The document provides an overview of computer basics including hardware and software components. It discusses the central processing unit (CPU) which contains the microprocessor and consists of an arithmetic logic unit and control unit. The CPU receives instructions from computer programs (software) and controls data flow and operations. The document also describes memory components like random access memory (RAM) and read-only memory (ROM), as well as input/output components, expansion slots, and basic data representation. It provides examples of different types of application, systems, and utility software and discusses proper computer care, maintenance, and ergonomics.

1. A. Computer Basics
Examine the Role of
Hardware and Software.

2. Central Processing Unit
The microprocessor, the brains of the
computer. Referred to a CPU or
processor
Housed on a tiny silicon chip
Chip contains millions of switches and
pathways that help your computer
make important decisions.

3. CPU knows which switches to turn
on and which to turn off because
it receives its instructions from
computer programs (software).
CPU has two primary sections:
Arithmetic/logic unit
Control unit

4. Arithmetic/logic unit (ALU):
- Performs arithmetic computations and
logical operations; by combining these
two operations the ALU can execute
complex tasks.
- Arithmetic operations include
addition, subtractions, multiplication,
and division.
- Logical operations involve
comparisons.

5. Control Unit: is the “boss” and
Unit
coordinates all of the CPU’s activities.
Uses programming instructions, it
controls the flow of information
through the processor by controlling
what happens inside the processor.
We communicate with the computer
through programming languages.
Examples: COBOL, C++,
HTML, Java Script or

6. Memory
Found on the motherboard
 Short term
Random Access Memory (RAM)
 Long term
Read Only Memory (ROM)

7. Random Access Memory (RAM)
Memory on the motherboard that is
short term; where data, information,
and program instructions are stored
temporarily on a RAM chip or a set of
RAM chips. Known as the main memory.
This memory is considered volatile.
The computer can read from
and write to RAM.

8. When the computer is turned off
or if there is loss of power, what
ever is stored in RAM disappears.
“Temporary Memory” – Short Term

9. Read-Only Memory (ROM)
Memory on the motherboard that
is long term; where the specific
instructions that are needed for
the computer to operate are
stored.
This memory is nonvolatile and
your computer can only read
from a ROM chip.

10. The instructions remain on the chip
regardless if the power is turned
on or off.
Most common is the BIOS ROM;
where the computer uses
instructions contained on this chip
to boot or start the system when
you turn on your computer.
“Permanent Memory” – Long
Term

11. Basic Controllers:
On the motherboard, a device that
controls the transfer of data from the
computer to a peripheral device and
vice versa.
Generally stored on one single chip.
Examples: keyboards, mouse,
monitors, and printers

12. Serial and Parallel Ports
Used to connect our peripheral devices
to the computer; usually one serial and
one parallel port on a computer.
Serial devices transmit data
one bit at a time. A modem may be
connected to this port.
Parallel devices transfer
several bits at a time. A
printer may be connected to
this port.

13. Universal Serial Bus (USB)
A new standard that supports data
transfer rates of up to 12 million bits
per second.
A single USB port can be used to
connect up to 127 peripheral devices
Expected to replace serial and parallel
ports in the near future.

14. Expansion Slots
An opening on the motherboard where
a circuit board or expansion board can
be inserted.
Examples: Additional Memory, video
cards, modem cards, and sound
cards.

15. How Does A Computer
Process Data?
PC system case – the metal and plastic
case that houses the main system
components of the computer.
Central to all of this is the
motherboard or system
board that mounts into the case.

16. Motherboard
Is a circuit board (a thin plate or
board that contains electronic
components) that contains many
integral components.

17. Data Representation
ASCII (American Standard Code
for Information Interchange)
The most popular and widely used
standardized coding system

18. Byte
Eight bits or combinations of ones and
zeros represent a character.
Example: 00000001 =1 or 00001010 - 10
KB-Kilobyte roughly 1 thousand bytes
MB-Megabyte roughly 1 million bytes
GB-Gigabyte roughly 1 billion bytes
TB-Terabyte roughly 1 trillion bytes

19. Types of Storage Devices
Hard Disk Drive
Used to store data inside of the computer
Magnetic platter that holds a large
amount of information in a form the
computer can understand.

20. Accessing data is faster
Amount of data that can be
stored is much more than what
can be stored on a floppy disk.
Size of Hard drive is measured in
megabytes or gigabytes.

21. Types of Storage Devices
Magnetic Tape Drives
Used for making backup copies of large
volumes of data.
Very slow
Can be used to replace data that may
have been lost on the hard drive
Look similar to audio tapes.
Holds more than Floppy

22. Optical Discs
Use laser technology to read and write
data on silver platters
Compact Disk (CD) can store 650MB
to 800MB of information and data.
CD-ROM (Read Only Memory) can only
read data from a CD-ROM.
You can store data on a CD only if you
have a CD Burner and CD-R (writable)
or CD-RW (rewritable) CD.

23. DVD (Digital Versatile Disk) is the
size of a regular CD and can be
played in a regular CD or in a DVD
movie player.
DVD can store 4.8GB to 8.0GB of
information and data. DVD-ROM is
readable only (a movie DVD).
You can store data on a DVD only if
you have a DVD Burner and
DVD+R/DVD-R
(writable) or DVD-RW
(rewritable) DVD.

24. Systems Software
A group of programs that coordinate
and control the resources and
operations of a computer system.
Enables all components of the
computer system to communicate.
Operating System, Utility Programs,
and Graphic User Interface (GUI).

25. Systems Software
Operating System (OS):
Provide an interface between the user
or application program and the
computer hardware.
– Win 95/98/2000/XP/Vista
– Mac System 6/7/8/9

26. Utility Programs
Help you perform housekeeping chores;
complete specialized tasks related to
managing the computer’s resources, file
management, and so on.
GUI (Graphical User Interface)
Interface between the operating system
and the user. Graphical symbols (icons)
represent files, disks, programs, and
other objects.

27. Application Software
Programs that work with the operating
system software to help you use
your computer to do specific types
of work.

28. Application Software
Categories
Business
Communications
Graphics and Multimedia
Education and Reference
Entertainment and Leisure
Integrated Programs

29. Business Software
Spreadsheet Database
Manipulate Numeric Lets you set up an
Data electronic filing
Intersection of row systems
and column is a cell
Sort and Search
Grade Book, Financial
Report Address book, Card
Catalog
Word Processing
Create, edit, and print text documents
Report, flyer, memo

30. Communications
Works with your modems or network
hardware and allows your computer to
communicate with other computers.
Exchange computer files and email
Graphics Software
Uses pictures or images to help
communicate messages.

31. Multimedia
Combines text, graphics, animation,
video, and audio.
Clip art
Graphical images to be added to
documents
Desktop Publishing
Uses both pictures and words to give
you the ability to create documents.
Newsletters and brochures

32. Education & Entertainment
Reference & Leisure
Available on Fun
many topics Games and
Easier simulations
Quicker Tests your skills
AR, CCC, & Interactive
Encyclopedia

33. Integrated Software
Combine several software applications
into one program.
Include: Work Processing, Spreadsheet,
Database, & Communication
Examples: MS Works, MS OFFICE, &
Lotus SmartSuite

34. Proper Computer Care
Keep food and drinks away from the
computer and keyboard.
Avoid dusty locations.
Use a surge protector.
Keep magnets Away.

35. Do not block vents on the CPU.
Avoid bright sunny locations.
Do not move the computer while it is in
use.
Always exit programs properly.
Use a virus check program on a regular
basis.

36. Proper Diskette Care
Do not remove from drives while drive
in running or light is on.
Avoid contact with magnets and
electromagnetic fields.
Keep disks stored in a clean, cool and
dry place with a protective cover.

37. Keep protective metal slider in place.
Use a virus check program on a regular
basis.
Avoid hot and cold locations.
Make a back-up copy of your programs
and files.

38. Proper CD or DVD Care
Keep CDs or DVDs stored in a clean,
cool and dry place with a protective
cover.
Avoid touching the back side of the CD
or DVD; to avoid scratches.
Avoid hot and cold locations.

39. Make a back-up copy of your programs
and files on CD or DVD.
Insert into CD or DVD Drive properly;
label facing up.
Only write on CD’s or DVD;s with a
proper marking Pen on a label or the
correct side of the CD or DVD.

40. Proper Care of Printers
Avoid cold, hot, and dusty locations.
Always use the correct ink or toner
replacement.
Always have the proper printer cable
connected to your computer.

41. Never pull paper out of a printer in
motion.
Do not turn off the printer while
printing.
Read the instruction manual before
operating a printer.
Always use the proper type of paper in
your printer.

42. How to Maintain your
Computer System
Start a notebook of information on your
system.
Serial numbers
Vendor support telephone numbers
User IDs
Date and vendor for each
equipment and software purchase.
Trouble log

43. Periodically review disk directories &
delete unneeded files.
Make sure all plug-ins are secure at all
times.
Turn off the power and disconnect the
equipment form the power source
before you open the inside of you
computer.

44. Keep surrounding area dirt and dust
free.
Back up files and data regularly.
Periodically defragment your hard disk.
Protect your system from computer
viruses
Learn to use system diagnostic programs

45. Ergonomics
The science of designing equipment for a
comfortable and safe working environment.
Proper Computer Ergonomics
Sit up straight and lean forward slightly from
the waist.
Keep your feet flat on the floor.
Your body should be about a hand’s length
from the front of the keyboard and
centered with the keyboard.

46. Place all materials you will type on the right
side of the computer and supplies on the
left side.
Keep any items you are not using off your
desk.
Occasionally rest your eyes and take short
breaks.
Avoid lights that cause glare on the monitor.

47. Keep your fingers on the home row keys and
curved.
Keep your wrists up, not touching the keyboard
or desk.
Focus your eyes on the book, copy or screen.

48. Questions of the Day
1. Definition Of Software
2. Definition of CPU
3. Definition of RAM
4. Information Processing Cycle
(Draw the Cycle)