Lecture Note: Introduction to Computer Basics LIS 118

Week 1-2: Introduction to Computers

Learning Objectives:
1. Definition of a Computer:
o A computer is an electronic device capable of receiving data,
processing it according to instructions, and providing output.
o Example: Using a computer to type a document or calculate sums
in a spreadsheet.
2. History and Development:
o Early Mechanical Devices:
 Abacus (2000 BCE "Before Common Era."): The ancient
Romans developed an Abacus the first tools used for
calculations.
 Pascaline (1642): Blaise Pascal (a French mathematical
genius at the age of 19) developed this mechanical calculator
for addition and subtraction.
 Jacquard Loom (1801): The Jacquard machine invented by
Joseph Jacquard used punched cards to control weaving
patterns, influencing future computing.
o Generations of Computer:
 First Generation (1940-1956): Vacuum tubes for circuitry,
large size, high heat output, and consumed a lot pf power.
Example: ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and
Computer).
 Second Generation (1956-1963): Replaced vacuum tubes
with transistors, making computers smaller and faster.
Example: IBM 1401.
 Third Generation (1964-1971): Used integrated circuits,
reducing size and cost while increasing reliability. Example:
IBM System/360.
 Fourth Generation (1971-Present): Introduced
microprocessors, allowing for personal computers (PCs).
Example: Apple II, IBM PC.
 Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond): Focus on
artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and quantum computing.
Examples: Voice assistants like Siri and quantum computers
like IBM Q System.
3. Classification of Computers:
o By Type:
 Analog: Handles continuous data (e.g., thermometers).
 Digital: Processes discrete data (e.g., laptops).
  Hybrid: Combines analog and digital (e.g., medical imaging
systems).
o By Purpose:
 General-purpose: Used for multiple tasks (e.g., PCs).
 Special-purpose: Designed for specific tasks (e.g., ATMs).
o By Size:
 Microcomputers, Minicomputers, Mainframes,
Supercomputers.

Week 3-4: Parts of a Computer and Their Uses

Learning Objectives:
1. Major Parts of a Computer:
o Monitor: Displays output visually, acting as the interface for users.
 Example: Viewing a video or document.
o CPU: The "brain" of the computer that executes instructions.
 Example: Running a program like Microsoft Word.
o Keyboard: Inputs text and commands into the system.
 Example: Typing an email or a search query.
o Mouse: Navigates and selects items on the screen.
 Example: Clicking on icons or selecting text.
2. Uses:
o Monitor: Used for visual tasks like reading, editing, or watching
content.
o CPU: Essential for processing tasks like calculations or running
software.
o Keyboard: Primary input device for writing and commands.
o Mouse: Simplifies navigation in graphical interfaces.

Week 5-8: Computer Operating Systems

Learning Objectives:
1. Definition:
o An operating system (OS) is software that manages hardware
resources and provides services for application programs.
2. Examples of OS Concepts:
o Apple (macOS): Known for user-friendly design and strong
security.
o UNIX: Powerful, multiuser, commonly used in servers.
o DOS: Text-based, requires typed commands.
o Windows: Graphical interface, widely used globally.
3. Description of OS:
o Apple: Supports creative applications like Final Cut Pro.
o UNIX: Used in academic and professional environments.
o DOS: Basic and lightweight for specific tasks.
 o Windows: Versatile for both personal and professional use.
4. Comparison:
o Windows offers user-friendliness, while UNIX excels in stability.
o DOS is simple but lacks advanced features compared to macOS.
5. Advantages of Windows OS:
o Example: Installing new software with minimal technical
knowledge.

Week 9-12: Input, Output, and Storage Devices

Learning Objectives:
1. Devices:
o Input Devices: Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone.
 Example: Using a scanner to digitize documents.
o Output Devices: Monitor, Printer, Speakers.
 Example: Printing a document or displaying visuals.
o Storage Devices: Hard Drives, USB Drives, Cloud Storage.
 Example: Saving files on a USB drive for portability.
2. Demonstrations:
o Show how to use devices like a USB drive for storing files.
3. File and Directory Operations:
o Formatting a Diskette: Prepares it for data storage.
 Example: Formatting a USB drive to remove all files.
o Directory Management: Create, change, delete directories.
 Example: Organizing files into folders like "Assignments."
o File Management: Create, edit, copy files.
 Example: Copying a document to another folder.

Week 13-15: Running Applications

Learning Objectives:
1. Running Applications:
o Start applications from the menu or command line.
 Example: Opening a browser to access the internet.
2. Using Software:
o MS-DOS: Run programs using commands like dir or start.
 Example: Starting a text editor like Notepad via DOS.
o Windows: Navigate through menus for user-friendly software
access.
 Example: Running Word or Excel from the Start menu.
3. Multitasking:
o Demonstrate running and switching between multiple programs.
 Example: Editing a document while playing music.