automation of tasks makes work more efficient and reduces the time and resources needed.