CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION TO
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY (IT)
Course Instructor: Ms.
How our ancestor used to
disperse information to
others?
In the early years, The Headman of the Different rhythms
when there was no village was the one who signified different
television or radio. announced any news, be events. The rhythm of
The ‘drums’ play it birth, death, time of the ‘drums’ to announce
an important role. prayers or even when death was different from
the village was in the rhythm used to
danger. announce prayers.
The Basics – What is Information ?
The facts and figures about anything.
The know-how about any object that exists and plays
its role in any system.
This must be meaningful.
Communication
1. Communication is an act of transmitting messages. It
is a process whereby information is exchanged
between individuals using symbols, signs or verbal
interactions.
2. Previously, people communicated through sign or
symbols, performing drama and poetry. With the
advent of technology, these ‘older’ forms of
communication are less utilized as compared to the
use of the internet, e-mail or video conferencing.
Technology
1. Is the use of scientific knowledge, experience and
resources to create processes and product that fulfill
human needs.
2. Aiding Communication - telephone and fax machines
are the devices used in extending communication.
3. Spreading Information – To broadcast information
such as news or weather reports effectively. Radio,
television, satellites and the World Wide Web (www) are
powerful tools that can be used.
Two Parts of IT: Computers &
Communications
There are two important parts to information technology—
computers and communications:
Communications technology: Communications
technology , also called telecommunications technology,
consists of electromagnetic devices and systems for
communicating over any distance.
Computer technology: A computer is a
programmable, multiuse machine that accepts data and
processes, or manipulates, it into information we can use.
Information Communication Technology (ICT)
Information Communication Technology (ICT) refers to
the integrated use of telecommunications,
computers, and software to manage and
communicate information.
It encompasses a wide range of technologies and tools
that facilitate communication and the processing,
storage, and dissemination of data.
ICT includes everything from internet services and
social media to hardware like computers and mobile
devices, enabling individuals and organizations to
connect and share information effectively.
Evolution of computers
GENERATION COMPONENT FUNCTION
First Vacuum tubes • to store and process data
1940 - 1956 • example: ENIAC
Second Transistor • to replace vacuum tubes in
1956 - 1963 computers
• do not produced lots of heats
and use less power
• faster, cheaper and smaller
Third Integrated circuits • replacing transistors
1964 - 1971 • more reliable and compact than
computer made with transistor
• cost less to manufacture
Fourth Microprocessor • built onto a single silicon chip
1971 - Current • 100 times smaller than ENIAC
Fifth Artificial Intelligence • still in development
Present and • some application such as voice
beyond recognition
Computers Are Programmable
Computers responds to instructions in the form of
programs.
Programs are written in order to make computers
behave in specific ways i.e. word processor, systems
control
Programs are stored in the Computer memory
How computers process
information?
Input: Data is fed into the computer
(e.g., through a keyboard, mouse,
etc.).
Processing: Inside the black box, the
computer processes the data (which
involves converting the input to
binary numbers and applying logic or
calculations).
Output: After processing, the
computer produces an output (e.g., a
display on a screen, printed
Processing - the ‘Black Box’
model
We can think of a computer as a ‘black box’ :
Components of a Computer
System
Computer Systems are made up of:
Hardware – the physical parts
Software - the instructions or programs that control
the hardware
The Human Being – the brains behind the whole
system!
Computer
Hardware Software
CPU Memory I/O Etc. Application System
Software Software
Hardware – the physical parts
CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer that
executes instructions.
Monitor: Displays visual output.
Keyboard: Allows the user to input data.
Mouse: Used for navigation and input.
Hard Drive: Stores data and files.
RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporarily stores data for
quick access by the CPU.
ROM (Read-Only Memory): It’s a non-volatile memory in
computers., which means the information is permanently stored on
the chip.
Software - the instructions or
programs
Generic name of all programs
Made up of code interpreted by the hardware
Written in programming languages - Java, C, C++
Two kinds of Software:
System Software
Application Software
System Software
System software is the foundational software that
manages and controls the hardware, enabling
applications to run on a computer. It acts as a bridge
between the hardware and user applications.
Examples of System Software:
• Operating System (OS): Manages hardware resources
and allows other software to run (e.g., Windows,
macOS, Linux).
• Antivirus Software: Protects the computer system
from malware and viruses (e.g., Avast, McAfee).
Application Software
Application software consists of programs designed to
perform specific tasks for the user, such as productivity,
communication, or entertainment.
Examples of Application Software:
Web Browser: Used to browse the internet (e.g.,
Chrome, Firefox).
Word Processor: Used for document creation (e.g.,
Microsoft Word, Google Docs).
Games: Designed for entertainment (e.g., Minecraft,
Fortnite).
Types of Computers
There are types of computer on the basis of size:
Supercomputers
Mainframe computers
Workstations
Microcomputers (Personal Computer/ Desktop)
Microcontrollers
Network Computer / Server
Super Computers
Supercomputers come under the biggest, fastest,
powerful, and most expensive type of computer for
processing data type.
They are used to solve complex algorithmic
tasks and mathematical equations.
A supercomputer can treat trillions of
instructions/directions in a second.
It has thousands of interconnected processors.
Uses: Supercomputers are especially used in
scientific and engineering applications such as
• Weather forecasting,
• Climate research,
• Nuclear energy research, etc.
Mainframe Computers
These computers are utilized by large
organizations to manage bulk data.
Mainframe computers are multi-
programming, high-performance and
multi-user computers.
They can manage the workload of
more than 100 users at a time on
the computer.
The storage capability of the
mainframe is enormous, with a high-
speed data process as well.
Mainframe computers, therefore, are
mainly employed by departmental and
Workstations
Workstations are high-
performance computers
designed to handle demanding
workflows such as data science,
3D design, video editing, and
engineering.
A workstation is more robust
than a typical PC, with
enhanced specs like:
• Faster CPU and GPU
• More memory
• Increased storage
• Software certification
Micro computers
Definition: General-purpose
computers used by individuals for a
wide range of tasks such as word
processing, internet browsing,
gaming, and office work.
Uses: Home and office computing
tasks.
Types: Desktops, laptops, tablets,
and smartphones fall into this
category.
Example: Dell XPS, MacBook Pro.
Microcontrollers or Embedded
Computers
Definition: Specialized computers
designed to perform a specific task
within a larger system. They are often
embedded in devices and are not
used as standalone machines.
Just think for a moment. What
controls your microwave? What about
your washing machine? Your
Calculator? It is an embedded
computer!
Example: A simple example of this is the
embedded computer present in a microwave.
This embedded computer will be designed to
accomplish tasks such as controlling the
Servers
A server , or network server, is a central computer
that holds collections of data (databases) and programs
for connecting or supplying services to PCs,
workstations, and other devices, which are called
clients .
These clients are linked by a wired or wireless network.
The entire network is called a client-server network.
Main differences in the types of
Computers
Category Main Difference Need
Extremely high processing Required for intensive
Supercomputers power for complex tasks. computations in research and
simulations.
Mainframe Computers Designed for large-scale data Needed for handling massive
processing and reliability. transactions in enterprises.
Workstations High performance tailored for Essential for professionals in
technical applications. design, engineering, and
analysis.
Microcomputers General-purpose computers Affordable and versatile for
for individual users. everyday tasks and personal
use.
Microcontrollers Embedded systems with Vital for controlling devices in
limited processing power. various applications,
especially in IoT.
Network Manages network resources Necessary for data storage,
Computer/Server and services. network management, and
Role of IT in Education
Information Technology (IT) plays a transformative role in education by enhancing
learning experiences, improving access to resources, and facilitating
communication. Here are some key ways IT is being used in education:
Virtual Classrooms:
• Example: Tools like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet allow students
and teachers to participate in live virtual classes.
• Impact: IT enables remote learning, making it possible for students to attend
classes from home.
E-Learning and Online Courses:
• Example: Platforms like Coursera, edX, and Khan Academy allow students to
take courses from anywhere in the world.
• Impact: IT makes education more accessible, enabling learners to access
lessons, materials, and assessments online at their own pace.
Role of IT in Health
Information Technology (IT) is significantly transforming the healthcare industry. Here
are some key ways IT is being used in health:
Electronic Health Records (EHRs):
• Function: Digital versions of patients’ paper charts that provide real-time access to
patient information.
• Impact: Streamlines data sharing among healthcare providers, improves patient
safety, and enhances care coordination.
Telemedicine:
• Function: Allows patients to consult with healthcare providers via video calls or
messaging.
• Impact: Increases access to care, especially for those in remote areas, and reduces
the need for in-person visits.
Health Apps and Wearable Devices:
• Function: Applications like fitness trackers and health monitoring devices that collect
and analyze health data.
• Impact: Encourages patients to manage their health proactively and provides
Role of IT in Finance
Information Technology (IT) has a profound impact on financial matters across various
sectors, enhancing efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility. Here are some key ways IT
influences finance:
Online Banking and Mobile Payments:
• Impact: IT enables customers to manage their finances through online banking platforms
and mobile apps, facilitating transactions, bill payments, and fund transfers from
anywhere.
Financial Management Software:
• Impact: Tools like QuickBooks and Mint help individuals and businesses track expenses,
manage budgets, and generate financial reports, improving financial decision-making.
E-Commerce and Digital Payments:
• Impact: IT supports online shopping platforms and digital payment systems (e.g.,
PayPal), making it easier for businesses to sell products and for consumers to make
purchases securely.
Role of IT in Government
The Internet and other information technology have helped government deliver better
services and have paved the way for making governmental operations more
transparent to the public.
E-Government Services:
• Function: IT enables the provision of government services online, allowing citizens to
access information, apply for permits, and pay taxes through digital platforms.
• Impact: Increases accessibility and convenience for citizens, reducing wait times and
paperwork.
Electronic Voting:
• Accessibility: Increases voter participation by providing accessible voting options for
people with disabilities and those in remote areas.
• Efficiency: Streamlines the voting process, allowing for quicker results and reducing
the time between voting and result announcement.
