WEEK TWO – COMPUTING NOTE-BASIC 6- TERM ONE

SUBSTRAND: Generation of Computers and parts of a computer and other gadgets.

INDICATOR: B6.1.1.1.1. Learn about the Generation of Computers

A computer is a machine that can be programmed to perform various tasks by taking in instructions in the form of data and producing results as information.

TYPES OF COMPUTERS

The microprocessor is often referred to as the brain of a computer. It is an internal electronic component that executes all instructions given to the computer. It has three basic functions;

1.      Fetches data from the computer’s memory.

2.      Decodes the data (it understands the data)

3.      Executes the instruction (performs the job)

SUPERCOMPUTERS:  A supercomputer is a type of computer designed to perform extremely complex and large-scale calculations at very high speeds. Examples of widely known supercomputers are;

·         Cray-1 (1976): One of the earliest iconic supercomputers

·         Fugaku (Japan): Previously ranked no.1 globally

·         El Capitan (USA): Currently the fastest supercomputer as of late 2024

CHARACTERISTICS

1.      They have a higher-level performance

2.      Parallel processing (they have multiple processors that work on a task at once)

3.      They have specialized architecture

4.      They have huge memory, storage, and processors

5.      They are very expensive

USES

·         Weather forecasting

·         Drug discovery

·         Nuclear research and weapons testing

·         Design new methods for making environmentally friendly energy forms.

MAINFRAME COMPUTERS A mainframe computer is a powerful, high-capacity machine designed to handle large-scale data processing.

CHARACTERISTICS

• High processing power: Capable of processing billions of transactions per day with lightning speed.
• Reliability & Availability
• Redundancy: If one component fails, others take over instantly to keep operations smooth.
• Security: the best computer for sensitive data.
• Backward Compatibility: Can run decades-old software alongside modern applications.

USES

·         Banking: Processing millions of transactions and maintaining secure databases.

·         Airlines: Managing reservations, ticketing, and logistics.

·         Retail: Handling inventory, sales, and customer data.

·         Government: Running census data, tax systems, and public records.

MINICOMPUTERS are general-purpose computers that are smaller and cheaper than mainframes but powerful than minicomputers. Examples include: PDP-8 (1964), VAX series (1977), AS/400 by IBM: A legendary midrange system still in use today

CHARACTERISTICS

·         Multi-user support: a perfect option for small businesses and departments

·         Multitasking and multiprocessing: Can run several programs at once

·         Compact size: Fits in a cabinet or desk space—not a whole room

·         Affordable: Lower cost than mainframes, making computing more accessible

USES

·         Business applications: Word processing, database management, accounting

·         Scientific computing: Engineering simulations and lab data analysis

·         Process control: Used in manufacturing and industrial automation

MICROCOMPUTERS are compact, affordable computer system that has a microprocessor as their CPU. They include ordinary laptops and desktops.

CHARACTERISTICS

·         Low cost: Accessible to individuals and small businesses

·         Compact size: Designed for personal or small-scale use

·         Limited processing power: Not built for heavy-duty tasks like supercomputers

·         Popular OS support: Runs systems like Windows, macOS, Linux, Android

USES

·         Education: E-learning platforms, research, and virtual classrooms

·         Communication: Email, video calls, messaging apps

·         Entertainment: Streaming movies, gaming, music, and social media

·         Data management: Spreadsheets, databases, and inventory systems

·         Marketing & design: Graphic design, content creation, and social media management

Indicator:  B6.1.1.1.2. Identify components of a Computer System: Hardware, Software, and Liveware.

Computer hardware refers to the physical components we can touch. They include;

·         CPU (Central Processing Unit): The brain of the computer; executes instructions and processes data.

·         Motherboard: The main circuit board that connects all components and allows communication between them.

·         RAM (Random Access Memory): Temporary memory that stores data and instructions currently in use.

·         ROM (Read-Only Memory): Permanent memory that stores essential system instructions, like boot-up processes.

·         Power Supply Unit (PSU): Converts electricity from the outlet into usable power for the computer’s components.

·         Graphics Card (GPU): Handles rendering of images, video, and animations—essential for gaming and design.

·         Sound Card: Enhances audio input/output quality.

·         Network Interface Card (NIC): Connects the computer to networks via Ethernet or Wi-Fi.

·         Cooling System: Includes fans or liquid cooling to regulate temperature and prevent overheating.

SOFTWARE refers to a set of instructions given to a computer to be executed.

Main Types of Software

1. System Software

·         Operating System (OS): Manages hardware and provides a platform for other software (e.g., Windows, macOS, Linux).

·         Device Drivers: Help hardware components like printers and keyboards communicate with the OS.

·         Language Processors: Convert code written in high-level languages (like Python or Java) into machine-readable instructions.

2. Application Software

·         General Purpose: They are programs for everyday tasks (e.g., MS Word, Excel, web browsers).

·         Custom Software:  they are tailored for specific business needs (e.g., hospital management systems).

·         Utility Software:  these are tools for system maintenance (e.g., antivirus, disk cleanup).

3. Firmware

·         It is a permanent software stored in ROM that controls hardware functions (e.g., BIOS in a PC).

LIVEWARE:  It’s a term used to describe users, programmers, administrators, and anyone involved in the operation and management of computer systems.

 

 

 

 

PREPARED BY: MR. OWUSU

REACH OUT VIA: emmanuelowusu76@gmail.com