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OST 162-001

OST 162-001. Computer Basics. What is a Computer. A computer is a device that accepts input, processes data, and produces an output according to a series of stored instructions. Computers are made of 2 main parts – hardware and software. Hardware is the physical pieces of a computer

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OST 162-001

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  1. OST 162-001 Computer Basics

  2. What is a Computer • A computer is a device that accepts input, processes data, and produces an output according to a series of stored instructions. • Computers are made of 2 main parts – hardware and software. • Hardware is the physical pieces of a computer • Software is a program or operating system that an be installed on a computer

  3. Data vs. Information • Data vs. information – data refers to symbols that represent facts or ideas…these really don’t mean anything until they are processed, or put in some sort of context. Then they become information…so data is raw and information is processed. • CPU – central processing unit – main processing chip within a computer…called the “brain” • Memory – RAM – stores data before while it is being processed by the CPU.

  4. Input and Output Devices • Input devices • scanner • keyboard • mouse • microphone • joystick • Output devices • monitor • printer • speakers

  5. Peripheral Devices • Peripheral devices – an optional piece of equipment that can be added to a computer to enhance functionality • Joystick • Graphics Tablet • Speakers • Wireless USB • Bluetooth headphones • Etc.

  6. Files and Software • Types of files – data files – store information, executable files – do something • Types of software • system software – includes O/S and other utilities • application software – includes applications like office, and browser

  7. Data Representation • Data Representation – the process of transforming data into a form that computers can use for processing. • Digital vs. Analog • Digital data is represented by distinct pulses that stand for 1s and 0s. • Analog data is represented by a continuous wave of information.

  8. Main Computer Components • Main components – Motherboard, processor (CPU), Memory (RAM), Storage (CD ROM, Hard Drive, Floppy), Expansion Cards (NIC, Sound, Video)

  9. CPU – Central Processing Unit • CPU – made up of the control unit and the ALU. • Speed is measured in Gigahertz today. • Word Size – how many bits can be processed at a time (either 32 or 64) • Cache – high speed memory for the processor…similar to ram • CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computer) or RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computer) • Most popular brands = AMD and Intel

  10. RAM, ROM and CMOS • RAM – Random Access Memory – “The processors waiting room” • Volatile – requires the computer to be one in order to store info. • Virtual memory – hard drive space can appear as RAM to your Operating System. • DIMM – Dual Inline memory module. • ROM – Read Only Memory – a type of memory that is built in the mother board that contains a BIOS software – BIOS = Basic Input Output System • CMOS – Complementary metal oxide semiconductor memory – used to store initial and configured settings in the BIOS.

  11. Storage devices • Storage is where data / information is stored in a semi-permanent way. There are 3 main categories of storage • Magnetic Storage • Optical Storage • Solid State Storage

  12. Magnetic Storage • Uses magnets to raise and lower tiny particles which represent 1s and 0s on a surface • Hard Drive • Read-Write Head • Platters (Hard Disks) • Floppy disk • Magnetic Film • Tape Back Up • Sequential Storage • Magnetic Film

  13. Optical Storage • CDs and DVDs • These uses pits and lands to reflect light. The pits and lands make distinct density changes which represent 1s and 0s.

  14. Solid State Storage • No moving parts, therefore faster! • Flash memory sticks • Secure Digital • USB Thumb Drives • Etc.

  15. Questions? ?

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