25-02-2013, 02:54 PM
Basic Computer Hardware and Software.
Basic Computer Hardware.ppt (Size: 678.5 KB / Downloads: 78)
Input Devices
Input Devices: devices that input information into the computer such as a keyboard, mouse, scanner, and digital camera.
Output Devices
Output: devices that output information from the computer such as a printer and monitor.
Central Processing Unit
CPU (Central Processing Unit) also called the Microprocessor or “The Brain” of the Computer.
Processor speed: The speed at which a microprocessor executes instructions. This is usually measured in megahertz (MHz).
Brands of Processors include:
Pentium
Celeron
MAC
AMD
Cyrix
Data Storage Devices
The hard-drive is a mechanical storage device typically located internally.
Fast recording and recovery of data
Large storage capacity
Magnetic
Primary storage device for data and programs
Speed is measured in R.P.M.’s
Computer Memory
Computer memory is binary (0 or 1) (on or off).
The byte is the standard unit of measurement.
A byte is composed of 8 bits (binary digits).
Typical units of measurement:
1 KB (kilobyte) = 1000 bytes
1 MB (megabyte) =1000 kilobytes or 1 million bytes
1 GB (gigabyte) =1000 megabytes or 1 billion bytes
Graphic User Interface (GUI)
GUI (Graphic User Interface) is a set of images and icons seen on the desktop used to operate a program.
The GUI makes the programs loaded on the computer easier to access and use. Basic Windows GUI
Icons are small pictures that represent files, commands, or windows.
Windows is a GUI operating system unlike UNIX, which uses text commands.
LAN and WAN
LAN: are networks usually in the same company or building. The Local Area Network is connected via telephone lines or radio waves. Most LANs connect workstations.
WAN: are systems of LANs that are connected. (Wide-area network)
Multitasking and Multiprocessing
Multitasking is the ability to execute more than one task (program) at the same time. Only one CPU is used but switches from one program to another.
In multiprocessing, more than one CPU is used to complete a task. Example: network rendering.
File Management
Saving files - know the difference between “save” and “save as”. “Save” will save the open document over the saved document while “save as” creates a new document if you rename the document. Save often so work will not be lost.
Exporting – converts a native format to a non-native file format used in various software programs. In vector programs, file types may be exported.