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3.3 Computers

🎬 Video playlist​

🤯 Mindmap​

🧠 Flashcards​

📝 Notes​

Types of Computers​

  • Mainframe: Large, powerful computers used for high-volume data processing and critical applications.
  • Server: Computers that provide resources, data, or services to other computers over a network.
  • Personal Computer:
    • Desktop: Stationary computers designed for use at a desk.
    • Laptop: Portable computers that can be used on the go.
  • Tablet: Mobile devices with touchscreens, larger than smartphones but smaller than laptops.
  • Smart/Mobile Device: Smartphones and other handheld devices with advanced computing capabilities.
  • Wearable Computers and Devices: Computing devices worn on the body, such as smartwatches or fitness trackers.

Components of a Computer​

  • Hardware: Physical components of a computer system.
    • Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects all components.
    • Central Processing Unit (CPU): The "brain" of the computer that executes instructions.
    • Memory: Temporary storage for data and instructions currently in use.
      • RAM (Random Access Memory): Fast, volatile memory that loses data when power is lost.
      • ROM (Read-Only Memory): Non-volatile memory that retains data even without power.
    • Storage: Permanent storage for data and programs.
      • HDD (Hard Disk Drive): Traditional mechanical storage using spinning disks.
      • SSD (Solid State Drive): Faster, more durable storage using flash memory.
    • Graphics and Sound Components: Hardware responsible for processing and outputting visual and audio data.
    • Power Supply: Provides electrical power to all components.
    • Input and Output Devices: Peripherals used for interacting with the computer (e.g., keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer).
    • Sensors: Devices that detect and respond to physical stimuli (e.g., temperature, light, motion).
  • Interfaces: Methods of interaction between users, computers, and other devices.
    • User Interfaces: The means by which users interact with a computer system.
      • Command Line: Text-based interface where users enter commands.
      • Graphic: Visual interface using icons, windows, and menus (e.g., GUI - Graphical User Interface).
      • Haptic: Interface that provides tactile feedback (e.g., vibrations, force feedback).
  • Software: Programs and instructions that control computer operations.
    • Operating System Software: Software that manages computer hardware, software, and provides common services (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).
    • Software Applications, Apps: Programs designed for specific tasks (e.g., word processors, web browsers, mobile apps).
    • Malicious Software: Software intended to damage, disrupt, or gain unauthorized access to computer systems (e.g., viruses, malware, trojans).

Uses and Forms of Computer Coding​

  • Computer Coding and Programming: Writing instructions in a programming language to create software.
  • Specific Languages and Rules: Different programming languages have their own syntax and conventions (e.g., Python, Java, C++).
  • Communicating Instructions to Computers: Coding translates human-readable instructions into machine-readable form.

Evolution of Computing​

  • Generations in Computing:
    • First generation: Vacuum tubes, machine language, large and expensive.
    • Second generation: Transistors, assembly language, smaller and more reliable.
    • Third generation: Integrated circuits, high-level programming languages, increased speed and efficiency.
    • Fourth generation: Microprocessors, graphical user interfaces, personal computers.
    • Fifth generation: Artificial intelligence, natural language processing, advanced robotics.
  • Moore's Law: The observation that the number of transistors in an integrated circuit doubles about every two years, leading to exponential growth in computing power.
  • Emerging Areas of Computing:
    • Quantum Computing: Harnessing quantum mechanics to perform complex computations, potentially solving problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers.