Unit 1 - Fundamentals of Computer
1. Components of a Computer System
- Hardware: Physical parts like monitor, CPU, keyboard, mouse, printer.
- Software: Programs and applications that run on a computer.
- Data: Raw facts and figures given as input.
- User: Person who operates the computer.
- Procedure: Steps to use a computer properly.
2. Applications of Computers
- Business: Billing, payroll, accounting.
- Education: Online classes, digital learning, project work.
- Banking: ATMs, online banking, record-keeping.
- Healthcare: Patient records, diagnostics, online booking.
- Communication: Emails, video calls, messaging.
- Entertainment: Movies, music, games, video editing.
- Government: Public records, tax filing, ID systems.
- Science: Space research, weather forecasting, data analysis.
3. Advantages and Disadvantages of Computers
- Advantages:
- Speed: Fast processing of data.
- Accuracy: Reduces errors.
- Storage: Huge data in small space.
- Automation: Performs repeated tasks easily.
- Multitasking: Runs many tasks together.
- Communication: Instant sharing of information.
- Disadvantages:
- Health issues: Eye strain, back pain.
- Cybercrime: Hacking, data theft.
- Unemployment: Replacing manual jobs.
- Dependency: Over-reliance on computers.
- Security risks: Data can be lost or hacked.
- E-waste: Disposal harms environment.
4. Software and Its Types
- System Software: Controls hardware and system operations (e.g., OS, device drivers, utilities).
- Application Software: Performs specific tasks (e.g., MS Word, Excel, Tally, browsers).
- Operating System (OS): Manages files, memory, devices (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).
- Mobile OS: Designed for smartphones (e.g., Android, iOS).
- Free & Open Source Software: Free to use and modify (e.g., Linux, LibreOffice, Firefox).