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Basics of Computers

Computers are essential electronic devices that enhance efficiency, reliability, and accuracy in various tasks across multiple sectors. They are used for word processing, data analysis, internet browsing, video conferencing, gaming, and application creation, among other functions. Different types of computers include desktops, laptops, tablets, servers, smartphones, wearable technology, and game consoles.

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PRANAY KUMAR PATRA
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25 views6 pages

Basics of Computers

Computers are essential electronic devices that enhance efficiency, reliability, and accuracy in various tasks across multiple sectors. They are used for word processing, data analysis, internet browsing, video conferencing, gaming, and application creation, among other functions. Different types of computers include desktops, laptops, tablets, servers, smartphones, wearable technology, and game consoles.

Uploaded by

PRANAY KUMAR PATRA
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Basics of Computers - Introduction

Being a modern-day you must have used, seen, or read about computers.
This is because they are an integral part of our everyday existence.

Be it school, banks, shops, railway stations, hospital or your own home,


computers are present everywhere, making our work easier and faster for
us.

As they are such integral parts of our lives, we must know what they are
and how they function. Let us start with defining the term computer
formally.

Definition: Computer is an electronic device that receives input,


stores/processes the input as per user instructions and provides desired
output.
Why do we use Computers?

We can summarize the reasons for using computers in three


words: efficiency, reliability, accuracy.

Efficiency
Computers save time, labor and resources:
 Time
Computers and computer-controlled machines work more quickly
than people can. With the aid of computers, time-consuming tasks
such as to determine which learners pass or fail a grade or tasks
such as the manufacturing of vehicles can be performed.
Computerized solutions save time. Some tasks need to happen
in 'real-time', such as controlling a spacecraft landing on Mars. It
will never be possible for humans to perform all the intricate tasks
needed to land something like a spacecraft quickly enough.
 Labor
Computers have reduced the labor involved in mentally intensive
tasks, e.g. it has replaced some of the functions of accountants
and mathematicians and in repetitive physical tasks, e.g.
computers control robots that work 24 hours a day more quickly
and easily than people would be able to. They can also perform
tasks that could be dangerous to people, such as using a
computerized robot to disarm a bomb.
 Resources
Resources include everything from the air we breathe in, electrical
power and production of materials to something as simple as
paper used in an office. Computers can be programmed to work
more cost-effectively with resources because resources cost
money. An example is that sensors in buildings can switch the
lights and air-conditioning on and off automatically, depending on
whether people are detected in the room or building or not at all.
Technology can also be used to monitor and limit carbon
emissions in motor cars and factories.

Accuracy
As long as computers have quality programs and quality data,
then they will be extremely accurate.
Accuracy that is repeatable is essential in mass production on
assembly lines, e.g. for a weld to always be perfect and in the right
place, the calculation must always be accurate. If the software is
correct, the computer can perform the same tasks over and over
with 100% accuracy.

Reliability
Computers can be relied on to do tasks accurately, without tiring
or getting bored, complaining or asking for money.
Primarily, the creation of a computerized solution to a task is
usually time consuming and expensive. The three factors above
mean that a computerized solution is ultimately more cost-
effective than other solutions. If basic economics are considered,
we tend to use the most cost-effective solution to a problem. Thus,
we use computerized solutions.
Uses of Computers
Today, there are many uses for computers. Individuals rely on computers
in their daily lives, and computer technology is integrated into many
activities.
Some of the main uses of computers include:

 Word Processing - Students and professionals use computers to


prepare and edit documents.

 Data Analysis - Computer users can create spreadsheets and


use computer programs to quickly and easily process large
amounts of data so that they can perform complex calculations.

 Internet Browsing - Many people enjoy surfing the web to find


information, use social media, read news, watch videos, or listen
to music.

 Video Conferencing - This video conferencing system is useful


for online classes, online conference/seminars and meetings.

 Playing Games - A large variety of computer games are available


for individuals to play on computers, phones, or game consoles.

 Creating Applications - Applications (or apps) are software


available on mobile phones, desktops, and laptop computers.
Apps help complete a variety of tasks on the computer.
Various Types of Computers
There are many different types of computers, including:

 Desktop Computer - A larger device that is designed to stand on a


desk. Desktop computers include a computer unit, a monitor, a
keyboard, and a mouse.

 Laptop Computer - This smaller, portable computer is powered by


batteries so it can be used outside of the home, school, or office.

 Tablet Computer - These handheld computers (like an iPad) use a


touch screen for typing instead of a keyboard or mouse.

 Server - A server is a primary computer that sends information to


computers that are networked together. Many businesses use
servers to store files.

 Smartphones - Smartphones are a type of specialized computer that


include internet and games with phone service.

 Wearable Technology - These devices, such as fitness trackers and


smartwatches, are worn to gather data.

 Game Consoles - These specialized computers allow users to play


video games using their television screen.

 Televisions - Some modern TVs incorporate applications that


connect to content online, such as internet video streaming
services.

There are also two major styles of computers:

 PC - The IBM PC, introduced in 1981, was the first personal


computer (PC), which usually runs the Microsoft Windows operating
system.
 Mac - Introduced in 1984, the Macintosh computer is made by Apple
and uses the Mac OS X operating system.

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