2. S.No. Grading
% of Total Marks
Theory Lab
1 Assignments 5 5
2 Quiz 10 -
3 Projects/ Presentation 10 -
4 Class Participation 5 -
5 Mid-Term 20 10
6 Final Exam 25 10
Total 75 25
3. Fundamentals Of Computer
Introduction to Computer Software and
Hardware
Components of a Computer (Input
devices, Output devices, System Unit,
Storage devices, Communication devices)
Characteristics of a Computer
4. Introduction to Computer Software
and Hardware
“A Computer is a machine that can be
programmed to accept data, process data into
useful information and store it for later use.”
5. Introduction to Computer
Software and Hardware
Computer word is derived from “compute” that
means to calculate.
Computer is used to perform arithmetic and
logical operations.
Input means to feed information into a
computer
Words, symbols, numbers, pictures
Data refers to the symbols that represent facts,
ideas and objects
6. Introduction to Computer
Software and Hardware
Processing is the way that a computer
manipulates data
performing calculations
sorting lists and numbers
drawing graphs
A computer processes data in a device called
the central processing unit (CPU).
A computer stores data so that it will be
available for processing.
7. Introduction to Computer
Software and Hardware
Memory is an area of a computer that holds
data that is waiting to be processed
Volatile memory
Non-volatile memory
Storage is the area where data can be left on a
permanent basis
8. Introduction to Computer
Software and Hardware
Computer output is the results produced by
the computer
Reports, numbers, documents, music,
graphs, pictures
An output device displays, prints or transmits
the results of processing.
10. Introduction to Computer
Software and Hardware
A computer consists of Software and
Hardware, that is the machine is known as
Hardware and Programs are called as Software.
Software
Software is a set of instructions that tells a
computer what to do, a computer works
according to the given instructions in the
software.
Software cannot be executed without
hardware.
Software is debugged in case of problem and is
reinstalled if the problem is not solved.
11. Introduction to Computer
Software and Hardware
Hardware
Hardware is physical parts of computer that
cause processing of data.
Hardware cannot perform any task without
software.
Hardware is repaired in case of problem and is
replaced if the problem is not solved.
13. Components of Computer
Input devices
The data or instructions given to the computer
is called input, and a hardware component
used to enter data and instruction into
computer is called input device.
Following are the most commonly used input
devices:
Keyboard: It is used to enter text, which
contains alphabetic, numeric and other keys for
entering different type of data.
14. Components of Computer
Mouse: It is a pointing device, that controls pointer
on the screen, user gives instructions to the
computer through mouse.
Microphone: It is used to enter voice into the
computer.
Scanner: It reads printed text and graphics and
translates the results in digital form.
Digital Camera: It is used to take and store picture
in digital form.
PC Camera: It is used to create movie and take
photos on the computer, and is also used to make a
video phone call.
15. Components of Computer
Output devices
The data processed in useful information is
called Output, and the hardware component
used to display information to the user is called
Output device.
Following are the most commonly used output
devices:
Monitor: Monitor is used to display text,
graphics and video output.
18. Components of Computer
Printer: It is used to display printed output on
paper or transparency.
Speaker: Speaker is used to hear sound, music and
voice output.
System Unit
System Unit is a box that contains different
electronic components of computer system, it is also
called System Cabinet or Chassis.
It protects the internal components from damage.
The electronic components in the system unit are
connected to motherboard.
19. Components of Computer
Mother board is also known as system board or
main board.
Important components of system unit are as
follows:
Central Processing Unit (CPU): It is also called as
Processor, that is the Brain of the Computer.
It is the most important component of a computer,
it interprets and executes instructions in the
computer.
Memory: The hardware component that stores data
and instructions temporarily is called memory, that
is also called primary memory or main memory.
20. Components of Computer
Main memory consists of electronic chips connected
to mother board, It is used to store data before
processing.
It also stores processed data after processing until
the data is sent to output device.
The main memory is also called volatile because its
contents are lost when the computer is turned off.
24. Components of Computer
Storage devices
The hardware components used to store data,
instructions and information permanently are called
storage devices.
It is called non - volatile storage because its
contents remain safe when the computer is turned
off.
Some important storage devices are floppy disk
drive, zip drive, hard disk drive, CD - ROM drive,
CD - RW drive, DVD - ROM drive etc.
25. Components of Computer
Communication devices
The hardware components used to communicate
and exchange data, instructions and information
with other computers are called communication
devices.
An important communication device is called
Modem, which enables the computer to
communicate with other computers via telephone
line or cable.
26. Characteristics of Computer
Following are important characteristics of
computer:
Speed
Computers work at a very high speed and are much
faster than humans.
A computer can perform billions of calculations in a
second.
The time used by a computer to perform an
operation is called as the processing speed, that is
measured in Mega Hertz (MHz) or Giga Hertz
(GHz).
27. Characteristics of Computer
Storage
A computer can store large amounts of data
permanently, which can be used at any time.
Any type of data such as text, graphics, pictures,
audio, and video files can be stored easily.
Processing
Computer can perform different types of processing
like addition, subtraction, multiplication and
division.
It can also perform logical functions.
28. Characteristics of Computer
Accuracy
Accuracy means to provide results without any
error, computer can process large amounts of data
and generate error-free results.
A modern computer can perform millions of
operations in one second without any error.
Recalling
A computer can recall the stored data and
information as and when required, in a few seconds.
29. Characteristics of Computer
Control Sequence
A computer works strictly according to the given
instructions, it follows the same sequence of
execution that is given in a program.
Consistency
Computer works in a consistent way, it does not lose
concentration due to heavy work, therefore it
performs all jobs with equal attention.
30. Characteristics of Computer
Communication
A computer can be connected with other computers
by a communication device such as a modem.
These computers can share data, instructions and
information (e.g. Internet).
Versatile
Computer can perform different type of task, it can
be used in hospital, bank or at home.
A variety of facilities are available through
computers.
31. Hierarchy of Computers
Computer
Digital computer Analog computer Hybrid Computer
Micro Computer
Mainframe
Computer
Super Computer
Desktop
Computer
Mini Computer
Tablet PC
Notebook
Computers
Handheld
Computers
Workstations
32. Analog computer
An analog computer does not operate with digital
signals. It recognizes a continuous measurement of
a physical property.
Has no state.
Difficult to operate & use.
Output is usually displayed on a meter or graphs
(e.g. voltage, pressure, speed & temperature)
Has low memory & fewer functions
Built for specific purposes & mainly used in field
of medicine & engineering
34. Digital Computers
A digital computer works with digits.
Everything is described using two states i.e.
either ON or an OFF (in binary 1 or 0
respectively).
It operates by calculating numbers or digits and
gives output in digital form.
These are very fast, can be reprogrammed, & can
compare values efficiently.
Store results in a digital format.
Have various sizes, speeds, capacities &
memories.
35. Difference between Analog and Digital
Computer
Analog Computers Digital Computers
Deals with continuous values,
hence have no state
Deals with Discrete values and have
two states.
Represent physical quantities in the
waves form or continuous form
Represents physical quantities in
numbers or symbols form
Difficult to use, Low memory, Slow
speed, less reliable
Easy to use, Large memory, High
Speed, more reliable
Used in engineering and science Used in all fields of life
Used to calculate analog quantities
like speed, weight, pressure etc
Used to calculate mathematical
and logical operations
Examples, Thermometer, analog
clock etc
Examples: Digital clock, laptops etc
36. Hybrid Computers
Combination of both analog & digital.
Some processing is done on analog part and some on the
digital form.
A hybrid PC combines the best characteristics of both
the other types & thus produces better results
Can take input in both digital & analog from.
In the hybrid types of computers, the Digital parts
convert the analog signals to perform operations and
Process control.
Example: Calculation of patient’s heart function,
temperature, blood pressure & other vital signs. The
measurement may then be converted into numbers &
may be processed for further assessment.
38. Micro Computer
Micro computers are the smallest computer
system. Its also known as Grand child Computer.
Their size range from calculator to desktop size.
Its CPU is microprocessor.
Personal Computer (PC)
A personal computer is a type of microcomputer
designed to meet the computing needs of an
individual.
It consists of one or more input devices, Output
device, storage device, memory and processor.
40. Classification of Micro Computers
Desktop computers
Notebook computers
Tablet PC
Handheld Computers
Workstations
41. Desktop Computer
It is designed in a way that all its components fit
on a desk or a table.
Notebook Computer
It is also called as Laptop Computer, it is small in
size and can be placed easily on lap.
It can be used using batteries, It can perform same
basic functions as a personal computer.
A notebook computer contains CPU, memory
capacity and disk drives.
42. The keyboard and touchpad in notebook
computer are placed on the top of the system unit.
They are easy to carry and can be used outdoors, in
airports and in classrooms without the need for
the nearby electrical outlet.
Tablet PC
A Tablet PC is a portable computing device
featuring a touch-sensitive screen that can be used
as a writing or drawing pad.
The user gives instructions with digital pen.
Many tablet PCs have built-in microphone.
44. Handheld Computers
A handheld computer is one that is designed to fit
into a pocket, run on batteries, and be used while
you are holding it
Also called a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant)
Send and receive e-mail
Use maps and global positioning
Maintain expense account, contacts, to-do lists,
memos, etc.
Make voice calls using cellular service (Smart
Phone)
47. Workstations
The term “workstation” has two meanings
Powerful desktop models designed for
specialized tasks
Ordinary personal computers connected to a
local area network.
A computer network is two or more computers or
other devices that are connected for the purpose of
sharing data and programs
49. Mini Computer
Mini Computer is a general purpose computer of a size
intermediate between a microcomputer and a mainframe.
Typically, minicomputers have been stand-alone computers
(computer systems with devices)
They are generally more powerful and useful as
compared to micro computer.
They have larger RAM and storage capacity
Mini computer are also known as mid range computer
or Child computer.
Application:- Departmental systems, Network Servers,
work group system.
51. Main Frame Computer
Mainframe computers are those computers that offer faster
processing and greater storage area.
• These are capable of supporting thousands of users
simultaneously.
• Mainframe computers can process several million instructions
per second
The word “main frame” comes from the metal frames. It is also
known as Father computer.
Application – Host computer, Central data base server.
53. Super Computer
Super computers are fastest and most
expensive.
A super computer contains a number of CPU’s
which operate in parallel to make it faster.
It is also known as grand father computer.
Application :- weather forecasting, weapons,
research and development.
55. Intelligent and Dumb Terminal
Dumb terminal does not have its own CPU and
storage devices.
Has very limited processing capabilities itself,
but allows you to connect to a large powerful
computer such as a mainframe or
minicomputer.
When you process your data from the dumb
terminal, it is the mainframe (or
minicomputer) at the other end of the
network that is performing all the
calculations.
56. Intelligent terminal has its own processor and can
perform some processing operations.
Usually, this type of terminal does not have its own
storage or have very limited storage capacity.
Typically, personal computers are used as intelligent
terminals. A personal computer as an intelligent terminal
gives facility to access data and other services from
mainframe system.
It also enables to store and process data locally at a smaller
level.
57. Data and Information
Data is the collection of raw facts and figures whereas
information is the useful result or inference etc.
obtained after processing some data. In other words
processed data is called information. For example the
observations obtained in the Chemistry lab is the
DATA and the result obtained after going through that
data is the INFORMATION.
59. Data Representation
How do computers represent data?
1 1 1 1 1
0 0 0 0 0
Most computers are digital
• Recognize only two discrete states:
on or off
• Computers are electronic devices
powered by electricity, which has only
two states, on or off
on
off
60. Data Representation
What is the binary system?
Binary
Digit (bit)
Electronic
Charge
Electronic
State
A number system that has just two unique digits, 0 and 1
• A single digit is called a bit (binary digit)
• A bit is the smallest unit of data the computer can represent
• By itself a bit is not very informative
The two digits represent the two off and on states
61. Data Representation
What is a byte?
8-bit byte for the number 3
8-bit byte for the number 5
8-bit byte for the capital letter T
Eight bits are grouped together to form a byte
0s and 1s in each byte are used to represent
individual characters such as letters of the
alphabet, numbers, and punctuation
62. A pdf document is provided in which
further details of bit, nibble, byte, KB,
MB, GB etc is given.
63. Data Representation
What are two popular coding systems to represent
data?
American Standard
Code for Information
Interchange (ASCII)
Extended Binary
Coded Decimal
Interchange Code
(EBCDIC)
• Sufficient for
English and
Western European
languages
64. Data Representation
How is a character sent from the keyboard to the
computer?
Step 1:
The user presses the letter T key
on the keyboard
Step 2:
An electronic signal for the letter
T is sent to the system unit
Step 3:
The signal for the letter T is
converted to its ASCII binary
code (01010100) and is stored in
memory for processing
Step 4:
After processing, the binary
code for the letter T is converted
to an image on the output device
65. Discrete & Continuous Data
Discrete Data: is the data that can only take certain
values.
For example: the number of students in a class (you
can't have half a student).
Continuous Data: is the data that can take any value
(within a range)
Examples: heights. People's heights could be any value
(within the range of human heights), not just certain
fixed heights.
66. Analog & Digital Signal
Analog signals are continuously varying whereas
digital signals are based on 0's and 1's.
67. Examples
consider a clock in which the second hand
smoothly circles the clock face (analog) versus
another clock in which the second hand jumps
as each second passes (digital).
consider a light switch that is either on or off
(digital) and a dimmer switch (analog) that
allows you to vary the light in different degrees
of brightness.