Introduction to

Computer Environment
UNIT 1
 Introduction to Computer
The literal meaning of computer is a device that can
calculate. However, modern computers can do a lot
more than calculate. Computer is an electronic
device that receives input, stores or processes the
input as per user instructions and provides output in
desired format.
Input-Process-Output Model
Computer input is called data and the output obtained after processing it, based on user’s
instructions is called information. Raw facts and figures which can be processed using arithmetic and
logical operations to obtain information are called data.

The processes that can be applied to data are of two types −

Arithmetic operations − Examples include calculations like addition, subtraction, differentials, square
root, etc.
Logical operations − Examples include comparison operations like greater than, less than, equal to,
opposite, etc.
The corresponding figure for an actual computer looks something like this −

The basic parts of a computer are as follows −

Input Unit − Devices like keyboard and mouse that are used to input data and instructions to the
computer are called input unit.
Output Unit − Devices like printer and visual display unit that are used to provide information to the
user in desired format are called output unit.
Control Unit − As the name suggests, this unit controls all the functions of the computer. All devices
or parts of computer interact through the control unit.
Arithmetic Logic Unit − This is the brain of the computer where all arithmetic operations and logical
operations take place.
Memory − All input data, instructions and data interim to the processes are stored in the memory.
Memory is of two types –primary memory and secondary memory. Primary memory resides within
the CPU whereas secondary memory is external to it.
 Characteristics of Computer
Speed − Typically, a computer can carry out 3-4 million instructions per second.
Accuracy − Computers exhibit a very high degree of accuracy. Errors that may occur are
usually due to inaccurate data, wrong instructions or bug in chips – all human errors.
Reliability − Computers can carry out same type of work repeatedly without throwing up
errors due to tiredness or boredom, which are very common among humans.
Versatility − Computers can carry out a wide range of work from data entry and ticket
booking to complex mathematical calculations and continuous astronomical observations. If
you can input the necessary data with correct instructions, computer will do the processing.
Storage Capacity − Computers can store a very large amount of data at a fraction of cost of
traditional storage of files. Also, data is safe from normal wear and tear associated with
paper.
Advantages of Using Computer
Computers can do the same task repetitively with same accuracy.
Computers do not get tired or bored.
Computers can take up routine tasks while releasing human resource for more
intelligent functions.
Disadvantages of Using Computer
Despite so many advantages, computers have some disadvantages of their own −
Computers have no intelligence; they follow the instructions blindly without
considering the outcome.
Regular electric supply is necessary to make computers work, which could prove
difficult everywhere especially in developing nations.
Booting

Starting a computer or a computer-embedded device is called booting. Booting takes

place in two steps −
Switching on power supply
Loading operating system into computer’s main memory
Keeping all applications in a state of readiness in case needed by the user
The first program or set of instructions that run when the computer is switched on is
called BIOS or Basic Input Output System. BIOS is a firmware, i.e. a piece of software
permanently programmed into the hardware.
If a system is already running but needs to be restarted, it is called rebooting.
Rebooting may be required if a software or hardware has been installed or system is
unusually slow.
There are two types of booting −
Cold Booting − When the system is started by switching on the power supply it is
called cold booting. The next step in cold booting is loading of BIOS.
Warm Booting − When the system is already running and needs to be restarted or
rebooted, it is called warm booting. Warm booting is faster than cold booting
because BIOS is not reloaded.
Anatomy of Computers
When breaking down the components of a computer, they are oftentimes
likened to the parts of the body. The processing unit may be compared to the
brain, with the access memory and hard drive are equated to short and long
term memory, while the motherboard is sometimes considered the central
nervous system of a computer. All these parts hidden beneath the casing work
much like organs, performing essential functions that allow a computer to
perform tasks.
1. Central Processing Unit (CPU)
The central processing unit is an essential part of the computer. It controls and executes
operations, interpreting input provided by the user and directing the output to complete a
requested task.
CPU's are distinguished by their computing speed, which is referred to as a clock rate.
Depending on the speed, this is measured in hertz (Hz) or gigahertz (GHz) per second. Tasks like
watching high-definition movies, simultaneous online gaming and streaming, manipulating
graphics or other large programs generally require processors with higher speeds.
2. Random Access Memory (RAM)
Random access memory is just like it sounds: a computer's memory. More specifically, it
stores the data and machine code currently being used. This allows the information to be
read or written quickly regardless of where the physical location of the data is inside the
complete memory.
The more RAM a computer has, the better it can manage several programs at once. It isn't
difficult to add more memory after an initial build, but investing in more RAM is considered
just as vital, if not more, than a good processor. A good starting point is at least 512
megabytes.
3. Hard Drive
While RAM could be regarded as short term memory, a hard drive is long term
storage. It is a high-capacity, self-contained storage device with the ability to both
store and recall data. It includes one or more hard disk inside a sealed unit, each of
which can hold up to 12 terabytes of information.
All data created on the computer - from work files to installed programs - are stored
on the hard drive. IBM compatible computers often labeled alphabetically, starting
at "C:", with A and B reserved for removable media. Hard drives can also be external
as well and are often used for backing up computer data or storing exceptionally
large files.
4. Motherboard
The motherboard is the main printed circuit board in a computer. It holds and
allows communication between essential electrical components of a system,
such as the CPU and the memory, and provides input connectors. Without it,
nothing else would work.
Selection of a motherboard depends mostly on size restrictions and the types of
components that will be included. It is suggested that at least two USB ports be
included, but more may be required depending on which attachments will be
used internally and externally and how they connect.
5. Video, Graphics & Sound Card
Most motherboards come with a integrated processors for these functions. If
higher performance is required for graphics or audio, like for running games or
multimedia programs, a dedicated processing unit comes highly recommended.
They can also be upgraded over time fairly easily, with laptops being the
exception, by plugging into the motherboard.
Keyboard & Monitor
A keyboard and monitor are required for inputting commands and receiving
output. There is a large variety of monitors available, but the specs required are
determined along the same lines as the graphics card. If large programs with
high graphics are frequently used, a monitor to compliment that will make the
dedicated processor worth the investment. Keyboards offer less of a variety,
though there are some styles that provide specialized tools or additional buttons
for various uses.
Hardware vs Software
Before we talk about different types of computers, let's talk about two things all
computers have in common: hardware and software.
Hardware is any part of your computer that has a physical structure, such as the
keyboard or mouse. It also includes all of the computer's internal parts, which you can
see in the image below.
Software is any set of instructions that tells the hardware what to do and how to do it.
Examples of software include web browsers, games, and word processors. Below, you
can see an image of Microsoft PowerPoint, which is used to create presentations.
Everything you do on your computer will rely on both hardware and software. For
example, right now you may be viewing this lesson in a web browser (software) and
using your mouse (hardware) to click from page to page. As you learn about different
types of computers, ask yourself about the differences in their hardware. As you
progress through this tutorial, you'll see that different types of computers also often
use different types of software.
Different types of computers?
When most people hear the word computer, they think of a personal
computer such as a desktop or laptop. However, computers come in many
shapes and sizes, and they perform many different functions in our daily lives.
When you withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a
calculator, you're using a type of computer.
Desktop computers
Many people use desktop computers at work, home, and school. Desktop
computers are designed to be placed on a desk, and they're typically made up of
a few different parts, including the computer case, monitor, keyboard,
and mouse.
Cont.
Laptop computers
The second type of computer you may be familiar
with is a laptop computer, commonly called a
laptop. Laptops are battery-powered computers
that are more portable than desktops, allowing you
to use them almost anywhere.
Tablet computers
Tablet computers—or tablets—are handheld
computers that are even more portable than
laptops. Instead of a keyboard and mouse, tablets
use a touch-sensitive screen for typing and
navigation. The iPad is an example of a tablet.
Cont.
Servers
A server is a computer that serves up information to other computers on a
network. For example, whenever you use the Internet, you're looking at
something that's stored on a server. Many businesses also use local file
servers to store and share files internally.
Other types of computers
Many of today's electronics are basically specialized computers, though we don't always
think of them that way. Here are a few common examples.
• Smartphones: Many cell phones can do a lot of things computers can do, including
browsing the Internet and playing games. They are often called smartphones.
• Wearable's: Wearable technology is a general term for a group of devices—
including fitness trackers and smart watches—that are designed to be worn throughout
the day. These devices are often called wearable's for short.
• Game consoles: A game console is a specialized type of computer that is used for
playing video games on your TV.
• TVs: Many TVs now include applications—or apps—that let you access various types of
online content. For example, you can stream video from the Internet directly onto your
TV.
PCs and Macs
Personal computers come in two main styles: PC and Mac. Both are fully functional, but
they have a different look and feel, and many people prefer one or the other.
PCs
This type of computer began with the original IBM PC that was introduced in 1981.
Other companies began creating similar computers, which were called IBM PC
Compatible (often shortened to PC). Today, this is the most common type of personal
computer, and it typically includes the Microsoft Windows operating system.
Macs
The Macintosh computer was introduced in 1984, and it was the first widely sold
personal computer with a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey). All Macs
are made by one company (Apple), and they almost always use the Mac OS X operating system.
Basic Parts of a computer
The Computer system has mainly 3 parts that is :-
1) Input Unit
2) central processing unit (CPU)
3) Output Unit
Input Unit
An Input Unit accept the input from the outside world. There are many kinds of
input devices like Keyboard , Mouse etc.
There are mainly 3 functions of input device are as follows:-
• It accepts (or reads) instructions and data from outside world.
• It converts these instructions and data in computer acceptable form.
• It supplies the converted instructions and data to the computer system for
further processing.
Some Input devices are
Keyboard
The keyboard is one of the main ways to communicate with a computer. There are
many different types of keyboards, but most are very similar and allow you to
accomplish the same basic tasks.
Mouse
The mouse is another important tool for communicating with computers. Commonly
known as a pointing device, it lets you point to objects on the screen, click on them,
and move them.
There are two main mouse types: optical and mechanical. The optical mouse uses an
electronic eye to detect movement and is easier to clean. The mechanical mouse uses a
rolling ball to detect movement and requires regular cleaning to work properly.
Mouse alternatives
There are other devices that can do the same thing
as a mouse. Many people find them easier to use,
and they also require less desk space than a
traditional mouse. The most common mouse
alternatives are below.
Trackball: A trackball has a ball that can rotate
freely. Instead of moving the device like a mouse,
you can roll the ball with your thumb to move the
pointer.
Touchpad: A touchpad—also called a track pad—is a
touch-sensitive pad that lets you control the pointer
by making a drawing motion with your finger.
Touchpads are common on laptop computers.
Central Processing Unit
It is responsible for processing all the Instruction which is given to computer
system or PC. The CPU is known as the heart /Brain of a computer because
without the necessary action taken by the CPU the user cannot get the desired
output.
The Central processing unit (CPU) again consists of 3 parts:-
• ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
• CU (Control Unit )
• Memory Unit
ALU:- It performs simple arithmetic operation such as +,-, *, / and logical
operation such as >, <, =<, <= etc.
CU :- It manages the various components of the computer. It reads instructions
from memory and interpretation and changes in a series of signals to activate
other parts of the computer. It controls and co-ordinate the input output
memory and all other units.
Memory Unit : - Memory is used to store data and instructions before and after
processing. There are 2 types of memory unit called Primary memory or internal
memory and Secondary memory.
There are many functions of CPU that is as follows:-
• It controls all the parts of software and data flow of computer.
• It performs all operations.
• It accepts data from input device.
• It sends information to output device.
• Executing programs stored in memory.
• It stores data either temporarily or permanent basis.
• It performs arithmetical and logical operations.
CPU device: Computer case
The computer case is the metal and plastic box that contains
the main components of the computer, including the
motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), and power
supply. The front of the case usually has an On/Off
button and one or more optical drives.
Computer cases come in different shapes and sizes. A desktop
case lies flat on a desk, and the monitor usually sits on top of
it. A tower case is tall and sits next to the monitor or on the
floor. All-in-one computers come with the internal
components built into the monitor, which eliminates the need
for a separate case.
Memory devices
There are two different types of storage devices:
Primary storage devices: Generally smaller in size, these are designed to hold data
temporarily and are internal to the computer. They have the fastest data access speed,
and include RAM and cache memory.
Secondary storage devices: These usually have large storage capacity, and they store
data permanently. They can be either internal or external to the computer, and they
include
Hard Disk,
Optical Disk (CD/DVD)
USB (Pen-drive/ External Hard disk).
Output Unit
An Output Unit accept the output from the cpu. There are many kinds of output
devices like Monitor, Printer etc.
There are mainly 3 functions of output device are as follows:-
• It accepts the results produced by the computer, which are in coded form and
hence, cannot be easily understood by us.
• It converts these coded results to human acceptable (readable) form.
• It supplies the converted results to outside world.
Output Devices
An output device is any peripheral that receives data from a computer, usually
for display, projection, or physical reproduction.
Monitor
The monitor works with a video card, located inside the computer case, to
display images and text on the screen. Most monitors have control buttons that
allow you to change your monitor's display settings, and some monitors also
have built-in speakers.
Newer monitors usually have LCD (liquid crystal display) or LED (light-emitting
diode) displays. These can be made very thin, and they are often called flat-
panel displays. Older monitors use CRT (cathode ray tube) displays. CRT
monitors are much larger and heavier, and they take up more desk space.
Printer – generates a hard copy version of processed data such as documents and
photographs. The computer transmits the image data to the printer, which then physically
recreates the image, usually on paper
Speakers – are attached to computers for the output of sound. Sound cards are required in the
computer for speakers to function. Speakers range from simple, two-speaker output devices to
surround-sound multi-channel units.
Headset – is a combination of speakers and microphone. It is mostly used by gamers and is also
great tool for communicating with family and friends over the internet using a VOIP software.
Projector – is a display device that projects a computer-created image. The computer transmits
the image data to its video card, which then sends the video image to the projector. It is usually
used for presentations or for viewing videos.
Plotter – generates a hard copy of a digitally depicted design. The design is sent to the plotter
through a graphics card and forms the design using a pen. It is generally used with engineering
applications. It basically draws an image using a series of straight lines.
Operating System
An operating system is the most important software that runs on a computer. It
manages the computer's memory and processes, as well as all of
its software and hardware. It also allows you to communicate with the computer
without knowing how to speak the computer's language. Without an operating system,
a computer is useless.
The operating system's job
Your computer's operating system (OS) manages all of the software and hardware on
the computer. Most of the time, there are several different computer programs running
at the same time, and they all need to access your computer's central processing unit
(CPU), memory, and storage. The operating system coordinates all of this to make sure
each program gets what it needs.
Types of operating systems
Operating systems usually come pre-loaded on any computer you buy. Most people use
the operating system that comes with their computer, but it's possible to upgrade or
even change operating systems. The three most common operating systems for
personal computers are Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux.
Modern operating systems use a graphical user interface, or GUI (pronounced gooey).
A GUI lets you use your mouse to click icons, buttons, and menus, and everything is
clearly displayed on the screen using a combination of graphics and text.
Each operating system's GUI has a different look and feel, so if you switch to a different
operating system it may seem unfamiliar at first. However, modern operating systems
are designed to be easy to use, and most of the basic principles are the same.
Microsoft Windows
Microsoft created the Windows operating system in the mid-1980s. Over the years,
there have been many different versions of Windows, but the most recent ones
are Windows 10 (released in 2015), Windows 8 (2012), Windows 7 (2009),
and Windows Vista (2007). Windows comes pre-loaded on most new PCs, which helps
to make it the most popular operating system in the world.
Mac OS X
Mac OS is a line of operating systems created by Apple. It comes preloaded on all new
Macintosh computers, or Macs. All of the recent versions are known as OS
X (pronounced O-S Ten), and the specific versions include El Capitan (released in
2015),Yosemite (2014), Mavericks (2013), Mountain Lion (2012), and Lion (2011).
According to Stat Counter Global Stats, Mac OS X users account for less than 10% of
global operating systems—much lower than the percentage of Windows users (more
than 80%). One reason for this is that Apple computers tend to be more expensive.
However, many people do prefer the look and feel of Mac OS X over Windows.
Cont.
Linux
Linux (pronounced LINN-ux) is a family of open-source operating systems, which
means they can be modified and distributed by anyone around the world. This is
different from proprietary software like Windows, which can only be modified
by the company that owns it. The advantages of Linux are that it is free, and
there are many different distributions—or versions—you can choose from.
According to Stat Counter Global Stats, Linux users account for less than 2% of
global operating systems. However, most servers run Linux because it's relatively
easy to customize.
Operating systems for mobile devices
The operating systems we've been talking about so far were designed to run on desktop
and laptop computers. Mobile devices such as phones, tablet computers, and MP3
players are different from desktop and laptop computers, so they run operating systems
that are designed specifically for mobile devices. Examples of mobile operating systems
include Apple iOS and Google Android. In the screenshot below, you can see iOS
running on an iPad.
Operating systems for mobile devices generally aren't as fully featured as those made
for desktop and laptop computers, and they aren't able to run all of the same software.
However, you can still do a lot of things with them, like watch movies, browse the Web,
manage your calendar, and play games.
Introduction to Microsoft Office
Definition - What does Microsoft Office mean?
Microsoft Office is a suite of desktop productivity applications that is designed
specifically to be used for office or business use. It is a proprietary product of
Microsoft Corporation and was first released in 1990. Microsoft Office is
available in 35 different languages and is supported by Windows, Mac and most
Linux variants. It mainly consists of Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access, OneNote,
Outlook and Publisher applications.
Microsoft Applications
Microsoft Office was primarily created to automate the manual office work with
a collection of purpose-built applications.
Each of the applications in Microsoft Office serves as specific knowledge or
office domain such as:
Microsoft Word: Helps users in creating text documents.
Microsoft Excel: Creates simple to complex data/numerical spreadsheets.
Microsoft PowerPoint: Stand-alone application for creating professional
multimedia presentations.
Microsoft Access: Database management application.
Microsoft OneNote: Alternate to a paper notebook, it enables an user to neatly
organize their notes.
Microsoft Publisher: Introductory application for creating and publishing
marketing materials.
Besides desktop applications, Microsoft Office is available to use online or from
cloud under a lighter (Office Web Apps) and full (Office 365) version. As of 2013,
Microsoft Office 2013 is the latest version, available in 4 different variants
including Office Home Student 2013, Office Home Business 2013 and Office
Professional 2 and the online/cloud Office 365 Home Premium.
What are the uses Microsoft Word
• Microsoft word is word processing software you can after buying complete
packages of Microsoft Office suite.
• Microsoft Word helps in manage daily life official works. Microsoft Word is
most productive application in any computer. In which students can create
school projects and professional can use to create workplace documents.
• We can make tables, graphs and can format or edit the text.
• We can add pictures, some word art and can modify them.
• You can use Microsoft word to collaborate with your team while working on
the same project and document. For that, you need to use Microsoft word
online. Microsoft word is now updated to cloud base application in which the
cost of official works is reduced.
What Are the Uses of Excel
Microsoft Excel is a spreadsheet program. That means it's used to create grids of text,
numbers and formulas specifying calculations. That's extremely valuable for many
businesses, which use it to record expenditures and income, plan budgets, chart data
and succinctly present fiscal results.
It can be programmed to pull in data from external sources such as stock market feeds,
automatically running the data through formula such as financial models to update such
information in real time. Like Microsoft Word, Excel has become a de facto standard in
the business world, with Excel spreadsheets frequently emailed and otherwise shared
to exchange data and perform various calculations.
Excel also contains fairly powerful programming capabilities for those who wish to use
them that can be used to develop relatively sophisticated financial and scientific
computation capabilities.
Use of MS Power Point
• PowerPoint's headline feature collects slides of text into a slideshow used for
presentations and public speaking.
• A PowerPoint presentation adds nothing to a speech, while potentially providing a
distraction from the speaker.
• Rather than trying to cram an entire speech into bullet points, use the slideshow as an
outline, keeping both the audience and yourself on track, but not stealing the stage
with crowded, fast-changing slides. A uses images and colors to illustrate the points of
the speech.
• PowerPoint can also play presentations on its own without an active speaker. Set up
PowerPoint on an unattended computer at an event by setting transition times in
advance.
Uses of MS Access
• Ideal for individual users and smaller teams
• Easier than client-server database to understand and use
• Import and export to other Microsoft Office and other applications
• Ready templates for regular users to create and publish data
• Allows building and publishing Web databases effortlessly
• A user friendly feature ‘Tell Me’ for assistance
• Allows developers to create custom solutions using VBA code
• Hide/Show option for Ribbon
• Allows users to Report View Eliminates Extra Reports
• Allows output Reports in PDF format