Lecture Notes on Computer Fundamentals
1. Introduction to Computers
A computer is an electronic device that processes data to produce meaningful
information. It performs operations based on instructions given by the user.
2. Characteristics of Computers
Speed – Can process millions of instructions per second.
Automation – Works automatically once programmed.
Accuracy – Produces precise and error-free results.
Versatility – Can perform a variety of tasks.
Storage – Can store vast amounts of data.
Connectivity – Can communicate over networks.
3. Components of a Computer
A computer system consists of hardware and software.
A. Hardware (Physical components)
1. Input Devices – Keyboard, Mouse, Scanner, Microphone
2. Processing Unit – Central Processing Unit (CPU)
o Control Unit (CU) – Directs operations
o Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU) – Performs calculations
3. Memory Units – RAM (Temporary storage), ROM (Permanent storage)
4. Output Devices – Monitor, Printer, Speakers
5. Storage Devices – Hard Drive, SSD, USB Flash Drive
B. Software (Set of instructions)
1. System Software – Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
2. Application Software – MS Office, Web Browsers, Games
3. Programming Software – Compilers, Editors (Python, Java)
4. Types of Computers
Supercomputers – Extremely powerful for complex computations.
Mainframe Computers – Used by large organizations for bulk data
processing.
Minicomputers – Mid-sized computers for specific tasks.
Microcomputers (Personal Computers) – Laptops, Desktops,
Smartphones.
5. Basic Computer Operations
1. Input – Data entered via input devices.
2. Processing – Data manipulated by the CPU.
3. Storage – Data saved for future use.
4. Output – Processed data displayed on output devices.
5. Communication – Data exchanged over networks.
6. Number Systems in Computing
Binary (Base 2) – Used in digital computing (0,1).
Decimal (Base 10) – Used in daily life (0-9).
Octal (Base 8) – Sometimes used in computing (0-7).
Hexadecimal (Base 16) – Used in programming (0-9, A-F).
7. Introduction to Operating Systems
An Operating System (OS) is software that manages computer hardware and
software resources. Examples include:
Single-user OS (Windows, macOS)
Multi-user OS (Linux, UNIX)
Real-time OS (Used in robotics, air traffic control)
8. Basics of Computer Networking
A computer network is a collection of interconnected devices for sharing
resources.
Types: LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), MAN
(Metropolitan Area Network)
Networking Devices: Router, Switch, Modem
9. Internet and Its Applications
Web Browsing (Google Chrome, Firefox)
Email Services (Gmail, Outlook)
Cloud Computing (Google Drive, Dropbox)
Cybersecurity (Firewalls, Antivirus, Encryption)
10. Emerging Trends in Computing
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Blockchain Technology
Internet of Things (IoT)
Quantum Computing
5G Technology
