Introduction to Computers

chapter one

introduction
a computer is a programmable
machine.

the two principal characteristics of a it responds to a specific set of

instructions in a well-defined manner.

it can execute a prerecorded list of

instructions (program)

hardware components the Central processing unit (cpu)

heart of the computer.

Memory enables a computer to store,

at least temporarily, data and programs.

Input devices usually a keyboard or

mouse, the input device is the conduit through which data and instruction enter a computer.

hardware components
Output device A display screen,
printer, or other such devices that lets you see what the computer has accomplished.

Mass storage device Allows a

computer to permanently retain large amounts of data.

typescomputer A small, single of computer Personal

user computer based on a microprocessor.

Workstation A powerful, single user

computer

Minicomputer A multi-user computer

capable of supporting 10 hundreds of users simultaneously.

types of computer
Mainframe A powerful multi-user
computer capable of supporting many hundreds.

Supercomputer An extremely fast

computer that can perform hundreds of millions of instructions per second

characteristics of computers
Word length A digital computer
operates on binary digits 0-1.

Speed Computers can calculate a very

high speeds.

Storage Computers have their main

memory and auxiliary memory systems.

 Accuracy The accuracy of a computer

system is very high.

characteristics of computers

Versatility Computers are very

versatile machines.

Automation The level of automation

achieved in a computer is phenomenal.

Diligence Means being constant and

earnest in effort and application.

what computers can do?

computer is truly amazing machine Education Business Medicine Musicians

what computers cant do?

Productivity Computers are fulfilling
their promise to perform certain task.

Reasoning Computer shared

similarities with the brain and the human nervous system (cybernetics).

Errors Computers dont make errors,

people do.

evaluation

chapter quiz