1 Welcome to Computing FundamentalsThe slide has been developed for you to use your in your class If you would like, you can interact with your students by toggling between your slide and giving an example from your computer Lastly, please do not modify, unless you have prior approval from Certiport Note: there are 3 files of Computing Fundamentals – 1 of 3

2 Computing FundamentalsLesson One—Computer Hardware INSTRUCTOR NOTES: 22101 2

3 Categories of ComputersMainframe Minicomputer Microcomputer INSTRUCTOR NOTES: There are several categories of computer: Mainframe, Minicomputer, and Microcomputer. The one you choose will be determined by how you plan to use the system. 11101

4 Mainframes Mainframe This is the oldest and largest kind of computer, primarily used for storing large amounts of data. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: These are computers used mainly by large corporations for bulk data processing such as census, consumer statistics, and financial transaction processing. Can you think of examples of corporations that might use mainframes? 11101

5 Supercomputers A supercomputer is a mainframe computer that has been enhanced for speed and processing power. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: These are typically one-of-a-kind custom-designed computers because of their speed, processing power, and cost. Cray Supercomputer 11101

6 Minicomputers MinicomputerA minicomputer is a mid-range computer that can be used by more than one user at the same time. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: This is an intermediate-sized computer that lies between a mainframe and a microcomputer and is usually used by small businesses. 11101

7 Microcomputers Desktop Laptop INSTRUCTOR NOTES:This is the most common computer used by individuals and small businesses. It is usually referred to as a PC (Personal Computer) because it is used by one person at a time. The laptop is popular because of its portability. Desktop Laptop 11101

8 Types of MicrocomputersINSTRUCTOR NOTES: The two types of microcomputers are PCs and Macs. PCs run the Windows operating system and are compatible with most of the available hardware and software in the market. Macs (manufactured by Apple) use a graphical user interface (icons, a desktop, etc.) and are typically better for jobs requiring advanced graphics and animation. The disadvantage of Macs is that not all software packages can be used on them. Personal Computer Macintosh Computer 11102

9 Desktop Computers The desktop computer was designed to sit on a desk.INSTRUCTOR NOTES: The desktop sits on a desk and is composed of a monitor, systems unit (which houses the CPU or Central Processing Unit and storage components), keyboard, and mouse. Desktop computers are typically used in small businesses, schools, and homes because they can process information quickly, are cost effective, and can easily be upgraded. 11101

10 Laptops A portable laptop computer has a systems unit, monitor, keyboard, and pointing device all combined in one unit. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A laptop computer is popular because of its portability. Business professionals choose a laptop, especially when traveling, because they can work anywhere they go, whether it is in an airport or a hotel. This portability helps them be more productive. 11102

11 Tablet Computers A tablet PC is a wireless personal computer that allows users to take notes in natural handwriting by using a stylus or digital pen on a touch screen. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A Tablet PC allows the user to operate the computer with a stylus or digital pen, or a fingertip, instead of a keyboard or mouse. A Tablet PC might be used by a supervisor to make notes while observing employees. 11102

12 PDAs & Handheld PCs A handheld personal digital assistant (or PDA) combines some laptop features within a device the size of a cell phone. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A PDA is a handheld device that combines computing, telephone/fax, Internet, and networking features. It can function as a cell phone as well as a Web browser. Most PDAs also include additional features which can be downloaded to create documents, listen to music, take pictures or video, send text messages, send , locate businesses, serve as a navigator, take notes, etc. Some PDAs also use voice recognition technologies. 11102

13 Other Computing DevicesElectronic devices such as camcorders and cell phones contain microprocessors, known as computer chips. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: The new generation of cell phones and camcorders contain microprocessors which allow them to interface with computers. Other products that contain microprocessors are watches, calculators, and interactive educational toys. 11103

14 The Central Processing UnitThe central processing unit (CPU), also known as the microprocessor, is the most important component inside a computer. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: The CPU is the “brain” of the computer and is located on the motherboard. It executes a sequence of stored instructions called a program. Microprocessor chips can be found in a variety of equipment used in day-to-day activities, such as: diagnosing problems with a car engine, ATMs, GPS, robotics, heart monitoring equipment, microwaves, and other home appliances. 11104

15 Microprocessor Speed The speed of the CPU is called the clock speed. It is measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz). INSTRUCTOR NOTES: When looking at the specifications of a computer, it is important to look at the speed of the CPU, which is measured in megahertz or gigahertz. 11105

16 Types of Memory Read Only Memory (ROM) Random Access Memory (RAM)INSTRUCTOR NOTES: ROM (Read Only Memory) is a group of integrated circuits which are responsible for loading the operating system. The operating system is loaded each time the computer is turned on or restarted. RAM temporarily holds software programs and any data created by a user. This information disappears when the computer is turned off. That is why software programs must be loaded on a permanent storage device like a hard drive, and data that needs to be retained must be saved on permanent storage devices for future retrieval. 11106

17 Permanent Storage DevicesINSTRUCTOR NOTES: It is important to store files on a permanent storage device so they can be retrieved at a later time. There are several recommended permanent storage devices such as: CD-R, CD-RW, DVD, and flash or memory cards. These different devices contain various amounts of information, so it is important to know the capacity of each. For instance, a DVD would be the best storage device for video because it can store large amounts of information. -R Only DVDs allow information to be written on once but read multiple times and is cheaper than –RW. -RW DVDs have the ability to read and write information multiple times. Travel drives, flash drives, and memory cards are small, portable storage devices that can store various amounts of information depending on the storage capability. Price varies according to the storage capability. 11106

18 How Memory is Measured The capacity of permanent and non-permanent storage is measured in bits and bytes. A bit is a "binary digit," either 0 or 1. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Memory measurement can be confusing, but a basic understanding of these measurement is important in determining a computer’s capacity to process and store information. Every character that is typed on the keyboard (i.e., each letter, number, or symbol) is made up of 8 bits. 8 bits equals roughly one byte (for example: a five letter word occupies about 40 bits or 5 bytes of storage space). Larger storage capacity is measured in kilobytes, megabytes, and so on. Kilobyte KB 1 thousand bytes Megabyte MB 1 million bytes Gigabyte GB 1 billion bytes Terabyte TB 1 trillion bytes 11107

19 Information Flow As the computer is used, information moves from permanent storage (hard disk) to temporary storage (RAM) and back again. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: When you start a computer application the following happens: The software (stored on the hard drive) is loaded into RAM. The application processing takes place. As you create a document or enter data into the program, the data is stored temporarily in RAM. To store the document or data permanently, you must save it to a disk. When you open a saved document, the file is loaded into RAM. When you close the file, the data in the file is removed from RAM. When you exit a software application, the program files are removed from RAM. 11108

20 Large and Small Computer SystemsLarge computer systems often have centralized data processing and storage abilities. Each desktop computer has its own CPU and hard drive. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Each type of computer system has its benefits in specific types of business. Mainframes and supercomputers are best used by government in bulk processing of census data, banks processing financial transactions, weather forecasting, animated graphics, fluid dynamic calculations, nuclear energy research, and petroleum exploration. A desktop computer may be a home computer, or may be found in an office. Computer found in an office are often connected to a network. The desktop computer is primarily used interactively by one person at a time. This is in contrast to the batch processing of mainframes and super computers, which are used by many people, usually at the same time, or large data processing systems, which require a full-time staff to operate them efficiently. Desktop users have access to a wide range of commercial and non-commercial software, which is easily installed. 11109

21 Connecting Computers Computers can be connected into a variety of larger systems to share information. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Because programs are not loaded on dumb terminals, they must be connected to a mainframe or mini-computer, where information can be shared. Desktop and laptop computers can function independently or be connected to networks, which are groups of computers that function together. Desktop computers and other devices (such as PDAs and cell phones) can connect to the Internet, while mainframes’ main function is to process large amounts of data. 11110

22 Sharing Information and ResourcesINSTRUCTOR NOTES: A network is a collection of computers connected to each other. The network allows computers to communicate with each other and share resources and information. Based on the size and purpose of the network, networks can be classified as Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN), Personal Area Network (PAN), Virtual Private Network (VPN), Campus Area Network (CAN), Storage Area Network (SAN), etc. 11111

23 Central Processing Unit (CPU)Hardware Components Monitor Central Processing Unit (CPU) Printer / Fax Machine Speaker INSTRUCTOR NOTES: The computer is made up of several different hardware components: monitor Central Processing Unit (CPU) or Systems Unit Printer/Fax machine Mouse Keyboard Speaker Webcam (optional) Microphone (optional) The makeup of computers varies according to what is purchased. Keyboard Mouse 11201

24 The Monitor A monitor displays text and images. INSTRUCTOR NOTES:The monitor is the screen on which information and images are displayed. The monitor on a desktop is typically separate, while the monitor on a laptop is part of the one-piece system. 11201

25 Keyboard Functions function keys backspace key delete key enter keyINSTRUCTOR NOTES: A basic keyboard has: function keys across the top of the keyboard backspace key to delete the previous character delete key to delete a selection navigation keys Home End Page Up Page Down numeric keypad Enter key to end a paragraph and start a new one Shift keys to capitalize letters and activate symbols associated with number keys There are many different keyboards available, including wireless, ergonomic, and natural keyboards. The most common keyboard type is QWERTY, named after the first 6 keys on the top line of letters. enter key shift key navigation keys numeric keys 11201

26 primary or select buttonThe Two-Button Mouse A mouse is a device used to point to and select items on your computer screen. wheel shortcut button primary or select button INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A mouse is a device used to point to and select items on your computer screen. There are many types, such as the two-button mouse, laser, trackball, and small mice that are used with laptops. On a laptop, the touch pad works like a mouse. 11201

27 Trackball Devices A trackball uses a thumb-controlled ball to direct the mouse pointer onscreen. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: The trackball was developed 11 years before the mouse. It is commonly found in architectural offices and used because of its precision. Since the trackball moves the cursor, it does not take up much space. 11201

28 Printers A printer is a component that produces a paper copy of text and graphics. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Printers are one of the most common output devices. Other output devices are monitors and disk drives. There are several different types of printers: dot matrix laser inkjet plotters—used by engineers and architects to product schematic drawings Network printers can print documents for any user on the network. Some new printers are wireless. 11201

29 Dot Matrix Printers A dot matrix printer runs back and forth on the page and prints by impact. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A dot matrix printer uses a print head that runs back and forth or up and down. The print head strikes a ribbon, making an imprint by mechanical pressure. Dot matrix printers are very durable, but they are usually slower than the newer laser and inkjet printers. Dot matrix printers are not used much anymore because of their speed, but airlines still use them. 11201

30 Inkjet Printers Inkjet printers operate by propelling droplets of ink onto paper. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Inkjet is most common type of printer. Advantages: Low cost High-quality output Vivid colors Prints fine, smooth details Easy to use Quiet Disadvantages: Ink is expensive Limited lifetime Ink eventually fades and the color balance may change Ink is water-soluble—water or markers can blur print 11201

31 Laser Printers A laser printer rapidly produces high quality text and graphics on plain paper. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Laser printers are faster and produce better quality print than inkjet printers, but they are costly, both in equipment and supplies. 11201

32 Faxing Documents You can send a document quickly using a fax machine.INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Fax stands for facsimile, which means to make similar. A fax machine is used to transfer copies of document from one fax machine to another using a telephone network. Many computers have the capability to fax without using a dedicated fax machine. A cover sheet is placed on top of pages being faxed that lists the sender’s and receiver’s information along with the number of pages in the fax and any comments that the sender feels is necessary. Go to to locate fax templates. 11201

33 Internal Components INSTRUCTOR NOTES:There are many separate devices inside the System Unit, and each has its own function. The power supply (which provides power to the system), motherboard (which consists of CPU, RAM and ROM), and expansion slots are also located inside the System Unit. The devices shown on the slide are: hard drive (top left), RAM (middle), and ROM (bottom). 11202

34 Specialized Input Devicesjoystick scanner INSTRUCTOR NOTES: An input device sends information to the computer. Common input devices are keyboards, mouse, trackball, microphone, joystick, camera, and scanner. digital video camera digital camera 11203

35 Specialized Output DevicesProjector INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Output devices display and/or transmit information from the computer. Some output devices are printers, fax machines, speakers, projectors, and monitors. Plotter (Large-format printer) 11204

36 Storage Media Floppy Disk Flash Drive CD/DVD-ROM Tape Data CartridgeINSTRUCTOR NOTES: Storage devices are used to store data. Because RAM only holds data temporarily, it is necessary to store data permanently for future use before exiting the software application or turning off the computer. The storage device you use will depend on the amount of storage and speed you need. The storage device used most often is the hard drive because it is part of the computer, has a large capacity, and is fast. Other storage devices can be used by connecting them to the appropriate port. Some storage devices, like a flash drive or a floppy disk, are considered portable because they can easily be transported. Flash cards and memory sticks are used by digital cameras and digital video cameras to store pictures and/or video. Hard Disk Memory Stick Compact Flash 11205

37 Computer Input/Output PortsA computer takes information in and sends it out through interfaces called ports. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Point out the various ports on the slide and explain what devices connect to each one. The keyboard and mouse connectors are self explanatory. The serial port connects a mouse or a modem. Parallel ports are used to connect printers. The VGA port connects the monitor. The USB port connects USB drives and other devices that uses a USB connector. The Ethernet LAN port connects the computer to the Internet. 11206

38 Installing Hardware DevicesTo install additional hardware devices on a computer system, you may need a cable, but you will definitely need software. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A hardware device will need a cable to connect it to the computer, unless it is a wireless device. Most new devices use “plug and play” technology, which automatically recognizes the device once it is connected. The software that comes with the device installs drivers that allow the computer and the device to interact. Follow the instructions for loading the software that are included. If these instructions or software are lost, replacements can usually be found on the manufacturer’s Web site on the Internet. 11207

39 Selecting Personal ComputersDesktops Able to upgrade or expand system Generally less expensive than a comparable laptop model Less likely to get stolen INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Before you buy a computer: Determine how the computer will be used. Find the best software to achieve this goal. Search for a compatible computer system. Determine whether the preferred platform (e.g., PC, Macintosh, UNIX, etc.) supports the types of applications that will be run on the system. Then you must decide whether to get a desktop or a laptop computer. Laptops Portable Can use docking stations and other external devices to make them as powerful and versatile as a desktop model 11301

40 Computer Performance Microprocessor Speed Amount of RAMINSTRUCTOR NOTES: A computer’s performance is generally measured by how fast it can process information, as well as how much information can be processed. Factors that affect a computer’s performance include: Microprocessor speed, amount of RAM, storage capacity, graphics adapter/video memory and network/ modem connection speed, and the monitor’s refresh rate. Hard disk capacity Graphics adapter/ video memory Network or modem connection speed 11302

41 Hardware and Software ConsiderationsHardware specifications Processor speed Hard disk size Monitor type Amount of RAM CD drive options INSTRUCTOR NOTES: When you are purchasing a computer, compare the hardware specifications. Purchase the computer with the highest processor speed, the largest hard-drive capacity, the largest amount of RAM, the monitor with the best resolution, and as many storage devices as possible within your price range. Obviously, the more options and capacity a computer has, the more expensive it will be. Programs are called software because they only function while the computer is turned on. Programs contain the instructions that the computer uses to complete a task. To determine which software to purchase, you must know how the software will be used to produce what you want. Software specifications Operating system Pre-packaged software Discount offers 11303

42 Other Deciding FactorsPrice versus features and performance Warranties and support Organizational requirements Life expectancy of system INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Other factors that you will want to consider when purchasing a computer are price versus features and performance, warranties, support and service, requirements, and the durability of the system. 11304

43 Protecting Computers Protect computers from theft.Protect computers from damage. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Replacing a computer or data can be very costly both in time and money. Individuals and companies should use theft-prevention devices and procedures to minimize theft or damage. Some theft-prevention devices include computer locks, LoJack software, and video surveillance cameras. Other methods include storing the computer in locked cabinets or rooms. While traveling with a laptop, carry it in a bag made specifically for a laptop to help prevent damage. It is also a good idea to store the laptop in the same bag. 11401

44 Conditions That Can Cause DamageHeat Humidity Electric fields Magnetic fields Dirty equipment INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Other conditions that can cause damage include: liquids, heat, humidity, and magnets. Be sure to keep liquids and magnets a safe distance away from any computer. 11402

45 Guarding Against Power ProblemsYou must guard against potential power problems. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: A plan should be implemented to guard against data loss. Some things to consider would be: use surge protectors, perform scheduled backups of data, store backup copies in another location in case of fire or theft, minimize wires and cords around computers, and use stable tables, desks, and other surfaces. A safe working environment will guard against problems and injuries. 11403

46 Troubleshooting Common Hardware ProblemsHard drive Monitor Printer INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Work can be interrupted and data lost if problems are encountered with hard drives, monitors, and printers. Before attempting other solutions, make sure the device is turned ON and check cables connecting the device to the computer. 11401

47 Poorly Maintained Computer SystemsProblems can occur if hardware is not maintained properly. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Problems can be avoided by properly maintaining your computer. To avoid problems with keyboards, keep beverages a safe distance away. Compressed air can easily remove dirt, dust, and crumbs from between keys. Keep all surfaces clean so a mouse can move easily. Perform a scheduled clean up of the computer’s system to avoid problems with memory and storage devices. 11405

48 Routine Computer Maintenance TasksClean the mouse Clean the keyboard Clean the printer Clean the hard drives Defragment the hard drive Empty the trash Delete temporary files Clear paper jams INSTRUCTOR NOTES: To keep your computer and other devices working properly, it is important to perform routine maintenance tasks like cleaning the mouse, cleaning the keyboard, cleaning the printer, defragmenting the hard drive, removing unwanted files and programs, deleting temporary files, and clearing any paper jams from the printer. 11406

49 When to Call an Expert Certain maintenance procedures should only be performed by experienced professionals. INSTRUCTOR NOTES: It is important to know your limitations where maintenance and repair are concerned. A good rule to follow is if the cover of the computer has to be removed to fix a problem, it is best to have a service professional handle the repair, unless you are knowledgeable in performing the operation. Make sure you know how to contact a professional that services your specific equipment. 11407

50 Troubleshooting StepsRecognize the problem Replicate the problem Attempt basic solutions Find help or advice Communicate the problem Follow instructions Confirm that the problem is fixed Avoid future problems INSTRUCTOR NOTES: Before contacting a professional to troubleshoot a problem, make sure you can duplicate the problem and try to attempt basics solutions which can be found in the User’s Manual or Guide. If you contact a professional, make sure you can explain the problem and the solution that you have used to solve the problem. If you contact Customer Support by phone, follow the instructions given and confirm that the problem is fixed before hanging up the phone. This way you will better understand the problem and the solution to avoid future problems. 11408