InformationTechnology

PRINCESS NOURA BINT ABDUL RAHMAN UNIVERSITY

PREPARATORY YEAR

SECOND SEMESTER (2014 – 2015 / 1435– 1436)

Computer skills (CMP-001) MODULE :1

Prepared by:

Ms. Mazna Khan

Ms. Sana Siraj

Presentation by:

Ms. Nour Hilal

CMP-001 1 1st Semester - 2014-2015

Reviewed and Approved by:

Ms. AzraJabeen(Director of IT Department)

Table of Contents

Introduction to Computers............................................................................................................8

Need of Computers...............................................................................................................8

What is Computer.................................................................................................................8

Data.......................................................................................................................................8

Information...........................................................................................................................8

Information Technology.......................................................................................................8

Advantages of Computers.....................................................................................................8

Computer Performance.........................................................................................................9

Computer Generations..........................................................................................................9

TYPES OF COMPUTERS.........................................................................................................10

Super computer:..................................................................................................................10

Mainframe computers:........................................................................................................10

Minicomputers:...................................................................................................................10

Microcomputer:..................................................................................................................10

Workstation Computer:......................................................................................................10

Control Computer:..............................................................................................................11

PARTS OF A PERSONAL COMPUTER.........................................................................11

HARDWARE.....................................................................................................................12

Input devices.......................................................................................................................12

Output devices....................................................................................................................12

Central Processing Unit (CPU):..........................................................................................13

Memory Devices:................................................................................................................13

Storage Devices:.................................................................................................................14

SOFTWARE.......................................................................................................................15

System Software:................................................................................................................15

Application Software:.........................................................................................................15

File Extensions....................................................................................................................17

NETWORKS..............................................................................................................................18

What is a Network?............................................................................................................18

- Client:.............................................................................................................................19

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- Server:............................................................................................................................19

- Resources.......................................................................................................................19

Benefits of Networks..........................................................................................................19

a. Sharing of resources....................................................................................................19

b. Exchanging information..............................................................................................19

Classification of Network...................................................................................................19

a. According to Network’s Transport Media (wired and wireless)................................19

b. According to Network’s Geographical Media (LAN, MAN, WAN).........................20

............................................................................................................................................20

c. According to Network’s Management Media (Peer-to-Peer, Client-Server).............20

FIELDS OF USING COMPUTERS IN OUR DAILY LIFE.....................................................21

- Computers in Education.................................................................................................21

- Computers in Management: Computers increase company's performance in helping with collecting data and producing reports.........................................................................21

- Computers in Banks: ease the access for bank account through ATM..........................21

- Computers in Medical Fields.........................................................................................21

- Computers in Pharmacy: Computers help in tracking pharmacy's storage system and financial transactions..........................................................................................................21

- Computers in Industry Field:.........................................................................................21

CONCEPTS OF INFORMATION.............................................................................................22

Tele-working:.....................................................................................................................22

Advantages:........................................................................................................................22

Disadvantages:....................................................................................................................22

E-Documents:.....................................................................................................................22

Advantages:........................................................................................................................22

E-Commerce:......................................................................................................................22

The Advantages of the E-Commerce:.................................................................................22

The Disadvantages of E-Commerce:..................................................................................22

SAFETY AND HEALTH...........................................................................................................23

Right methods to deal with the computer:..........................................................................23

Health Problems which are caused by the wrong use of computers:.................................23

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROTECTION:.................................................................24

Information Security:..........................................................................................................24

VIRUS........................................................................................................................................24

1. Virus spreading ways:....................................................................................................24

2. Virus protection ways:...................................................................................................24

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VocabularyComputer Generations الحاسب أجيالVacuum Tubes المفرغة األنابيبIntegrated Circuits المتكاملة الدوائرTransistors الترانزستورProcess معالجةLogical Operations المنطقية العملياتInformation معلوماتData بياناتAdvantages فوائدPerformance أداءSpeed And Accurate والدقة السرعةHardware المادية الوحداتInput Devices االدخال أجهزةKeyboard المفاتيح لوحةThe Mouse الفأرةScanner الضــوئي الماسحBarcode Reader الشيفراتشريط قارئ Joystick التحكم عصاOutput Devices االخراج أجهزةMonitor (Computer Screen ) الشــاشةSpeaker/Head Phones السماعاتText نصPictures الصورVoice الصوتTouch Screen اللمس شاشةCentral Processing Unit المركزية المعالجة وحدةControl Unit (CU) التحكم وحدةArithmetic and Logical Unit (ALU) والمنطق الحساب وحدةMemory Unit الذاكرة وحدةInstructions تعليماتRandom Access Memory (RAM) العشوائي الوصول ذاكــرةRead Only Memory (ROM) فقط القراءة ذاكــرةManufactured َّعة ُمصنTemporary Memory المؤقتة الذاكرةPermanent Memory الدائمة الذاكرةVolatile–Non Volatile متطايرة – غير متطايرةStorage Device التخزين أجهزةPrimary Storage الرئيسية التخزين وحدةSecondary Storage الثانوية التخزين وحدةInternal Storage داخلية تخزين وحدةExternal Storage خارجية تخزين وحدةHard Disk الصلب القرصCD –Compact Disk المضغوط القرص

Introduction to Computers

Need of Computers

Need of a computer has become the necessity of human beings nowadays. Computers are everywhere, such as work, school, home, mobile devices, etc.

It has become the source of instant access to information from around the globe. It can be used to access the internet for news, weather reports, sports, maps, emails, and education materials. People also spend hours of free time on computers playing games, listening to music or watching movies.

It is a common belief that computer knowledge is necessary for success.

What is Computer

A computer is an electronic machine that receives input, stores and automatically processes data, and provides output in a useful format.

Data

Data is raw & unorganized facts and figures that need to be processed.

Information

When data is processed and organized so as to make it useful and meaningful, it is called Information.

Information Technology

A term that refers to both the hardware and software that is used to store, retrieve and manipulate information.

Advantages of Computers

o Speed and accuracy of calculations and processing.o Saves huge amounts of data.o Economic in cost and time.o Network communications.

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Computer Performance

The computer performance depends on the following:

- The speed of the processor, which is measured in Giga Hertz.- The capacity of RAM, which is measured in Giga Bytes.- The speed and capacity of the Hard Disk.

Computer Generations

The development of computers was characterized by phases of growth which is called “Computer Generations”. Major technological developments in each generations led to smaller, cheaper, more powerful and more efficient computers.

The present computer system that we see today has evolved through various development stages. These stages are illustrated below:

Generations Technology UsedFirst (1940 – 1956) Vacuum TubesSecond (1956 – 1963) TransistorsThird (1964 – 1971) Integrated CircuitsFourth (1971– Present) MicroprocessorsFifth (Present – Beyond) Artificial Intelligence

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Figure 1 Vacuum TubesFigure 2 Transistor

TYPES OF COMPUTERS

Super computer: o They are the biggest and the most powerful computers.o They are rare because of their cost and size. o Used by companies like NASA.

Mainframe computers: o Great processing speed and data storage.o Often connected to many individual PCs with limited processing capabilities called

dumb terminals.o Used in Banks, Airlines etc.

Minicomputers: o These computers minimized in size and power. o They are not used very commonly these days.

Microcomputer: o It is called the personal computer (PC) which is popular everywhere.o It is small enough to fit on top of a desk, which can be used by one user at a time. o Used in homes, schools etc.

Workstation Computer: o A workstation is a high-end microcomputer used in engineering applications. o Intended primarily to be used by one person at a time, they are commonly connected to

a local area network.o The term workstation has also been used to refer to a PC connected to a network.

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Figure 4 Microprocessor

Figure 3 Integrated Circuit

Parts of Personal Computer

Hardware

Input Devices

Output Devices

CPU

Memory Devices

Storage Devices

Software

System Software

Application Software

Control Computer: o These computers are used for controlling operations in industrial, medical devices and

travel media like planes and cars, to alert in any dangerous case.

PARTS OF A PERSONAL COMPUTER

A Personal Computer is broadly categorized into two parts – Hardware and Software. These will be illustrated in detail as follows:

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HARDWARE

The physical parts of a computer which you can see and touch are called Hardware. Hardware is classified further into the following:

Input devices An Input device is any hardware part that allows you to enter data and instructions into a computer. Some examples of input devices are as follows:

Keyboard: It is a board containing the keys of letters, numbers and some functions which allows you to type information into the computer.

Mouse: A small hand-held device used to point, select, and click on items and to drag and drop items from one place to another.

Scanner: It allows you to scan pictures, text and images and save it to your computer in a digital form.

Web Cam: It is a digital camera that captures an image through the computer to a computer network.

Barcode Reader: It is a photoelectric scanner that translates the bar code symbols into digital form.Joystick: Small hand lever that can be moved in any directions to control movement on the screen. It can be used for playing games.

Output devices Devices used to translate the processed information into a form that humans can understand. Some examples of output devices are as follows:

Monitor (Computer Screen): Monitor displays the output in terms of text, information or pictures. They come in different sizes and resolution.

Printer: A printer produces a hard copy of the material you are working on. For example, Laser Printer and Ink-jet Printer.

Speaker/Headphones: They are used to output voice from a computer.

Touch Screen: It can be used as both Input and output device at the same time. It receives input from the touch of a finger. For example - smart phones, ATM machines etc.

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Central Processing Unit (CPU): It is the most important part of a computer system. It is usually referred to as the brain of a computer. It determines the speed of your computer, which is measured in GHz (Giga Hertz).

The two main components of CPU are:

a) CU - Control Unit: It tells the computer system how to carry out program instructions from the memory. It controls and coordinates all activities of the computer.

b) ALU - Arithmetic and Logic Unit: It performs mathematical and logical operations.

Memory Devices:

Memory TypesRAM

(Random Access Memory)ROM

(Read Only Memory)

RAM is volatile memory (the information is lost when you switch off the computer).

It is a temporary memory.

RAM is where instructions and data can be read and written again and again.

Used for programs and data that you are currently working on.

ROM is non-volatile (the information is not lost when you switch off the computer).

It is a permanent memory.

ROM is where programs are built-in at the factory where they are manufactured.

Used for fixed startup instructions.

Units of Measurement:

Unit Capacity1 Bit 0 or 11 Byte (1 b) 8 bits1 Kilobyte (1 KB) 1024 Bytes1 Megabyte (1 MB) 1024 Kilobytes1 Gigabyte (1 GB) 1024 Megabytes1 Terabyte (1 TB) 1024 Gigabytes1 Petabyte (1 PB) 1024 Terabytes

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Storage Devices:

Hardware devices which are used to record and store data are called storage devices. They are of two types:

1. Primary storage devices:Before the data can be processed or a program can be run, it must be in the RAM. RAM is a volatile storage device meaning that when the computer is switched off, the data stored in it is lost or deleted. Hence, it is referred to as “primary storage”.

2. Secondary storage devices:The devices store data even after the computer is switched off. There are two types of secondary storage devices:a. Internal storage

Hard Disk: It is the most important storage media located inside the computer, which stores operating system and programs.

b. External storage Flash Memory (USB): A compact and easy-to-use device for transferring data

between computers. Optical Discs: An optical disc is a flat, round, portable metal disc with a plastic

coating. CDs, DVDs and Blu-ray Discs are the three types.

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SOFTWARE

Software, or programs, are instructions that tell the computer what to do and how to perform. It is divided into two types –System Software and Application Software.

System Software:

System software is the “background software” that comprises of programs that the computer uses to manage its task and devices. It serves as the interface between the user, the application software and the computer’s hardware.

There are four types of system software:

1. Operating System - It is a set of programs that coordinates all the activities among computer hardware devices. Examples: DOS, UNIX, Linus, Windows.

2. Utilities - A utility program allows a user to perform maintenance type tasks usually related to managing the computer, its devices, or its programs. Examples: Disc Defragmenter, backup and restore.

3. Device Drivers - These are specialized programs designed to allow particular input or output devices to communicate with the rest of the computer.

4. Language Translator - It converts the programming instructions into a language that computers understand.

Application Software:

They are programs used to perform some specific tasks. There are two types of Application Software:

1. Basic Application Software

These are the most commonly used programs such Internet browsers, word processor, spreadsheet and database management system.

a. Word Processor:It is used to write and format texts, insert tables and pictures.

Example: Microsoft Word

b. Spreadsheet: It is used for automatic calculations and creating charts. Example: Microsoft Excel

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c. Database: A structured set of data held in a computer. Example: Microsoft Access

d. Presentation: It is used to design slides for business and education. Example: Microsoft PowerPoint

e. Web Browser: It is defined as a program designed to enable users to access, retrieve and view documents and other resources on the Internet.

Example: Internet explorer

2. Specialized Application Software

These are the programs that are more focused on specific areas such as graphics, audio, video, multimedia, etc.

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File Extensions

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ExplanationExtensionIconNo.

Text Files

Plain text (notepad).txt1

Image Files

High Resolution.jpeg1

Medium Resolution.bmp2

Audio Files

Medium Quality- Size.mp31

Highest Quality- Size.wav2

Video Files

Highest Quality- Size.avi1

Low Quality – Size.wmv2

Executable Files

Like programs & Games.exe1

Compressed Files

Compressed by Windows.zip1

Compressed by WinZip.zip2

Compressed By Winrar.rar3

Microsoft Office Files

Microsoft Excel.xlsx1

Microsoft Power point.pptx2

Microsoft Access.accdb3

Microsoft Word.docx4

Introduction to Networks

What is a Network?

Benefits of Network

Classification of Network

NETWORKS

What is a Network ?

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It is a set of two or more computers connected to exchange information and share resources. Computers in a network can be set up in different ways to suit the need of users.

Main Parts of Network architecture:

- Client: It is a computer connected to the network and doesn’t have any control or privilege.

- Server: It is a computer that is responsible for controlling network resources.

- Resources : All files, printers and other hardware or software that the network users can

share.

Benefits of Networks

Two main benefits of computer networks are sharing of resources and exchanging information.

a. Sharing of resources Each computer in a network can share its resources with other computers over the network. For example one printer can be shared by the whole classroom.

b. Exchanging information Information such as study materials or presentation can be exchanged using emails over the internet.

Classification of Network

Computer Networks are classified into different types based on the following:

a. According to Network’s Transport Media (wired and wireless).

Wired Networks Wireless Networks

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Networks set up by using the transport medium, such as wires or cables. Example: Telephone lines.

Networks that use radio waves to transmit data. Examples: Bluetooth, satellites.

b. According to Network’s Geographical Media (LAN, MAN, WAN).

LAN MAN WAN

Local Area Network Metropolitan Area Network Wide Area NetworkThey are group of computers connected together in the same region or a limited area.

Also known as regional networks. It is used as links between offices located within a city.

A network that connects computers over wide geographical area either countrywide or worldwide.

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c. According to Network’s Management Media (Peer-to-Peer, Client-Server).

Peer-to-Peer Networks Client-Server Networks

Each PC is an equal participant on the network

One PC acts as the network controller

Access to the network is not centrally controlled

Network access and security are centrally controlled

Can operate on a basic PC operating system

Need a special operating system

Are generally simpler and lower cost Are generally more complex but give the user more control

Examples: Homes and small business. Examples: Universities, Banks.

FIELDS OF USING COMPUTERS IN OUR DAILY LIFE

- Computers in Education : Schools have computer labs that give students access to different program.

- Computers in Management : Computers increase company's performance in helping with collecting data and producing reports.

- Computers in Banks : ease the access for bank account through ATM.

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- Computers in Medical Fields : Computers help in organizing hospital files, also help in diagnosing diseases.

- Computers in Pharmacy : Computers help in tracking pharmacy's storage system and financial transactions.

- Computers in Industry Field :

Artificial Intelligence (AI): It is a part of Computer Science which aims to design intelligent computer systems to help in solving problems. One of these systems is Robot.

Robot: It is a machine created to simulate the human being activities in a fast and organized manner. Works that can be performed by the Robot are:

- Welding and plumbing- Handling dangerous materials- Defusing bombs

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CONCEPTS OF INFORMATION

Tele-working: Working from home and communicating with the office by phone, fax and computer is called Tele-working.

Advantages: 1. Reduced or zero commuting time2. Greater ability to focus on one task3. Flexible schedules4. Reduced office space requirements

Disadvantages: 1. Lack of human contact and competition2. Negative impact on teamwork3. No Self-discipline

E-Documents: Documents or files which are created by the computer applications, e.g. text documents, are referred to as e-documents.

Advantages: 1. Reduces the need for printed material (books)

which reduce the cost of printing. 2. Easy to share these files online. 3. Easy to browse or search for a file on the

computer. You can also use the search facility.

E-Commerce: Buying or selling via the internet usually using a credit card is called E-commerce. Payment method of E-commerce involves the use of Visa Card or Master Card.

The Advantages of the E-Commerce: 1. Global Market: you can buy from any country. 2. Open 24 hours a day. 3. Saves the client's time.

The Disadvantages of E-Commerce: 1. Risk in payment due to disclosure of credit card

number or bank account. 2. The risk of information leakage during transport, to

a hacker who might change the name of the buyer.

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SAFETY AND HEALTH

Right methods to deal with the computer:

1. The screen : Adjust the screen's brightness settings and position so that it is comfortable for your eyes.

2. The keyboard : It should be in front of you, and under your hand. It should not be in the same level or above your hand.

3. You should put the mouse over a mouse pad to save it from dust.

4. The chair and the table should be adjustable and in good height.

5. Use cleaning tools to clean up the computer. 6. Use original ink and good paper for printing.

Health Problems which are caused by the wrong use of computers:

1. Wrong distance from the computer screen can result in vision problems and eye inflammation.

2. Incorrect posture in front of the computer can cause neck pain, back pain and leg pain.3. Inappropriate height of the table and chair can lead to back problems.

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY PROTECTION:

Information Security: It is a science which focuses on how to provide protection to the information and to avoid misuse of data.

How to provide protection for Information System:

- Put password to log in for information.- Ensure that the source of e-mail attachments is genuine. - Adopt fingerprint, eye print or voice print systems in your Information system. - Create a backup copy of your work outside the system. - Use of encryption techniques. - Don’t leave your computer open when not in use. - Don’t leave your devices with any person.

Encryption: It is the altering of data so that it is not usable to prevent it from unauthorized users.

VIRUS

It is a software program which is written with the intention of causing damage in a computer system.

1. Virus spreading ways:

- Computer networks.- Copying and distribution of illegal software through the internet.

2. Virus protection ways:

- Don’t use flash or CDs from unreliable sources. - Use only registered software. - Never open e-mail attachments from unreliable source. - Install an anti-virus program and

always keep it up-to-date.

Anti-Virus: It is a software used for scanning and removing virus from the computer. The main purpose of anti-virus program is to protect computer from the viruses.

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