130 likes | 350 Views
Introduction to Computer Programming. Lesson 1. What is a Computer System?. A computer system is made up of two parts: Hardware and Software Hardware is the Physical Equipment Software is a collection of programs (or computer instructions) which allow the hardware to function. Hardware.
E N D
Introduction to Computer Programming Lesson 1
What is a Computer System? • A computer system is made up of two parts: Hardware and Software • Hardware is the Physical Equipment • Software is a collection of programs (or computer instructions) which allow the hardware to function
Hardware • Hardware can be broken into five groups: • CPU (Central Processing Unit) • Primary Storage (or main memory) • Secondary Storage (such as a hard disk) • Input Devices (like a keyboard) • Output Devices (like a monitor or printer)
Software • Software can be broken into two groups: • System Software • Application Software
Types of Computer Environments • Personal Computer (PC) • Timeshare • Client/Server
What is a Computer Program? • A computer program is generally designed to solve a problem • A problem exists when what you have is not the same as what you want • What you have is called DATA • What you want is called INFORMATION • A Computer Program manipulates data to produce information
What does a Computer Programmer do? • A computer needs very simple step-by-step instructions to function • A person can usually solve problems in quick and complex ways • A programmer creates solutions to problems • A programmer then breaks the solution down into its simplest steps • These steps are then translated into computer code • Creating solutions to problems, and then creating simple step-by-step instructions for a computer based on the solutions is the job of a Computer Programmer
How are Computer Programs Created? • The solution is translated into computer code using a text editor and a specific Computer Language • The computer code (known as “Source Code”) is Compiled. This creates a machine language file with instructions the computer can understand (called an “Object File”) • The Object File is then Linked and an Executable File is created, which can be run by the computer
Computer Languages • Machine Language (true computer code) • Symbolic Languages • High Level Languages • Natural Languages
Example Print Command for • Machine Language is 0101010001011010100001 • Symbolic Languages is “PR” • High Level Languages “PRINT” • Natural Languages