Introduction To Computer Technology: Department of Architecture Faculty of Engineering Universitas Hasanuddin
Introduction To Computer Technology: Department of Architecture Faculty of Engineering Universitas Hasanuddin
Introduction to Computer
Technology
Department of Architecture
Faculty of Engineering
Universitas Hasanuddin
What is Computer?
In 1640, the term ‘Computer’ was initially referred to as ‘one who calculates’.
Later in 1897, it was called the ‘Calculating Machine’. In 1945, it was indicated
as ‘programmable digital electronic computer’ which is now called a ‘computer’.
What is Computer definition? “A computer is a programmable electronic
machine designed to take input, perform prescribed arithmetic and logical
operations at fast speeds, and provide the output of these operations.”
The term ‘COMPUTER’ is an acronym for ‘Common Operating Machine
Purposely Used for Technological and Educational Research’.
Main Component of Computer System
Computer System consists three main components i.e. Hardware,
Software and Brainware
Hardware
Hardware or what we call hardware is a component of a computer
system that has a physical form and can be touched.
Hardware in a computer system also consists of several component
units, namely:
Central Processing Unit (CPU).
Input Unit.
Output Unit.
CPU (Central Processing Unit)
Central Processing Unit (CPU) consists of the following
features −
CPU is considered as the brain of the computer.
CPU performs all types of data processing operations.
It stores data, intermediate results, and instructions
(program).
It controls the operation of all parts of the computer.
CPU itself has following three components:
Memory or Storage Unit
Control Unit
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
Memory or Storage Unit
This unit can store instructions, data, and intermediate results. This unit
supplies information to other units of the computer when needed. It is also
known as internal storage unit or the main memory or the primary storage or
Random Access Memory (RAM).
Its size affects speed, power, and capability. Primary memory and secondary
memory are two types of memories in the computer. Functions of the
memory unit are −
It stores all the data and the instructions required for processing.
It stores intermediate results of processing.
It stores the final results of processing before these results are released to
an output device.
All inputs and outputs are transmitted through the main memory.
Control Unit
This unit controls the operations of all parts of the computer but does not
carry out any actual data processing operations.
Functions of this unit are:
It is responsible for controlling the transfer of data and instructions
among other units of a computer.
It manages and coordinates all the units of the computer.
It obtains the instructions from the memory, interprets them, and directs
the operation of the computer.
It communicates with Input/Output devices for transfer of data or results
from storage.
It does not process or store data.
ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)
Output Unit. Berfungsi untuk menampilkan data/informasi yang diolah/diproses oleh sistem
komputer.
Beberapa peralatan output komputer adalah: Monitor, Printer, Speaker, Headphone, Projector,
Toucscreen, Plotter, GPS, dll.
Software
Here, we have explained the most important uses of the computer system:
can store important data.
can communicate with people around the world.
used for the educational system.
used for office works like data entry, support, development, etc.
used in banking, finance, and marketing.
used in government sectors.
used in sports.
used for Press and publishing.
used for entertainment.
Classification of Computer
According to usage and functionalities, computers can be classified as:
Analog Computer – The computers used to process analog data (continuously varying
data) are called ‘Analog Computers’. Analog computers are the most complicated
machines for computation and process control. Examples of continuous data are
pressure, temperature, voltage, weight, and speed, etc.
Digital Computer – Digital computers are personal computers. These are the widely
used computers. These are commonly used for processing the data with a number using
digits by utilizing the binary number system. These computers are intended to perform
arithmetic and logical operations at a very high rate.
Hybrid Computer – Hybrid computers are the combination of analog computers and
digital computers. These are as fast as analog computers and include memory and
precision as digital computers.
Types of Computer
Supercomputer – Supercomputers are large and require huge space for the installation.
They are the fastest and most expensive computers compared to others. They are used for
performing huge complex calculations.
Mainframe Computer – Mainframe Computers are smaller than supercomputers, still, they
comparatively huge. These are not as fast as supercomputers. These are expensive as well
as take huge space for the entire setup. Mainframe computers can store huge amounts of
data and they are capable to handle large calculations. These computers are usually found
in banks and educational sectors.
Microcomputer – Microcomputers are inexpensive and support multi-user platform. These
types of computers are mostly used by small organizations. Microcomputers are slower
compared to supercomputers and mainframe computers. Microcomputers are called
Personal Computer (PC).
Mini Computer – Mini computers are cheaper and easy to carry. Notebook and Tablet are
examples of minicomputers.
Advantages of Computer