Computer Basics
Are you new to using the computer? Do you want to learn about desktops and laptops? Wish you knew more about how your computer does its job? Computer Basics will introduce you to all the basic concepts that you need to know.
A computer is an electronic device that manipulates
information, or "data." It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You can use a computer to type documents, send email, and surf the Internet. You can also use it to handle spreadsheets, accounting, database management, presentations,
games, and more Whether you realize it or not, computers play an important role in our lives. When you withdraw cash from an ATM, scan groceries at the store, or use a calculator, you're using a type of computer
For beginning computer users, the computer aisles at an electronics store can be quite a mystery, not to mention overwhelming. However, computers really aren't that mysterious. All types of computers consist of two basic parts:
- 1 - Hardware is any part of your computer that has a
physical structure, such as the computer monitor or
keyboard.
- 2 - Software is any set of instructions that
tells the hardware what to do. It is what guides the hardware and tells it how
to accomplish each task. Some examples of software are web browsers, games, and
word processors.
Anything you buy for your computer can be classified as either hardware or software. Once you learn more about these items, computers
are actually very straightforward.
QUICK FACT
The first electronic computer, the Electronic Numerical
Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), was developed in 1946. It measured 18 feet by 80 feet and weighed 30 tons.
physical structure, such as the computer monitor or
keyboard.
tells the hardware what to do. It is what guides the hardware and tells it how
to accomplish each task. Some examples of software are web browsers, games, and
word processors.
Challenge!
Think about the activities you perform or want to perform
using a computer (email, online shopping, etc.). Think about all the computers
that are necessary for you to complete your normal activities.
Is it a computer that controls the stoplights so you can drive to work?
How did the cashier scan and calculate your grocery items?
Does the coffee store you visit use a computer to order their inventory?
How does the department store manage their merchandise?
Think about the activities you perform or want to perform
using a computer (email, online shopping, etc.). Think about all the computers
that are necessary for you to complete your normal activities.
Is it a computer that controls the stoplights so you can drive to work?
How did the cashier scan and calculate your grocery items?
Does the coffee store you visit use a computer to order their inventory?
How does the department store manage their merchandise?