Harlal Institute of Management and Technology

Greater Noida

Program: BBA II SEM

Subject: Fundamentals of Computer

Unit I: Computer Basic
Subject Code: BBA-206

Teacher In charge: Ms. Rakhi Sharma

(Assistant Professor)
Unit I: Computer Basic Fundamentals of Computer BBA-206

What is a computer?

Computer is an electronic machine which accepts input and gives output. It can store large
amount of data. The first digital programmable computer was invented by “Charles Babbage”,
who was an English polymath, a mathematician, philosopher, inventor and a mechanical
engineer who is also known as “father of computer”.

Data: It means information in the form of text, number, images, audio and video.

How Computers Work

 Input: Computers accept data, or information, in the form of digitalized data
 Processing: Computers process the data based on a program, software, or instructions
 Output: Computers produce information, or results, based on the processing
 Storage: Computers store the information for future use

Key Components of a Computer:

1. Hardware: The physical parts of the computer, such as the CPU (Central Processing Unit),
memory (RAM), storage devices (e.g., hard drive, SSD), input devices (e.g., keyboard,
mouse), and output devices (e.g., monitor, printer).
2. Software: The programs and operating systems that tell the hardware what to do. For
example, Windows, macOS, and Linux are operating systems, while Microsoft Word and
Photoshop are application software.

Basic Functions of a Computer:

 Input: Receiving data or instructions from the user or other devices (e.g., keyboard, mouse,
microphone).

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 Processing: Performing calculations or operations on the input data to produce meaningful

results.
 Output: Displaying or producing the results of the processed data (e.g., showing information
on a screen, printing a document).
 Storage: Saving data and programs for future use.

Types of Tasks a Computer Can Perform:

 Data processing (calculations, sorting, analysis).

 Communication (email, internet browsing, video calls).
 Entertainment (video games, movies, music).
 Automation (controlling machines, managing processes).
 Creation (writing, designing, programming).

In short, a computer is a versatile tool that can perform a wide range of functions, depending
on how it's programmed and the hardware it's equipped with.

Characteristics of a Computer

Computers have several key characteristics that make them powerful and versatile tools for
various tasks. Here are the primary characteristics of a computer:

1. Speed
 Processing Speed: Computers can process and execute instructions at incredibly high
speeds, much faster than humans. This enables them to complete complex calculations
and tasks quickly.
2. Accuracy
 Precise Operations: Computers are highly accurate and can perform tasks without
making errors, assuming there is no human error in input or programming.
3. Automation
 Task Automation: Computers can execute a sequence of instructions automatically,
performing repetitive tasks without manual intervention.
4. Storage Capacity
 Data Storage: Computers can store vast amounts of data in various forms (e.g., hard
drives, SSDs, cloud storage), allowing for quick access and retrieval.

5. Adaptability
 Computers are highly versatile and can perform a wide range of tasks, from simple
calculations to complex simulations, depending on the software and hardware
configuration.

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6. Diligence
 Consistency: Unlike humans, computers don’t experience fatigue or loss of performance
over time. They can perform repetitive tasks without losing efficiency.

7. Connectivity
 Communication: Modern computers can connect to networks (e.g., the internet, local
networks) to share information, access resources, and collaborate in real-time.

8. Interactivity
 User Interaction: Computers allow users to interact with them through various input
methods like keyboards, mice, touchscreens, and voice commands, making them easy
to use for a wide range of people.

9. Data Processing
 Input, Process, Output: Computers process input data, execute operations on it, and
provide output in a meaningful form, whether it's text, images, sounds, or other forms
of data.

10. Multitasking
 Simultaneous Operations: Modern computers can handle multiple tasks simultaneously
through multitasking, allowing users to run several programs or processes at once.

11. Reliability
 Dependability: When properly maintained and programmed, computers are highly
reliable and can operate continuously without failure for long periods.
12. Programmability
 Customizable: Computers can be programmed to perform specific tasks or behaviors.
Software development allows them to be tailored for various purposes, from office
work to complex scientific simulations.

13. Scalability
 Expandability: Computers can be upgraded with new hardware components (e.g.,
memory, storage, processors) or software to meet increasing demands.
These characteristics make computers invaluable tools in virtually every aspect of modern life,
from business and science to education and entertainment.

Types of Computer

There are several types of computers, each designed for different purposes. Here are the main
categories:

1. Personal Computers (PCs)

 Desktop Computers: Designed for use on a desk, typically more powerful and
customizable than laptops.
 Laptop Computers: Portable computers with an integrated screen, keyboard, and battery.

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 All-in-One Computers: A desktop computer where the monitor and CPU are integrated
into a single unit.
2. Workstations
 High-performance computers used for tasks that require more power, such as graphic
design, video editing, scientific computing, or CAD (Computer-Aided Design).

3. Servers
 Powerful computers that provide services, such as hosting websites, managing databases,
or storing files for a network. They are optimized for handling multiple requests
simultaneously.

4. Mainframe Computers
 Large and powerful systems used by organizations for bulk data processing, such as in
banking, insurance, and government sectors.

5. Supercomputers
 Extremely high-performance computers designed for complex simulations, calculations,
and research purposes, like weather forecasting, scientific research, and nuclear testing.
6. Embedded Computers
 Specialized computers designed to perform dedicated tasks. Examples include devices like
washing machines, microwaves, and car navigation systems. (An embedded system is a
specialized computer system—a combination of a computer processor, computer
memory, and input/output peripheral devices—that has a dedicated function within a
larger mechanical or electronic system.)
7. Tablet Computers
 Portable, touchscreen-based devices designed for general computing, entertainment, and
communication.

8. Smartphones
 Mobile devices that function as personal computers in a smaller, more portable form,
capable of running apps, browsing the web, and much more.

9. Wearable Computers
 Small devices worn on the body that can track activities, health metrics, and provide
notifications. Examples include smartwatches and fitness trackers.
10. Quantum Computers
 Still in the research phase, these computers use principles of quantum mechanics to
perform certain types of calculations much faster than traditional computers. They are
expected to solve complex problems in fields like cryptography and chemistry.
(Cryptography is the practice of using mathematical algorithms to encode information so
that only the intended recipient can read it.)
Each of these types has its specific use cases, depending on the level of performance,
portability, and task specialization required.

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Unit I: Computer Basic Fundamentals of Computer BBA-206

History of computer

1. Early Foundations (Pre-1800s)

 Abacus (c. 2400 BCE): The earliest known computing tool, used for basic arithmetic
calculations.
 Mechanical Calculators (1600s): Early devices like Blaise Pascal’s Pascaline (1642) and
Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz’s Step Reckoner (1673) helped perform addition and
subtraction mechanically.
2. The Analytical Engine (1830s)

 Charles Babbage: Often called the "father of the computer," Babbage designed the
Analytical Engine in 1837. It was a fully programmable mechanical computer, although it
was never completed in his lifetime.
 Ada Lovelace: The first computer programmer, she worked with Babbage and
conceptualized the idea of using the machine for purposes beyond mere calculation,
including looping and conditional branching.
3. The Birth of Electronic Computers (1930s–1940s)

 Alan Turing (1936): Proposed the Turing Machine, a theoretical construct that laid the
foundation for modern computing theory.
 Konrad Zuse: Built the Z3 in 1941, the world’s first programmable digital computer.

 Colossus (1943): A British code-breaking machine used during World War II to break
encrypted German messages.
 ENIAC (1945): The first fully electronic general-purpose computer, developed by John
Presper Eckert and John W. Mauchly in the U.S. It could perform a variety of calculations
much faster than earlier machines.

4. The Era of Mainframes and Minicomputers (1950s–1970s)

 Vacuum Tubes: Computers like ENIAC and the UNIVAC used vacuum tubes, which were
large and consumed a lot of power.
 IBM and Mainframes (1950s): IBM dominated the computer market with its IBM 701 and
subsequent machines, which were used in businesses and governments.
 Integrated Circuits (ICs): The invention of ICs in the late 1950s allowed computers to
become smaller, faster, and more affordable.
 Minicomputers: Smaller and more affordable than mainframes, these machines (like the
DEC PDP-1) were used by research labs and small businesses.

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5. The Personal Computer Revolution (1970s–1980s)

 Microprocessors: The development of the Intel 4004 (1971), the first microprocessor,
enabled the creation of personal computers.
 Apple, IBM, and Microsoft:
o Apple II (1977): One of the first successful personal computers, developed by Steve Jobs
and Steve Wozniak.
o IBM PC (1981): IBM's entry into the personal computer market helped standardize
hardware and software.
o Microsoft (1980s): Microsoft developed the MS-DOS operating system, which became
the foundation for many personal computers.
6. The Internet Age and Growth of the Web (1990s–2000s)

 The World Wide Web (1991): Tim Berners-Lee invented the World Wide Web,
revolutionizing how information was shared and accessed across the globe.

 Graphical User Interface (GUI): Apple's Macintosh (1984) and Microsoft’s Windows
(1990s) popularized graphical user interfaces, making computers more user-friendly.

 The Dot-com Boom: The 1990s saw the rise of internet companies like Amazon, Google,
and Yahoo, changing the way we interact with technology.


7. Modern Computing (2010s–Present)

 Mobile Devices: The advent of smartphones and tablets, like the iPhone (2007),
transformed computing by making it portable and touchscreen-based.

 Cloud Computing: Services like Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Google Cloud have
allowed for scalable and distributed computing power over the internet.

 Artificial Intelligence (AI): Advances in machine learning and AI have enabled computers
to perform tasks that were once the domain of human intelligence.
 Quantum Computing: Still in its early stages, quantum computing promises to solve
problems that are currently impossible for classical computers.
Summary

From mechanical devices and early electrical machines to personal computers, the internet, and
mobile technology, the history of computers showcases human ingenuity and its transformative
impact on society. Today, computing continues to evolve rapidly, with breakthroughs in AI,
quantum computing, and other fields reshaping the future.

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Unit I: Computer Basic Fundamentals of Computer BBA-206

Generations of Computers

 First Generation Computers

In the period of the year 1940-1956, it was referred to as the period of the first generation of
computers. These machines are slow, huge, and expensive. In this generation of computers,
vacuum tubes were used as the basic components of CPU and memory. Also, they were mainly
dependent on the batch operating systems and punch cards. Magnetic tape and paper tape were
used as output and input devices. For example ENIAC, UNIVAC-1, EDVAC, etc.

 Second Generation Computers

In the period of the year, 1957-1963 was referred to as the period of the second generation of
computers. It was the time of the transistor computers. In the second generation of computers,
transistors (which were cheap in cost) are used. Transistors are also compact and consume less
power. Transistor computers are faster than first-generation computers. For primary memory,
magnetic cores were used, and for secondary memory magnetic disc and tapes for storage
purposes. In second-generation computers, COBOL and FORTRAN are used as Assembly language
and programming languages, and Batch processing and multiprogramming operating systems
were used in these computers.
For example IBM 1620, IBM 7094, CDC 1604, CDC 3600, etc.

 Third Generation Computers

In the third generation of computers, integrated circuits (ICs) were used instead of transistors(in
the second generation). A single IC consists of many transistors which increased the power of a
computer and also reduced the cost. The third generation computers are more reliable, efficient,
and smaller in size. It used remote processing, time-sharing, and multiprogramming as operating
systems. FORTRON-II TO IV, COBOL, and PASCAL PL/1 were used which are high-level
programming languages.
For example IBM-360 series, Honeywell-6000 series, IBM-370/168, etc.

 Fourth Generation Computers

The period of 1971-1980 was mainly the time of fourth generation computers. It used VLSI(Very
Large Scale Integrated) circuits. VLSI is a chip containing millions of transistors and other circuit
elements and because of these chips, the computers of this generation are more compact,
powerful, fast, and affordable(low in cost). Real-time, time-sharing and distributed operating
system are used by these computers. C and C++ are used as the programming languages in this
generation of computers.
For example STAR 1000, PDP 11, CRAY-1, CRAY-X-MP, etc.

 Fifth Generation Computers

From 1980 – to till date these computers are used. The ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration)
technology is used in fifth-generation computers instead of the VLSI technology of fourth-
generation computers. Microprocessor chips with ten million electronic components are used in
these computers. Parallel processing hardware and AI (Artificial Intelligence) software are also
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used in fifth-generation computers. The programming languages like C, C++, Java, .Net, etc. are
used.
For example Desktop, Laptop, NoteBook, UltraBook, etc.

Basic Components of Computer

A computer system comprises various interconnected components that work together to

perform tasks. These components serve specific purposes, ensuring seamless operation and
communication within the system. However, the basic components are the fundamental building
blocks of a computer. They are essential for data input, processing, storage, and output.

The main things that comprise a computer are – the motherboard, CPU, GPU, RAM, and Hard
disk drive for the storage of all the data. Let’s understand the basic components of a computer
one by one:

 Motherboard

A motherboard is the main circuit board in a computer system. It connects all of the internal
components, like the memory, processor, graphics card and other hardware. It also provides
power to each component and allows them to communicate with each other.

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 Input Unit
Computers respond to commands given to them in the form of numbers, alphabets, images, etc. through
input units or devices like – keyboards, joysticks, etc. These inputs are then processed and converted to
computer language and then the response is the output in the language that we understand or the one we
have programmed the computer with.

 Output Unit
The result of the command we provide the computer with through the input device is called the
output. The monitor is the most used since we give commands using the keyboard and the result
or outcome is displayed on the monitor after the processing.

 Central Processing Unit (CPU)

The CPU is called the brain of the computer since no action can take place without its permission
and execution is the main processing unit. It communicates with all the other components of the
computer and has 3 components that help in the smooth functioning of the CPU. The
components of the CPU are:

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Unit I: Computer Basic Fundamentals of Computer BBA-206

Memory Unit

The information entered through the input devices is saved in the CPU’s memory and then
passed on to the other parts. Similarly, when the output is ready it is saved in the memory before
the result is given to the user.
Control Unit

This unit controls the functioning component of the computer. It collects the data entered, leads
it on for processing after the processing is done, receives the output, and provides it to the user.
So getting instructions, decoding them, signalling the execution, and receiving the output is done
by the control centre and hence it is called the centre of all processing actions that happen in the
computer.

Arithmetic and Logical Unit

This unit does mathematical calculations, arithmetic operations, comparison of data, and
decision-making. It has circuits built for addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, and other
calculations.

 Graphics Processing Unit (GPU)

Another vital component of the computer is the GPU. The Graphics Processing Unit or the video
card helps generate high-end visuals like the ones in video games. Good graphics like these are
also helpful for people who have to execute their work through images like 3D modelers and
others who use resource-intensive software. It generally communicates directly with the
monitor.

Difference between GPU and GUI

A GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) is a hardware component in a computer responsible for

performing complex calculations needed to render graphics quickly, while a GUI (Graphical User
Interface) is a software design that allows users to interact with a computer system through
visual elements like icons, buttons, and menus, providing a user-friendly
experience; essentially, a GPU is the processing power behind the visuals, while a GUI is the
visual design that users see and interact with.

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Key points:

 GPU (Hardware):

A dedicated chip on a graphics card that excels at parallel processing, making it ideal for tasks like
3D graphics rendering, video editing, and machine learning.

 GUI (Software):
A user interface design that uses visual elements like icons, windows, and menus to facilitate
interaction with a computer system.
Example: When playing a video game, the GPU would be responsible for rapidly calculating the
3D graphics on screen, while the GUI would be the menus and buttons that the player uses to
navigate the game.

 Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM is the most commonly referred to as a component in a computer. The RAM is also known as
the volatile memory since it gets erased every time the computer restarts. It stores the data
regarding the programs which are frequently accessed programs and processed. It helps
programs to start up and close quickly.

 Storage Unit
The computers need to store all their data and they have either a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or
a Solid State Drive (SDD) for this purpose. Hard disk drives are disks that store data and this data
is read by a mechanical arm. Solid-state drives are like SIM cards in mobile phones. They have no
moving parts and are faster than hard drives. There is no need for a mechanical arm to find data
on a physical location on the drive and therefore this takes no time at all.
A "hard disk drive" (HDD) stores data on spinning discs, and a mechanical arm with a read/write
head moves across the discs to access and retrieve the data, meaning that to read information
from a hard drive, a physical component needs to physically move to the correct location on the
disk to access the data.

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Summary: Components of Computer System and Its Function

Here is a complete list of computer parts and their functions:

 Motherboard: The motherboard is the main board that is screwed into the computer
case directly. Its function is to connect all of the components so that they may
communicate and work together.
 Input Unit: The main function of the input unit is to send commands and transfer data to
computers. Later, the data gets processed by the computer’s CPU which generates
output. For example, a laptop’s keyboard is an input device.
 Output Unit: The computer’s response is relayed through output devices in the form of a
visual response (monitor), sound (speakers), or media devices (CD or DVD drives). The
function of these devices is to convert the machine’s response into a format that the
computer user can understand.

 Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU can be regarded as a computer’s brain. On a
computational level, it processes all of the data. It reads data from the RAM and
processes it in order for the computer to do the tasks it is programmed to do.
 Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): GPU is a specialized processor that is created to
accelerate graphics processing. It can render many pieces of data making them ideal for
machine learning, video editing, and gaming.
 Random Access Memory (RAM): RAM is a form of data storage that allows for faster read
and write operations. RAM is also volatile, which means that if the power goes out, it
loses all of the data it has stored.
 Storage Unit: This device stores all the data and the instructions required for processing.
It keeps intermediate results of processing.

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