Computer

Form one
studies
work
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 Table of contents
1. Introduction of computers
2. Computer system
3. Central processing unit (CPU)
4. Secondary storage devices
5. Power and interface cables
6. Computer software

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 Chapter
Introduction
1 of
computers

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Definition of a computer
A computer is an electronic device that
accepts user input (data) and
transmissions it under influence of sets
of special instructions (Program) to
produce desired output (Information).

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Data
They are new facts that are meaningless to
the user and cannot be used to make
decision e.g. numbers, letters etc.
Processing
Refers to the way data is manipulated to
turn into information e.g. arithmetic
operation, addition subtraction etc.
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Information
 Refers to data which has been
processed.

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Typical desktop personal computer
 Computers come
in
different sizes
designS but the
most common is
a computer
referred to as a
Personal
Computer (PC).

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Personal computers are mostly used in offices,
schools, business premises and at home.

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Parts of a computer


System unit – this part houses the heart of the
computer and other devices called drives that
store, record and read data.

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 Peripheral devices – they are connected to system
unit using cables called data interface cables that
carry data and information to and from the devices.

Some of peripheral devices are

 Keyboard – enables the user to enter
data and instructions in the computer by
pressing keys.
 Mouse – enables user to issue
instructions to computer by controlling
the mouse pointer displayed on screen.
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 Monitor – enables the user to see
information (output).
Development of computers
Historical development of computers can
be traced back to the time human beings
were struggling to invent non-electronic
tools that would simplify arithmetic such as
Abacus and Napier's bones.

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Abacus
An Abacus was Chinese counting instrument
which dates back
to 3000 BC. The
Abacas has
bead-like parts
that move along
rods. Each bead
above the middle
bar stands for

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 five units. Each bead below stands for one
unit.

Analytical engine
The Analytical engine
was designed by
English
mathematician,
Charles Babbage in
1832. The engine is
recognized as the first
real computer and
Babbage as the
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father of computing. The left picture depicts how the
analytical engine would have looked like if it was
constructed.
st
1 generation
computer (1940-
1958)
These computers
were huge,
expensive, and often
broke down. They
were slow compared
to today’s computers, their internal storage capacity
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 was limited. Cards were used to enter data into the
computer. They used vacuum tubes to control
internal operations. They were used for payroll
processing and bulling
e.g. IBM 650 and UNIAC.
Advantages and disadvantages of 1st generation
Advantages Disadvantages
 Vacuum tubes  They were too bulky.
technology made  They were unreliable.
possible the advent of Had limited memory.
electronic digital  They generated a lot of
computer. heat.
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  These computers  Consumed a lot of
were the fastest power.
calculating device at
their time.
nd
2 generation computer (1958-1964)

They used transistors for internal

operations and magnetic card as a primary
storage medium. They had increased
storage capacity compared to first
generation. They had great reduction in
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 size and heat generation, increased speed
and reliability compared to first generation
e.g. IBM 1401, Honey Wall 200, CDC
1604 etc.
Advantages and disadvantages of 2nd generation
Advantages Disadvantages
 They were smaller  Require air
in size compared conditioning to
to first generation. cool them down.
 They more reliable.  Required frequent

They generated less maintenance.

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 heat.  Commercial
They were less prone production was
to hardware failure. difficult and costly.

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 rd
3 generation computers (1964-1970)

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These computers used
integrated circuits,
increased storage
capacity more flexibility

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 with input/output smaller
size and better
performance of
microcomputers. It also
introduced software
industry operating
systems e.g. IBM System
360, Burroughs B5500
etc.
Advantages and disadvantages of 3rd generation
Advantages  Maintenance cost was
Smaller in size. low because
 More reliable. hardware failure was
 Emitted less heat. rare.
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 Required less  Highly sophisticated
power. technology required
Disadvantages for the manufacture of
integrated circuit.

 They were costly

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 th
4 generation computers (1970-
1989)

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These computers use
large scale integrated
circuit (LSIC). They

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 have large storage
capacity and work at a
high speed.
Introduction of
microprocessor,
microcomputers and
supercomputers were
realized e.g. IBM
3033, Burroughs
B7700.
Advantages and disadvantages of 4th generation

Advantages
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 They are smaller in size because of high
component density.
 Very reliable.
 Generate neglible heat.
 Much faster in computational.
 They are not prone to hardware failure.
 They are portable because of their small
size.
Disadvantage
 Highly sophisticated technology required for
manufacturer of LSI chips.

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 th
5 generation computers (1990-present)

This is generation is characterized by the

emerging of telecommunication with computer
technology. Scientists are working on this
generation to bring machines with genuine I.Q.
the ability to reason logically and with real
knowledge of the world. The anticipated
computer will have the following
characteristics.
 It is expected to do parallel processing.
 It will be based on logical inference operations.
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  It’s expected to make use artificial intelligence.

Classification of computers
Physical size  Functionality
 Analog computers
 Super computers  Digital computers
 Hybrid computers
 Mainframe
 Purpose
 Mini computers  General purpose
 Special purpose
 Micro computers  Dedicated
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Super computers (Physical size)
They are the fastest, largest, most expensive
and powerful
computers.
Mainly used in
scientific
research,
simulation,
weapon, analysis
etc.

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Mainframe (Physical size)
They are less powerful and less expensive
than the super
computers. It
finds its
application in
government
agencies, big
companies e.g.
bank, hospital
etc.
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Mini computers (Physical size)

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Theyare physically
smaller and

cheaper than
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mainframes. They
are used in
research
institutions,
scientific
laboratories etc.

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Micro computers (Physical size)
 T
he

smallest, cheapest and least powerful

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 type of computers. It’s called a
microcomputer because its CPU is
called a microprocessor. They are used
mainly in learning institutions.


 Types of micro computers
 Desktop
 Laptop
 Palm top

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Types of micro computer
(Desktop computer)
Desktop computer – this is not portable. It’s
designed to be
placed on top of
an office desk.

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Types of micro computer
(Laptop computer)
Laptop computer –
this is portable
briefcase.
Designed to be
used by placing it
on the lap.

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Types of micro
computer
(Palm top
computer)
 This is small
enough to fit in the
pocket and can be
held in the palm
when being used.

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Advantages and disadvantages of
laptops
Advantages
 They are portable.
 Ruggedness – laptop computers are designed to withstand
most of the rigors of travel.
 Display – active color screen show sharper, clearer images
which prevent eye strain.
 Power – laptop batteries serve as built in uninterruptible
power supply.

Disadvantages
 Performance – many laptops have slower clocks speed to
conserve power and also have similar memory capacity.
 Expandility – laptops PCs limit your expansion options.
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 Connecting laptops have few ports and no growth potential.
 Security – laptops PCs are easier to steal.
 Display – laptops screens are limited to VGA resolution.

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Analog computers (Functionality)
Analog computers

– they perform
arithmetic
operations and
logical
comparisons by
measuring
changes in
physical
magnitude e.g.
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 speed,
temperature etc.
Digital and hybrid computers (Functionality)

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 Digital computers –
their operations are
based on two states

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 namely “on” and “off” or
“I” and “O”.

 Hybrid computers –
they are computers
which are built with the
characteristics of both
analog and digital
computers.

Purpose
 General purpose – they are designed to be
able to perform a variety of tasks.
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 Special purpose – they are designed to serve
a specific purpose e.g. robots used in
industries, mobile phone for communication
only etc.
 Dedicated – they are general purpose
computers that are committed to some
processing task e.g. dedicated to word
processor tasks only.

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 Computer laboratory
 A computer laboratory is a room that has
been specially prepared to facilitate
installation of computers and to provide a
safe conducive environment for teaching
and learning of computer studies.
Safety precautions in computer
laboratory

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 The computer lab, just like any other
laboratory, should be setup with safety
precautions in mind. Safely precautions
and practices can be divided into
measures that are meant to protect
computer and those that are meant to
protect the users.

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Behaviour in the computer
laboratory
 Avoid smoking or exposing computers to dust. Smoke
and dust particles can damage computer
components.
 Avoid carrying food and beverage to computer room.
Food particles may damage computer components
while liquids may cause rusting and electrical shocks.
 Avoid unnecessary movements because you may
accidentally knock down peripherals devices.
 Follow the correct procedure for starting and shutting
down the computer.

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 Accidents which may occur should be reported
immediately.
 If you are not sure of how to handle or operate any
piece of equipment in the laboratory please ask for
assistance.

Ventilation
There must be good air circulation in the
computer room to avoid suffocation and
overheating. Proper ventilation enables
the computer to cool hence avoid
damage to electronic part.
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Lighting
Computer room should be well light to
avoid eyestrain that leads to headaches,
stress and fatigue. The user may adjust
the brightness of the computer monitor
until the eyes feel comfortable. Also
radiation filter screens may be fitted.

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Protection against fire
Computer room should have gaseous fire
extinguisher like those filled with CO2.
Water based or powder extinguishers
should be avoided because they can
damage computer components.

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Dust and dump control
The room should be fitted with special
curtains to reduce entry of dust particles.
Computers also should remain covered
with dust covers when not in use.
Humidity should be regulated in the
computer room to remain an optimum of
50%. Humidity lower than this allows
static electricity to build up and cause
damage to computer components. High
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humidity of over 70% may cause rusting
of metallic parts.

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Furniture

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The table on which a

computer is placed
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must be strong and
wide enough to hold
the weight and
accommodate all
peripheral devices. The
user’s seat must be
comfortable and have a
straight back rest that
allows someone to sit
upright to avoid muscle
pains and aches.

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Burglar proofing
Toprevent unauthorized access to the
computer room the following control
should be implemented.
Fitstrong metallic grills and locks on doors,
windows.
Do not welcome strangers to computer room.
Install security alarms at strategic access
points to alert security personal incase of
break in.
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Stable power supply
Computers require a stable source of
power. Power from main supply is not
always stable and may damage
computer components. To protect the
computer from damage due to power
instabilities, avoid connecting it directly to
mains supply. Instead connect it to a
special device called Uninterruptible
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 Power Supply (UPS) then connect the
UPS to main supply.
Function of UPS

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 It regulates power
from an unstable
power source to

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 the required clean
stable voltage.

It temporarily provides power to computer incase of

a sudden power failure.
Starting up (Booting)
 It’s the process by which a computer loads
system files into the main memory.

 Types of booting
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Coldbooting – the process of switching on a
computer that has been off completely by
pressing the power button.

Warm booting – this happens when the

computer, originally on, is forced to restart by
pressing the restart button on the system unit.

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Shutting down
a computer
It is important that the user
follows that e correct
procedure of shutting
down a computer at all
time. If the procedure is
not followed, then loss of
data, damage of programs
and computer components
may occur

1. On the “Start” menu

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2. Click “Shut Down” or “Turn Off Computer”. (Shut down dialog
box is displayed)
3. Select “Shut Down” or “Turn Off”.

Parts of keyboard
 Functions keys – F1 to F12.
 Alphanumeric (Tying) keys – labelled A – Z, Caps lock,
Enter keys, Tab key, Spacebar, backspace etc.
 Cursor movement (Navigation) & Editing keys – arrow keys,
Page up and Page down, Home and end keys, Edit keys,
Insert key, Delete
 Special keys – Shift, Ctrl, Alt, Esc etc.
 Numeric keys – 0 to 9, +, “, /, -

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Using typing tutor
Inorder to increase your typing speed and
accuracy, typing software offers the lessons
you need to start from using one hand while
typing to becoming a proficient user.

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Mouse techniques
 Clicking – means pressing and releasing the
left mouse button once.

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 Double clicking – pressing the left button twice
in quick succession.
 Right clicking – pressing the right hand side
mouse button once.
 Drag and drop – the user drags an item from
one location on the screen to another.
 Drag – press and hold down left button and
the move the mouse to the new location
 Drop – release the button immediately after
dragging the item to the new location.

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Review questions 1
1. Define the term computer?
2. State different physical parts that make up a
computer.
3. Differentiate the following types of computers: A)
Supercomputer and mainframe;
B) Minicomputer and a PC.
4. Differentiate between a digital and on analog
computer.
5. Give two reasons why smaller computers like laptops
tend to be more expensive than desktop computers.
6. Which one of the following is not true about the
system unit? A) It houses the CPU.
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 B) It houses the monitor.
C)It connects to all peripheral
devices using ports.
D)It has the computers power switch.

Answer of review questions 1

1. A computer is an electronic device that accepts user input,
also referred to as data, and transforms it under the
influence of sets of special instructions called programs, to
produce the desired output referred to as information.
2. Monitor, system unit, mouse, keyboard, etc.
3. A). A supercomputer is larger and has more processing
power and memory than a mainframe.
B). A minicomputer is lager in physical size and more
powerful than a PC. PC was designed to be used by one
person only.
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4. A digital computer processes discrete data while an analog
computer processes continuous data.
5. A). The technology of producing smaller devices is
expensive. B). Convenience because of their portability.
6. B

Review questions 2
1. What is a mouse in 2. Why is a screen also
relation to called monitor?
computing? A) It monitors the user.
A) A small destructive rodent. B) It helps the user to track
B) A round plastic container computer operations. C) It
with a tail. monitors system
C) A device that controls a performance.
pointer on the screen. D) It is a television.
D) A device used for typing.

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3. Pick the odd one out 1. Which of the following will
in the list below. be 3.
A) Calculator. most suitable for
B) Mobile phone. travellers.
C) Robot A) Supercomputer B) Mainframe
D) Laptop computer.
C) Palmnote computer.
4. Pick the odd one out D) Minicomputer.
in the list below. 2. Why is a mobile phone 4.
A) Mainframe. regarded to be a
B) Microcomputer. computer?
C) Minicomputer. A) It is electronic has a screen,
D) Digital computer. keypad, memory and is

Review questions 3
programmable.

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 B) It looks like a palmnote. C) Large data.
C) It is portable. D) Continuous data. Whichone
D) It produces tones. of the following is called a
What is meant by the term microprocessor?
analog data. A) The CPU of a mainframe.
A) Data that never stops. B) The CPU of a minicomputer.
B) Discrete data. C) The CPU of a microcomputer.
D) The CPU of a supercomputer.

Answer of review questions 2&3

Questions 2 Questions 3
 C  C
 B  A
 C D  D C

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Review questions 4
1. Match the following generations of computers with
the technology used to develop them.
1. First generation A. VLIC
2. Second generation B. Vacuum tubes
3. Third generation C. Transistors
4. Fourth generation D. Integrated circuits
2. Identify and explain at least five areas where
computers are used in day to day activities.
3. What were the characteristics of first generation
computers?
4. Who developed the analytical engine?
5. What is artificial intelligence?
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6. Write the following initials in full:
A). ENIAC B).VLSI C). IC

Answer of review questions 4

1. First – Vacuum tubes Second – Transistors
Third – Integrated circuits
Fourth – Large integrated circuits.
2. Supermarket, airport, hospitals, offices, banks, industries, etc.
3. A). Large in physical size
B). Used vacuum tubes
C). Produced a lot of heat.
D). Consumed a lot of power.
4. Charles Babbage.
5. Programs that make computers to mimic human intelligence.
6. ENIAC – Electronic Numeric Integrator And Calculator.
VLSI – Very Large Scale Integrated.
IC – Integrated Circuit.
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Review questions 5
1. Using an abacus represent 5780.
2. Match the following computer application
areas with the role played by computers in
each case.
1. Supermarket A. Matching fingerprints
2. Hospital B. Entertainment
3. Bank C. Stock control
4. Hotel D. Booking rooms
5. Home E. Analysing academic data
6. School F. Manufacturing process control
7. Industry G. Life support machines
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 8. Police station H. Processing cheques
Answer of review questions 5
1. Representation
of 57800 2. Supermarket – Stock control
with ABACUS. Hospital – Life support
machines
Bank – Processing
cheques
Hotel – Booking rooms
Home – Entertainment
School – Analysing
academic data

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Industry – Manufacturing process control
Police station – Matching fingerprints

Review questions 6-1

1. What is the name given to alternative sources of power?
A) Generators
B) UPS
C) Power backups
D) The sun
2. Which of the following will not ensure proper ventilation in a room?
A) Adequate windows and doors
B) Overcrowding
C) Installing fans
D) Air conditioning system
3. All the following are dangerous to a computer except one. Which
one is it?
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 A) Water
B) Smoke
C) Proper ventilation
D) Dust

Review questions 6-2

4. Why must foods and beverages be kept out of the
computer room?
A) Because computer users should not eat.
B) Because spilling of beverages may clog and
destroy computer components.
C) Because the smell of food is not good for the
computer lab.
D) Because all foods affect computers.

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5. Which one of the following statement is correct?
A) Opening the system unit when it is sill on.
B) Using magnets in the computer room.
C) Covering the computers with dust covers after
shutting them down.
D) Stepping on power and data cables

Review questions 7-1

1. Why are powder fire extinguishers not allowed in the computer
room?
A) Powder particles settle on storage devices and may
scratch them during read/write operation. B) Powder is
poisonous.
C) It fills the room with mist.
D) Powder changes to liquid when sprayed on fire.

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2. All the following are functions of the UPS except one. Which one
is it?
A) It prevents sudden power surges to destroy the
computer. B) It supplies power to the computer during
blackouts and brownouts.
C) It provides stable power supply (clean power).
D) It can be used as the main power source for computer.

Review questions 7-2

3. Which of the following reasons are
likely to cause eye strain in the
computer room.
A) Poor lighting
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 B) Bright monitor
C) Poor ventilation
D) Antiradiation screen
Review questions 8
1. All the following are proper sitting postures while
using a computer except one. Which one is it?
A) Straight posture on the seat back.
B) Feet firmly on the floor.
C) High enough seat allowing eyes to be level with top of the
screen.
D) Bending the back backwards on a relaxing chair.

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2. What can be done to deter illegal access to a
computer room by unauthorised person?
A) Burglar proof the room by reinforcing doors and weak access
points.
B) Welcome strangers to the room.
C) Leave the room open when nobody is using it.
D) Switch off security alarm when leaving the room

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Answer of review questions 6,7&8
Questions6  Questions7
C A
B D
C A and B
B
C  Questions8
D

A

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 Review questions 9
1. What is booting?
2. Differentiate between cold booting and warm
booting.
3. What is the difference between function keys and
special PC keys?
4. Explain the various categories of keys found on a
standard keyboard.
5. What makes a mouse move a pointer on the
screen? 6. Explain the correct procedure for
shutting down one 7. Define the following terms:
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A). Clicking; B). Double Clicking;
C). Drag and drop; D). Right clicking;
E). Mouse pointer;

Answer of review questions 9-1

1. Booting refers to process whereby a computer goes
through a process of self test and preparation for use.
2. Cold booting is starting up a computer while warm
booting is restarting a computer.
3. Function keys are specifically used to perform certain
program specific tasks. Special purpose keys are
used to give certain commands. They are mostly
used in combination with other keys.

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 4. Alphanumeric keys, function keys, cursor movement
and editing keys, special purpose keys and numeric
keypad keys.
5. Moving the mouse on any direction on a flat surface.
6. Click start, turn off computer then turn off.

Answer of review questions 9-2

7. A). Clicking – pressing and releasing the left
mouse button once.
B). Double clicking – pressing the left hand side
button twice in quick succession.
C). Right clicking – pressing the right mouse
button once displays a list of commands from
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 which the user can make a selection.
D). Drag and drop – this is where the user drags
an item from one location on the screen to
another.
E). Mouse pointer – is an arrow or an object in
form of a picture that is used to point on the task
to be performed on the application window.
Revision questions 1
1. Explain why smoke and dust particles are harmful to
a computer.
2. Explain the emerging trends in microcomputer
technology in relation to size.
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3. Describe the ideal environment for a computer to
work properly.
4. Explain the tem system unit and name some of
components found in it.
5. What is booting? Explain what happens in the
computer during the booting process.
6. State one reason why a computer needs to be
connected to a stable power source.
7. Give two examples of special purpose computers.

Answer of revision questions 1

1. Dust and smoke settles on storage devices
scratching them during read/write operation.

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2. PCs are becoming small and portable e.g. Personal
Digital Assistant (PDA).
3. Free from dust, water, magnets, well ventilated
rooms, medium humidity, etc.
4. This is the casing that houses the CPU and storage
devices. Components in the system unit includes
CPU, motherboard and storage devices.
5. Starting up a computer. Internally it first checks
whether all the components are in good working
condition then loads the operating system.
6. To avoid damage and lose of data.
7. Mobile phones, calculators, robots etc.

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 Revision questions 2
1. Why would it not be good to install water based fire
extinguishers in the computer room.
2. Explain the following terms:
A) Clicking the mouse,
B) Right clicking the mouse,
C) Double clicking the mouse,
3. What precaution would you take in the computer room in
case:
A) The humidity falls below normal for prolonged periods due to
weather change;
B) Users complain of backaches after long periods of using the
computer; 4. Classify the following keyboard characters: A).
A,B,C,….Z B). 0,1,2,….9 C). F1, F2,….F12
D). Del, Insert E). Home, End, Page up, arrow key
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 F). Ctrl, Shift, Alt

Answer of review questions 2

1. Water causes rusting of metallic parts and short circuits if used.
2. A). Clicking – pressing and releasing the left mouse button once.
B). Double clicking – pressing the left hand side button twice in quick.
C). Right clicking – pressing the right mouse button once displays a
list of commands from which the user can make a selection. This list
of commands is called a shortcut menu or context sensitive menu.
It is called a context sensitive menu because the commands on it
apply to the right-clicked item.
3. A). Install humidifiers in the room.
B). Improve furniture to avoid bending when using the computer.
4. A). Alphanumeric keys B). Numeric keypad keys
C). Function keys
D). Editing keys
E). Cursor movement keys
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 F). Special purpose keys.

Practical activity 1
Using a typing tutor program type the text appearing
in italics.
in our minds, in our memory, in our concentration.
In our retaining power, in our intelligence.
Right from the crow of our head to the very soles of our
feet.
God, keep us FREE today from evil,
Sin, temptations, attacks and afflictions,
Fear of men, sickness, disease, doubts, anger,

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 All calamities and from all that is not of thy
Kingdom. Fill us with the gifts of wisdom,
knowledge, faith, understanding,
And discernment.

Practical activity 2
1. Using one of the computers in the computer laboratory,
identify the visible parts of a computer and write down the
following details:
A) The brand name of the computer.
B) The type of computer – whether desktop, laptop etc;
C) The number of buttons on the mouse;
D) The number of keys on the keyboard;
E) Draw a diagram of the keyboard layout;
F) Identify the power button on the system unit and the monitor;
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 G) Use the buttons on the monitor to adjust its brightness.
2. In group, carefully study the computer laboratory and its
arrangement. Note down the following;
A) The safety precautions in place to protect users and computers;
B) Users complain of backaches after long periods of using the
computer.

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 Chapter
Computer
2
system

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 Introduction
Computer system refers to a collection of
components that are linked to process,
store and manage information.
Functional organisation of the
elements
Thecomputer system is organised into three
elements.

96
  Hardware – consists of the mechanical, electrical
and electronic part of a computer.
 Software – it is a set of computer programs that
guides the computer in each and every activity
that happens inside the computer during data
processing.
 Live ware – refers to users who are computer
knowledge and hence can properly utilize the
computer hardware and software.

Input device
 These are devices which accept data and
pass them into the computer.
97
  Keying devices – keyboard use to type
data into the computer.
 Pointing devices
 Mouse
 Track ball
 Joy stick
 Light pen
Scanning devices – they are devices that capture
data into the computer directly.

98
Types of keying
devices 1
 Flexible keyboard – is
a more portable
keyboard that can be
folded and packed in
to bag.

99
 Ergonomic board – is specially designed to
provide comfort and alleviate wrist strain.
Types of
keying devices
2
 Keypad – is a
miniature keyboard
used on portable
devices such as
PDAs, laptops and
mobile phones.
100
 Braille keyboard – is a keyboard designed for use the
blind. It consists of key identified by raised dots.

101
Mouse (Pointing device)

102
This is for enter data or
instructions by
controlling a pointer on
the screen.

103
Trackball (Pointing device)
Trackball – It uses a sphere located on top that
is rotated by hand
to control cursor
movement.

104
Joy stick
(Pointing
device)
Itlooks like a car
gear lever which
can be moved
sideways, upwards,
downward to no
space control the
position of cursor.
105
Light pen (Pointing device)
It
is a hand held
pen like device that
has a light
sensitive point.

106
Classification of scanners
 Optical scanners – they capture data using
light.
Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)
Optical Bar Recognition
Optical Character/Image Scanner (OCR)

 Magnetic scanners – they capture data

using magnetic technology.
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)
Magnetic Stripe Recognition
107
Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)
(Optical scanner)
 This scanner uses mark – sensing to scan and translate the
locations of a series of pen or pencil marks into computer
understandable form used
in marking K.C.S.E.
multiple choice exam,
questionnaire etc.

 Application of OMR
 Multiple
choice
exam.
 Market
research
questionnaires.
108
  Payroll data entry.
 Traffic surveys.
Advantages and disadvantages of OMR
Advantages Has low Disadvantages
error rates.  Mark readers are
relatively slow.
 Conspicuous errors
are easily corrected.  Verification of marked
data is difficult.
 Data captured at
source, hence  Not widely used in
minimising amount of business.
manual work.
109
Optical Bar

110
 Recognition
(OBR) (Optical
scanner)
 They scan and translate a bar code into
machine understandable mode. Used in
supermarket, wholesale shops etc.

 Application of OBR
 On labels and on shelves for stocktaking.
Printed on shop goods
e.g. supermarkets. In libraries.

111
Advantages and disadvantages of
OBR
Advantages Disadvantages
 Bar codes can only be
 Bar codes can be read machines.
printed by normal  Only numbers can be
printing methods. coded in this way.
 They are relatively
 The type of item or fixed, so they are
price does not have to unsuitable for
be repeatedly recording prices which
written/typed. can frequently change.
112
Optical Character/Image Scanner (OCR)
(Optical scanner)
 It is used to scan characters and images i.e.
can be used to
scan real
objects.

 Application of
OCR
Used in billing

113
Advantages and disadvantages of
OCR
Advantages Disadvantages
 Data is captured at  Optical readers are
source hence errors are expensive.
limited.
 It’s an easier method to  OCR may require
use. redesigning quite
 Document design is less frequently.
complicated.
 Characters can be read
by people.
114
 Only certain font is
acceptable.
Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)
(Magnetic scanner)
 This scanner is able to detect characters written in
special magnetic ink. It is used in banks to read
cheques, credit cards etc.

 Application of MICR
Bankingindustry for
cheques.

115
Advantages and disadvantages of MICR
Advantages Disadvantages
 It’s fast, accurate
and automatic.  MICR system is
limited to only 14
 The code are both characters. machine and
human
readable. MICR system is

based on magnetism
Reduces forgery i.e. and can easily be it’s
difficult to forge. damaged.
116
Magnetic Stripe Recognition (Magnetic
scanner)
 A magnetic stripe
is a thin magnetic
tape, often found
at the back of a
plastic card e.g.
ATM card. The
magnetic stripe is
used to recognise
the data in such
cards.

 Application of
magnetic stripes
117
  On credit cards.
 On bank cards.
 As tags on clothes.
 As a phone card.
Advantages and disadvantages of magnetic stripes

Advantages Disadvantages

 Simple to produce. Data can be changed or



erased by
magnetic fields.
 Not easy damaged.

118
  Stores fairly large numbers of characters.
Speech recognition devices
 This is a type of input method where microphone
is used to enter data in form of spoken words into
the computer.

 Application area of speech recognition

 Security and access control e.g. office security for
room access, house/car security.
 Quality control and automatic in factories i.e.
speech input used to order robots.

119
  Automated materials handling – in airports to direct
luggage to appropriate conveyor belt.
 Voice activated toys and games.
Advantages and disadvantages of speech recognition
Advantages microphone can be
 No keyboards in used.
necessary i.e. very fast.  Can be used from
 Useful in situations remote locations via the
where telephone.
 hands or eyes are Disadvantages
busy handling  Homophones – some
documents etc. words sound the same.
 People are moving  Recognition is slow.
around, since
wireless  Limited vocabularies.

120
 Background noise can  Speaker variability i.e.
disrupt the data the speed, pitch,
entered. loudness, pronunciation
of individuals.
Types of other digital devices (Touch
screen and digital camera)
 Touch screen – this device recognises the location
of a contact on the screen
through a built-in grid of
sensing lines and sensors.
 Digital camera – they are used to take electronic
pictures of an object.
121
Types of other digital device
(Digitizers)
Ithas graphic tablet
on which the user
writes on using a
device similar to a
pen (stylus). The
stylus moves on the
tablet and the
drawing is directly
reflected on the
screen.
122
Types of other digital devices
(Interactive whiteboard)
An interactive whiteboard
also as a smartboard, is a
large interactive display that
connects to a computer.
The computer display is
projected onto the board’s
surface, where users
control the computer and
write using a pen or finger.
The board is typically
mounted to a wall or on a
floor stand.

123
 Selecting an input device
Factors to consider while selecting an input device
Cost
Volume
Reliability
Accuracy
Mode of operation
Appropriateness

124
Output device
Output
devices are peripheral devices that a
computer uses to give out information
produces after processing.

Soft copy – refers to the intangible mainly

displayed on the screen to through devices
like speakers.
Hard copy – refers to tangible output produced
on papers e.g. by printers, potters etc.

125
Examples of soft copy devices
Monitor (Visual Display Unit) VDU – it
displays information on its screen thus
helping the user monitor operations carried
out by the computer.

126
Types of
monitors
 Monochrome monitor
– it displays image and
text in only one colour
mostly black and
white.

 Colour monitor – it
displays images and
text in multiple colours.
127
Types of displays screen (CRT)
Characteristics
 The screen of CRT is
curved slightly
outward.

129
  They are not portable.
 They consume a lot of
power.
 They are cheap.
NB; CRT means
Cathode Ray Tubes 105

Types of display screen

(flat panel displays)
Characteristics
 The screen is flat.

130
 They are portable. Consume less power
Occupy less space.
 Are expensive.
 Providers high quality
output.

131
Example of flat
panel displays 1
 Liquid Crystal Display
(LCD) – they have
tiny liquid crystals that
reflect light falling on
them from
environment.

132
 Thin Film Transistors (TFT) – it provides high
quality output
(text and graphics).
Example of flat
panel displays
2
 Electro Luminescent
(EL) – they glow rise
to an

133
 electroluminescent display, images are
clearer than LCD.
 Gas plasma – they use gas that emits light
when electric current is passed through them.
Graphic adapter/video card
Graphicadapter it’s a piece of circuit
board that connects a monitor to a
computer and allows the computer to
show images and text on its screen.

134
Examples of graphic adapters
 Monochrome Displays Adapter (MDA) – it
displays text only in one colour.
 Hercules Graphic Card (HGC) – displays both
text and images in one colour.
 Colour Graphic Adapter (CGA) – displays text
and images using up to 16 colours.
 Enhanced Graphic Adapter (EGA) – displays text
and images using 16 colours.
 Video Graphic Arrays (VGA) – offers 256
colours.
135
 Super Video Graphic Array (SVGA) – offers over
256 colours.
Advantages and disadvantages of VDU

Advantages Disadvantages

 The display of output Can lure computer is

almost operator into not instantaneous. keeping
hardcopy
records.
 Minimises paperwork.

136
 Screen might not allow the viewing of the full
array of data.
Sound output
 Sound output is in form of spoken words. Speakers
are used to output the sound form computers e.g.
music, warnings, videos etc.
 Application of sound output
Learning aids e.g. computer aided learning.
Lifts – messages can be used in lifts to greet
visitors and tell them the floor they are in.

137
 Emergency messages i.e. public address systems,
in cars when running out of petrol, household e.g.
vacuum ‘cleaners tub is overloaded’.
Text to speech translation for blind.

Advantages of sound output

Advantages  Fast, natural output.
 No reading id People grow fond
necessary. of “computer speak”.
 Useful in situations Disadvantages
where you can’t look
or where you are  Not suitable for noisy
busy. situations.
138
 Inappropriate for
lengthy or permanent
information.
Data projectors
They are used to
output from a
computer onto a plain
white screen like a
wall or whiteboard. It
is a creative way of
presenting computer
output to an audience. This technology is
139
 gradually replacing the traditional overhead
projectors.
Light Emitting Diodes
They are light emitting components that
display light when an electric current is
passed through them. It is used mainly for
warnings e.g. the red and green light
displayed by the system unit to help the
user know whether it is ON or OFF.

140
Hardcopy output devices
Hardcopy devices are devices that
produce output on paper in form of text or
graphics.
Example of hardcopy
 Printers – produce a hard copy of
information on papers. Plotters – it’s a
type of hard copy output. They are used
141
 mainly in the field of engineering and
architecture for producing graphical output
on paper.
 Computer output on microform – the com
devices record computer output (image or
text) on to photographic film which can be
viewed later by special microfilm readers.
Classification of printers
 Printers are categorised as follows;
How they produce characters on paper.

142
  Impact printers – they provide prints by printing
head element coming into actual contact with the
stationery through inked ribbon.
 Non-impact printers – they provide prints by the
print head elements not coming into actual contact
with the stationery, but other means e.g. thermal.
The speed at which they print.
 Character printers – they produce one character at
a time e.g. daisy wheel, dot matrix etc.
 Line printers – they produce one line at a time e.g.
drum, chain etc.
 Page printers – they produce an entire page at
once e.g. laser printer.

143
Differences between impact and non-impact
Impact Non-impact
Slow Faster

Use inked ribbons Use thermal or

electrostatic principles
Cheaper Costly

Noisy Quiet
Multiple copy production Multiple copy production
possible almost impossible 119

Types of
impact printers
1
Dot matrix printer –
it’s an impact
character printer
that provides
145
character prints in terms of dots. The printing
head element is made up of a set of arranged
needles, which are activated depending on the
character to be formed for printing.
Types of impact
printers 2
 Daisy wheel printer – it
has a wheel petals on
which characters are
mounted. When printing,

146
 the wheel rotates allowing petals to hit a ribbon with
different character.
 Golf ball printer – the character images are incorporated
on the surface of a gold ball like print head, which is
either rotating or pivoted.

Types of impact
printers 2
 Drum printer – it
provides one whole line
print at a time. The
characters are
147
 incorporated on circular bands that move round the
surface of the drum surface.
 Chain printer – it’s an impact line printer that incorporates
engraved characters printing slugs at high constant
speed past printing positions.

Types of non-impact printers 1

Inkjet printer – this
printer forms
characters by
spraying ink form
tiny nozzles
148
through an electrical field that arranges the
charged ink particies into characters.
Types of non-
impact printers 2
 Thermal printer –
it’s non-impact
character printer

149
 that provides character prints using heat
principles.
 Electrostatic printer – it’s a non-impact that uses
electrostatic charges to form characters in a line
on a special paper.

150
Types of non-
impact printers 3
 Laser printer – it
prints by passing a
laser beam back
and forth over a
rotating drum.

151
  Photo printer – are special purpose printers
designed to print photos.
Selecting a printer
Factors to consider when selecting a printer
Initialcost and subsequent costs of maintenance.
Volume of printing expected reports.
Nature of reports to be generated.
Range of capability for selected printers e.g.
multiple copier, print styles etc.
Interface with the computer system.
152
Speed.
Quality of prints.
Type of plotters
 Flat bed
plotters

 Drum plotter

153
Computer output on microform (COM)
 The com devices record computer output
(images or text) on to photographic film
which can be viewed later by special
microfilm readers.

 Applications of COM
Libraries for book catalogues.
Local authorities to retain town plans, maps,
statistics etc.
154
Companies to store personal and customers
records.
Types of
microform
 Microfilm - the output
is usually on a roll of
film.

155
  Microfiche – the output is on a page of film on
which data images are arranged in a grid of
patterns.
Advantages and disadvantages of COM
Advantages
 Saves on stationery and space.
 Faster than printing.
 Non-bulky hence portable.
 Contents on COM are not easily read using naked eyes
hence guaranteed security.
 Have got larger life span compared to paper output.

156
Disadvantages
Are expensive.
 Cause eye-strain.
 Additional equipments needed to read to contents.

Review questions 1-1

1. What is a computer system?
2. Differentiate between a computer and a
computer system.

157
3. A scanner used at points of sale terminals in
supermarkets is an example of a ( )
scanner.
4. The automated input technique where
keying of input data is eliminated is
sometimes referred to as ( ).
5. The type of scanner used to grade multiple
choice examination is called ( ).

158
Review questions 1-2
6. Name three factors one would consider when selecting
data entry method, and give a reason why each is
important.
7. Describe three different optical and two magnetic
scanning techniques used for input; give an example of
the use of each.
8. Explain how banks use MICR scanners for cheque
processing.
9. Describe two situations in which speech recognition
devices may be useful as a method of data entry.

159
 10. Optical scanning of the universal product code is now
widely used as input method. Give an example of a
place where it is used and explain how it is used.

Answer of review questions 1

1. A computer system refers to hardware, software and liveware that work
together to process and manage information.
2. A computer is made up both hardware and software while a computer
system integrates hardware, software and user.
3. Barcode reader.
4. Data capture.
5. Optical mark reader (OMR).
6. The user’s needs, Type of data to be input, Volume of data entry, Cost,
availability, etc.
7. Optical – OMR, OBR and OCR.
Magnetic – MICR and Magnetic strip.
160
8. Special magnetic characters are written on cheques that can only be
detected by MICR reader.
9. For people with special needs (disabilities), In language translator
programs, Voice tags for voice dialling.
10. Supermarket and superstores. To capture price of goods from bar codes.

Review questions 2
1. Differentiate between soft copy and hard copy.
2. What is the difference between a CRT monitor and a flat-
panel display.
3. Give three examples of flat-panel monitors available in the
market today.
4. Name four criteria used when selecting a printer.
5. Distinguish between impact and non-impact printers and give
two examples of each.
161
6. State one advantage and one disadvantage of laser and inkjet
printers respectively.
7. Give two advantages of sound output devices.
8. Karuri Road Construction Company (KRCC), intends to buy
an output device they can use to produce road maps. Which
device would one advice the company to buy and why?

Answer of review questions 2-1

1. Hardcopy is intangible information, e.g. printout on paper
like letters, while softcopy is intangible information, e.g.
screen display or music.
2. CRT monitor uses a cathode ray tube while a flat panel
does not. CRT has protruding back while flat panel does
not.
162
3. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Thin Film transistor (TFT),
Gas plasma display and Electro luminescent (EL).
4. Cost, print quality, availability, speed, purpose and print
technology.
5. Impact printer – print by striking mechanism and are
noisy, e.g. dot matrix and daisy wheel.
Non-impact printer – print by either laser, ink or thermal
transfer mechanism, e.g. laser jet, inkjet and thermal
printers.

Answer of review questions 2-2

6. Advantage of:

163
 Laser printers – cheap running cost, good print quality.
Inkjet printers – cheap to purchase, cheaper multiple
colours printing, high quality print.
Disadvantage of:
Leaser printers – expensive to purchase, expensive
multi-colour printing.
Inkjet printers – expensive to buy cartridges (run),
water based print easily fades.
7. Enable reception of output even when a few meters
away from computer, Makes computing interesting and
entertaining, Suitable for the blind and people with poor
sight.
8. A plotter – it draws lines and big charts.

164
 Chapte
Central
r 3Processing
Unit (CPU)

165
Introduction
The Central Processing Unit (Processor) is
that part of the computer that decodes and
executes instructions.
Functional unites of CPU
 Arithmetic Logic Unite (ALU) – in this unit of CPU all the
arithmetic and logical operational are carried out.

166
 Control unit – this unit coordinates all processing activities
in the CPU as well as input, storage and output operations.
 Main memory (primary storage) – this unit provides storage
location for data and instructions accessed by the control
unit.
Functions of ALU,
Control unit and main
memory

 ALU
 Does all the
mathematical
computations in a
167
 computer. Does all of the logic comparisons of
values.
 Control unit
 Directsthe flow of information into the CPU memory
and storage. Controls the instructions the CPU will
perform next.
 Main memory
 Holds data awaiting processing.
 Holds data that has been processed awaiting to be
output.
 Holds data been processed.

168
Types of memory (ROM)
 Read Only Memory (ROM) – this memory is used to
store programmed
instructions and
data permanently
or semi
permanently. Data
and instructions
stored in ROM are
those required to
remain
unchanged for a
long time.

Characteristics

169
  Can only be read but cannot write on it.
 It’s non-volatile.
 Stores permanent instructions from manufacturer.

Types of
memory (RAM)
 Random Access
Memory (RAM) – it’s
called Random Access
Memory (RAM) because
its content can be read
directly regardless of the
sequence in which it was
stored.

170
 Characteristics
 Data can be read and written in it.
 It’s temporary, its contents disappears when the
computer is switched off.
 It’s contents is user defined.

Types of ROM
 Mask Read Only Memory (MROM) – once contents
are written on it by the manufacturer, it cannot be
changed.
 Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) – this
allows the user to alter it only once after the content is
written on it.

171
 Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory
(EPROM) – the contents stored in this memory can
be erased by exposing them to ultra violet light and
then reprogrammed for another use.
 Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only
Memory (EAPROM) – this memory can be erased
and reprogrammed using electricity.

Types of RAM
 Static RAM (SRAM) – it’s a very fast
memory and holds its content as long as
there is power.
172
 Dynamic RAM (DRAM) – it holds its
contents for a short while even when the
power is on. To maintain its content it must
be refreshed severally per second.
Special purpose memories
 Buffer – it’s a special purpose memory used
during input/output or processing to temporarily
hold data or instructions between communicating
elements.

173
 Cache memory – it’s a very high speed type of
SRAM whose purpose is to allow the processor to
access data instructions more faster.
 Register – they are temporarily storage locations
within CPU that holds one piece of data at a time.
Examples of registers
 Accumulators – temporarily holds the results of
the last processing step of ALU.
 Instruction registers – temporarily holds an
instruction before it’s interpreted into a form that
CPU can understand it.
174
 Address registers – temporarily holds next piece
of data waiting to be processed.
 Storage registers – temporarily holds a piece of
data that is on it’s way to and from the CPU and
main memory.

175
Functional organisation of CPU

176
The arithmetic logic
unit, control unit and

main memory are

177
 linked through
electrical pathways
called buses. A bus is
an electrical path for
signal to flow from
one point to another
in a circuit.
Types of computer buses
 Control bus – this is a pathway for all
timings and controlling functions sent by
the control unit to other parts of the system.
178
 Address bus – this pathway is used to
locate the storage position in memory of
the data to be executed or an instruction to
be decoded.
 Data bus – this is the pathway where the
actual data transfer takes place.

179
Types of processors and their clock speed

180
Review questions 1
1. Define the term central processing unit?
2. Describe three functions performed by the CPU.
3. What is a microcomputer?
4. Explain the functions performed by:
A) The control unit;
B) The arithmetic and logic unit;
C)The main memory;
5. Define the terms: volatile memory and non-volatile
memory.
6. Define and explain the difference between Ram and
ROM.

181
7. How many characters (bytes) of data are held in each of
the following memories? 4KB, 640KB, 16MB and
20GB?

Answer of review questions 1

1. Central Processing Unit.
2. Processing data, System control, Provide temporary storage (RAM)
and permanent storage (ROM).
3. It is a tiny processor, mainly a combination of he ALU and control unit
on a single silicon chip.
4. A). Interpreting instruction, Issuing control instructions the O/S.
B). Performing arithmetic calculation, Performing logical operations.
C). Holding data just before and after processing, Holding instructions
just before execution.
5. Volatile memory is temporary while non volatile is permanent.

182
6. RAM – temporary and rewritable memory ROM – permanent and read
only memory.
7. 4KB – approximately 4000 characters.
640KB – approximately 640,000 characters.
16MB – approximately 16 million characters.
20GB – approximately 20 billion characters.

Review questions 2
1. Name three special purpose memories found
either inside or outside the microproce3ssor,
and explain what each does.
2. In reference to arithmetic and logic unit,
explain the meaning of logic operations and
give an example of this processing operation.
183
3. What is the meaning of BIOS, and what role
does it play in a computer?
4. Explain the purpose of the system clock.
5. What is the meaning of BIOS, and what role
does it play in a computer?
6. List three buses found in the CPU.
Answer of review questions 2
1. Cache memory – speeds up processing (fetch cycle).
Buffer – acts as interface between very fast
proce3ssor and slow I/O devices.
Register – temporarily holds data/instructions just
before and after processing.
184
2. Comparisons include: =,<,>,and <>.
3. The CPU of a microcomputer is smaller and less
powerful than that of mainframe.
4. Determines the processing speed of the CPU.
5. Basic Input Output System – holds hardware setup
and configuration information.
6. Data bus, address bus and control bus.

Practical activity 1
With the help of the teacher, find out the
following:
1. The type of processor in one of the computers
in your computer laboratory.
185
2. The clock speeds of all the computers in the
computer laboratory.
3. What is the size of RAM in MB of the
computer you are currently using?

186
 Chapter
Secondary
4 storage
devices

187
 Introduction
These are storage devices that
compliment the primary memory. They are
used to store information for longer period.
Characteristics of secondary storage
 Non-volatile storage – data stored in this
media is permanent unless erased by user

188
  Mass storage – stores large volume of
data

 Reusability – stored data can be erased

and the media reused to store fresh data
and programs
Classification of secondary storage
 Removable storage devices – these
devices are not housed inside the system
189
 unit hence can be used in another
computer e.g. floppy, flash disk, CD.

 Fixed storage devices – these devices are

housed inside the computer system unit
e.g. hard disk.
Removable storage devices
 Magnetic desks Optical disk – these
Floppy disks disks use laser beam
Zip disk
to record data on
them. The laser ray
190
 Jaz disk burns tiny holes into a
shiny surface to
record data.
 Magnetic tapes
Floppy disk
They are made of
small flexible round
disk coated with
iron oxide. They are
used to store
information for later
use in the same or
191
 different computer, and can be used to move
information from one computer to another.
Zip disk
Zip disk – they
resemble floppy disk
but have high
storage capacity.
They are slightly
larger and thicker in
size. Can hold at

192
 least 250MB. Mostly they come with a separate
portable external zip disk.
Jaz disk
 Jaz disk – they are
small portable of about
1GB – 2GB. They are
used for storing data
that require larger
capacity. They have an
external jaz drive.
Advantages and disadvantages of floppy disk
193
Advantages  Floppies are
vulnerable i.e. short
life.
 They are very cheap.
 Time consuming if
access is needed to
 Small, lightweight and
many files over a
convenient.
short period.
 Easily damaged.
 Exchangeable.
 Storage area is
Disadvantages
limited.

194
 Magnetic tapes
 This is ribbon of Mylar (plastic – like) material coated with a thin
layer of iron oxide. Magnetic
tape resembles the music
cassette. Tape is stored in
blocks separated by inter –
block gaps left for stopping
purposes. Tapes are
sequentially accessed. This
implies that if information is at
the end of the tape, the
computer will have to read
almost the entire tape which
is time consuming.
Advantages and
disadvantages of magnetic tapes
195
Advantages  Very slow in accessing
of data.
 They are portable.  Easily damaged i.e.
 Cheap. dust, heat, touching
 Can be erased and re-
etc.
used.  The inter-block space
 Holds a lot of data in a
is wastage of storage
compact space. area.
Disadvantages
Examples of optical storage disks
 LS-120 super disk – this is a diskette that resembles the floppy disk
but uses optical technology instead of magnetic technology to read
196
 data. It has greater storage capacity and greater speed of data
access than floppy disk. Digital Versatile Disks (DVD’s) – also
known as digital video disk. They resemble compact disk but have
higher storage capacity of up to 17GB. They are suitable for
recording motion pictures e.g. video because they offer better sound
and picture quality than CDs.
 Compact disk (CD) – they hold larger quantities of data and
information. It holds as much as 700MB. Mostly used to store data
and information that require a lot of space e.g. video clips, software
etc.
 Optical card – it resembles the magnetic ink character reader card
but uses an optical recordable stripe that stored using optical
technology.
 Photo CD – this CD is used to process photographic film or
negatives to produce and store high quality photographs on a CD-R.

197
 Forms of compact disks
 CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory) – in this
type of compact disks, when data is recorded on them,
one can neither change them, nor add anything on.
 CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable) – they are initially
blank, the user can record data on it. However once the
data has been written on it, one can only read but no
changing it.
 CD-RW (Compact Disk Rewriteable) – with CD-RW the
user can record, erase and rewrite new information.

198
 WORM (Write Once Read Many Times) – these are discs
that allow the user to record data on them once but read
them many times e.g. CD-ROMs and CD-Rs.
Advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM
Advantages  More secure as it
cannot be changed or
 It’s smaller, more attacked by viruses.
portable and has lager Disadvantages
storage compared to
diskettes.  Not possible to
change data written
on a CD-ROM.
199
 Are expensive than  High quality pictures
diskettes. and sound.
 Can’t erase the data  Portable.
stored.
Advantages and disadvantages of optical
storage
Advantages Have Disadvantages
massive capacity. Expensive.
 Stores data permanently.
 Costly hardware and
Accessing of data is
software for reading.
fast. Secured i.e. it’s Break easily (it’s
hard to copy.
fragile).
200
 Very sensitive to things scratches which easily
like dust, water, heat, damage them.
Flash disk
This is the most
current storage
device in the market.
It has a massive
storage area, more
reliable and portable.

201
 It’s small in size and can store over 600MB of
information.
Example of fixed
storage devices
 Hard disk (Winchester) – they are made from metal and
are coated with a thin film of
magnetic oxide. The hard disk
unit is made of shiny, rigid
magnetic disks or platters that
are arranged vertically on a

202
 common axis. They can hold thousand of programs and
files.
Advantages and disadvantages of hard disk
Advantages Disadvantages
 They can suffer a head

 It’s cheap. crash resulting to loss of

data.
 Very reliable.
 Does not deteriorate as  They are sensitive to
things like dust, humidity,
quickly as floppy.
magnets which can
 More storage capacity. corrupt the data stored.
 Accessing of data is
faster.
203
 They are inflexible i.e.
cannot be changed.

Review questions 1
1. Distinguish between primary and secondary
storage devices.
2. Distinguish between removable and fixed storage.
3. Compare three types of removable disks i.e.
floppy, zip, and jaz disks in relation to size.
4. What is a hard disk? How does it differ from the
floppy disk?

204
5. What are the advantage3s of the hard disk over
the floppy disk?
6. Give four examples of optical disks and how they
differ from each other in terms of storage capacity
and mechanism.
Answer of review questions 1
1. Primary storage is accessed directly by CPU while
secondary is not.
2. Removable are portable while fixed are mounted inside
the system unit.
3. Floppy – physically small in size and capacity. Jaz&Zip
are slightly large in size and have large storage capacity.
205
4. It is hard magnetic platter used to store data and is
encased in a metallic housing (casing). It differs from a
floppy because it is metallic, shinny and non flexible.
5. It is large in storage capacity, More reliable, Faster
access to data and information.
6. CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, LS-120, Super disk, DVD,
optical card, optical tape.

Review questions 2
1. What are the advantages of a digital versatile disk
over a typical compact disk.
2. Define the term multimedia and list down the
components required to make a computer
multimedia.
206
3. Why are CD-ROMs and CD-Rs referred to as
WORM?
4. Describe the difference between magnetic and
optical storage media.
5. Jets publishers is a company that specializes in
production of newspapers. One of the editors
wanted to transfer a 50MB document from the hard
disk of one computer to another using a removable
storage media. Give four examples of the devices
he/she could use.
6. Describe three precautions you would take to avoid
damaging the hard disk.

207
 Answer of review questions 2
1. DVD has larger storage capacity than CD, Offers better
data storage quality.
2. Multimedia is an integration of sound, video and text
processing and output.
Components – optical drive, speakers, sound adapter,
VGA monitor.
3. Write Once Read Many (WORM) – recorded once but
can be accessed many times without changing
content.
4. Magnetic – data recorded using magnetism.
optical – data recorded using a beam of light (laser).
5. Jaz, Zip, Flash disk, CD-R, CD-RW.

208
6. Do not drop the disk drive, Do not expose it to strong
heat, Do not expose it to dust/smoke particles, Do not
unprocedurally switch off the computer.

Practical activity 1
Using a floppy disk provided by the
teacher:
1. Draw and label all the parts of a diskette.
2. Remove the protective plastic casing to
expose the disk platter.
a. How flexible is the platter?
b. What is the texture and colour of the surface?
Is it possible to see the tracks and sectors?
209
c. Assuming the tracks and sectors are visible,
draw a diagram to illustrate how they would
look like.

210
 Chapter
Power5 and interface
cable

211
Port
It’sa socket on the system unit into which a
cable from an external peripheral device (e.g.
mouse keyboard etc) is plugged to facilitate
transfer of information between the device and
CPU.
 Power cable
 Serial cables and ports
 Parallel cables and ports
 Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables and ports
 Interface cable
 Small Computer System Interface (SCSI)

212
Power cable

213
Theyare used to
supply power to the

214
motherboard and
other internal devices
of a computer.
Serial cables
and ports
They transmit data
between devices
and CPU one bit
after another. They
are slow but are

215
reliable than parallel cables. Mainly used to
connect mouse.
Parallel cables
and ports
 They transmit
information
simultaneously
using a set of many
conductors. They

216
 are faster than serial. Used to connect devices
such as printer.
Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables and ports

 They transmit only

1 bit of information
at a time at a very
high speed than
parallel. Provides
quality data
transmission over
long distance. It’s
217
 port support devices like digital cameras,
scanners, mouse etc.
Interface cable /
Small Computer System Interface (SCSI)
 Interface cable – All peripheral devices
that make up a computer system are
connected to the motherboard inside the
system unit through the interface cables.

218
 Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) –
they transmit data in parallel but are faster
than parallel cables. It’s port allows
connection of up 7 peripheral devices.
Personal system
2 (PS/2)
interface
Originally, most
computers used
the 5-pin DIN to
219
 connect a keyboard to the system unit but the
smaller 6-pin miniDIN also known as PS/2
interface has replaced this technology.
Types of ports 1
 Infra-red – used for wireless communication between the CPU and
device which is infrared – capable. Communication is over short
distance, and there should be no obstruction between the two
devices.
 D-type ports – these ports have the shape of capital letter D. They
are two types namely the Nine-Pin (DB-9) and 25 pin-wide (DB25).
The DB9 is a serial port into which cables such as mouse, modem,
serial printer etc can be plugged. The DB-25 port can be used for
both serial and parallel devices. When used to connect serial it’s
labelled COM1 or COM2 and only 10 of its pins are used. For
parallel it’s labeled LPT 1 or LPT 2.
220
 Centronic ports – this is a parallel port that uses metal clips
mounted into cells in place of pins.
 Audio ports – used for inputting and outputting sound into and out
of sound card.
 LAN ports – used for connecting the computer to local are network.
 Modem port – used for plugging an external modem into the
computer.

Types of ports 2
(Video port)
Video ports – used
for connecting the

221
monitor to the system unit. It can be 9-pin D or
15-pin D.

222
Ports on the backside of system unit

223
224
Standard symbols used to denote an interface
Symbol Port
Parallel
Serial
USB
SCSI
PS/2 for mouse
 PS/2 for keyboard 189
Basic computer set-up and cabling
 Having learnt about various devices and
how they function, it is important to
familiarise ourselves on how to set up a
computer.

 Before carrying out the practical the

following should be observed.
226
 Dismember all cables from the source of power
to prevent electrical shock.
Follow the teacher’s instructions strictly.

Tools and materials required

 Screw drivers
 Pliers
 Motherboard
 Manufacturers manual
 Required peripheral devices
227
 Dismantled system unit
 Power and interface cables

228
Steps of computer set-up and cabling 1

229
1. Connecting basic
computer components.
Connecting devices to
motherboard –

2.

230
 indentifying connecting
points on the
motherboard. Carefully
identify the points on
the motherboard before
you start connecting the
computer ports.

Steps of computer set-up and cabling 2

3. Connecting the hard disk, floppy drive, CD-
ROM
a. Wear antistatic material to discharge any static
change on the body.
231
 b. Check for a free drive bay to hold disk drive.
c. Slide the disk into its bay and screw it.
d. Connect the power supply cable to the device.
e. Connect the cable both to the drive then to
motherboard.
f. If installation is complete replace the system unit
cover.
Steps of computer set-up and cabling 3

4. Connecting other peripheral devices.

a. Identify its port and data cable or interface
cable.
232
 b. Connect the data cables of all devices to their
respective ports.
c. Switch on the computer power source.
d. Successful boot means the computer was
properly setup.
Review questions 1
1. Define the following terms:
A). Port B). Interface cable C). Power cable
2. What is the function of the power supply unit found in the
system unit.
3. Differentiate between parallel and serial interface cables.
233
4. Give two advantages of a USB interface cable.
5. Draw an illustration of:
A). Parallel cable B). USB port
6. What would happen if you bend the pins of a monitor port
as you try to connect the monitor interface cable to the
system unit?
7. Draw illustrations of various ports found at the back of the
system unit of the computer.

Answer of review questions 1

1. A). Special socket for connecting
peripheral devices on the system unit.
B). Cable for data transmission.
C). Cable for power supply to devices.

234
2. To supply stable power to system unit
internal devices and the mother board.
3. Parallel cables transmits several
bits simultaneously while serial
transmits one bit at a time.
4. It is light, Offers fast transmission,
Its serial nature enable it to connect
devices a longer distance away,
The USB port can be used to
connect different peripheral devices
due to its common universal
interface.
6. No display or some colours will fail
to display.

235
 Review questions 2
1. What are the safety precautions to be
observed before one starts installing devices
in the system unit?
2. In relation to cabling, give two reasons why
a printer may not print work sent from the
computer as expected?
3. Naliaka connected new multimedia speakers
to her computer and tried to play her favorite
236
 music CD but no sound was heard. What
might have been the problem?
Answer of review questions 2
1. A). Disconnect all devices from metallic object and then wearing
power source before attempting to an antistatic wrist member.
work on them. B). Do not work on 2. A). Loose printer interface cable.
any peripheral device without the B). Printer still off.
guidance of the teacher. C). Printer not installed.
C). Never work alone because you 3. A). Volume control too low. B).
may need help in case of an Loose or improper connection to
emergency. the sound card. C). Speakers not
D). Discharge any static electricity powered.
that might have built up on your D). Multimedia not supported. E)
hands by touching an earthed absence of analog cable
237
 connecting the optical drive to the motherboard or sound card.

Revision questions
1. Write the following abbreviations in full:
A). CPU B). ALU C). CU
D). ROM E). RAM
2. Give examples of special purpose memories found in the CPU.
3. What do the following abbreviations in relation to storage capacity stand
for:
A). KB B). MB C). GB
4. Describe various display video cards used in computers.
5. Differentiate between MICR and OCR scanners.
6. What is the market name given to the most recent types of processors?
7. Explain the internal mechanism of the hard disk in reference to disk platters
and the read/Write head.

238
8. Describe the structure of a hard disk in reference to cylinders, tracks and
sectors.
9. What are pixels? What role do they play in screen display?
10. Explain the steps you would follow to set up a new computer.

Answer of revision questions 1

1. A). Central Processing 3. A). Kilobyte.
Unit. B). Megabyte C).
B). Arithmetic Logic Gigabyte.
Unit. 4. MDA, HGA, EGA, VGA and
C). Control Unit. SVGA.
D). Read Only Memory. 4. MICR uses magnetic
E). Random Access technology to read magnetic
Memory. characters while OCR uses
2. Cache and registers.
239
 laser technology to read common axis with read/write
characters. heads on both sides of the
5. Pentium processors. platters. The heads move in
6. The drive is made up of and out as they write/read
several disk platters that data. The outer case is hard
are mounted on a and metallic.

Answer of revision questions 2

8. The hard disk is divided into concentric circles called tracks.
Parallel tracks on several platters are called cylinders. The
tracks are further subdivided into sectors. Several sectors
can be grouped to form clusters.

240
9. Pixels (picture elements) are dots on the screen that form
characters and images. They determine the clarity of the
image.
10. (a). Gently and carefully connect the interface cable of each
device to the correct port and to the device.
(b). Connect the computer to the power source and switch it
on.
(c). Observe boot up information on the screen to see
whether Power On-Self Test (POST) displays any error
message. A successful boot means that the computer was
properly setup.

241
Practical activity 1
Using the universal
symbols in table right,
identify each port located
on the system unit.

242
 Chapter
Computer
6
software

243
Introduction
Software are programs or set of
instructions that enables a computer
system to operate.
Classification of software 1
According to purpose.

244
 System software – it enables the user
communicate with the computer and its
various devices e.g. keyboard.

Application software – application

software are designed to help the user
accomplish specific tasks.
Classification of software 2
According to method of acquisition.

245
In-house developed program (Bespoke) –
these programs are designed to serve a
particular purpose for specific groups or
people e.g. in banks for managing their
operations, airlines for booking etc.
Standard software (off the shelf packages) –
these programs are developed by software
engineers, packaged and made available for
purchase through a vendor or directly from
developer e.g. Microsoft office.

246
Program under system software 1
Firmware – it’s a combination of both
hardware and software. It’s in form of a chip
which may be used to store programs.
Network software – it’s used to establish
communication between two or more
computers by linking them using a
communication channel e.g. cables to create
network, novel, Linux etc.

247
Program under system software 2

 Operating system – it’s a set of programs

that control and supervise the hardware
resources of a computer during processing.
Examples of operating system include
Windows 95/98/2000/XP, Linux Macintosh,
MS-DOS etc.
 Utility software – they are programs that
perform commonly used services that
248
 make certain aspects of computing to go
on more smoothly.
Types of utility software
 System level  Calculator
 Application utility  Time
 Program translator  Backup utility
 Setting editor  Anti virus utility
 Text editor  Diagnostic
 Sort editor utility
 Calendar utility
249
Etc.
Examples of application software
 Word processor – for typing documents e.g.
MS-Word.
 Database – for keeping records and files e.g.
MS-Excel.
 Spreadsheet – for calculations e.g. MSAccess.
 Desk top publishing – designing publications
e.g. cards (Adobe PageMaker).
 Computer Aided Design – for technical
drawing e.g. AutoCAD.
250
  Graphics software – for designing and
manipulating graphics e.g. Photoshop
Advantages of standard software over in house software

 They can easily be installed and run

 Thoroughly test hence few errors
 Readily available
 Easily modified to meet specific user needs
 Less expensive
Disadvantages of standard software over in-house software
251
  May not meet special needs.
 They are not as efficient as user made
programs.
 When changes occur extra costs is usually
needed from user.
 Not all packages are compatible with all
computer system.
Criteria for selecting computer system (Specification)

 Hardware considerations
252
 Processor speed
Computer memory capacity
Upgrading and compatibility
User needs
Cost
Portability
Warranty
Criteria for selecting computer system (Specification)

 Software considerations
253
User needs
Documentation
Authencity
User friendliness
Cost
Portability

254
Operating system (OS)

255
Operating system is a set
of programs that control
and supervise the

hardware resources of a
256
computer and provide
services to other system
software. Examples of
operating system
includes; Microsoft
Windows
95/98/2000/XP/Vista,
Unix, Linux, MS-DOS,
novel etc.

257
Functions of operating system (OS) 1
Resource control – the OS allocates computer
resources such as
CPU time, main
memory,
secondary storage
and input/output
for use by
application
program.

258
Functions of operating system (OS) 2
 Job scheduling – the OS prepares,
schedules, controls and monitors tasks
submitted for execution to ensure the most
efficient processing.

 Memory management – the OS ensures

that each program and the data it requires
are allocated adequate space in memory.
259
Functions of operating system (OS) 3
 Error handling – OS provides the error
correction routines to ensure smooth
operations within CPU.
 Interrupt handling – OS determines the
cause of the interrupt and transfer the
control to the most appropriate programs.

260
  Input/output handling – the OS governs
input/output of data and their location,
storage and retrieval.
Functions of operating system (OS) 4
Communication control and management – the
operating system is responsible for managing
various communication devices and provide an
environment within which communication
protocol operate. The term protocol refers to the
rules that governs system come with network
261
 management utilities that provide external
communication by connecting to a
communication systems using interface cable or
through wireless interface.
Types of operating system
Operatingsystem can be classified
according to;

Number of users

262
 Number of tasks

Interface

Number of users
 Single user-operating system – this OS
allows only one user at a time to access a
computer e.g. MS-DOS, MS-Windows
95/98/2000.

263
 Multi-user operating system – this OS
allows two or more users to access a
computer at the same time e.g. Windows
2000 server, Novel, Unix, Windows NT etc.
Number of tasks
 Single tasking operating system – this OS
allows only one program to be executed at
a time e.g. MS-DOS.

264
 Multi-tasking operating system
(multithreading) – this OS allows a single
CPU to execute more than one program at
a time e.g. Windows Vista, XP etc.
Interface
(Command
line)
Command line –
the user interacts
265
 with a computer by typing a command at the
prompt found on a command line e.g.
MS-DOS.
Interface (Menu driven interface)
Menu driven interface – this interface allows the
user to select commands/options from a list or
menu using
keyboard or
pointing device

266
 such as mouse. E.g. MSDOS version called
DOS editor).
Interface (Graphical User Interface)
Graphical User Interface (GUI) – this interface
represents commands as small pictures on the
screen called icons
e.g.
Microsoft Windows
95/98/2000/XP/Vista,
Linux etc

267
Selecting an operating system
Factors to consider when choosing an O.S.
Hardware configuration
Basic design of the computer
Applications intended for the computer
User friendliness
Cost
Availability in market

268
How Windows organise information
The OS organise information in terms of
files, folders and drives.
File– it’s a collection of related data or
information stored in one location.
Folder/directory – it’s a named storage are
where the user can store related files to
enable easy access.
Storage media – when creating a folder or
saving a file identify a storage location which is
269
more reliable e.g. floppy disk, compact disk,
hard disk etc.

270
Information organisation tree
C:\>

File 2

Folder 1 Folder 2 Folder 3

Subfolder 1 Subfolder 2 File 1

File 3 Subfolder 3 Subfolder 4

271
Types of files 1

272
 System files – these
files contain
information that is

273
 critical for the
operation of the
computer.

 Application files –
these files hold
programs or
application files.
Function of files
 Storage of data.
274
 Organisation of information.
Folder/directory
It’s a named storage area where the user
can store related files to enable easy
access.
Storage media
When creating a folder or saving a file
identify a storage location which is more
275
reliable e.g. floppy disk, compact disk, hard
disk etc.

276
Types of files 2
Extension File type Description
.doc Data A Microsoft Word document file.
.txt Data A plain text created using note pad or DOS
editor.
.tif Data A graphic file created using applications
such as adobe photoshop.
.exe Application file The file that launches a particular
application, e.g. Windows.exe, PM701.exe,
etc
.bat System files File containing a series of commands
loaded during boot up.
.sys System files System files that perform fundamental
operations in a computer.
233

Drives
Storage location Drive Remarks

Floppy drive A and B If a computer has two floppy drives, one

will be assigned letter A the other B.
Hard disk C,D,E,F If a computer has 4 hard drives, they will
be assigned letters C-F.
Optical drives D,E,F,G If a computer has one hard disk and three
or more CD/DVD drives, they will take up
any number between D and Z.
Other D,E,…Z If a computer does not have and optical drive,
removable any removable drive attached to the computer
can take any letter between D and Z.
Network drive Logical Network drives takes D-Z depending on the
number of physical drives installed or attached.
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Windows desktop feature

Once you turn on
the computer,
Windows is
loaded into the
main memory
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and finally the desktop showing that the
computer is ready for use appears. The
three main features of the desktop are the
background, icons and the taskbar.
Taskbar

The taskbar enables the user to easily switch

between different programs and tasks that are
currently running. Whenever the user starts a
program or opens a file, its button appears on
the taskbar and stays there until the user exits
the program.
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Managing files/folders (Renaming)
Refersto changing files
from their original name
to some other new
names.

282
 Using My Computer icon,
display the Explorer
window.

1.

2.

3.
4.
5.
6. 283
 On the folder tree on the
left pane, select the file or
folder to be renamed.
On the “File” menu.
Click the “Rename”.
Type the new name.
Type the “Enter” key.

Managing files/folders (Sorting)

Refers to organising files
and folders in a
particular way.

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1. Open a folder or storage
location.
2. On the “View” menu.

285
3. Point to “Arrange Icon
By”.
4. Select one form list.
“Name” ,”Size”, “Type”
or “Modified”.
Managing
files/folders
(Copying)
Enables the computer user
to duplicate files and folders
to another location.

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1. Using My Computer icon, display the Explorer window.
2. Select the file or folder to be copied.
3. On the “Edit” menu. 4. Click the “Copy”.
5. Select the drive or folder where you want the item to be copied.
6. On the “Edit” menu.
7. Click the “Paste”.

Managing
files/folders
(Moving)
Refers to removing the
files and folders
completely from the
storage location.
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1. Using My Computer icon, display the Explorer window.
2. On the “Edit” menu.
3. Click the “Cut”
4. Select the drive or folder where you want the item moved.
5. On the “Edit” menu.
6. Click the “Paste”
Managing files/folders (Searching)
Refers to looking for a certain file or folder.

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1. Click the “Start” button. 2. Point to “Search” (Search
dialog box is displayed).
3. Click the “For Files or Folders”.
4. Type all or part of the file name in the search box.
5. Select location of the file from arrow down list.
6. Click the
“Search” button.

Windows
explorer
Windows explorer lets the
user display the drives
and folders in a hierarchy
or tree structure. The
computer tree is an
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 upside down structure with the highest level in this case the
desktop being the root. The explorer divides the window
into two panes. The left pane displays a tree of drives and
folders while the right pane displays a list of files and
subfolders contained in a particular open drive or folder.
Using My Computer
Double clicking on MY Computer icon, gives you
a graphical view of
what is inside the
computer. This

290
 includes the drives, the control panels and other
resources.
Creating a new folder
There will be times when the
user would want to create
new folders. Say, for
instance, when working on
a detailed project that has
multiple files. It is advisable
that all related files be kept
together in one folder.

1. Open the “My Computer” and display

the Explorer window.
2. On the folder tree on the left pane,
select the location in which you want
to create a new folder.
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 3. On the “File” menu.
4. Point to “New”.
5. Click the “Folder”. (New folder is
displayed)
6. Type a new name for the folder.

The application window

Toenter data in a new file created, one
has to open it in its application programs.
This is done by double clicking the file icon.
A rectangular area called an application
window appears on the screen.

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Parts of a window (Title bar)
This is a bar across the top of the window that
displays the name
of the current
application
programs.

293
Parts of a window (Menu bar)
Provides a list of commands than can be used to
manipulate a task.

294
Parts of a window (Tool bar)
They are buttons arranged in a row that are
shortcuts to menu
commands.

295
Parts of a window (Work area)
This is the area where you can create your
document.

296
Parts of a window (Status bar)
This displays information about the program
currently running.

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Parts of a window (Insertion
point/Text cursor)
Marks the place where text and graphics will
appear when typing
drawing is started.
Disk management
using operating
system

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 (Formatting disk)
The process of preparing a new
disk for use by creating sectors
and tracks on the surface of
disk.

1. Insert the media disk into

the floppy or USB port. 2.
Open the “My Computer”
3. Right click on the drive icon.
(Shortcut menu is displayed)
4. Click the “Format”. (Format
dialog box is displayed)
5. Select the Format system from
the arrow down list. “FAT”,
“FAT32” or “NTFS”. 6. Click the
“Start” button.
7. After format has finished, click the “Close” button.
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Disk management
using operating
system
(Disk
defragmentation)
Refers to arranging of scattered
folders and files on a storage
media for easy access of files
and folders.

1. Open the “My Computer”

2. Right click on the drive icon.

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 (Shortcut menu is displayed) 3. Click the “Properties”. (Properties
dialog box is displayed)
4. Select the “Tool” tab. 5. Click the “Defragment Now” button. (Disk
Defragmenter dialog box is displayed)
6. Select the drive to be defragment.
7. Click the “Defragment” button.

Disk management
using operating
system
(Disk compression)
This tool help in consolidating
files and folders in smaller
storage areas hence creating
more space on the storage
device.

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 1. Open the “My Computer”
2. Right click on the drive you want
to compress. (shortcut menu is
displayed)
3. Click the “Properties”
(Properties dialog box is
displayed). 4. Select the
“General” tab.
5. Click the check box of
“Compress drive to save disk
space”.
6. Click the “Apply” button.

Disk management using operating system

(File or folder compression)
1. Open the drive where the file or
folder is located.
2. Right click on the file or folder icon.
(shortcut menu is displayed)
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 3. Click the “Properties”.
4. Select the “General” tab.
5. Click the “Advanced” button.
6. Click the check box of “Compress
contents to save disk space”.
7. Click the “OK” button of “Advanced
Attributes” dialog box.
8. Click the “OK” button of “Properties”
dialog box. (Confirm Attribute
Changes dialog box is displayed)
9. Select zip the folder only or the
entire content.
10. Click the “OK” button.

Disk management using

operating system

303
 (Disk partitioning)
The process of dividing the physical disk into
two or more
partitions called
logical drives.
Disk management
using operating
system
(Back up data)
Thetool enables the user to
create copies of data and
programs on separate storage
areas to avoid losing of data and
304
 programs incase the storage
device fails.

1. Open the “My Computer”.

2. Right click on the hard drive icon
(shortcut menu is displayed). 3. Click
the “Properties” (Properties dialog box
is displayed).
4. Select the “Tool” tab. 5. Click the
“Backup Now” button. (Backup or
Restore Wizard dialog box is
displayed).
6. Through the process step by step.

Disk management using operating system

305
 (Scanning storage
device)
The tool helps the user to
check up and repair minor
storage problems e.g. lost
storage or damaged surface.

1. Open the “My Computer”

2. Right click on the drive icon.
(Shortcut menu is
displayed). 3. Click the
“Properties” (Properties dialog
box is displayed).
4. Select the “Tool” tab. 5. Click
the “Check Now” button.
(Check disk dialog box is
displayed).
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6. Select the “Check disk options”.
7. Click the “Start” button.
Disk management
using operating
system
(Scanning for virus)
Refers to checking your
system for virus and removing
them e.g. using Norton
antivirus, MacAfee software
to scan.

1. Open the “My Computer”

2. Right click on the hard drive icon.
(shortcut menu is displayed).
3. Click the “Scan with
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<antivirus name>. (Anti virus dialog box is displayed).
4. The scan process in initialized.

Partitioning a disk using FAT32 file system

308
Microsoft Windows
98/Me startup disk
has an FDISK utility

309
 that lets the user
partition and format
a disk using FAT or
FAT32 file system.

NB; FAT means

File Allocation Table
Partitioning a disk during installation
Partitioning
a disk
using NTFS format
in Windows 2000,
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XP and vista is done during the installation
process as shown in left figure.

NB;NTFS means
New Technology File System.

Installing
Windows XP
InstallingWindows
XP is quite different
from that of
Windows Me
because it does not
311
 operate in real DOS mode. The two methods of
installing XP are upgrading from a previous
Windows
version is relatively simple, we shall look at clean
installation, done on a new computer that comes
without a n operating system.
Trouble shooting windows related problems

Trouble shooting refers to the process of

diagnosing and trying to fix hardware or
software related problems.

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Some problems windows experience
 Failure to boot

 Computer hangs now and then

 Abnormal restarting

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The problems may be as a result of
 There was a problem in the installation
process e.g. missing files.
 Insufficient system memory.
 Problem with hard disk boot sector may be
due to virus infection.
 Corrupted window registry system.
 Due to interrupt conflicts.

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To troubleshoot you need to
 Study the trouble shooting guide

 Use the device manager to check the

devices causing problems.

 Reinstall the operating system if the

problems above persist.

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Review questions 1
1. Differentiate between system software and
application software giving an example of each.
2. What is the importance of an operating system?
3. Give five examples of application software and
their respective uses.
4. What are the advantages of standard software
over the in-house developed software?
5. What is the difference between single-purpose
programs and integrated software?
6. Why do computers need network software?
7. Give three examples of operating system.
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Answer of review questions 1-1
1. System software performs fundamental operations like
initialising hardware during boot up while application
software meets user specific needs.
System software – operating system, firmware, utilities.
Application software – word processor, spreadsheets etc.
2. Supervises all the hardware and software operations of
the computer system.
3. Word processor – typing documents.
Spreadsheets – calculations.
Database management systems – record
management.
Desktop publishing – creating publications.
Graphics software – creating and manipulating.
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Answer of review questions 1-2
4. Standard software is thoroughly tested hence
few errors, Readily available, Easily portable.
5. Single purpose software is developed for only
one purpose while integrated software is a suit
of more than one programs and can be used to
carry out a variety of tasks.
6. To enable communication between computers
over a channel (media).
7. UNIX, Windows, DOS, LINUX, Macintosh
Operating system.
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Review questions 2
1. Highlight hardware and software factors that you
would consider when purchasing a computer.
2. Why is it important to carefully study a warranty
before singing it?
3. Why do you have to window shop before buy a
computer or computer accessories?
4. Using newspaper cuttings such as the one
shown below, prepare a requisition form for ten
up to date multimedia computers to be used in
the computer room.
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 Answer of review questions 2
1. Hardware 2. 4. Cost
1. Cost 5. Compatibility
2. Compatibility 6. portability
3. Upgradability In order to negotiate on
4. Warranty
5. Memory capacity
sensitive items like
duration, after sales
6. Portability 3.
7. User needs
service etc.
8. Processor type and speed
Software Yes, in order to
1. Authenticity
2. Documentation compare quality and
3. User friendliness prices.

320
 Review questions 3
1. Give examples of two multi-user and one single user
operating system.
2. Describe four functions of the operating system.
3. What is an interrupt?
4. Name and explain three types of human computer
interfaces.
5. What are the advantages of GUI based operating system
over the command-line?
6. Differentiate between Multitasking and multi-user operating
systems.
7. What is a deadlock in reference to the operating system?

321
8. Outline the factors you would consider if you were to by an
operating system.

Answer of review questions 3-1

1. Multi user OS – UNIX, WindowsNT/200, Novell, Linux.
Single user – MS-Dos, PC-DOS.
2. A). Resource control and allocation.
B). Job scheduling/processing scheduling.
C). Input/output handling.
D). Memory management.
E). Interrupt handling.
F). Error handling.
G). Job sequencing.
3. A). Command line –user types commands. B). Menu
driven – user selects and option.
C). Graphical user interface – use selects commands in form of
icons with a pointing device.
322
4. A). User friendliness. B). Easy to learn.

Answer of review questions 3-2

6. Multitasking – can run more than one program
simultaneously while multi user OS allows more than
one user to make use of the CPU concurrently.
7. It is a situation in an O/S when a particular task holds
a needed resource and refuses to release it for use by
other tasks.
8. A). User friendliness. B). Cost.
C). Availability.
D). Portability.
E). Hardware configuration/compatibility.
F). User needs.

323
Review questions 4
1. Explain the following mouse concept:
A). Click B). Double click C). Drag and drop
2. Define the following terms:
A). Desktop B). Icon C). Sidekik menu D). Taskbar
3. List and explain the three parts of a task bar.
4. Why is it important to first shut down the computer before you turn it
off?
5. Explain how you would move the taskbar to the top of the desktop.
6. With the help of the teacher and a computer running Windows,
customise the taskbar such that:
A) The start menu is displayed in small icons;
B) The clock is not displayed;
C) The taskbar is hidden;
D) A program is added on or removed from the start menu.

324
Answer of review questions 4-1
1. A). Press and release left mouse button.
B). Press left and mouse button twice in rapid succession.
C). Move an item to another location using the mouse.
2. A). Is mostly an empty screen that appears when Windows starts
and has some standard icons that show that the computer is ready
for use.
B). Is a graphical representation of a command, file, folder or
storage location.
C). A submenu that appears either on the right or left of a main
menu.
D). A long strip/icon that runs across the desktop and displays
active tasks.
3. A). Start button – provides access to start menu.
B). Task manager – displays buttons of currently running tasks.
C). System tray – displays icons of applications that automatically
start and run in the background.
325
Answer of review questions 4-2
4. A). To avoid damaging storage devices that may still
be in use.
B). To avoid damaging system and application files.
C). To avoid loss of data and information.
5. Right click task bar then select properties. In the
taskbar properties dialog, check the appropriate
options then click Apply button then OK.
6. a). Right click on an empty part on the task manager
then properties.
b). Use the Task Manager properties.

326
Review questions 5-1
1. Define the following terms:
A). File B). Folder C). Subfolder D). Folder tree
2. Distinguish between system files and application
files.
3. Describe two functions of a file.
4. In reference to Windows operating systems,
what does the term application window mean?
5. Explain each of the following commands as
used to manage files and folders:
A). Rename B). Sort files C). Copy
D). Move D). Delete
327
Review questions 5-2
6. Of the five commands in Question 5, which two must
be used with a lot of caution when manipulating files.
7. Why is it important to give descriptive names to a file
or folder.
8. Draw a directory tree showing how files and folders
are organised by an operating system.
9. Explain how you would:
A) Minimise and maximise a window;
B) Close and exit and application window; C) Move
a window from one location to another;
D) Access the folder/directory tree.
10. Briefly explain the importance of each part of a
window.
328
Answer of review questions 5-1
1. A). A label that represents a logical or physical storage
location.
B). The rectangular area on the screen covered by a
running program.
C). Interactive strip at the bottom of an application
window that acts as a communication link between the
user and the application program.
D). Is a row of buttons/icons that represent shortcut
commands.
E). Is the hierarchical arrangement of folders and
storage locations from the root downwards.
2. System files store data/system information while
application files hold programs data.
329
3. Organise data/information records.

Answer of review questions 5-2

4. It is a rectangular area that is opened in the
application program when one wants to enter data in
the new file.
5. A). Change name of file/folder.
B). Arranges files/folder in particular order.
C). Makes a duplicate of existing file/folder.
D). Removes file/folder from storage.
6. Rename – renaming an application or system file may
make the computer or program to fail.
Delete – may lead to loss of data and programs.

330
 Move – moving a system folder or file may cause the
computer fail.
7. For easy location or identification.

Answer of review questions 5-3

9. A). minimize – click minimize
button. Maximize – click maximize
button. B). Click the close button or
Exit from “File” menu.
C). Point to title bar and drag.

331
 D). Right click “My computer” icon then select “Explore” command Title
bar – displays title.
Toolbars – display shortcut commands.
Work area – allow user to enter data.
Menu bar – provides a list of commands.
Status bar – provides a
communication interface between
user and the application.

Review
10. questions 6-1
1. Define the following
terms as used in disk
management:
A). Formatting a disk; B). Disk
partitioning;
332
 C). Disk compressing; D). Defragmentation;
2. Explain how you would format a used disk in Windows.
3. You have realised that your floppy disk is limited in
storage space and you would wish to create more
space.
A) Which tool in Windows would you use;
B) Write down the procedure of doing (a) above.
4. Explain how you would create backup using Windows
backup utility.

Review questions 6-2

5. When you switch on your computer, and
realise that it is not loading the operating

333
 system. This means that you have to boot up
your computer using a startup disk.
A) What is a startup disk.
B) Using a new diskette, crate a Windows Startup disk
and label it “Windows-System Disk” (The dashes
represent the version of Windows you are using).
6. Why is hard disk partitioned?
7. Explain how you can partition a 30GB hard
disk into 2GB partitions.
Answer of review questions 6
1. A). It is creation of tracks and sectors on a disk.
B). Creating volumes by subdividing a large physical disk.
C). Creating more space on a disk by squeezing files into a smaller.
D). Consolidating related files into one location on the disk.
334
2. Right click its icon on the screen then select format command.
3. A). Compression agent or DriveSpace.
B). The teacher to give appropriate answer depending on the version of
Windows.
4. Right click “My computer” icon then properties. Click tools tab then click
Backup now button.
5. A). A special disk that has bootup files.
B). Teacher to help pupil to create a startup disk.
6. A). To install more than one operating systems. B). For the purpose of
backup.
7. Boot in MS-DOS mode using a startup disk then at the prompt type FDISK
and follow the on-screen instructions.

Revision questions
1. Explain how windows organises information in reference to files and
folders.
2. Why must an operating system be installed in the computer before
installing any other software.
335
3. Differentiate between compressing and defragmenting a disk.
4. Give one advantage of partitioning a disk.
5. Explain why a new disk must be formatted before using it.
6. Identify the various resources that are controlled by the operating
system.
7. How would you identify the minimum system requirements for the
version of Windows running on the computer you are using.
8. Differentiate between scheduling and sequencing of tasks by the
operating system.
9. What is troubleshooting?

Answer of revision questions 1

1. It stores related data and information records into files
and related files into folders and sub folders on a drive.
2. Because it does the basic functions of enabling other
programs access the hardware resources.
336
3. Compressing squeezes files to create more space while
defragmenting consolidates files and folders in a
contiguous space or location on the disk.
4. When one partition fails, the other can still be used.
5. To create tracks and sectors that can be recognized by
a particular operating system.

Answer of revision questions 2

6. (a). The processor.
(b). Memory
(c). Input/output devices and ports.
(d). Communication devices and ports.
(e). Secondary storage devices.
7. Read the Manufacturers manual or Readme.txt file
form the Windows folder.
337
8. Scheduling determines which task will be processed
first, while sequencing arranges the tasks and keeps a
list of currently running tasks.
9. Diagnosing hardware and software related problems
and trying to resolve the problems.

Practical activity 1
1. With the help of the teacher the pupil should
identify the type(s) and versions of operating
system(s) installed on the computers.
2. Study the start menu and identify the menu
items that display other submenus when the
mouse pointer points at them.
338
3. Right click “My computer” icon and list down the
commands displayed on the shortcut menu.
4. Click the start button. Explain the importance of
each of start menu items displayed.
Practical activity 2
 Using the Explorer window:
1. Create three folders RICE, FRUITS and
VEGETABLES in the root of your floppy drive A:
2. In the FRUITS folder, create two subfolders,
ORANGE and MANGOES.
3. In fruits folder, create a WordPad file called SALES
with the following details:
339
  During this season, fruit sales have gone down sue to the
prevailing weather conditions. I hope the situation will improve,
otherwise people are going to experience health problems
since fruits are very important in providing body protection.

Practical activity 3
1. With the help of the teacher, find out the
following from either the Microsoft manuals that
come with an original copy of the operating
system, or from a special file called Readme.txt
found in the Windows folder on the hard disk.
A) The minimum requirements for installing the
operating system you are using.
B) Install a copy of Windows on one of the computers
that has no operating systems in he computer room.
340
2. Give a detailed account of the installation
process.

341
END

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