Computer Fundamentals - Full Study Guide

1. What is a Computer? What Are the Key Components of a Computer?

Computer:

A computer is an electronic machine that takes input, processes it, stores it, and gives output. It works with

both hardware (physical parts) and software (instructions) to perform tasks like calculations, writing

documents, playing videos, browsing the internet, etc.

Key Components of a Computer:

1. Input Devices - Tools to enter data into the computer

Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Microphone, Scanner

2. Output Devices - Devices that show the result

Examples: Monitor (display), Printer, Speakers

3. Central Processing Unit (CPU) - The "brain" of the computer. It processes all instructions.

4. Memory (Storage):

- Primary Memory (RAM and ROM):

- RAM - Temporary memory used when the computer is working.

- ROM - Permanent memory that holds startup instructions.

- Secondary Storage:

- Hard Disk, SSD, USB drive - used to save data permanently.

5. Motherboard - A large circuit board where all the other parts are connected.

6. Power Supply Unit (PSU) - Converts electricity from the wall into a form the computer can use.

7. Communication Devices - Help the computer connect to networks

Examples: Network Card, Wi-Fi Adapter

2. What is Software and Hardware? What's the Difference Between Them?

These are the physical parts of the computer you can touch.

Examples: Keyboard, Mouse, Monitor, CPU

Software:

Software is a set of programs or instructions that tells the hardware what to do.

Examples: Windows, MS Word, Chrome, Photoshop

Differences Between Hardware and Software:

| Feature | Hardware | Software |

|----------------|-------------------------------------|-------------------------------------------|

| What is it? | Physical parts of a computer | Set of instructions (programs) |

| Can you touch it?| Yes | No |

| Durability | Can wear out over time | Does not wear out, but can become outdated|

| Examples | Monitor, CPU, Keyboard | Windows OS, Excel, Games |

3. Types of Software

Software is mainly divided into two types:

A. System Software

- Controls and manages the hardware and basic operations of the computer.

- Works in the background.

- Necessary for the computer to function.

Examples:

- Operating Systems (Windows, macOS, Linux)

- Device Drivers

- Utility Software (Antivirus, Disk Cleanup)

B. Application Software

- Allows users to do specific tasks like writing, editing, designing, or browsing.

- Runs on top of the system software.

- MS Word (word processing)

- Google Chrome (web browsing)

- Adobe Photoshop (image editing)

4. Categories of Application Software

Application software is divided into two categories:

A. General Purpose Application Software

- Can be used for many common tasks by different users.

Examples:

- MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

- Web Browsers (Chrome, Firefox)

- Media Players (VLC, Windows Media Player)

B. Special Purpose Application Software

- Made for specific, specialized tasks for particular industries or professions.

Examples:

- Tally (Accounting software)

- Hospital Management Software

- Airline Reservation System

- AutoCAD (used by engineers/designers)

5. What is CPU? What Are the Key Components of the CPU?

CPU (Central Processing Unit):

It is the brain of the computer. It carries out all the instructions of a program by performing basic operations:

arithmetic, logic, control, and input/output.

Key Components of CPU:

1. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU):

- Performs all arithmetic operations (addition, subtraction, etc.)

2. Control Unit (CU):

- Directs the operation of the processor.

- Tells the computer's memory and I/O devices how to respond to instructions.

3. Registers:

- Small, fast memory locations inside the CPU.

- Store data and instructions that are being used.

6. Augmented Reality (AR)

Definition:

Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that overlays digital content (such as images, sounds, animations, or

data) onto the real-world environment in real time. Unlike Virtual Reality, which immerses the user in a

completely virtual space, AR enhances the user's perception of the real world by adding computer-generated

elements.

Key Features of AR:

1. Real-time Interaction

2. Combines Physical and Digital Worlds

3. Three-dimensional Registration

4. Device Dependency

5. Context-aware Content Delivery

Applications of AR:

- Education

- Healthcare

- Retail and E-Commerce

- Gaming and Entertainment

- Architecture and Design

7. Virtual Reality (VR)

Definition:
Virtual Reality (VR) refers to the creation of a simulated environment that is entirely digital, where users can

immerse themselves and interact using specialized equipment such as VR headsets and motion controllers.

Key Features of VR:

1. Immersive Experience

2. Interactive 3D Environment

3. Hardware Requirements

4. Isolation from Reality

5. Simulated Presence

Applications of VR:

- Education and Training

- Healthcare

- Entertainment and Gaming

- Virtual Tourism

- Real Estate and Architecture

8. Benefits of ICT in Education

Benefits of ICT in Education:

1. Enhanced Learning Experience

2. Increased Accessibility

3. Flexible Learning Options

4. Collaboration and Communication

5. Digital Skill Development

6. Efficient Administration

7. Resource Richness

9. Limitations of ICT in Education

Limitations of ICT in Education:

1. Digital Divide

2. Cost Barriers
3. Overdependence on Technology

4. Distraction and Misuse

5. Lack of Training

6. Security and Privacy Risks

7. Technical Failures