Computer Basics

Learning Unit 1: Computer system

Instructor: Olivier
 Learning Unit 1(LU1): Describe
Computers
? At the end of the Unit 1, you should be able
1. Describe computer components
2. Describe operating system
3. Describe computer use ergonomic
 1.1.Computer components
1.1.1. Key concepts

A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions

(software) stored in its own memory unit, that can accept data (input),
manipulate data (process), and produce information (output) from the
processing.
• Computer hardware includes the physical parts of a computer, such as the
case, central processing unit, random access memory, monitor, mouse, keyboard,
computer data storage, graphics card, sound card, speakers and motherboard.
• A software is a set of programs, which is designed to perform a well-defined
function.
• A program is a sequence of instructions written to solve a particular problem.
 Data vs Information

? Data is a collection of independent and unorganized facts. The

collection includes figures and symbols, such as numbers,
words, images, video and sound, given to the computer during
the input phase.
? Information is the processed and organized data presented in a
meaningful form.
 Computer system

In our context we define a

computer system as the
combination of hardware,
software (programs), user
(liveware)
and data that forms a
complete, working system User: A computer
system is not complete
without people
referred to as users or
liveware.
Parts of a computer
The computer is composed by two main parts:
1. Hardware

2. Software.
• 1. Hardware is the physical parts of 2. Software is the entire set of
computer. These parts are inside
and outside of the computer.
programs and procedures
associated with a computer.
Software is the set of instruction on
a computer.
The software comes in two forms
1. System Software(Operating
system software)
2. Applications software
3. Utility software
• Operating system (OS)
is a software program that manages
computer hardware and software
resources and provides common
services for computer programs. It is
the most important software on a
computer and is responsible for
booting up the system, running
applications, and managing files.
Ex:Windows,macOS,Linux and
Android
• Application software, also
known as application programs
or apps, are computer programs
designed to perform specific
tasks for users. Ex.Word
processing,spreadsheet,Publisher
,database,communication,compu
ter aided design(CAD).
 Functions of an operating system

• Booting up the system

• Loading and running
applications
• Managing files and directories
• Providing a user interface
• Managing hardware resources
• Providing security and
networking services
 Categories of operating systems

• Desktop operating systems: Desktop operating systems are designed for

use on desktop computers and laptops.eg:Windows, macOS, Linux
• Server operating systems: Server operating systems are designed to run
on servers, which are high-performance computers that provide services
to other computers on a network.eg. Windows Server, Linux Server,
macOS Server.
• Mobile operating systems: Mobile operating systems are designed for
use on mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
• Embedded operating systems: Embedded operating systems are
designed to run on devices with limited resources, such as smartphones
and microcontrollers.Eg. FreeRTOS, VxWorks, Zephyr
 Characteristics of operating system
• Booting: The operating system is responsible for booting up the computer system, which involves
loading the necessary hardware drivers and software components into memory.
• Process management: The operating system manages the execution of computer programs, also
known as processes. This includes scheduling processes to run on the CPU, allocating memory to
processes, and terminating processes when they are finished.
• Memory management: The operating system manages the computer's memory, which is a limited
resource. This includes allocating memory to processes, freeing up memory when it is no longer
needed, and preventing processes from accessing each other's memory.
• File management: The operating system provides a way for users to store and organize their data on
the computer. This includes creating and deleting files, directories, and other file system objects.
• Device management: The operating system provides a way for users to interact with the computer's
hardware devices, such as the keyboard, mouse, and printer. This includes loading and unloading
device drivers, and providing a consistent interface for accessing devices.
• Security: The operating system provides security features to protect the computer system from
unauthorized access, malicious software, and other threats.
• Multi-user: Single-user operating systems are designed for use by a single user at a
time, while multi-user operating systems allow multiple users to access the system
simultaneously.
• Multitasking: Single-tasking operating systems can only run one program at a time,
while multitasking operating systems can run multiple programs simultaneously.
• Real-time Real-time operating systems are designed to respond to events within a
predetermined amount of time.
• Multithreading :an operating system that supports multithreading, which is a
programming technique that allows a single process to execute multiple tasks
simultaneously.
• User interface: The user interface provides a way for users to interact with the computer
system. This can be a graphical user interface (GUI) or a command-line interface (CLI).
 Components of operating system

• Kernel: The kernel is the core component of an operating system. It manages essential
system resources like the CPU, memory, and input/output devices. It handles tasks such as
process scheduling, memory management, and hardware abstraction.

• File System: The file system is responsible for managing files and directories on storage
devices like hard drives, SSDs, and flash drives. It provides a structured way to store,
organize, and retrieve data.

• Shell
This is the user interface that interacts with the kernel, which in turn, interacts with the
underlying hardware. It is a command line interface (CLI) or a graphical user interface (GUI)
through which users can communicate with the computer and execute various commands and
programs.
 Example of File system

• FAT (File Allocation Table): FAT is a simple and reliable file system that is often used on portable storage
devices, such as USB flash drives and SD cards.
• exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table): exFAT is an extension of the FAT file system that supports larger
files and partitions. It is often used on external hard drives and other high-capacity storage devices.
• NTFS (New Technology File System): NTFS is the default file system used on Windows operating systems.
It is a journaling file system that supports features such as file permissions, data encryption, and disk quotas.
• APFS (Apple File System): APFS is the default file system used on macOS and iOS devices. It is a modern
file system that is designed to be efficient and scalable.
• HFS+ (Hierarchical File System Plus): HFS+ is an older file system that was used on macOS devices before
APFS. It is still supported by macOS and can be used on external storage devices.
• ext4 (Fourth Extended File System): ext4 is a journaling file system that is commonly used on Linux
operating systems. It is a reliable and efficient file system that supports features such as file permissions,
data encryption, and large files.
• Btrfs (B-tree File System): Btrfs is a modern file system that is designed to be scalable and reliable. It is still
under development, but it is becoming increasingly popular among Linux users.
 Computer functions
Computers manipulate (process) data (input) to produce information (output) and hold (store) processed information
for future use

Input: The first box on the illustration depicts how a computer receives input for processing.
Process: The computer then performs processing such as calculations and
comparisons.
Output: The computer generates information that may be printed or displayed on a screen or in a
specified format.
Storage: Data and information may be stored for future use on storage devices
 COMPUTER CHARACTERISTICS
1. Fast: A computer can perform in a few seconds the amount of work a human being can do in
days, months or years.
2. Accurate: A computer is far much more accurate than human beings during data processing. The
accuracy of the output obtained from a computer mainly depends on input provided. If the input is
wrong, the computer processes wrong
3. Versatile: Computers are versatile i.e. flexible in that they can be used to carry out different types
of activities. For example, at one point using a word processor a computer can be programmed to
process words like a typewriter and while using a spreadsheet to perform calculations like a
calculator.
4. Reliable: Computers are more reliable because they do not get tired or bored in processing
repeated work.
5. Power of remembering: Computers can store and recall high amount of information depending
with the size of secondary storage media.
6. Diligent: Computers do not suffer from human related traits such as tiredness, and loss of
concentration after working for long hours.
Computer components
 Hardware parts of a personal computer
1. Central unit
● Motherboard
● Processor
● Hard disk drive
● CD drive (Optional)
● RAM
● ROM
● Power Supply
2. Monitor
3. Keyboard
4. Mouse
 1. System unit/Computer case:

The central unit or computer case, commonly referred to as the system

unit, is the main hardware part in which internal components are housed.

? In terms of physical appearance (form factor), the two common types of

systems units are tower and desktop types The main difference is that, in
tower system unit, the monitor rests on the table while in desktop types;
the monitor may be placed on top of the system unit.

Form factor b)Desktop

a) Tower
• Inside the computer case there are the following hardware parts:
Motherboard, Processor, Hard disk drive, CD drive, RAM, ROM, Power
Supply, cables, graphic card, Network interface card,…
 Power Supply
? The Power Supply Unit (PSU) shown in converts alternating
current (AC) from mains to direct current (DC) required by
internal computer components. The current supplied to the
internal components like motherboard, hard disk, and optical
drives depends on the rating from the device manufacturer.
Note that unlike desktop computers that are fitted with PSU,
portable computers like laptops come with power adapters that
convert AC to DC.
 DC voltage produced by the power supply

Voltage Wire color Use AT ATX ATX

v12

+12V Yellow Disk drives fans, cooling devices and the system slots YES YES YES

-12V Blue Some types of serial ports circuits and earlier programmable YES YES YES
Read only memory.

+5V Red Mother boards Baby AT earlier CPUs and many motherboard YES YES YES
components.

-5V White ISA bus cards and early PROM YES YES YES
+3.3V Orange Most newer CPUs, some types of memories and AGP video NON YES YES
card

0V Black Ground: Used to complete circuit with the other voltage YES YES YES
 Motherboard

? A motherboard shown is the main printed circuit board onto which all
components of the computer interconnect and communicate with each other
or are mounted.
The following are the main components that are attached or mounted on the
motherboard.
They are discussed later in the section:
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): it is also called the microprocessor
2. Computer memory: They are various types of read only memory chips
(ROMs) and random access memory modules (RAM).
3. Disk drives: hard disk drive and the optical disk drive.
4. Adapter cards: they add functionality to the computer e.g. network
interface cards, TV/Radio cards, wireless network cards etc.
• Motherboard form factor is a specification for the size, shape, and mounting holes of a
motherboard. It also determines the location of the I/O panel, CPU socket, and other
components.
• AT (Advanced Technology) is a motherboard form factor that was introduced in 1984 with
the IBM PC AT. It was the standard motherboard form factor for most personal computers
until the ATX form factor was introduced in 1995.
• ATX
ATX is the largest and most common motherboard form factor. It measures 305mm x 244mm
and has 7 mounting holes. ATX motherboards typically have the most features and expansion
slots, making them ideal for high-performance gaming and workstation computers.
• Micro-ATX
Micro-ATX is a smaller version of the ATX form factor, measuring 244mm x 244mm. It has 6
mounting holes and typically has fewer features and expansion slots than ATX motherboards.
Micro-ATX motherboards are a good choice for mid-range computers and home theater PCs.
• Mini-ITX
Mini-ITX is the smallest motherboard form factor, measuring 170mm x 170mm. It has 4
mounting holes and typically has the fewest features and expansion slots.
 Baby ATX is a motherboard form factor that is slightly smaller than
ATX, measuring 244mm x 214mm. It has 6 mounting holes and typically
has fewer features and expansion slots than ATX motherboards.
 Balanced Technology eXtended (BTX) is another motherboard form
factor that was introduced in 2004. It was designed to improve airflow
and cooling over the ATX form factor. BTX motherboards have a
different component layout than ATX motherboards, with the I/O panel
located at the bottom of the board.
 Central processing unit (CPU)

? In microcomputers, the CPU is called the microprocessor chip and is

usually mounted on the motherboard using contact pins.
? The CPU or simply the processor is regarded as the brain of computer and is
mounted on the motherboard.
 CPU parts

? The CPU has three parts

(i) The Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)
(ii) The Control Unit (CU)
(iii) The storage units, namely the registers
and cache memory
 CPU parts (Cont…)
? i) The Arithmetic and Logic Unit (ALU)
◦ It is the part of the CPU that performs two main
functions, namely: • The arithmetic operations such as
addition (+), subtraction (–), division (÷), and
multiplication (×).
◦ The logical operations such as OR, AND, and NOT
among others.
 CPU parts (Cont…)
ii) The Control Unit (CU)
? It is the part of the CPU that coordinates the activities of different sections of the
processor and input/output (I/O) devices.

It also performs the following activities:

? Controls, supervises, and oversees all the activities of the computer.
? Fetches instructions from the main memory.
? Decodes the instructions in a format the computer can understand.
? Executes the instructions by issuing commands to respective components where
action is supposed to be taken.
? Determines the next task to be taken up by the processor for execution.
? Takes the processed instructions to the main memory.
? Controls the transfer of data and information within the available storage space.
? The above functions can be summarized in what is regarded to as Fetch-Execute
Cycle.
 CPU parts (Cont…)
? iii) Storage units

There are two main storage units found in the CPU, namely Registers and
cache memory.
Registers
? They are temporary storage locations found inside the processor that are
used to hold data, instructions or information awaiting processing or output.
Cache memory
? This is a high speed storage location that enables the CPU to perform its
functions faster. It stores frequently accessed instructions so that the CPU
can quickly fetch it when needed
RAM

ROM
ROM and RAM on motherboard
Types of memory
 Primary memories
? RAM and ROM are primary memories
? Other primary memories are
◦ Registers
◦ Cache memory
 RAM –Random Access Memory

• RAM is also referred to as working storage because it is the

temporary storage for currently running programs and data that
the CPU is processing or executing. RAM is held in special
modules mounted on the motherboard
Characteristics of Random Access Memory (RAM)

? Data can be read (retrieved) and written (stored) in it.

? RAM is a temporary (volatile) storage because its content
disappears when the computer is switched off.
? Its content is user defined i.e. the user dictates what is to be
contained in the RAM.
Types of RAM
 Static RAM (SRAM) is a fast type of memory mostly located
inside a microprocessor. For this reason, SRAM is used on
special purpose memories such as cache memory. Cache
memory is used to enhance the processing speed by holding data
and instructions that are instantly required by the processor.

 Dynamic RAM
Dynamic RAM (DRAM) is a relatively slower type of RAM
compared to SRAM. The term dynamic refers to the tendency for
the stored charge to leak away, even with constant power supply.
For this reason, DRAM requires periodic recharging (refresh) to
maintain its data storage. This type of RAM is commonly used in
personal computers (PCs), workstations and servers.
Depending on permanence of the instructions or data written on it, there are four Types of Read
Only Memory namely:

? (i) Mask Read Only Memory (MROM): Once the content is written on it by the manufacturer, it
cannot be changed. Examples of computer that use MROM based operating systems are those that
require longterm sustainability e.g. computers that run network operating systems or server
operating systems.

? (ii) Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM): This allows the user to alter it only once after
the content is written on it. Examples are the PROM compact disc and PROM intergrated circuit
chips.

? (iii) Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM): This has a transparent quartz
window through which its contents, can be erased by exposing it to ultra violet (UV) light, and
then reprogrammed for another use.

? (iv) Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM): This type of ROM
can be erased and reprogrammed using electricity. An example of EEPROM is the memory that
stores the basic input/output system (BIOS).
 Characteristics of Read Only Memory (ROM)

? One can only read its content but you cannot write on it unless it is a special type
of ROM.

? It is non-volatile i.e. its content is not lost when the computer is switched off.

? Stores permanent or semipermanent instructions from the manufacturer called

firmware. It can store semipermanent instructions because some variations of
ROM chips can be programmed according to the user’s specification.
 Secondary Storage Memory
The term secondary memory means that this type of storage is not directly accessible by the
central processing unit. It includes the memory held in devices such as the hard disk, optical
disks and flash disks.

? Hard Disk

The hard disk is a secondary storage device that stores data and programs for a long time
(permanently) even after the computer has been switched off. When the computer requires to
process data and instructions stored on the hard disk, it has to be fetched first and placed in
primary memory (RAM). When the data and instructions are in RAM, they can be easily fetched
into the cache then the registers as directed by the control unit of the CPU.

The hard disk is made up of metallic disk platters together with a read/write head, housed in a
protective metal case
 Hard disk (cont…)
? A hard disk drive consists of one or more metallic platters, stacked on top of each
other but not touching one another. The stack of platters is attached to a rotating
pole called a spindle. If it has more than one platter, they are stacked on top of
each other to form a cylinder.
? A cylinder requires multiple read/write heads, one for each platter. The read/write
head floats just above the surface of the rapidly rotating disk to read or write data.
On the surface of each disk are special read/write circular regions called tracks.

? Each track is divided into angular sections called sectors similar to the sector of a
circle.
 Other secondary storage memory
Other examples of secondary storage technologies are flash memory
(e.g. USB flash drives ), memory cards, floppy disks, Optical disks
? Flash disk: an electronic (solid-state) non-volatile computer storage medium that
can be electrically erased and reprogrammed.

? Memory cards: Memory cards are storage used in devices such as cameras or
mobile phones

? Optical disks (CD/DVD)

Compact Disk(CD)
This is a hard plastic disk on which computer data is digitally encoded in a format
readable by a laser beam. The storage capacity of a CD ranges between 650 MB and
700 MB. They are available in three forms:.
▪ Compact Disk Read Only Memory (CD-ROM): Data can only be read from it but
not written to it.

▪ Compact Disk Recordable (CD-R): Once data has been burned on it, it cannot be
erased but more data can be added on the empty tracks. CDRs can be used until their
memories are full or finalized.

▪ Compact Disk Read/Write (CD-RW):These compact disks allow the user to

record, erase and rewrite new information as many times as desired.
 Digital Versatile Disk (DVD)

They are optical media used for storing digital data. They resemble
CDs but have a higher capacity than the CD.

They can hold a minimum of 4.7GB of data. Examples of DVDs are

DVD-ROM,DVD-R,DVD-RW and Blu-Ray.

Blu-Ray is a high definition DVD format that is intended to replace the current
range of DVDs. It is used for distributing large amount of material such as movies.
The capacities range from 25 GB to 128 GB.
 Hard disk Interface :PATA/EIDE
PATA is an acronym for Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment, often shortened to Parallel
ATA. Parallel refers to the fact that data is sent 16 bits at a time through a single 16-bit
connection, which is used for data traveling in both directions. This is also called IDE or
EIDE(Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics);

Figure. PATA interfaces.

 Hard disk Interface :SATA and PATA/EIDE
SATA and PATA (aka IDE) are two different disk drive interfaces. A physical and electrical
connection to a hard drive uses either a SATA or a PATA interface

Figure. SATA interfaces. SATA CAble

SATA is an acronym for Serial Advanced Technology Attachment, often shortened to Serial ATA.
Serial refers to the fact that data is sent one bit at a time down a single connection in each
direction. There’s a separate connection for data going in to and out of the device.
 Peripheral devices and their classification
? A peripheral device as an independent device that is connected
to the computer to add functionality or enhance the capabilities
of a computer to meet user needs.

? They are classified into the following:

1) Input devices
2) Output devices
3) Both Input-Ouput devices
4) Device controllers
 Input devices
? Input Devices: They receive input from the user which is usually
in human language. They convert the input into digital signals that
the computer can understand.
? Examples:
◦ Mouse,
◦ Keyboard
◦ Scanner
◦ Barcode reader
◦ Joystick
◦ Camera
◦ Microphone
Input devices
Input devices (cont..)
? Keyboard
A keyboard converts typed numbers, letters and special characters into
machine readable form before processing takes place.

? Keypad: Miniature keyboard used on portable devices such as mobile

phones
 Input devices(Cont…)
1. Mouse
? A mouse is pointing device is used for controlling a pointer or a cursor on the
screen.

🞂 It is a pointing device with sensors on the bottom. The sensors enable the user
to execute commands, select options, and move a pointer on the screen when
the mouse is moved.

2. Barcode reader

An electronic device that can read and output printed barcode to a

computer. A barcode is an optical, machine-readable representation of data
to describe the object.

3. Microphone
Microphone is an input device to input sound that is then stored in a digital form.
 Input devices (cont…)

5. Joystick 6.Touchpad
4. Graphics Pad
It is purposely used for It is a pointing device
It is a pointing device
playing computer games. commonly found in laptops
used by designers and
The user controls game where the user places or
artists. They use it to
actions by varying the moves the
draw a picture on
pressure, speed and finger across it to control
a computer screen by free
direction of the joystick. the pointer on the screen.
hand without using a
mouse or a keyboard.
Output devices
? 2) Output Devices: They display or present the output to
the user. They convert machine language to human
language. This output must be in the correct format
understandable to the user.

? Examples
◦ Monitors (LED, LCD, CRT)
◦ printers
◦ projector
◦ speakers
◦ Headphones
 Monitors
🞂 Monitors, commonly called as Visual Display Unit
(VDU), are the main output device of a computer. It
forms images from tiny dots, called pixels that are
arranged in a rectangular form. The sharpness of the
image depends upon the number of pixels.
 Types of monitors
Cathode-Ray Tube (CRT) Monitor

The CRT display is made up of small picture elements called pixels. The smaller the pixels, the
better the image clarity or resolution. It takes more than one illuminated pixel to form a whole
character, such as the letter ‘e’ in the word help.

Liquid-crystal Display (LCD)

The flat-panel display refers to a class of video devices that have reduced volume, weight
and power requirement in comparison to the CRT. You can hang them on walls or wear
them on your wrists. Current uses of flat-panel displays include calculators, video games,
monitors, laptop computer, and graphics display.

LED (light-emitting diodes) monitors

LED monitors are the latest types of monitors on the market today. These are flat panel, or
slightly curved displays which make use of light-emitting diodes for back-lighting, instead of
cold cathode fluorescent (CCFL) back-lighting used in LCDs
 Output devices (cont…)
? Printers are primarily used to produce information on a piece of paper. The
three categories are:
? Impact (eg. Dot Matrix Printer commonly used in Banks
? Non-impact (eg. laser and inkjet)
? Three dimensional (3-D) printers

Dot matrix Printer Laserjet printer

3D Printers
 Output devices (cont..)
? Projector : A projectors connects to your computer's graphics
card and allow you to mirror your computer's screen onto an
external surface like a wall or screen

? Speakers: A computer speaker is a hardware device that

connects to a computer to generate sound. The signal used to
produce the sound that comes from a computer speaker is
created by the computer's sound card.

? Headphones : Headphones are a pair of small loudspeaker

drivers worn on or around the head over a user's ears convert an
electrical signal to a corresponding sound
 Both Input-Output Devices
? Modems: A modem is a combination of two words, mod for modulation
and dem for demodulation. The modem acts as an input and output device,
as it sends and receives information over the telephone lines.

? Touch screen technology lets the user to touch the screen using a finger or a
stylus in order to write or select an item. The screen consists of infrared light
crisscrossing behind it. When the user touches a location on the screen, the
finger interrupts the infrared light and the output is displayed on the screen.

? Network cards: A network card (also called a Network Adapter or Network

Interface Card, or NIC for short) acts as the interface between a computer
and a network cable. The purpose of the network card is to prepare, send,
and control data on the network.

? Headsets: (Headset consists of Speakers and Microphone. Speaker act

Output Device and Microphone act as Input device)
? Most of secondary storages: Flash disks, CD,DVD, external disk drives
 History of computers
The computer, as we know it today, had its beginning with a 19th century
English mathematics professor name Charles Babbage.

Babbage designed the Analytical Engine and that is considered as the basic
architecture of modern electronic computers are based on.
It is not until 1937 when John Atanasoff and Clifford Berry built the first
electronic digital computer called Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC).

Since then, there have been major computer evolutions classified into five
generations.
 Computer generations
1. First generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes or thermionic values. These types of computers were
enormous, expensive, consumed a lot of power, and emitted a lot of heat which was often the cause
of malfunctions.
The main features of the first generation
•Use of Vacuum tube technology
•Supported machine language only
•Very costly
•Generated a lot of heat
•Use of punch cards as input devices and paper tape as o
devices
•Huge size
•Need of AC
•Non-portable
•Consumed a lot of electricity
Some computers of this generation were −
•ENIAC
•EDVAC
 Computer generations
2. Second generation (1956-1964): Transistors. Although transistors still generated a great deal of heat,
they were faster and more reliable than those made of vacuum tubes.

The main features of the second generation

Main Component – Based on Transistor.
Main Memory – Magnetic core.
Secondary Memory – Magnetic tape & magnetic Disk.
Input Media – Punched cards
Output Media – Punched card & printed reports.
Example – IBM-7000,CDC 3000 series
 Computer generations
3. Third generation (1964-1970): Integrated circuits. Computers were made by transistors embedded
on silicon chips called semiconductors. Most third generation computers allowed users to interact a
computer through keyboards and monitors.

The main features of the third generation

Main Component – Based on Integrated Circuits (IC)

Primary Memory – Magnetic core.
Secondary Memory– Magnetic Tape & magnetic disk.
Input Media – Key to tape & key to disk
Output Media – Printed reports & Video displays.
Example – IBM-307 Series ,CDC 7600 series
 Computer generations
4. Fourth generation (1971-1980): Microprocessors or very large Ics (VLSI (Very Large Scale
Integrated) microprocessor based). Thousands of integrated circuits built onto a silicon chip as
microprocessor. Programs with graphical user interface (GUIs), mouse, and hand-held devices were
introduced.
The main features of the fourth generation
Main Component – Large scale integrated (LSI) Semiconductor
circuits called MICRO PROCESSOR or chip and VLSI(Very Large
scale integrated).
Main Memory – Semi conductor memory like RAM, ROM and cache
memory is used as a primary memory.
Secondary Memory – Magnetic disk, Floppy disk, & Optical disk
(CD,DVD).
Input Media – keyboard.
Output Media – Video displays ,Audio responses & printed reports.
Example – CRAY 2, IBM 3090/600 Series, IBM AS/400/B60 etc.
 Computer generations
5. Fifth generation (Present and beyond) (ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration) microprocessor
based): Artificial intelligence. The term artificial intelligence refers to capability of a computer to mimic
human behaviour. The goal of fifth generation computing is to develop devices that are capable of
learning, and respond to natural language input.
The main features of the fifth generation
Main Component – based on ULSI ( Ultra Large scale integrated)
Circuit .that is also called Parallel Processing method.
Memory – Optical disk and magnetic disk.
Input Media – Speech input, Tactile input.
Output Media – Graphics displays, Voice responses.
Example – Lap-Tops, palm –Tops, Note books ,PDA (personal Digital
Assistant ) etc.
 1.1.2.Types of computers

? Computers can be classified in many ways.

However, the three most common methods of
classification are by:
◦ Physical size and processing power
◦ Functionality
◦ Data type
Types of Computer by size and Processing
power
? When classified by physical size and processing power,
there the following types:
◦ Supercomputers,
◦ Mainframe computers,
◦ Minicomputers or
◦ Microcomputers.
 Supercomputers
• Characteristics of supercomputers:
• Supercomputers are the computers, which are the
fastest, and they are also very expensive.
• It can calculate up to ten trillion individual calculations
per second, this is also the reason which makes it even
more faster.
• It is used in the stock market or big organizations for
managing the online currency world such as bitcoin etc.
• It is used in scientific research areas for analyzing data
obtained from exploring the solar system, satellites, etc.
b) Mainframe
• Mainframe computers are designed in such a way
that it can support hundreds or thousands of users at
the same time.
• Characteristics of mainframe computers:
• It is also an expensive or costly computer.
• It has high storage capacity and great performance.
• It can process a huge amount of data (like data
involved in the banking sector) very quickly.
• It runs smoothly for a long time and has a long life.
 c)Minicomputer
? A minicomputer , also referred to as a small
scale mainframe, is a cheaper alternative to the
mainframe computers. Minicomputers have the
following characteristics:
◦ Smaller than mainframe computers.
◦ Low processing power than mainframe
computers.
◦ Low memory capacity than mainframe
computers.
◦ Cheaper than mainframe
? Minicomputers are used as cheaper
alternatives to mainframe and are used in
business organisations, laboratories, research
institutions, engineering firms and
banks
d) Microcomputer

? A Microcomputer, also known as Personal Computers (PC), is the

smallest in size, cheapest and slowest compared to the other three types.

? It is called a microcomputer because its CPU is called a microprocessor,

which is very small compared to that of minicomputers, mainframes and
supercomputers.
? In this type of computer, there are two or more processors, and it supports
4 to 200 users at one time.
? Microcomputers are commonly used in schools, business enterprises,
cybercafé, homes and many other places.
 Microcomputers are divided into the
following types:
? Desktop
? Laptop
? PDA
?Tablet
? Smart phones
 Desktop

? A computer is referred to as "desktop" when it is relatively small

enough to be positioned on top, under or aside of a table
where a person is working. The monitor would be placed on
top of the table.
? They are called desktop computers because they are usually
placed on a table or desk
? This is the most common type of computers used in the
office or at home. A desktop computer is made of different
parts usually that are connected with cables(Note:some
peripherals may be connected wirelessly).
 Laptop
A computer is called laptop when it combines the system unit, the
monitor, the keyboard, and the mouse in one unit to be so small
that you can carry it on your laps when traveling. A laptop is
also called a notebook.

Other parts, such as an external mouse, an external keyboard, or

peripherals such as a printer or a projector, can be connected
to the laptop.

A laptop is only physically smaller than a desktop but,

everything considered, it can do anything that a desktop can do.
 Personal Digital Assistants (PDA)
? Personal Digital Assistants are special mobile
devices designed with all the functionalities of
mobile phones. However PDAs, have extra
capabilities to support business operations e.g.
workflow management, field sales input, run office
applications, connect to office email, selling tickets,
etc.

Point of Sale (POS)

Tablet
? The tablet is a flat panel portable
computing device that lies in
between a laptop and a mobile
phone. It has a powerful camera and
wide screen to enable the user take
video and still pictures. The tablet
can be loaded with various
applications for communication,
games, internet access etc. Inserting
a SIM card into the tablet enables
the user to use mobile networks just
like a mobile phone.
 Smartphones
? Smartphones (contraction of smart
and telephone) are a class of mobile
phones and of multi-purpose mobile
computing devices. They are
distinguished from feature phones by
their stronger hardware capabilities
and extensive mobile operating
systems, which facilitate wider
software, internet (including web
browsing over mobile broadband),
and multimedia.
Types of Computer by Functions
?Server
?Workstations
?Embedded computers
 a) Server
? A server is a computer that holds information that other
computers, called workstations, can retrieve. It provides hardware
or software resources to other Computers on a local area network
(LAN) or a over the Internet.

? Only computers that maintain a type of connection with the server

can get the information that is stored in the server.
? A server is more defined by the Operating System(Eg: Windows
server 2008, 2012,2015, 2019,Red hat, centos,debian) that is
installed in it, not how the machine looks.
 b) Workstation
? A workstation is a name given to a computer connected
to a server or network intended to be used by one person at a
time, they are commonly connected to a server.
 c) Embedded Computer
? An embedded computer is computing
device designed for a specific purpose. Generally, an embedded
computer has an operating system that only runs a single application.
Examples of embedded computing devices include dishwashers, ATM
machines,MP3 players and routers.
Mini ATM

MP3 Player
ATM
Types of Computers according to data types
a) Digital computers
Digital computers perform calculations and logical
comparisons by representing data and instructions as binary
digits. This means that digital computers must convert data
such as text, numbers, images, video and sound into a series of
zeros and ones. Most of the computers used today such as
desktop computers, laptops and tablets are digital computers.

0
b) Analog Computer
🞂 These are computers that process data
that is continuous (analog) in nature. An
analog signal is one which has a value
that varies smoothly from peak to
minumum and vice- versa.

🞂 Today analog computers are specialised

devices used in engineering and
scientific applications like those used to
measure speed, temperature and pressure
data.

Analog Signal
 Computer Specifications
To choose a computer(Desktop/Laptop) the following are respective criteria
used to specify each part:
❑ Display(screen/Monitor)
❑ Manufacturer. There are many Computer
• Resolution: Number of pixels (WIDTH x HEIGHT)
Manufacturers
• Aspect Ratio: Proportional relationship of image
Eg. POSITIVO BGH, HP, Lenovo, MAC, Samsung, width and Height
Toshiba, etc • Touchscreen(for Laptop)
❑ Operating System
❑ Processor: • Windows
• Brand: Intel or AMD. • Linux/Unix
• Frequency: Represents the speed at which the processor • Mac
runs, in GHz (1GHz = 1000MHz) ❑ Keyboard
• Brand Modifier: ex. (i3,i5,i7) • Language: QUERTY(US) or AZERTY(FR)
• Generation • Keyboard parts

❑ Storage and Memory(RAM, HARD DISK) ❑ Other specifications

Storages are chosen depending of their capacity. • Specifications may include also CD/DVD-ROM
The smallest unit is bit(binary digit), Drive support, types of connectors like VGA, HDMI,
number of USB ports
• 8bits=1byte(b)
• 1024bytes=1megabyte(MB)
• 1024megabytes=1gigabyte(GB)
• For Laptop the camera, fingerprint, weight may be
•
added;
1024 gigabytes=1 terabyte(TB)
• Form factor for Desktop
For Hard disk , Data cable type must be specified(IDE or
SATA)
 Checking the computer properties
Windows 10 Operating system

1. Click on start => Control Panel

2. Press Windows + R key on the key
(Choose View by: Large icon) => board to open Windows RUN window
System first. Then type msinfo32, and hit Enter
button
• 3. You can click Start -> Settings -> System -> About

4. You can right-click Start and choose Windows PowerShell (Admin) to run PowerShell as
administrator, then Type Get-computerinfo
5. Run systeminfo in command prompt (cmd)
 Checking whether computer has SSD or HHD
• run Get-PhysicalDisk in powershell
 Computer properties for Linux OS
• 1. lscpu
• The lscpu command reports information about the cpu and processing units.
• 2. lshw
• Reports detailed and brief information about multiple different hardware units such as cpu, memory,
disk, usb controllers, network adapters etc. (lshw -short)
• 3. hwinfo
• Hwinfo is another general purpose hardware probing utility that can report detailed and brief
information about multiple different hardware components, and more than what lshw can report.
• $ hwinfo –short
• $ df –H (disk information in human readable)
• $sudo fdisk -l
• $ lsblk (hard drive partitions and other storage devices)
• $ free –m (Check the amount of used, free and total amount of RAM on system)
 Role of computer in society
➢ Generate information from data: E.g.: statistics
➢ Keeping data(record keeping) for later use: E.g.. Reports , population data 2D, 3D printing
➢ Digitalization: Integration of technologies in daily practices.
Examples in Rwanda:
? Online Service delivery: The government of Rwanda offers various services to the
citizens. A good example is the government website www.irembo.gov.rw where
citizens can access various services including application for birth certificates, driving
licenses and many other.
? Rwanda Revenue Authority with Online tax information and in offering efficient
services to the citizens.
? Cashless transactions and Online shopping
? Information and devices sharing: E.g. Social networking , sharing of devices such as
printer in the network.
? Text, photo formatting
? Audio, Video, game playing
 Role of Computer in society in specific sectors
1. Economics: Computers enables governments, businesses and individuals to plan, budget and tract
their revenues and expenditures.
2. Retail stores: Management of daily activities like stock control.
3. Offices : To access and receive information and automate service delivery
4. Financial institutions: In the banking sector, computers and mobile devices such as cellphones can
be used to withdraw, record keeping or get any service from different branches. ATM are used for
automation of cash deposits and withdrawal services.
5. Industries: Computers are being used to monitor and control industrial processes. In this category,
we include remote controlled devices called robots.
 Role of Computer in society in specific sectors(next)
6. Health: Computers are used to keep patients’ records for easy access of patient’s treatment and
diagnosis history. They are used by physicians physic to get proper diagnosis of the affected body parts.
Computers are used also to control life support machines in Intensive Care Units (ICU).
7. Security: Information stored in computers such as fingerprints, images and other identification details
help law enforcers carry out criminal investigations.
8. Education: Teaching and learning in schools
9. Entertainment: Recreational activities such as watching movies, playing music and computer games
10. Library management: Access and keep easily updated records of books and other library materials.
Library users can also use computers to search for titles instead of using the manual card catalogue.
 Computer Ergonomics
Computer ergonomics is the science of designing and arranging
computer workstations and equipment to maximize user comfort,
efficiency, and safety. Proper computer ergonomics are essential to
prevent musculoskeletal injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, eye
strain, and back pain, that can result from long hours of computer
use.Computer ergonomics is the science of designing a computer
workstation to fit the user, rather than the other way around. This
means adjusting the equipment and environment to create a
comfortable and efficient workspace that reduces the risk of injury and
strain.
Key principles of computer ergonomics include:
 Proper Chair and Desk Height: Your chair and desk should be at the right height to
maintain a neutral body posture. Your feet should rest flat on the floor, and your knees
should be at a 90-degree angle.
 Monitor Placement: The top of your computer monitor should be at or just below eye
level. This reduces strain on the neck and minimizes the need to tilt your head up or
down.
 Keyboard and Mouse Position: Your keyboard and mouse should be at a height that
allows your elbows to remain close to your body and form an angle of 90-120 degrees.
The wrists should remain straight when typing or using the mouse.
 Ergonomic Accessories: Utilize ergonomic accessories like a split keyboard, an
ergonomic mouse, or an adjustable monitor stand to further improve your workstation
setup.
 Screen Distance: Your computer screen should be about 20-30 inches (50-76 cm) from
your eyes to reduce eye strain. The screen should be directly in front of you, and you
shouldn't need to turn your head to see it.
 Lighting: Proper lighting is crucial to reduce glare on your computer screen. You
should have adequate and adjustable lighting in your workspace to minimize eye strain.
 Breaks and Posture: Take regular breaks to stand up, stretch, and change your posture.
Sit back in your chair with your back supported and avoid slouching.
 Foot Support: Use a footrest if your feet don't comfortably reach the floor. This helps
maintain proper posture and reduces lower back strain.
 Cable Management: Keep cables organized and out of the way to prevent tripping
hazards and to maintain a clean workspace.
 Screen Settings: Adjust the brightness, contrast, and font size on your computer screen
to make it more comfortable for your eyes.
 Ergonomic Software: Consider using software applications that remind you to take
breaks and maintain proper posture.
 Computer Ergonomics cont’…
Posture and Positioning
MONITOR