Introduction to Computer

In the modern era, computers are an essential part of our everyday existence and computers
are present in almost every field, making our day-to-day tasks easier and faster. Nowadays,
computers can be seen in banks, shops, schools, hospitals, railways and many more places.
When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal computer such as a
desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many shapes and sizes, and they perform
many different functions in our daily lives. When you withdraw cash from an ATM, scan
groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're using a type of computer.

1.1 What is Computer?

A computer is an electronic device, which takes raw data as input, process it under the
influence of special instructions and produces the desired output (referred to as Information).
A typical computer system includes the hardware, operating system (Software) and peripheral
equipment to perform all these operations.
2 Basic Computer Concepts

A normal computer can be a desktop computer or a portable computer. A desktop computer is

a personal computer that is design for regular use at a single location or fits on a desk. A
desktop computer can be a horizontal or vertical (tower) or a combination with a monitor. The
most common components of a desktop computer are power supply, motherboard, storage
disk; a keyboard and mouse for input; monitor, speakers and printer for output.
Computers that you can move very easily from one place to another or computers that you
can carry in your pocket, known as portable computers or portable devices. In a Portable
Computer, all components such as display screen, keyboard, mouse, CPU, battery is included in
a single case. Laptop, Netbook, Notebook, MacBook, Tablet PC, Smartphone are the most
common example of portable computer.

1.1.1 Characteristics of a Computer

The basic characteristics of computer are as follow:
 Speed: A computer works with much higher speed and accuracy compared to humans
while performing mathematical calculations. Computers can process millions
(1,000,000) of instructions per second. The time taken by computers for their
operations is microseconds and nanoseconds.
 Accuracy: Computers are also known for their accurate performance. They can
complete the given jobs at almost 100% accuracy. Although errors may occur in
computers, they are usually caused by incorrect input, incorrect instructions, or bugs
in chips. All of these are human errors.
 Storage Capacity: Computers can easily store a massive size of data. Modern
computers come inbuilt with high storage features compared to older days. Due to
incredible speed, data can retrieve from storage in no time.
 Reliability: Computers are reliable and consistent, they can process the same tasks any
number of times without throwing any error. Computers don't get tired like humans,
so they are superior to perform rule-based, repetitive tasks.
 Versatility: The variety of tasks that a computer can perform is almost infinite. That
means computers can perform different tasks back to back without making errors.
 Diligence: A computer can perform millions of tasks or calculations with the same
consistency and accuracy. It doesn’t feel any fatigue or lack of concentration. Its
memory also makes it superior to that of human beings.

1.1.2 Limitations of a Computer

Limitations are the drawbacks of the computer system in which humans outperform them. A
computer system has the following limitations.
Introduction to Computer 3

 Lack of common sense: This is one of the major limitations of computer systems. No
matter how efficient, fast and reliable computer systems might be. He does not have
any common sense because no full-proof algorithm has been designed to program
logic into them. As computers, function based on the stored programs and they simply
lack common sense.
 Zero IQ: Another of the limitations of computer systems is that they have zero
Intelligence Quotient (IQ). They are unable to see and think the actions to perform in a
particular situation unless that situation is already programmed into them. Computers
are programmable to complete every task.
 Lack of Decision-making: Decision-making is a complicated process involving
information, knowledge, intelligence, wisdom, and ability to judge. The computer
system does not have the ability to make decisions on their own because they do not
possess all the essentials of decision-making.

1.1.3 History of Computer

Computer has been regarded as a wonder machine of modern technology. Computer develops
the new technology. Todays, the time is computer, mobile, tablet, app, IT gadgets. This
technology made our work easy and fastest. Evolution of computer is not developing by any
special person or in any special time, it was develop by many peoples in a long period. Today’s
also many researchers work on the development of computer.
The history of computer is 2500 years old. Abacus is a calculating device and discovered in
China. It is a mechanical device. It has many parallel wires attached in a wooden frame with
five or more beads. In the beginning, traders used this device for calculation.
In 1642, Blaise Pascal, a great mathematician of France invented world’s first mechanical
arithmetic calculating device. This machine was also called adding machine. This machine of
Blaise Pascal was also called Pascaline and it was the first mechanical calculator.
Babbage greatly contributed to the development of computer. Analytical engine was the first
programming computer. It was the first computer that calculated on the basis of instruction.
For this reason, Charles Babbage is known as the father of computer.
In the year 1939, Aiken along with four engineers if IBM developed a machine named
Automatic Sequence Controlled Calculator. Later this machine was named Mark–I. it was the
first electronic mechanical computer.
In the year 1946, scientists named J. Presper Eckert and John Mauchly made a computer
named ENIAC. This was the world’s first electronic computer made for common objective.
UNIVACI developed in 1951. It was the first digital computer. It is the advanced form of ENIAC.
4 Basic Computer Concepts

1.1.4 Generations of Computer

There are five generations of the computer, which can be classified as below:
Introduction to Computer 5

1.2 Types of Computer

A computer is a device that transforms data into meaningful information. It processes the
input according to the set of instructions provided to it by the user and gives the desired
output. Computers are of various types and they can be categorized in two ways on the basis
of size and on the basis of data handling capabilities.
1. There are three types of computer on the basis of data handling capabilities.
 Digital Computer
 Analogue Computer
 Hybrid Computer
2. There are five types of computers on the basis of size.
 Supercomputer
 Mainframe computer
 Minicomputer
 Workstation
 PC (Personal Computer)

Digital Computer
Digital computer is designed to perform calculations and logical operations at high speed. It
accepts the raw data as input in the form of digits or binary numbers (0 and 1) and processes it
with programs stored in its memory to produce the output. All modern computers like laptops,
desktops including smartphones that we use at home or office are digital computers. In
addition, Micro Computer, Mini Computer, Mainframe Computer, Super Computer are also
Digital computer.

Analogue Computer
Analogue computers are designed to process the analogue data. Analogue data is continuous
data that changes continuously and cannot have discrete values. We can say that analogue
computers are used where we do not need exact values always such as speed, temperature,
pressure and current. Speedometer and mercury thermometer are examples of analogue
computers.

Hybrid Computer
Hybrid computer has features of both analogue and digital computer. It is fast like an analogue
computer and has memory and accuracy like digital computers. It can process both continuous
and discrete data. It accepts analogue signals and converts them into digital form before
processing. So, it is widely used in specialized applications where both analogue and digital
6 Basic Computer Concepts

data is processed. For example, a processor is used in petrol pumps that converts the
measurements of fuel flow into quantity and price. Similarly, they are used in airplanes,
hospitals, and scientific applications.

Super Computer
Super computer is one of the fastest computers in the world. These computers are costly and
used for specialized applications for multi-processing. A super computer can process trillions of
instructions in a second. It has thousands of interconnected processors. Super computer is use
in scientific and engineering applications such as weather forecasting, scientific simulations
and nuclear energy research. Cray-1 was the first super computer, which was developed by
Roger Cray in 1976. In addition, PARAM 8000 is the first Indian super computer, which was
developed by C-DAC in 1991. PARAM Shakti is the latest super computer of India.

Mainframe Computers
Mainframe is very large and is an expensive computer that is designed to support hundreds or
thousands of users at the same time. It also supports multiple programs simultaneously. So,
they can execute different processes simultaneously. All these features make the mainframe
computer ideal for big organizations like banking, railway, telecom sectors, etc., which process
a high volume of data in general. Mark-I was the first mainframe computer whereas UNIVAC-I
was the first commercial mainframe computer.

Mini Computer
Mini Computer is also known as mid-range computer and lies between mainframe and
microcomputer. It is smaller than mainframe and larger than a microcomputer. These are
more powerful as compared to Micro Computers and normally used for time-sharing and
distributing data processing system. Minicomputers are used in places like institutes or
departments for different work like billing, accounting, inventory management etc. PDP-1 was
the world’s first minicomputer and it was introduced in 1958.

Workstation
Workstation is a single user computer that is designed for technical or scientific applications. It
generally used to perform a specific task with great accuracy. A Workstation can be different
types such as graphics workstation, music workstation and engineering design workstation,
software development workstation.
Workstations generally come with a large, high-resolution graphics screen, fast
microprocessor, large amount of RAM, inbuilt network support, and a graphical user interface.
Common operating systems for workstations are UNIX and Windows NT.
Introduction to Computer 7

Personal Computer (PC)

It is also known as a microcomputer. It is basically a general-purpose computer and designed
for individual use. It consists of a microprocessor as a central processing unit(CPU), memory,
input unit, and output unit. This kind of computer is suitable for personal work such as making
an assignment, watching a movie, or at office for office work, etc. Laptops, desktop, Tablets
are the For example of personal computers.

1.2.1 Other types of computers

Today's many electronic devices are basically specialized computers, though we don't always
think of them that way. Here are a few common examples.
 Smartphones: Many cell phones can do a lot of things computers can do, including
browsing the Internet and playing games. They are often called smartphones.
 Wearable: Wearable is a group of devices, which are designed to be worn throughout
the day, such as fitness trackers, smartwatches, etc.
 Game consoles: A game console is a specialized type of computer that is used for
playing video games on your TV.
 TVs: Many TVs now include applications or apps that let you access various types of
online content. For example, you can stream video from the Internet directly onto
your TV.

1.3 Functions of a Computer

A computer is an electronic machine, which is used for processing and storing the data given
by the user. In other words, Taking data and instructions from a user, processing the data as
per instructions, and displaying or storing the processed data, are the four major functions of a
computer. These functions are as follow.
1. Input Function
2. Processing Data
3. Storing Data
4. Output Function

Input Function
Input is the process of entering any type of data and instructions into a computer system by
using the input devices such as a Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone, etc. We will use
input devices to input the data into the computer by typing the text through keyboard, by
controlling the mouse cursor through button and recording the audio and video through
microphone and camera.
8 Basic Computer Concepts

By using these input devices, we can perform the basic tasks in computer-like calculations,
viewing the images and videos, listening to the audios, preparing the PPT documents,
browsing the Internet. In fact, all the basic functions of a computer user are initiated by
inputting the data into the computer through input devices.

Processing Data
Once the data and instructions are received by the input function, the computer starts the
processing function. In this function, a computer processes the received data according to the
instructions.
A computer uses the CPU to process the input data according to the instructions. A CPU is the
main processing component of a computer. It processes user instructions, executes scripts and
programs, and runs the commands. All processing is done by the CPU with the help of
processor and Memory (RAM and ROM).
Other important processing components are auxiliary processors. Auxiliary processors are also
known as onboard processors. Auxiliary processors are used in devices to enhance their
functionalities. You can think of an auxiliary processor as the private CPU of a device. Graphics
cards, I/O devices and network interface cards use auxiliary processors.

Output Function
After processing the input data, the process function (CPU or auxiliary processor) sends the
processed data to the output function or to the default or configured output device. By
default, computers use visual display unit (monitors) as the default output device.
In Addition, a variety of output devices are also available. Each output device presents the
processed data in a different form, for example, monitor (or screen projector) for display,
printer for Prints, and speaker for audio respectively. A user, based on his requirement, can
connect and use two, three or more output devices to the computer. For example, after
viewing the processed data, a user can send it to the printer for printing.

Storage function
Storing data and information is the fourth major function of a computer system. This function
allows us to save the processed data for later use. To store data and information, a computer
uses two types of storage components: temporary and permanent.
Temporary storage components are used to store data temporarily. Data stored in a
temporary storage component is erased when the system is shutdown. RAM is a compulsory
temporary storage component. A computer uses the RAM to store the running applications
and their data.
Introduction to Computer 9

Permanent storage components are used to store data permanently. Data stored in a
permanent storage component is not erased when the system is shutdown. The hard disk is
the most common permanent storage component. Other common permanent storage
components or devices are external drives, USB drives, and CD/DVD.

1.4 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

A Central Processing Unit is also called a processor, central processor, or microprocessor. It
carries out all the important functions of a computer. It receives instructions from both the
hardware and active software and produces output accordingly. It stores all important
programs like operating systems and application software. CPU also helps Input and output
devices to communicate with each other. Generally, a CPU has three components:
1. Control Unit (CU)
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
3. Memory or Storage Unit

 Control Unit (CU)

This part of the CPU is responsible for handling all operations of the system. This unit
completes all functions related to data processing. Control unit tells a computer
system how to carry out the instructions of program. It controls the transfer of data,
input/output functions and coordinates the functioning of all parts of the computer.

 Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)

As the name indicates, this unit mainly consists of two subsections. The first is the
arithmetic section, and the second is the logic section. The function of the arithmetic
section is to perform various arithmetic operations. Some arithmetic operations that
are usually performed include addition, division, multiplication, and subtraction. The
logic section performs the function of carrying out the logic operations. Some logic
operations are comparing, merging, selecting, and matching data.
10 Basic Computer Concepts

 Memory Unit
This unit is dedicated to storing all information and data that is saved on the computer
system. Memory unit stores the data before processing, during processing and after
processing in permanent or temporary form. RAM, ROM are the main devices used in
the form of memory. RAM and ROM are primary memory. RAM is a temporary
memory whereas ROM is a permanent memory.
The CPU is known as the brain of the computer and installed into a CPU socket on the
motherboard. The various types of CPU are built in different architecture like 64 bit and 32 bit
with maximum speed and flexible capacity. The major types of CPU are classified as single-
core, dual-core, Quad-core, Hexa core, Octa-core, and Deca core processor.

Cache Memory
Cache Memory is a special very high-speed memory. It is used to speed up and synchronizing
with high-speed CPU. Cache memory is costlier than main memory or disk memory but
economical than CPU registers. Cache memory is an extremely fast memory type that acts as a
buffer between RAM and the CPU. It holds frequently requested data and instructions so that
they are immediately available to the CPU when needed.
Cache memory is used to reduce the average time to access data from the Main memory. The
cache is a smaller and faster memory, which stores copies of the data from frequently used
main memory locations. There are various different independent caches in a CPU, which store
instructions and data.
In addition, Registers are an extremely fast memory location. The data and instructions that
are currently being processed by the processor during the fetch-execute cycle are stored
there, for quick access by the processor.

1.4.1 Types of Processor

The processor is defined as a logic circuit or simple chip which reacts to fundamental
instructions and input processes to operate the computer. The important purposes of a
processor are getting, decoding, processing, executing and writing back as feedback to the
instructions of the chip. The processor is termed as the brain of any electronic systems and
located into every laptop, computers, smartphones, and embedded systems.
The different types of processors are microprocessor, microcontroller, embedded processor,
digital signal processor and the processors can be varied according to the devices. The
processor can be embedded in a microprocessor and comprise of unit IC chip but some devices
are based on multi-core processors that comprises one or more CPU. It is a typical tiny
component with pins embedded on the motherboard.
Introduction to Computer 11

 Microprocessor
The microprocessor is a standard processor, which comprises of ALU, control unit and
club of registers known as control registers, status registers, and scratchpad registers.
A one or two microprocessor can be merged together to form a multiprocessor. All
processors share the input and output operations and memory. The access time in the
memory register is similar for every processor and every processor are associated by
bus.
 Microcontroller
The microcontroller is available in different size and packages. The input reading and
reacting to its corresponding output is the fundamental function of the microcontroller
and so it is called as general-purpose input and output processors (GPIO). Microchip
P1C16F877A, Microchip Atmega328, Microchip P1C18F45K22, Microchip P1C16F671,
and Microchip P1C16F1503 are the common example of microcontroller.
 Embedded Processor
The embedded processor is designed to control the electrical and mechanical
functions. It comprises of numerous blocks like timer, program memory, data memory,
reset, power supply, data memory, interrupt controller, clock oscillator systems,
interfacing circuits, specific circuits and system application ports and circuits.
 Digital Signal Processor
The digital signal processor is used for filtering, measuring, compressing analogue and
digital signals. This process can be made using application specified integration
circuits, digital signal processor, field-programmable gate array or it can be a computer
to achieve a distinct signal. These processors are used for barcode scanners,
oscilloscope, printers, mobile phones. These processors are used for rapid and implied
for real-time applications.

1.4.2 Motherboard
The motherboard is a printed circuit board and foundation of a computer and located inside
the computer case. Motherboard allocates the power and allows communication between
CPU, RAM, and all other computer hardware components. In the computer system,
motherboard controls all components of a computer system. The functions of a computer
motherboard are as follows:
 The motherboard acts as the central backbone of a computer on which other modular
parts are installed such as the CPU, RAM and hard disks.
12 Basic Computer Concepts

 The motherboard also acts as the platform on which various expansion slots are
available to install other devices / interfaces.
 The motherboard is also responsible to distribute power to the various components of
the computer.
 They are also used in the coordination of the various devices in the computer and
maintain an interface among them.
 Some of the Sizes in which the motherboards are available are BTX, ATX, mini-ATX,
micro-ATX, LPX, NLX etc.
There are multiple types of motherboards, designed to fit different types and sizes of
computers. Each type of motherboard is designed to work with specific types of processors
and memory, so they don't work with every processor and type of memory. However, hard
drives are mostly universal and work with major motherboards.

In a motherboard, different types of slots (like ROM, CPU, RAM, PCI slots USB) and ports are
connected. In addition, device controllers are also attached to the motherboard such as DVD,
Introduction to Computer 13

hard drive, monitor, speakers, headphones, microphone, keyboard, mouse, modem and other
USB devices. Some of the important components of the motherboard are defined below:
 Keyboard and mouse: There are mainly 2 types of mouse and keyboard connectors.
The first connector is known as PS/2 & the second connector is known as USB.
 Universal Serial Bus (USB): In the computer system, many devices are connected with
the USB port like keyboard, mouse, camera, scanner, printers, etc. It is mainly used to
connect the peripheral devices with computer.
 Parallel port: The old printers are uses the parallel port to connect with the computer
system. In the parallel port, multiple wires are used to send or receive data in a single
instance. In the parallel port, 25 pins female DB type connector is used.
 Northbridge: This allows communication between the CPU and the system memory
and PCI-E slots. It is a focal Point of Motherboard and It is also called as Memory
Controller Hub.
 RAM Slots: The RAM slots are used for connecting the memory in the computer
system. In a computer system, there are mainly two slots but some motherboards
have more than two slots to increase the memory of the computer system.
 SATA Connections: The full form of SATA is Serial Advanced Technology Attachment.
These are used to connect the SATA devices, such as Hard disk drives and CD or DVD
drives.
 IDE controller: The IDE is the type of component that is used for hard drive control. In
today’s computer system, the IDE controller supports is not supported.
 PCI Slot: The PCI slot is mainly used to insert the expansion cards on the computer.
The PCI devices can also be connected like a sound card, network card, video, card,
modems, and other devices. In today’s computer system support for PCI expansion
slots are not there.
 ISA slot: Industry-standard architecture (ISA) is defined as standard architecture for
expansion bus. The ISA slot is used for connecting input devices and modems.
 CMOS Battery: The CMOS battery is used for storing the BIOS settings on the
motherboard. The CMOS battery is also capable of storing the date and time in it.
 AGP Slot: AGP (Accelerated Graphics slot) is a type of slot that is used for attaching the
video card to the system. This slot is a high-speed slot so that data transfer can be
done at high speed.
 CPU slot: The CPU slot is a type of port that is used to connect the central processing
unit to the motherboard of the computer system.
14 Basic Computer Concepts

 Power supply slot: The power supply slot is used for providing the electric supply to
the computer system so that it can start and perform its functions. The total power
supply given to the system is around 110 AC power.
1.5 Applications of Computer
Computers are used in every field of life, such as homes, businesses, educational institutions,
research organizations, the medical field, government offices, entertainment, etc. Today we
cannot imagine growing our technology without computers. Some Important computer
applications are as per given below:

 Home
Computers are used at homes for several purposes like online bill payment, watching
movies or shows at home, home tutoring, social media access, playing games, internet
access, etc. They provide communication through electronic mail. They help to avail
work from home facility for corporate employees. Computers help the student
community to avail online educational support.

 Medical Field
Computers are used in hospitals to maintain a database of patients’ history, diagnosis,
X-rays, live monitoring of patients, etc. Toadays, surgeons use robotic surgical devices
to perform delicate operations, and conduct surgeries remotely. Virtual reality
technologies are also used for training purposes. It also helps to monitor the fetus
inside the mother’s womb.

 Entertainment
Computers help to watch movies online, play games online; act as a virtual entertainer
in playing games, listening to music, etc. MIDI instruments greatly help people in the
entertainment industry in recording music with artificial instruments. Videos can be
fed from computers to full screen televisions. Photo editors are available with fabulous
features.

 Industry
Computers are used to perform several tasks in industries like managing inventory,
designing purpose, creating virtual sample products, interior designing, video
conferencing, etc. Digital marketing has seen a great revolution in its ability to sell
various products to inaccessible corners like interior or rural areas.

 Education
Today learning becomes easy because of computers. Anyone employed or student can
learn any stage of life with the help of a computer. Computers are used in education
Introduction to Computer 15

for online classes, online examinations, reading e-books, etc. Computers are also used
to track student attendance and learning strategies. They help in increased use of
audio-visual aids in the education field.

 Business
Todays, computers are totally integrated into business. The main objective of business
is transaction processing, which involves transactions with suppliers, employees or
customers. Computers can make these transactions easy and accurate. People can
analyze investments, sales, expenses, markets and other aspects using computers.

 Government
In government sectors, computers are used in data processing, maintaining a database
of citizens and supporting a paperless environment. The country’s defense
organizations have greatly benefitted from computers in their use for missile
development, satellites, rocket launches, etc.

 Banking
In the banking sector, computers are used to store details of customers and conduct
transactions, such as withdrawal and deposit of money through ATMs. Banks have
reduced errors and expenses to a great extent through extensive use of computers.

 Training
Many organizations use computers to train their employees, to save money and
improve performance. Video conferencing through computers allows saving of time
and travelling costs by being able to connect people in various locations.

 Science and Engineering

Computers with high performance are used to stimulate dynamic process in Science
and Engineering. Supercomputers have numerous applications in area of Research and
Development (R&D). Topographic images can be created through computers. Scientists
use computers to plot and analyze the data to better understanding of earthquakes.

 Communication
Today’s computer is the most useful and important medium of communication in our
life. Communication is a process of transmitting and sharing ideas, opinions, facts,
values etc. from one person to another or one organization to another.
Communication is a way to convey a message, an idea, a picture, or speech.

1.6 Input and Output Devices

16 Basic Computer Concepts

Input and Output devices are a major part of the computer. They are a type of hardware
device that makes up the computer system. These allow the system to function properly with
external help. The input allows the user to send data while the output completes the task
related to the data. Keyboards, mouse, scanners are important input devices whereas printers,
monitors, speakers are Important output devices.
1.6.1 Input Devices
Input Devices are those devices, which are used to enter the data or instructions in to
computer. Many types of input devices are used to input data. Keyboard and Mouse is the
primary input devices of a computer system.

Keyboard
A keyboard is one of the primary input devices that allow the users to input text into a
computer system. It is a peripheral device that is the most basic way for the user to
communicate with a computer. It consists of multiple buttons, which create numbers, symbols,
and letters, and special keys like the Windows and Alt key, including performing other
functions. The keyboard layout is similar to that of a typical typewriter. Generally, keyboards
come in multiple sizes, such as 84 keys or 101 keys, 108 keys, etc. Currently keyboards with
104 keys or 108 keys are also available for Windows and the Internet.
Most computer users use the standard keyboard, although there are many types of a
computer keyboard, such as Flexible keyboard, Ergonomic Keyboard, Wireless Keyboard,
Multimedia Keyboard, Mechanical Keyboard, Virtual Keyboard, Projection Keyboard, Gaming
Keyboard, QWERTY Keyboard, USB Keyboard.

Mouse
Introduction to Computer 17

The mouse is a hand-held input device, which is used to move the cursor or pointer across the
screen. It is designed to be used on a flat surface and generally has left and right button and a
scroll wheel between them. Laptop computers come with a touchpad that works as a mouse.
It lets you control the movement of cursor or pointer by moving your finger over the
touchpad. Some mouse comes with integrated features such as extra buttons to perform
different buttons.
Early mouse had a roller ball integrated as a movement sensor underneath the device. Modern
mouse devices come with optical technology that controls cursor movements by a visible or
invisible light beam. A mouse is connected to a computer through USB port or Serial port;
depending on the type of computer and type of a mouse. Trackball Mouse, Mechanical Mouse,
Optical Mouse, Cordless or Wireless Mouse is the common example of a mouse.

Touchpad
It is usually found in laptops as a substitute for the mouse. It allows you to move or control the
cursor on the screen using your finger. Just like a mouse, it also has two buttons for right and
left click. Using the touchpad, you can perform all the tasks that you do with a mouse, such as
selecting an object on the screen, copy, paste, delete, open a file or folder, and more.

Touch Screen
It is the display screen of a device such as a smartphone, tablet, etc., that allows users to
interact or provide inputs to the device by using their finger. Today, most of the electronic
devices come with touchscreen as an alternative to a mouse for navigating a graphical user
interface. For example, by touching, you can unlock your phone, open emails, open files, play
videos, etc. In Addition, it is used in Camera, Car Navigation, Fitness machine, etc.

Joystick
A joystick is also a pointing input device like a mouse. It is made up of a stick with a spherical
base. The base is fitted in a socket that allows free movement of the stick. The movement of
stick controls the cursor or pointer on the screen. You can move the joystick in all four
directions. The joystick’s function is comparable to that of a mouse. It is primarily used in CAD
and playing video games on the computer.

Light Pen
A light pen is a type of pointing device that looks like a pen. The tip of the light pen contains a
light-sensitive detector that enables the user to point to or select objects on the display
screen. Its light sensitive tip detects the object location and sends the corresponding signals to
the CPU.
18 Basic Computer Concepts

Scanner
A scanner is an input device that functions similarly to a photocopier. Scanner collects images
from the source and converts them to a digital format that may be saved or viewed on the
screen as an output. These images can be modified. A scanner can be many Types, such as
Flat-bed Scanner, Handheld Scanner (barcode scanner), Sheetfed Scanner, Drum Scanner,
Photo Scanner, etc.
Digitizer
Digitizer is a computer input device that has a flat surface and usually comes with a stylus. It
enables the user to draw images and graphics using the stylus as we draw on paper with a
pencil. The software converts convert handwritten text to type written words. It can be used to
capture handwritten signatures and data or images from taped papers.

Microphone
The microphone is an input device that is used to input the sound. It receives the sound in
vibrations and converts them into audio signals. The audio signals are converted into digital
data and stored in the computer. A microphone can be three most common types; such as
Dynamic microphone, Condenser microphone and Ribbon microphone.

Webcam
A webcam is an input device which is connect to computer or any other device. It can take
pictures, and can be used to record videos if required. The pictures and videos are stored in
the computer memory and can be displayed on the screen. Although it works almost the same
as the digital camera.

Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)

OMR is used to detect the marks on a paper. The OMR reader scans the forms, detects the
mark that is positioned correctly on the paper and passes this information to the computer for
processing by application software. OMR is widely used to read answers of objective type
tests, where the student marks an answer by darkening a particular circle using a pencil.

Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)

MICR is an input device, which is designed to read printed text with magnetic ink. MICR is a
character recognition technology that makes use of special magnetized ink, which is sensitive
to magnetic fields. It is widely used in banks to process the cheques and other organizations
where security is a major concern.

Optical Character Reader (OCR)

Introduction to Computer 19

OCR is an input device that reads printed text by scanning it character by character. It first
converts them into machine-readable code and saves them in the system memory. It is widely
used in offices and libraries to convert documents and books into electronic files.

Bar Code Reader (BCR)

Again a reading device but to read barcode data like on goods, books, etc. It can be a handheld
scanner or a stationary one but they both scan the image by converting it to alphanumeric
value on the computer.
1.6.2 Output Devices
The output devices are those devices who displaying the result after data processing. A output
can be different ways such as Monitor (CRT Monitor, LCD Monitor, LED Monitor, Plasma
Monitor), Printer (Impact Printer, Non-impact printer) and Projector.

1.6.2.1 Monitor
Monitor (commonly known as VDU) is the most common important output device of a
computer system. It creates a visual display by using tiny dots, called pixels that are arranged
in a rectangular form. The sharpness of the image depends upon the number of pixels. There
are two kinds of viewing screen used for monitors.
 Cathode Ray Tube: This monitor uses phosphorescent dots to generate the pixels that
constitute displayed images.
 Flat Panel Screen: This monitor uses liquid crystals or plasma to produce output. Light
is passed through the liquid crystals in order to generate pixels. LCD Monitor, LED
Monitor, Plasma Monitor are Flat Panel monitor.
20 Basic Computer Concepts

All monitors depend on a video card, which is positioned either on the computer motherboard
or in a special expansion slot. The video card sorts out the computer data into image details
that the monitors can then show.

1.6.2.2 Printers
A printer is another important output device that takes the data from a computer and print it
on a paper. A printer produces hard copies of the processed data. It enables the user, to print
images, text or any other information onto the paper. Based on the printing mechanism, the
printers are of two types: Impact Printers and Non-impact Printers.
1. Impact Printer
A. Character Printer
 Dot Matrix printer
 Daisy Wheel printer
B. Line printer
 Drum printer
 Chain printer
2. Non-impact printer
A. Laser printer
B. Inkjet printer
Impact Printer uses a hammer or print head to print the character or images onto the paper.
The hammer or print head strikes or presses an ink ribbon against the paper to print
characters and images. The common types of impact printers are Dot Matrix printer, Daisy
Wheel printer, Drum printer and Chain printer.
Non-impact Printers print characters and images without direct physical contact between the
paper and the printing machinery. These printers can print a complete page at a time, so they
are also known as page printers. The common types of non-impact printers are Laser printer
and Inkjet printer.
Character Printer prints a single character at a time or with a single stroke of the print head or
hammer. It does not print one line at a time. Line Printer, which is also as a bar printer, prints
one line at a time. It is a high-speed impact printer as it can print 500 to 3000 lines per minute.

Dot Matrix Printer

Dot Matrix Printer print the characters and images as the patterns of dots. These patterns are
produced by striking the ink soaked ribbon against the paper with a print head. The print head
contains pins that produce a pattern of dots on the paper to form the individual characters.
Introduction to Computer 21

The print head of a dot matrix printer can be different. The speed of Dot Matrix printers is
around 200-500 characters per second.

Daisy Wheel Printer

Daisy Wheel Printer have a wheel or disk that has spokes or extensions and looks like a daisy,
so it is named Daisy Wheel printer. To print a character the printer rotates the wheel, and
when the desired character is on the print location the hammer hits disk and the extension hits
the ink ribbon against the paper to create the impression. It cannot be used to print graphics
and is often noisy and slow, i.e., the speed is very low around 25-50 characters per second.
Due to these drawbacks, these printers have become obsolete.
Drum Printer
Drum printer is a line printer that is made of a rotating drum to print characters. The drum has
circular bands of characters on its surface. It has a separate hammer for each band of
characters. When you print, the drum rotates, and when the desired character comes under
the hammer, the hammer strikes the ink ribbon against the paper to print characters. In this,
one line printed at a time. Usually, this printer is used for printing the bill in STD machine, POS
machine and other billing machine.

Chain printer
Chain printer is a line printer that uses a rotating chain to print characters. The characters are
embossed on the surface of the chain. The chain rotates horizontally around a set of hammers,
for each print location one hammer is provided. The chain rotates at a very high speed and
when the desired character comes at the print location, the corresponding hammer strikes the
page against the ribbon and character on the chain. They can print 500-3000 lines per minute.

Inkjet Printer
Inkjet printer is a non- impact printer. It has a jet in the head and small holes beneath it. Jet
has ink filled in it. It prints a character on the paper by spraying in the form of drop of ink. They
do not make noise while printing because hammer technology is not used in these printers.
The quality of printing is very good.

Laser Printer
Laser printer works on the principle of photocopy machine. In this, photo is detected by laser
beam. The detected photo comes in the contact of drum. The drum rotates with the paper due
to which ink marks on the paper. In this way, laser printer prints a page at a time. Its printing
speed is very fast. It can print 5 to 20 pages in a minute. Its printing quality is very good.

1.6.2.3 Projector
22 Basic Computer Concepts

A projector is an output device that enables the user to project the output onto a large surface
such as a big screen or wall. It can be connected to a computer to project their output onto a
screen. It uses light and lenses to produce magnified texts, images, and videos. So, it is an ideal
output device to give presentations or to teach a large number of people.

1.6.2.4 Audio Output Device

Audio output device is that devices who converted the data in sound and displays in the form
of output. Speaker and headphones are main examples of audio output device. These devices
are attached with the system unit by way of a sound card. Sound card is used for recording the
sound and displaying the recorded sound in the form of output.
1.7 Computer Memory
A memory is just like a human brain. A computer memory is a device that is used to store the
data or programs on temporary or permanent basis. The memory is divided into large number
of small parts called cells. Each location or cell has a unique address, which varies from zero to
memory size minus one. Memory is primarily of three types;
1. Cache Memory
2. Primary Memory
3. Secondary Memory

1.7.1 Cache Memory

Cache memory is a very high-speed semiconductor memory which can speed up the CPU. It
acts as a buffer between the CPU and the main memory. It is used to hold those parts of data
and program, which are most frequently used by the CPU. Cache memory is faster than main
memory and it stores the program that can be executed within a short period.

1.7.2 Primary Memory

Introduction to Computer 23

Primary Memory is also known as the main memory of the computer system and it is used to
store data and programs or instructions during computer operations. It uses semiconductor
technology to stores the data and instructions, so it is known as semiconductor memory.
Primary memory is divides into two subcategory; RAM and ROM.

1. RAM (Random Access Memory)

RAM is a primary memory that stores the information or data temporarily to be used by
the processor while the system is running. It is also called volatile memory because the
content of the data stored in its modules is erased when the power supply is
interrupted. Thus they need a constant supply of power to retain that information. RAM
is dividing into Static RAM and Dynamic RAM.
 DRAM (Dynamic RAM): It uses capacitors and transistors and stores the data as a
charge on capacitors. They contain thousands of memory cells. It needs refreshing
of charge on capacitor after a few milliseconds. This memory is slower than SRAM.
 SRAM (Static RAM): The SRAM or Static RAM is a type of primary memory that
stores the data by using flip-flop and each flip flop storing 1 bit. The flip-flop is a
memory cell of SRAM and it is made of multiple logic gates consisting transistors.
There is no leakage current, thus it does not need to be refreshed, unlike DRAM.

2. ROM (Read Only Memory)

ROM is a non-volatile memory who maintains the stored information when power
supply is interrupted. ROM is used to store the information that is used to operate the
system. It contains some electronic fuses that can be programmed for a piece of specific
information. The information stored in the ROM is in binary format. A ROM can be
following types:
 PROM (Programmable Read Only Memory): This memory is modifiable once by
the user. The user purchases a blank PROM and put the required contents into the
PROM. Its content can’t be erased once written.
 EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory): It is an extension to PROM
where you can erase the contents of ROM by exposing it to Ultraviolet rays.
 EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory): Here the
written contents can be erased electrically. You can delete and reprogrammed
EEPROM up to 10,000 times. Erasing and programming take very little time.

1.7.3 Secondary Memory

It is also known as auxiliary memory and backup memory. It is a non-volatile memory and used
to store a large amount of data or information. The data or information stored in secondary
24 Basic Computer Concepts

memory is permanent, and it can be retrieve later. It is slower than primary memory. A CPU
cannot access secondary memory directly. The contents of secondary memory are first
transferred into main memory, and then access by the CPU. Magnetic Tape, Magnetic Disks
(Hard Disk), Compact Disk are the main examples of secondary memory.

Magnetic Tapes
Magnetic tape is a long, narrow strip of plastic film with a thin, magnetic coating on it that is
used for magnetic recording. Bits are recorded on tape as magnetic patches called RECORDS
that run along many tracks. Typically, 7 or 9 bits are recorded concurrently. Each track has one
read/write head, which allows data to be recorded and read as a sequence of characters. It can
be stopped, started moving forward or backward, or rewound.
Magnetic Disks
A magnetic disc is a circular metal or a plastic plate and these plates are coated with magnetic
material. The disc is used on both sides. Bits are stored in magnetized surfaces in locations
called tracks that run in concentric rings. Sectors are typically used to break tracks into pieces.
Hard disc is the common example of magnetic disc.
 Hard Disk uses platters of hard element, which are placed upon each other. Hard disk
uses different track, sector and cylinder to store and organize the files. Tracks are
invisible concentric circles. Each track is dividing in veg-shaped portions, which are
called sector. Cylinder passes through each track of stake of platters. Cylinder is
needed to access files stored on a track or sector of various platters. When a hard disk
is formatted, track, sector and cylinder are determined.

Optical Disk
An optical disc is an electronic data storage medium that is also referred to as an optical disk,
optical storage, optical media. It is a computer storage disk that stores data digitally and uses
laser beams (transmitted from a laser head mounted on an optical disk drive) to read and write
data. The CDs, DVDs and Blu-ray, are the most common types of optical media, which are
usually used as external storage media.
Introduction to Computer 25

With the introduction of an all-new generation of optical media, the storage capacity to store
data has increased. CDs have the potential to store 700 MB of data, whereas DVDs allow you
to store up to 8.4 GB of data. Blu-ray discs (the newest type of optical media) can storage the
data up to 25GB -50 GB. Compact Disk is the most used optical format. Basically CD is of three
types: first CD-ROM, second WORM and third Erasable Optical Disk.

USB Drive
A USB flash drive is a data storage device that includes a flash memory and an integrated
Universal Serial Bus (USB) interface. It is typically removable, rewritable and much smaller than
an optical disc. Todays, USB flash drive come in capacities ranging between 8 gigabytes (GB)
and 1 terabyte (TB), depending on manufacturer, and future capacity levels are expected to
reach 2 TB. A USB drive is connected to a computer by using USB port.
1.8 Hardware and Software
A computer is a combination of two components; hardware and software. Hardware refers to
the physical and visible components of the system such as a monitor, CPU, keyboard and
mouse. Software, on the other hand, refers to a set of instructions, which enable the hardware
to perform a specific task. The software must be installed in the hardware to function properly
and the hardware must be present for the tasks to be performed. Both are interdependent,
yet they are also different from each other.

1.8.1 Hardware
Hardware means the physical components (outer structure) of a computer. In a computer,
system case, monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, power supply, motherboard, hard disk,
memory devices are computer hardware. There is no existence of a computer without
hardware and the hardware will not be able to function efficiently without software.
The most important component of a computer’s internal hardware is certainly the
motherboard, which powers and controls the whole system. The motherboard is also the
scaffolding upon which all other components and external peripherals are connected. Beyond
the motherboard, some of the most common internal hardware components are as follow:
 Central Processing Unit (CPU): This processes the computer’s data and turns input
into output.
 Random Access Memory (RAM): This is a high-speed, volatile memory, which is used
for quick calculations.
 Storage Drives (hard disk, SSD): This is a non-volatile storage device, which is used to
store data on a temporary or permanent basis.
26 Basic Computer Concepts

 Power Supply and Heat Sink: This supply the power (electricity) to all other
components of a motherboard as their requirements.
 Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): This component is used to processes the images or
videos and display on the output (monitor). It also known as a video card.
 Sound Card: This component is just like the video card, the sound card converts audio
input into sounds that can be heard through speakers or headphones.
A Computer System has some peripherals devices that are known as hardware. The most
common hardware is Mouse, Keyboard, Display monitor, Webcam, Headphones, Microphone,
Speakers, Printer, Scanner and other controllers.
Hardware is only one part of a computer system; there is also firmware, which is embedded
into the hardware and directly controls it. There is also a software, which runs on top of the
hardware and makes use of the firmware to interface with the hardware.
1.8.2 Software
Software is a set of instructions, data or programs that is used to operate a computer system
and execute specific tasks. In other words, Software is a programming codes that executed on
a computer processor. In simpler terms, software tells a computer how to function. All
programs, programming languages, language translators and any other application such as MS
Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Chrome, Photoshop, MySQL are known as software.
Software is mandatory to operate the hardware devices.
There are many examples of specific computer software that play a role in personal and
professional computer systems. Generally, computer software is dividing into two categories;
System Software and Application Software. System software includes technical programs that
communicate with the computer's hardware, including its processor and provides a framework
for application software. Application software includes the programs that do not relate to the
basic functioning of the computer, but allow you to do tasks, such as internet browsers or
word processors.

1.8.2.1 System software

System software is a category that includes many kinds of software. System software includes
highly technical programs that allow users to make use of the computer's capabilities. System
software helps the user, hardware and application software interacts and functions with each
other. System software acts as a mediator or middle layer between the user and the hardware.
It’s essential in managing the whole computer system, when a computer is first turned on, it’s
the system software that is initially loaded into memory. Unlike application software, end users
don’t use system software. Instead, it runs in the background of a device. Some examples of
system software are as follow.
Introduction to Computer 27

 Operating Systems
 Utility Software
 Firmware
 Device Drivers
Operating systems (OS) like Microsoft Windows or macOS are essential because they manage
hardware and provide basic services for other programs. They are a software layer that creates
an environment for programmers to write application programs. Utility software includes
many programs like debuggers, disk defragmenters, antivirus software, and registry cleaners,
all of which help a computer to run efficiently. Firmware refers to programs that are built into
physical hardware, machine-level software that allows for communication between hardware
types, as seen in the Basic Input/Output System (BIOS) that can be found in motherboards.
Device drivers are used by specific devices like speakers, printers, or a computer's mouse and
allow those devices to integrate properly into the operating system.
1.8.2.2 Application Software
Application software is software that helps an end user complete tasks such as doing research,
taking notes, setting an alarm, designing graphics, or keeping an account log. Application
software lies above the system software and is different from system software in that it’s
designed for the end use and is specific in its functionality. This type of software is sometimes
referred to as non-essential software because it’s installed and operated based on the user’s
needs. Any application on a mobile phone is an example of application software.
Users are generally much more familiar with application software because it includes the
programs that allow users to perform tasks. Some examples of commonly used application
software include:
 Web browsers
 Word processors
 Multimedia software
 Spreadsheet software
 Email clients
 Graphics software

1.9 Booting Process of a System

Computers large and small must have same type of start-up process, which is typically called
the "boot" process. During this step, the computer checks itself to be sure all is well and loads
28 Basic Computer Concepts

some minimal operational software and operating system. The term "boot" is a shortened
version of the word "bootstrap," which was used in the early days of computing to describe
the process whereby the computer pulled itself up by its "bootstraps."

 Power On
The first step of any boot process is applying power to the machine. When the user
turns a computer on, a series of events begins that ends when the operating system
gets control from the boot process. When the computer is turned on, the central
processor executes some startup code in ROM.
 Power-On Self-Test
The next step in the boot process is called Power on Self-Test (POST). This test checks
all connected hardware, including RAM and secondary storage devices to be sure it is
all functioning properly. After POST has completed its job, the boot process searches
the boot device list for a device with BIOS on it.

 Find a Boot Device

The I/O system is essential to the operation of the computer because it defines the
rules for communications between the CPU and the other devices attached to the
computer via the motherboard. The I/O system, sometimes found in the "io.sys" file
on the boot device, provides extensions to the BIOS located in ROM on motherboard.

 Load the Operating System

Once the hardware functionality is confirmed and the input/output system is loaded,
the boot process begins loading the operating system from the boot device. The
operating system is loaded into RAM, and any instructions specific to the particular
operating system are executed. The actual operating system is somewhat irrelevant,
as the computer will follow the same boot pattern in any case.

 Transfer Control
Once the previous steps are complete and the operating system is safely loaded into
RAM, the boot process relinquishes control to the operating system. The operating
system then proceeds to execute any pre-configured startup routines to define user
configuration or application execution. At the end, the computer is ready for use.

1.10 Representation of Data/ Information

When you think of a computer, then probably you think of only monitor or keyboard. But apart
from this computer has much more than this. Computer is a part of information system. An
information system has three main parts. They are as follows:
Introduction to Computer 29

 Data: Data is a name given to any fact. Data are unprocessed and raw facts. Data has
no real meaning until it is processed. Like Student Name, Student Id, Roll, Class faculty,
Subject etc. are examples of data. If we organize these and process them, then this
data can provide us information related to any student.
 Information: If related data is processed then it converts into a real meaning which we
call information. Data is processed so that it can provide right information related to
any incidence, object status and right decision can be taken based on the information.
Like Employ Pay Slip, Student Result. Information must be in a good format so that it
can be well understood by the person using it.
 Processing: Device processing the figures to prepare the information is called
computing. Hardware and software is used for this.

A special character code is used for calculating, storing information and performing all works
related to output. Decimal number system is used for performing work of computation. It’s
base is 10 that means it has 10 digits (0-9). Computer system uses binary number system to
perform each task. Its base is 2. Therefore, it has only 2 digits (0, 1). These are called bit.
Octal number system has 8 digits (0-7) and its base is 8. A group of three binary bits
displays one digit. The base of hexadecimal number system is 16, which means that it
has 16 digits (1-15). One hexadecimal digit is equivalent to a group of four binary bits.
Number System Description

Base 10.
Decimal
Digits used : 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Base 2.
Binary Digits used : 0, 1
Base 8.
Octal Digits used : 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7
Base 16.
Hexa Decimal
Digits used : 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, A, B, C, D, E, F

Binary Coded Scheme

Binary coding scheme provides a different serial of bits to every character. Two codes (ASCII
and EBCDIC) are used for this. In a recently used Unicode 16 bits are used. ASCII code system is
mostly used to convert data in computer. Its full name is American Standard Code for
Information Interchange. It is also called 8-bit code.
30 Basic Computer Concepts

The full name of EBCDIC is Extended Binary Coded Decimal Interchange Code. It is an old code
that was basically developed by IBM. Unicode is 16-bit code which is supportive to both ASCII
and EBCDIC. It is used for international languages also.
Unicode is a character encoding standard system for changing different types of language
scripts to computer code. Basically, computer working with numbers. They define a number
for every letter and alphabet to store it in the computer.