26-07-2014, 11:01 AM
Computer overview
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Introduction
Computers have made great inroads in our everyday life and thinking. They are put to use for all sorts of application ranging from complex calculations in the field or frontline research, engineering simulations down to teaching, printing books and recreational games. The ease with which computers can process data, store and retrieve it painlessly have made them inevitable in office and business environments. The areas of applications of computers are confined only by limitations on human creativity and imagination. In fact, any7 task that can be carried out systematically can be performed by a computer. Therefore, it is essential for every educated person today to know about a computer, its weaknesses and its internal structure.
And that is what we are going to explain in this chapter
Q:-What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device that can perform a variety of operations in accordance with a set of instruction called program.
Computers can access and process data millions of times faster than humans can. A computer can store data and information in its memory, process them and produce the desired results. Computers can do a lot of different tasks such as playing games, railway reservation, weather forecasting, error detection and controlling the flight of a space aircraft etc.
A computer is used essentially as a data processor. The terms data and information are very commonly used. You must clearly understand the difference between the two.
Important terms
1. Peripherals
The peripherals are the devices that surround the system unit e.g., the keyboard, mouse, speakers, printers, monitors etc.
2. Software and hardware
Software refers to the set of programs that govern the operation of computer system and hardware refers to the tangible parts that make up the computer system.
3. Operating system
An operating system is a program which acts s an interface between a user and the hardware and controls all other components of the computer system.