Basics of Computer & Operation

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Computer – Data and Information

The word ’Computer’ comes from the word ‘compute’ which means to calculate. So, a computer is normally considered to be a calculating device that can speedily perform arithmetic and logical operations.
“The computer is an electronic device designed to accept and store input data, manipulate it and output results under the direction of detailed, step-by-step stored programs and instructions.”

Data

It denotes raw facts and figures such as numbers, words, amount & quantity that can be processed, manipulated or produced by the computer. For example: Rahul, 17, XII A. This is raw data.

Information

It is a meaningful and arranged form of data. Raw data doesn’t make any sense on its own. So, it has to be arranged in a meaningful manner such that it makes sense. For example: Information that makes sense can be Rahul aged 17 years is in class XII A.

Computer System

The components of the Computer System are:-
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Firmware
4. Liveware
COMPUTER SYSTEM = HARDWARE + SOFTWARE+ USER
• Hardware = Internal Devices + Peripheral Devices
All physical parts of the computer (or everything that we can touch) are known as
Hardware.
• Software = Programs
Software gives “intelligence” to the computer.
• USER = Person, who operates computer.

Hardware

All the physical and tangible components of Computer are called Hardware. In other words all the components that we can touch come under the category of Hardware. Example: Keyboard, Mouse.
Software
Software is a set of instructions or a program that enables a hardware to run. Without the use of software a hardware cannot work. Example: Windows 8, Photoshop, MS Office etc.

Firmware

Instructions written/embedded on a hardware are known as firmware e.g., BIOS instruction on ROM chip are called Firmware.

Liveware

Persons or the users, using Computers in day to day activity are known as liveware.

 Functions of Computer

A computer system can perform four basic operation. It works on the principle of Input – Process – Output Cycle (IPO Cycle).
  1. Accepts data –          Input
  2. Processes data –      Processing
  3. Produces output –  Output
  4. Stores results –        Storage

Input

Input is the raw information entered into a computer from the input devices. It is the collection of letters, numbers, images etc.

Process

Performing basic arithmetic or logical operations on data in order to get the input data converted into required useful information is known as processing.

Output

Output is the processed data given by computer after data processing. Output is also called as result.

Storing

Inputted data can be saved so that it is available for initial or additional processing as & when required. This is called storing.

Characteristics of Computers

  1. Speed -> They are very fast.
  2. Accuracy -> The accuracy of computer is quite high.
  3. Diligence -> Unlike human beings, computers are persistent and are not afflicted by tiredness, monotony, lack of concentration etc.
  4. Reliability -> Computers produce reliable and precise results. Human cannot work with such precision.
  5. Versatility -> Computers can work with different types of data like sound, graphics, audio etc.
  6. Memory -> Computers can store large amounts of data for years till a hardware failure occurs.

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