Electronic Data
Processing
MUNTAZIR KHAN
EDP
Electronic data processing, also known as EDP, is a frequently used term for
automatic information processing. It uses the computers to manipulate, record,
classification and to summarize data.
EPD meaning can be described as the processing of data using electronic means
such as computers, calculators, servers and other similar electronic equipment. A
computer is the best example of an electronic data processing machine.
Methods of Electronic Data Processing
(EDP)
There are various methods of data processing but there are some very popular methods when it
comes to “electronic data processing”. These methods are widely adopted in almost every
industry. Depending on the nature of requirement of data processing, some of the most popular
methods of electronic data processing are:
Time-sharing
Real-time processing
Online processing
Multiprocessing
Multitasking
Interactive processing
Batch processing
Distributed processing
Time-sharing
In this processing method, many nodes connected to a CPU accessed central
computer. A multi-user processing system controls the time allocation to each
user. Each user can allocate the time slice in a sequence of the Central Processing
Unit. The user should complete the task during the assigned time slice. If the user
cannot finish the task, then the user can complete the task during another allocated
time slice.
Real-Time Processing
Providing accurate and up-to-date information is the primary aim of real-time
processing. It is possible when the computer process the incoming data. It will
give the immediate response what may happen. It would affect the upcoming
events. Making a reservation for train and airline seats are the best example for
real-time processing. Other examples are: data streaming, radar systems, customer
service systems, and bank ATMs
Online Processing
In this processing method, the data is processed instantly it is received. A
communication link helps to connect the computer to the data input unit directly.
The data input may include a network terminal or online input device. Online
processing is mostly used for information research and recording.
Example of Online Processing is Bar code scanning, When you buy a shirt at
Target, the bar code gets scanned at the register. This shirt (source document) is
immediately updated in Target's inventory system as being sold. It is also updated
in cost and sales reports.
Multiprocessing
Multiprocessing is processing of more than one task that uses the different
processors at the same time of the same computer. It is possible in network servers
and mainframes. In this process, a computer may consist of more than one
independent CPU. This makes data processing much faster.
Multitasking
It is an essential feature of data processing. Working with different processors at
the same time is called multitasking. In this process, the various tasks share the
same processing resource. The operating systems in the multitasking process are
time-sharing systems.
interactive processing
Interactive processing takes place one transaction at a time. Once the transaction
is accepted, the database will be updated. For example, if you use an online
system to book a hotel room, you will fill in a web form, submit it and it will
come back to inform you of the room you have booked.
Batch Processing
Batch processing is a method of the process the organized data into divided
groups. In this method, the processing data can be divided as a group over a
required time period. The batch processing method allows the computer to
perform different priorities for an interaction. This method is very unique and
useful to process.
Distributed Processing
This method is usually used for remote workstations, since the remote
workstations are connected to a big workstation. The customers get the better
services from this process
Example are : telephone networks and cellular networks, World Wide Web