PALAWAN STATE UNIVERSITY

College of Sciences

AE 1
APPLICATION TOOLS IN BUSINESS

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER

AILENE S. BOBIER
INSTRUCTOR
MODULE 2 COMPUTER STUDIES DEPARTMENT
COLLEGE OF SCIENCES
 Contents

I. INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
▪ Functionalities of a Computer
▪ Computer System
▪ Computing Industry and Profession Characteristics of
Computers
▪ Computers on the Basis of Size and Capacity
▪ Computers on the Basis Purpose
▪ Computers on the Basis of Hardware Design and Data
Handling

Page #
 Learning Objectives

After going through in this module, you should be able to:

1. Describe the functionalities of the computer

2. Differentiate the various component of computer system
3. Describe the different Computing Industry and Profession as
well as the Characteristics of Computers
4. Distinguish the classification of computers

Page #
 Overview

The term computer is derived from the Latin word compute, which means to
calculate. A computer is an electronic machine, devised for performing
calculations and controlling operations that can be expressed either in logical or
numerical terms. In simple terms, a computer is an electronic device that
performs diverse operations with the help of instructions to process the
information in order to achieve the desired results. Computer application
extends to cover huge area including education, industries, government,
medicine, scientific research etc.

A computer is one of the most influential forces available in modern times. Due
to its memory, high speed and perfection, its application can be extended to
almost infinite levels. Millions of complex calculations can be done in mere
fraction of time. Difficult decisions can be made with accuracy for
comparatively little cost. Computers are widely seen as instruments for future
progress and as tools to achieve substantiality by way of improved access to
4
information by means of video conferencing and e- mail. Indeed, computers
have left such on impression on modern civilization that we call this era as the
information age.

Page #
 Discussion

Functionalities of a Computer
Any digital computer carries out five functions in gross terms:
✓ Takes data as input.
✓ Stores the data/instructions in its memory and use them when
required.
✓ Processes the data and converts it into useful information.
✓ Generates the output.
✓ Controls all the above four steps.

COMPUTER SYSTEM
A computer system is a combination of various components. It performs
the system functions such as input, processing, output, storage and 5

control. A computer system consists of the following components:

1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Human ware
4. Firmware
5. Bridge ware

Page #
 Discussion

1. Hardware
The physical components of the computer, such as electrical, electronic
and mechanical unit are known as the hardware of the computer. That is,
the input units, output units and CPU are called hardware. Thus
hardware is the equipment involved in the function of a computer. It
consists of the components that can be physically handled. The function
of these components is typically divided into three main categories: input,
output, and storage. Components in these categories connect to
microprocessors, output and storage. Components in these categories
connect to microprocessors, specifically, the computer's central
processing unit (CPU), the electronic circuitry that provides the
computational ability and control of the computer, via wires or circuitry
called a bus.

2. Software: 6

The computer performs operations like addition, subtraction,

multiplication and division only when the user instructs it to do so. The
user issues instructions and the CPU acts in accordance with the
instructions. The sets of instructions, which control the sequence of
operations, are known as programs, and collectively programs are called
software.

Page #
 Discussion

The software can be broadly classified into two types. They are:
a. System Software
b. Application software

3. Human ware:
The man- machine interface is called a human ware. The people who
work with the computer are collectively called the human ware or
livewire.

4. Firmware:
The computer programs permanently stored in ROM or PROM are called
firmware. These programs are provided by hardware manufacturer along
with the computers. Generally, these are booting programs which help in
the starting of a computer. Such programs cannot be erased or
overwritten. 7

5. Bridge ware:
The computer components and programs used to translate instructions
and information written for one type of computer into a format that
another type of computer can understand is called bridge ware. This is
necessary because different computers are made by different
manufacturers.

Page #
 Discussion

Computing Industry and Profession

Computer plays an important role in business environment as every
organization adopts it in some form or the other to perform the tasks in
effective manner. In the past few years’ rapid development in IT,
particularly in communications, electronic service networks, and
multimedia have opened up new opportunities for corporates. All these
are contributing towards new and effective ways of processing business
transactions, integrating business processes, transferring payments and
delivering services electronically. It has affected the business in the
following ways:

1. Office Automation
Computers have helped automation of many industrial and business
systems. They are used extensively in manufacturing and processing
industries, power distribution systems, airline reservation systems, 8

transportation systems, banking systems, and so on. Computer aided

design
(CAP) and computer-aided manufacture (CAM) are becoming popular
among the large industrial establishment..

Page #
 Discussion

2. Stores large amount of date and information

Business and commercial organizations need to store and maintain
voluminous records and use them for various purposes such as inventory
control, sales analysis, payroll accounting, resources scheduling and
generation of management reports. Computers can store and maintain
files and can sort, merge or update as and when necessary.

3. Improves Productivity
With the introduction of word processing software, Computers have
recently been applied to the automation of office tasks and procedures.
This is aimed at improving the productivity of both clerical & managerial
staff.

4. Sharing of data and information

Due to networking of computers, where a number of computers are 9

connected together to share the data and information, use of e- mail and
internet has changed the ways of business operations.
5. Competitiveness

Computers offer a reliable and cost-effective means of doing business

electronically. Routine tasks can be automated. The customers can be
provided support round the clock, which is 24 hours a day. With
advancement in IT sector, corporates are spreading business around the
Page #

world thus, increasing their presence and entering new markets.

 Discussion

6. Security
To provide security to data and important computer programs, almost
every organization has some security programs to avoid the illegal
access of the company’s information by unauthorized persons. The three
fundamental attributor of a security program are confidentially, integrity
and availability which allow access to only authorized persons in an
organization.

7. Cost Benefits
The extensive availability of internet based information means that
companies have a wider choice of suppliers which leads to a more
competitive pricing. Due to the presence of internet the role of the
middleman becomes less important as companies can sell their product
or services directly to the customer.

10

8. Marketing
Corporates engaged in e-business can take help of their respective
websites to create brand awareness of their products, thus, creating new
avenues of promotion of their products. In addition, companies’ websites
can also provide better services such as after sales service to the
customer.

Page #
 Discussion

CHARACTERISTICS OF COMPUTERS
The main characteristics of computers are:
a) Speed
b) Storage
c) Accuracy
d) Versatility
e) Automation
F) Diligence
g) Reliability

a) Speed:
Computers are capable of carrying out the task with enormous speed.
11
Today’s computers, according to their class, can perform from 4 MIPS
(Millions of instructions per second) to 100 MIPS. What may take days
for manual calculations may take only a few hours for computers to
perform. Inside the computer the information signal travels at incredible
electronic speed.

Page #
 Discussion

b) Storage:
Computers can store enormous quantity of information. Which is
expressed in terms of Kilobytes (or) Mega Bytes (MB) or Gega Bytes
(GB). It is achieved through its ‘Main memory’ or ‘Primary storage’ and
through ‘auxiliary storage’ or ‘Secondary storage’. The Hard Disks Floppy
disk, Compact Disc(CD) and Magnetic Tape storage are examples of
secondary storages. These large volumes of storage occupy much lesser
space compared to paper documents and this aspect of computers
makes them more powerful.

c) Accuracy:
The accuracy of a Computer is consistently high. In fact, this quality of
the computers makes them indispensable in various fields such as
Scientific Research, Space Research, Weather Predictions and many
other areas where precision of a high order is required. The accuracy of 12

the computer is best achieved by programming them in the most efficient

manner. When it comes to very complex mathematical or scientific
problem the computer’s accuracy has no substitute.

Page #
 Discussion

d) Versatility:
Computers are versatile in that they can perform almost any task,
provided they are given the appropriate logical steps. For example, they
are capable of performing wide ranging tasks such as construction of a
payroll, inventory management in a factory, hotel billing, hospital
management, banking applications and any imaginable task in every
walk of life.

e) Automation:
The biggest advantage of computers is that it is automatic in its
operation. Once a programming logic is initiated the computer performs
repeated operations without human interventions until program
completion.

f) Diligence: 13

Computers are machines and that do not get tired or ‘lose concentration’
like human beings. If a large number of calculations say million
calculations are to be performed the resultant output will remain exactly
the same even if operations are repeated any number of times. But when
a human being is asked to do the same job this consistency cannot be
achieved. Thus for those who want consistent and continuous standard
output, computer’s ‘diligence’ is of great help..

Page #
 Discussion

g) Reliability:
The computers give very accurate results with predetermined values.
They correct and modify the parameters automatically, giving suitable
signals. They give formatted results with high degree of precisions.

CLASSIFICATION OF COMPUTERS ACCORDING TO SIZE, TYPE

AND PURPOSE:
We can classify the computers into the following 3 categories:

14

Page #
 Discussion

COMPUTERS ON THE BASIS OF SIZE AND CAPACITY:

1. Supercomputers
A Supercomputer is the very fastest and powerful, and expensive type
of computer for processing data. Supercomputers’ size and storage
capacity are also huge (can occupy huge premises) designed to process
vast amounts of data in a short time with high productivity.

These are specially made to perform multi-specific tasks. Therefore,

many CPUs work in parallel order on these supercomputers. This
function of a Supercomputer is called Multiprocessing or Parallel
15
Processing.

A supercomputer’s design is complicated, like it can be heterogeneous,

combining computers of different architectures, is significantly surpassed
most existing personal computers. This made this machine an ultra-
high-performance supercomputer.

Page #
 Discussion

2. Mainframe Computer
Mainframe computers are multi-programming, high-
performance computers, and multi-user, which means they can handle
the workload of more than 100 users at a time on the computer.
The storage capacity of the mainframe is enormous, with a high-speed
data process as well. As well as handling hundreds of input and output
devices at a time.

In the past, Mainframes requires entire rooms or even floors of whole 16

buildings for set-up. The mainframe is a highly efficient computer capable

of simultaneously solving complex calculations and continuously
for a long time. These computers have several microprocessors that
have the ability to function the data at too high performance and speed.
These computers can fix most of the hardware and software bugs

Page #
 Discussion

3. Mini Computer
Minicomputer is a digital and multi-user computer system with the
connection of more than one CPU. Thus, many people can work on
these computers simultaneously instead of a single person. Also, it can
process with other accessories like a printer, plotter, etc.

Minicomputers are the medium type of computers that have more

functionality power and are expensive than microcomputers. On the 17

other hand, the size, storage, and speed of minicomputers are large but
less than the mainframe and supercomputers.

In general, a minicomputer is a multi-threaded system (several

processes at a time) capable of supporting from one to up to 200 users
simultaneously: these computers are currently used to store large
databases, multi-user applications, and the automation industry.

Page #
 Discussion

4. Micro Computer
Today we are using many computers at home is also the most common
microcomputer. With this invention of the microprocessors in the year
1970, it became possible to use computers for people personally at a low
cost and reasonable price known as Digital Personal Computer.

The design of microcomputers is minimal in size and storage capacity.

These computers consist of many parts like Input and Output devices,
Software, operating systems, networks, and Servers all these need to
connect to form a complete Personal Digital Computer.

There is not only a PC or laptop are examples of microcomputers. Other

examples of the microcomputer are smartphone, Tablet, PDA, server,
palmtop, and workstation. This can be installed in any work area or
even at home for personal use. 18

The primary purpose of microcomputers is to keep and process the

everyday tasks and needs of the people. Only one person can work on
a single PC at a time, but its operating system is multitasking. The PC
can be connected to the Internet to take benefits and enhance the user
experience.

Page #
 Discussion

Use and examples of Super computer:

Applications: The uses of supercomputer are dedicated to –

❑ In research and study of energy and nuclear weapons and designing
the aircraft, airplanes, and flight simulators.
❑ Climate research and Weather Forecasting and Prediction of Natural
Disasters.
❑ Spaceship and Satellite Launching.
❑ Used in scientific research laboratories.
❑ Used in Chemical and Biological research and for highly calculation
complex tasks.

Examples: IBM Roadburner, IBM Blue Gene, Intel ASI Red. PARAM-
1000, and CRAY-XMP-14.
19

Page #
 Discussion

Use and examples of Mainframe computer:

Applications: Uses of Mainframe Computer –

❑ Mainframe computers are mainly used by departmental and
commercial organizations like Banks, Companies, Scientific research
centers, and governmental departments like railways. These
computers can work for 24 hours. Hundreds of users can work on
these computations simultaneously.

❑ Using the mainframe completes the tasks, Such as keeping details of

payments, research centers, advertising, sending bills and notices,
paying employees, ticket booking, maintaining details of purchases
by users, keeping detailed tax details, etc.

Examples: IBM Es000 series, ICL39 Series, and CDC 6600. 20

Page #
 Discussion

Use and examples of Mini computer:

Applications: The uses of Minicomputers

❑ The minicomputers are used as real-time applications in Industries,
bookings, and Research Centers. Banks also use minicomputers for
preparing payroll for employees’ salaries, records, tracking of
financial accounts, etc. As well as in the field of Higher Education and
Engineering.

Examples: PDP 11 and IBM (8000 Series).

Good to Know ~ PDP-1 was the world’s first minicomputer, small and
interactive, introduced in 1960 by the Digital Equipment Corporation.

21

Page #
 Discussion

Use and examples of Micro computer:

Applications: The uses of Micro Computer

❑ PC is being widely used in many fields like home, office, data
collection, business, education, entertainment, publishing, etc.
❑ It keeps the details and prepares letters for correspondence in small
businesses, creating bills, accounting, word processing, and
operation of the filing systems in a large company.

❑ Some of the major PC manufacturers are IBM, Lenovo, Apple, HCL,

HP, etc.

Examples: Desktops, tablets, smartphones, and Laptops.

The fast development of microcomputers with technology. As a result, 22

today, microcomputers coming in the form of a book, a phone, and even

a clock in the name of a digital clock.

Page #
 Discussion

COMPUTERS ON THE BASIS PURPOSE:

1. General Purpose
General computers can do various everyday tasks such as writing a
word processing letter, Document preparation, recording, financial
analysis, Printing documents, creating databases, and calculations with
accuracy and consistency.

The size, storage capacity, and cost of such computers are mainly less.
The ability of these computers is limited in performing specialized tasks.
Still, it has versatility and useful for serving people’s basic needs at
home or in the workplace in the environment.

Examples:
Desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets are used on daily basis for
general purposes. 23

Page #
 Discussion

2. Special Purpose
These computers are designed to perform a particular or specialized
task. The size, storage capacity, and cost of such computers mainly
depend on the nature and size of the work. The function of these
computers is consistent with any particular task.

The special computer needs specific processors and input and

devices to conduct work efficiently. These computers are used
for special purposes in weather forecasting, space research, agriculture,
engineering, meteorology, satellite operation, traffic control, and research
in chemical sciences.

Examples:
▪ Automatic teller machines (ATM),
▪ Washing machines, 24

▪ Surveillance equipment,
▪ Weather-forecasting simulators,
▪ Traffic-control computers,
▪ Defense-oriented applications,
▪ Oil-exploration systems,
▪ Military planes controlling computers.

Page #
 Discussion

COMPUTERS ON THE BASIS OF HARDWARE DESIGN AND DATA

HANDLING:
1. Analog Computer
Analog computers are used primarily
to measure physical units like the
voltage, pressure, electric current,
temperature, and convert them into digits.

They are used in the fields of technology, science, research,

engineering, etc. Because quantities like voltage, pressure, electric
current, temperature are used more in these areas, these types of
computers give only approximate estimates.

Examples:
An analog computer installed on a petrol pump measures the amount of 25

petrol coming out of the pump and appears in liters. And calculates its
value. These quantities vary continuously while measuring the amount,
such as the temperature of a human body changes consistently.

A simple clock, the vehicle’s speedometer, Voltmeter, etc. are

examples of analog computing.

Page #
 Discussion

2. Digital Computer
As its name suggests, a digital computer represents the digital
computer’s letters, numerical values, or any other special symbols. This
computer is the computer that calculates the number for processing the
data. They run on electronic signs, and the binary numeral method
Binary System 0 or 1 is used for calculation. Their speed is fast.

It can perform arithmetic operations such as addition, occurrence,

subtraction, multiplication, or division and all types of
logical(mathematical) operations. Today, most of the computers
available in the market are digital computers. The desktop or Laptop at
our home is one the common and best example of a digital computer.

Other Examples of Digital Computers

✓ Personal Desktop Computers, 26

✓ Calculators,
✓ Laptops, Smartphones, and Tablets,
✓ Digital watch,
✓ Accounting machines,
✓ Workstations,
✓ Digital clock, etc.

Page #
 Discussion

3. Hybrid Computer
A hybrid computer is a combined complex computer unit built using
both analog and digital properties and united by a single control
system. The purpose of designing hybrid computers is to provide
functions and features that can be found on both analog and digital
devices. The aim behind creating a hybrid computer is to create a kind of
work unit that offers the best of both types of computers. Hybrid
computers are extremely fast when driving equations, even when
those calculations are incredibly complex.

Applications of hybrid Computer:

Hybrid computers are most commonly used in vast industries, research
centers, organizations, and manufacturing firms (where many equations
need to be solved). Hybrid computers are used in scientific
calculations, for nations’ defense and radar systems as well. 27

Examples:
Auto Gasoline pump is the example of a hybrid computer, this
device is installed on a petrol pump not only to measure the amount of
petrol but also to calculates its value, in this way it is capable of both
functions i.e hybrid function.

Page #
 Summary of the Discussion

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
1. Functionalities of a Computer
❑ Takes data as input.
❑ Stores the data/instructions in its memory and use them
when required.
❑ Processes the data and converts it into useful information.
❑ Generates the output.
❑ Controls all the above four steps.
2. Computer System
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Human ware
4. Firmware
5. Bridge ware
3. Computing Industry and Profession
28
❑ Office Automation
❑ Stores large amount of date and information
❑ Improves Productivity
❑ Sharing of data and information
❑ Competitiveness
❑ Security
❑ Cost Benefits
❑ Marketing
Page #
 Summary of the Discussion

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER (comtinuation)

4. Characteristics of Computers
✓ Speed
✓ Storage
✓ Accuracy
✓ Versatility
✓ Automation
✓ Diligence
✓ Reliability
5. Computers on the Basis of Size and Capacity
1. Super computer
2. Mainframe computer
3. Mini computer
4. Micro Computer
6. Computers on the Basis Purpose
29
1. General Purpose
2. Special Purpose
7. Computers on the Basis of Hardware Design and Data
Handling
1. Analog Computer
2. Digital Computer
3. Hybrid Computer

Page #
 Individual Performance Task:

PERFORMANCE TASK 1 - INFOGRAPHIC (25 points)

✓ Create a simple yet elegant infographic about “Introduction to

Computer” and submit an image in .jpeg format.
✓ You can use any application to do this.

WRITTEN OUTPUT 1
✓ Short Quiz
✓ The Instructor will let you know once the quiz is posted.

30

Page #
 References

[1] Parameswaran R., Computer Applications in Business, S.Chand and

Sons company Ltd., New Delhi.
[2] Alexis Leon, Mathews Leon, Fundamentals of Information Technology,
Leon Vikas, New Delhi.
[3] What does what in your computer? Accessed from
https://youtu.be/ExxFxD4OSZ0
[4] Classification of Computers according to Size, Type and Purpose
retrieved from https://digitalworld839.com/classification-of-
computers/#1_General_Purpose

31

Page #