Computer

Fundamentals
BY
RIMPLE DHAMIJA,
IMT, FBD
Introduction
•The word computer comes from the word “compute”,
which means, “to calculate”
•Thereby, a computer is an electronic device that can
perform arithmetic operations at high speed
•A computer is also called a data processor because it can
store, process, and retrieve data whenever desired
Data Processing
The activity of processing data using a computer is called data
processing.
Data ----→ Capture Data -→ Manipulate Data → Output
Results - → Information
Data is raw material used as input and information is
processed data obtained as output of data processing.
Characteristics of Computers
1) Automatic: Given a job, computer can work on it automatically
without human interventions
2) Speed: Computer can perform data processing jobs very fast, usually
measured in microseconds (10-6), nanoseconds (10-9), and picoseconds
(10-12)
3) Accuracy: Accuracy of a computer is consistently high and the degree
of its accuracy depends upon its design.
Computer errors caused due to incorrect input data or unreliable
programs are often referred to as Garbage-In-Garbage-Out (GIGO)
Characteristics of Computers (contd.)
4) Diligence: Computer is free from monotony, tiredness, and lack of
concentration. It can continuously work for hours without creating
any error and without grumbling
5) Versatility: Computer is capable of performing almost any task, if
the task can be reduced to a finite series of logical steps
6) Power of Remembering: Computer can store and recall any
amount of information because of its secondary storage capability. It
forgets or looses certain information only when it is asked to do so
Characteristics of Computers (contd.)
7) No I.Q.: A computer does only what it is programmed to do. It
cannot take its own decision in this regard
8) No Feelings: Computers are devoid of emotions. Their judgement
is based on the instructions given to them in the form of programs
that are written by us (human beings)
Basic Operations of a Computer System
Inputting -- The process of entering data and instructions into the
computer system.
Storing -- Saving data and instructions to make them readily
available for initial or additional processing whenever required.
Processing -- Performing arithmetic operations (add, subtract,
multiply, divide, etc.) or logical operations (comparisons like equal to,
less than, greater than, etc.) on data to convert them into useful
information.
Basic Operations of a Computer System
(contd.)
Outputting -- The process of producing useful information
or results for the user such as a printed report or visual
display.
Controlling -- Directing the manner and sequence in which
all of the above operations are performed.
Block Diagram
Components of Computer System
Input Unit
An input unit of a computer system performs the
following functions:
1. It accepts (or reads) instructions and data from outside
world.
2. It converts these instructions and data in computer
acceptable form.
3. It supplies the converted instructions and data to the
computer system for further processing.
Components of Computer System
(contd.)
Output Unit
◦ An output unit of a computer system performs the following
functions:
1. It accepts the results produced by the computer, which are
in coded form and hence, cannot be easily understood by us
2. It converts these coded results to human acceptable
(readable) form
3. It supplies the converted results to outside world
Components of Computer System
(contd.)
Storage Unit
The storage unit of a computer system holds (or stores) the following
1. Data and instructions required for processing (received from
input devices)
2. Intermediate results of processing
3. Final results of processing, before they are released to an
output device
Components of Computer System
(contd.)
Two Types of Storage
Primary storage
•Used to hold running program instructions
•Used to hold data, intermediate results, and results of ongoing processing of
job(s)
•Fast in operation
•Small Capacity
•Expensive
•Volatile (looses data on power dissipation)
Components of Computer System
(contd.)
Secondary storage
•Used to hold stored program instructions
•Used to hold data and information of stored jobs
•Slower than primary storage
•Large Capacity
•Lot cheaper than primary storage
•Retains data even without power
Components of Computer System
(contd.)
Arithmetic & Logic Unit
Arithmetic & Logic Unit of a computer system is the place where the
actual executions of instructions takes place during processing
operation.
Control Unit
Control Unit of a computer system manages and coordinates the
operations of all other components of the computer system.
Components of Computer System
(contd.)
Central Processing Unit

It is the brain of a computer system.

It is responsible for controlling the operations of all other units of a
computer system.
Classification of Computers
Computers are classified based on the-

◦ Data type handling

◦ Purpose they serve
◦ Functionality
Classification of Computers based on
Data type handling
Classification of Computers based on
Data type handling (contd.)
Based on the data type handling, computers can be categorized as
Digital, Analog, and Hybrid.
Digital
Personal computers are an example of a digital computer.
These computers accept input in the form of 0s and 1s.
The computer processes binary input and provides the output.
These computers perform all the logical & arithmetical operations. Any
input given in any language is first converted into binary language and
then the computer processes the information.
Examples – laptops, PCs, mobile phones, desktops, etc.
Classification of Computers based on
Data type handling (contd.)
Analog
These computers process analog data. Analog data keep varying.
Hence, it does not have any discrete value.
They read the continuous change in the input, process it, and then
provide the output.
Analog computers are slower than digital computers. They are also
slightly less precise.
Examples are Speedometer, thermometer.
Classification of Computers based on
Data type handling (contd.)
Hybrid
Hybrid computers are a mix of both analog and digital computers.
These computers perform a high level of calculations.
Hybrid computers are quick and efficient.
They take input in analog form, convert it into digital form, and then
process it to produce an output.
Scientists are also using hybrid computers for complex calculations.
For example, in hospitals to measure the heartbeat of the patients.
Classification of Computers based on the
Purpose
Classification of Computers based on the
Purpose (contd.)
Microcomputer
Microcomputers are nothing but personal computers.
These are single-chip systems.
These are useful for personal use and can perform all the basic
functions of the computer.
Microcomputers require very little space and are comparatively
inexpensive.
For example tablets, I pads, smartwatches, laptops, desktops
Classification of Computers based on the
Purpose (contd.)
Minicomputer
In between a microcomputer and a mainframe computer is the
minicomputer.
These computers are useful if many people want to operate the
system at the same time.
Examples are the computers at the billing counters of malls or large
institutions.
 Classification of Computers based on the
Purpose (contd.)
Mainframe
Mainframe computers are useful when a large number of people are
involved. Like in the health care or retail sector who want to access data
simultaneously.
These computers process large amounts of data.
These computers are just below the supercomputers.
Examples – IBM z Series.
 Classification of Computers based on the
Purpose (contd.)
Supercomputers
The biggest and fastest computers are supercomputers.
Such computers can process trillions of functions within a few seconds.
In general MPIS( Million Instructions Per Second) unit is used to measure
their performance.
These computers are specifically designed for scientific applications such as –
Weather forecasting
Testing of nuclear weapons
Scientific research of earth and other planetary systems, etc.
Examples – PARAM supercomputer series.
Classification of Computers based on
Functionality
 Classification of Computers based on
Functionality (contd.)
Workstations
Workstation computers are for single usage and professional purposes.
These are like our basic laptops and desktops but with added superior
features. For example, double-processor motherboard, added graphic
card, ECC RAM, etc.
The workstations are more powerful as compared to generic PCs. These
can handle heavy-duty functions like animation, CAD, audio & video
editing, professional gaming, etc.
Examples: Apple PowerBook G4, SPARC CPU, MIPS CPU, etc.
 Classification of Computers based on
Functionality (contd.)
Servers
These are hardware components or software programs that are built to assist
other computers termed as clients.
Together this architecture is called the client-server model. The client sends a
request to the server and the server responds in return with a result or a
solution. This proves that these server computers are more powerful than
standard computers.
The main purpose of these computers is to share data and resources with
other computers.
Different types of servers are useful for different needs and applications. For
example, cloud server, application server, database server, file server, etc.
Each of these servers has a different purpose for different client needs
Classification of Computers based on
Functionality (contd.)
Embedded
These computers are mainly microcontroller-based systems used for processing
specific tasks.
Embedded computers have a combination of software and hardware components.
But, are usually a part of a larger system.
Each of its components is designed from scratch to serve a specific purpose or
complete a specific task.
Another characteristic that distinguishes them from a standard PC is that all of its
components are integrated into a single motherboard.
They are most helpful for industrial use
Examples: GPS systems, centralized heating systems, fitness trackers, digital
watches, electronic calculators, etc.
Limitations of Computers
1. Computers are programmed by Humans
Computers are programmed by human beings. The computer only follows that
instruction which is programmed by humans. If those instructions are not
accurate then the working of the computer will not be accurate.
This is the main limitation of a computer.
2. Computers are dependent on humans
As it is just a machine that is invented by human beings. If the computer wants
to do something like processing things, it can not be able to do its own. Humans
are required to provide some instruction so that the computer can perform the
operations for humans.
If a user wants to play the game then he needs to provide the instruction in the
computer. otherwise, the computer can not do it.
Limitations of Computers (contd.)
3. No Emotions and No Feeling
Computers are emotionless. They do not have any emotions or feelings. A computer
cannot understand what humans are thinking and feeling. It’s just a machine, it
works when humans give the instruction to them, and it can not compete the
humans in relation but it can compete in terms of speed, accuracy, etc. only.
4. No Intelligence
A computer does not carry out any tasks on its own and can’t take any decision on
its own like humans, Computer will only work when humans give instructions or
programs, it only depends on it. Computers are faster than humans in terms of
speed, giving accurate results, and more brilliant than humans but they cannot
replace humans. It is just a machine that is invented by humans and there is no
technology still invented for computers so that it can feel or something like that.
Limitations of Computers (contd.)
5. No Thinking
Computers are not smart in any way and they cannot think themselves. The
concept of AI means Artificial Intelligence shows that the computer actually
thinks but still this concept works on the dependent of the sets of instruction
and program which is done by human beings.
6. No Self Care
A computer can not care for itself like a human and they have no sense to do it
on their own. Computer is nothing without humans and they are only
dependent on humans for the purpose of instruction.
Limitations of Computers (contd.)
7. Lack of Decision Making
As it is a machine it cannot be able to make any decisions for itself. Making any
decisions requires a difficult process like knowledge, information, wisdom,
intelligence like things, etc. which the computer can’t able to do on its own.
8. Retrieval of Memory
Retrieval of memory means it remembered all the information which are stored
in memory. Computers can retrieve data very fast but this technique is linear. An
average human being’s mind does not follow this rule because humans almost
forgot data in their mind which are not useful. A human mind can think
randomly which a computer machine can not.
In simple words, the computer does those tasks which humans normally cannot
do. On the other hand, computers cannot do those tasks humans normally can.
Limitations of Computers (contd.)
9. Dependency on power/electricity
Computer requires electricity to run. without it, it can’t be able to perform any
operation or task. In a computer, the CPU requires a power supply for processing
the data for execution. This is a drawback of the computer it relies on electricity.

10. Not able to express ideas

A computer can’t be able to express any ideas. As we all know ideas are a very
important thing to create something new like inventions., new things, etc. It is
just a system for performing operations for users. Computer lacks creativity
Limitations of Computers (contd.)
11. Not able to learn new things

Computers are totally dumb machines. when it comes to learning things it can
not able to learn. But if I talk about AI (Artificial intelligence) it can learn from
humans whatever they provide to AI it can learn anything within a second, But
the computer is different it’s not an AI, it’s just a machine that is made with
some different-different hardware.
When someone provides instructions to the computer then it can able to
perform its operation but it can not able to learn any tasks which are provided
by the user.
Human Being Vs Computer
Human Being Computer

A human is a living being having living A computer is a nonliving thing, it is an

characteristics like using food and electronic device made by humans and
water with a need base and having consumes electricity, and is
emotions. emotionless.
A human has a brain and can think A computer has no brain and can’t
creatively from different angles. think creatively. It works just what has
been given instructions.
A human makes decisions according to A computer can’t think, it is a
his thoughts. programmable machine doing work
according to the given commands.
Human Being Vs Computer
Human Being Computer
A human brain works as an analog with A computer works digitally with a high
different processing speeds. processing speed.

A human can use a computer for doing A computer can’t use a human and
any specific job. can’t do any job by itself.
A human brain is a greatly parallel A computer is a modular and serial
machine. machine
Human Being Vs Computer
Human Being Computer
A human brain has no software for A computer has software for any
execution and doing any job. command execution.

Generally human is working as single A computer is a multi-user machine. It

user. can perform multiple tasks at the same
time.
Applications of Comp uters in various
Fields
Home
Computers are used at homes for several purposes like online bill payment,
watching movies at home, home tutoring, social media access, playing games,
internet access, etc. They provide communication through electronic mail. They
help to avail work from home facility for corporate employees. Computers help
the student community to avail online educational support.
Medical Field
Computers are used in hospitals to maintain a database of patients history,
diagnosis, X-rays, live monitoring of patients, etc. Surgeons nowadays use
robotic surgical devices to perform delicate operations, and conduct surgeries
remotely. Virtual reality technologies are also used for training purposes.
Applications of Computers in various
Fields (contd.)
Entertainment
Computers help to watch movies online, play games online; act as a virtual
entertainer in playing games, listening to music, etc. MIDI instruments greatly help
people in the entertainment industry in recording music with artificial instruments.
Videos can be fed from computers to full screen televisions. Photo editors are
available with fabulous features.
Industry
Computers are used to perform several tasks in industries like managing inventory,
designing purpose, creating virtual sample products, interior designing, video
conferencing, etc. Online marketing has seen a great revolution in its ability to sell
various products to inaccessible corners like interior or rural areas. Stock markets
have seen phenomenal participation from different levels of people through the use
of computers.
Applications of Computers in various
Fields (contd.)
Education
Computers are used in education sector through online classes, online
examinations, referring e-books, online tutoring, etc. They help in increased use
of audio-visual aids in the education field.

Government
In government sectors, computers are used in data processing, maintaining a
database of citizens and supporting a paperless environment. The country’s
defense organizations have greatly benefitted from computers in their use for
missile development, satellites, rocket launches, etc.
Applications of Computers in various
Fields (contd.)
Banking
In the banking sector, computers are used to store details of customers and
conduct transactions, such as withdrawal and deposit of money through ATMs.
Banks have reduced manual errors and expenses to a great extent through
extensive use of computers.
Business
Nowadays, computers are totally integrated into business. The main objective of
business is transaction processing, which involves transactions with suppliers,
employees or customers. Computers can make these transactions easy and
accurate. People can analyze investments, sales, expenses, markets and other
aspects of business using computers.
Applications of Computers in various
Fields (contd.)
Training
Many organizations use computer-based training to train their employees, to
save money and improve performance. Video conferencing through computers
allows saving of time and travelling costs by being able to connect people in
various locations.

Arts
Computers are extensively used in dance, photography, arts and culture. The
fluid movement of dance can be shown live via animation. Photos can be
digitized using computers.
Applications of Computers in various
Fields (contd.)
Science and Engineering
Computers with high performance are used to stimulate dynamic process in
Science and Engineering. Supercomputers have numerous applications in area of
Research and Development (R&D). Topographic images can be created through
computers. Scientists use computers to plot and analyze data to have a better
understanding of earthquakes.