SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY

COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES

AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

IT101 – INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTING

Module one: evolution to computing

Course Overview

Course No.

Course Code IT 101

Descriptive Title Introduction to Computing

Credit Units 2 Units

School Year/Term 1st Semester, AY: 2020-2021

Mode of Delivery Online and Modular Learning

Name of Instructor/ Nerissa Johnna C. Codal, Rea Mae T. Ruba, Patrex V. Amoguiz
Professor
Course Description This course allows the students to learn and apply the art and
style of object-oriented programming to solve computational
problems adhering to the standards and guidelines of
documentation. It includes discussion on I/O statements, loop and
branching instruction, and creating functions and procedures.
Course Outcomes Knowledge (Think)
1. Analyze the fundamental principles, concepts and evolution of
computing systems as they relate to different fields and
organizations.
Skills (Do)
2. Perform computing concepts using current technique and tools
based on the recent developments in the different computing
knowledge areas.
Values (Feel)
3. Adapt computing concepts, techniques and tools in the
different computing knowledge areas.

SLSU Vision A high quality corporate science and technology university.

SLSU Mission Produces S and T leaders and competitive professionals; generate

breakthrough research in S and T based disciplines; transform and
improve the quality of life in the communities in the service area;
and be self –sufficient and financially viable.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Table of Contents

Course Overview ………………………………… 1

Table of Contents …………………………………. 2

Module Guide …………………………………. 3

Learning Plan …………………………………. 4

Pre-Test …………………………………. 5

Key to Remember …………………………………. 6

Module 1: INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER

Lesson 1 History/Evolution of Computer …………………………………. 7-12

Types of Computer
Capabilities of Computer

Lesson 2 Computer System …………………………………. 12-21

Elements of Computer System

Summary …………………………………. 21

Assessment …………………………………. 22-23

References …………………………………. 24

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Module Guide

How to Use These Modules

These self-study modules are designed to engage you as a learner. There are 2 topics inside
this module"pre-module" that will support your work across all of these modules. Each
module will take approximately six hours to complete. The pre-modules will take
approximately three hours to complete. (Completion time may vary.) Modules are divided
into three sections, each of which is accessible by clicking on the module links. (if you have
internet connection). You may complete the activities in sequence, or enter the module at
any section at any time.
Tips for Completing the Modules:

 Read the learning outcomes at the beginning of the module to determine the
focus of the modules
 Complete the self-assessment checklist (at the end of each module) before you
begin to determine what activities you may need to complete based on your prior
knowledge
 Note that each module will take approximately seven hours to complete (though
completion time will vary; however, there is no time limit for completing these
modules
 View the References for more resources on the topic covered by the module

Methods on sending your answers (Offline) in Hand delivery or Courier:

1. Compile all your outputs accordingly and place it on a brown envelop.

2. Write your full name, course and section, and instructor’s name at the back.
Ex. Juan Dela Cruz, Jr.
[Link] 2-A
Dr. Albert C. Einstien
3. Send your outputs thru LBC, JRS Express, J&T or Hand-deliver by your friends or peers address
to SLSU-Main, Brgy. San Roque, Sogod, Southern Leyte. Or just submit it to the nearest
SLSU-LGU Link.

For inquires, you may contact:

09777184765

Rheamaeruba143@[Link]

Tecson Rheamae

IT101 1-A
Classroom Code: ir4ba7i

IT101 1-B
Classroom Code: d2r2ha3

IT101 1-G Instructor

Classroom Code: d2r2ha3 REA MAE T. RUBA

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Learning Plan

Intended Learning Outcome: Differentiate the fundamental and principles

of computer.

Enabling Learning Outcomes:

In this lesson, you will learn the following:
1. How the computer evolved?
2. What are the types of computer?
3. What are the capabilities of computer?
4. Define Hardware and Software and given examples.
5. Identify the key functional components of computer hardware .
6. Identify operating system software, application software, and utility software, citing
examples of each.

Introduction

This module will introduce you to the field and the fundamentals of computer. Specifically
designed for students with no prior programming experience, and touches upon a variety of
fundamental topics. It will help you to build a concrete understanding of how computers work
and how various types of computing devices and accessories are used in school, work, and at
home.
The electronic computer is one of the most important developments of the twentieth
century. Like the industrial revolution of the nineteenth century, the computer and the
information and communication technology built upon it have drastically changed business,
culture, government and science, and have touched nearly every aspect of our lives. This text
introduces the field of computing and details the fundamental concepts and practices used in the
development of computer applications.
This module has particular professional relevance for those wishing to develop a career
in the computing and IT industry – providing many opportunities to demonstrate relevant
technical knowledge and practical IT skills. It will equip you with the knowledge about what is
the evolution of the computer which includes History of Computer and Types of Computer and
its functionalities.

This module is divided into Three (3) Separated Topics namely:

1. Evolution of Computer
2. Types of Computer
3. Capabilities of Computer
The important of study is to introduce computer concepts, including fundamental
functions and operations of the computer. Topics include identification of hardware components,
basic computer operations, security issues, and use of software applications which we will taking
up the next module.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Pre-test
Test I: Enumeration (5 pts each)

1. What are the five (5) capabilities of computer?

2. What are the four (4) basic types of computers?

3. Give five (5) examples of hardware.

4. Give five (5) examples of software.

Test II: Essay (5 pts each)

1. What is computer?

2. What is microcomputer?

3. What is hardware?

4. What is software?

Test III: Name the parts of a Computer.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Key to remember

Computer – is a programmable machine that receives input, stores and manipulates data, and
provides output in a useful format.

AC (Alternating Current) – an electric current that reverses its direction many times a second at
regular intervals, typically used in power supplies.

Transistor - a semiconductor device with three connections, capable of amplification in addition

to rectification.

SSI (Small-scale Integration) – is a chip generation first introduced in 1964 with between 1 and
10 transistors and 1 and 12 logic gates.

MSI (Medium-scale Integration) – is an integrated circuit that contains between 30 and 1,000
electronic components on a single chip.

LSI (Large-scale Integration) – is a situation in which a chip has tens of thousands of transistors
on it.

VLSI (Very large-scale Integration) – is the process of creating an integrated circuit (IC) by
combining millions of MOS transistors onto a single chip.

RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) – uses multiple disks in order to provide fault
tolerance, to improve overall performance, and to increase storage capacity in a system.

Parallel Processing – is a mode of computer operation in which a process is split into parts that
execute simultaneously on different processors attached to the same computer.

Superconductor – is an element or metallic alloy which, when cooled below a certain threshold
temperature, the material dramatically loses all electrical resistance.

AI (Artificial Intelligence) – is the simulation of human intelligence processes by machines,

especially computer systems.
CPU – also known as Central Processing Unit, is the 'brain' of any computer system.

Storage Device- is a piece of computer hardware used for saving, carrying and pulling out data

Computer System - designed to receive, process, manage and present information in a

meaningful format.

Software - commonly known as programs or apps.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Lesson 1: evolution of computer

Discussion

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability
to store, retrieve, and process data that provides output in a useful format. You may already know
that you can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web.
You can also use it to edit or create spreadsheets, presentations, and even videos.
A computer is an electronic device, operating under the control of instructions stored in
its own memory that can accept data (input), process the data according to specified rules,
produce information (output), and store the information for future use.
The word computer comes from the Latin word “compute”, which means, “to calculate”.
Thereby, a computer is an electronic device that can perform arithmetic operations at high speed

EVOLUTION OF COMPUTER
Generation in computer terminology is a change in technology a computer is/was being
used. Initially, the generation term was used to distinguish between varying hardware
technologies. Nowadays, generation includes both hardware and software, which together make
up an entire computer system.
There are five computer generations known till date. Each generation has been discussed
in detail along with their time period and characteristics. In the following table, approximate
dates against each generation has been mentioned, which are normally accepted.

First Generation Computer

The period of first generation was from 1946-1959. The computers of first
generation used vacuum tubes as the basic
components for memory and circuitry for
CPU (Central Processing Unit). These tubes,
like electric bulbs, produced a lot of heat and
the installations used to fuse frequently.
Therefore, they were very expensive and only
large organizations were able to afford it.
In this generation, mainly batch
processing operating system was used. Punch
cards, paper tape, and magnetic tape was
used as input and output devices. The
computers in this generation used machine
code as the programming language.

Some computers of this

The main features of the First Generation are
generation were
 Vacuum tube technology  ENIAC
 Unreliable  EDVAC
 Supported machine language only  UNIVAC

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

 Very costly  IBM-701

 Generated a lot of heat  IBM-650
 Slow input and output devices
 Huge size
 Need of AC
 Non-portable
 Consumed a lot of electricity

Second Generation Computer

The period of second generation was
from 1959-1965. In this generation, transistors
were used that were cheaper, consumed less
power, more compact in size, more reliable and
faster than the first-generation machines made
of vacuum tubes. In this generation, magnetic
cores were used as the primary memory and
magnetic tape and magnetic disks as secondary
storage devices.
In this generation, assembly language
and high-level programming languages like
FORTRAN, COBOL were used. The computers used batch processing and
multiprogramming operating system.

Some computers
The main features of Second Generation are of this generation
were
 Use of transistors  IBM 1620
 Reliable in comparison to first generation computers  IBM 7094
 Smaller size as compared to first generation computers  CDC 1604
 Generated less heat as compared to first generation  CDC 3600
computers  UNIVAC
 Consumed less electricity as compared to first 1108
generation computers
 Faster than first generation computers
 Still very costly
 AC required
 Supported machine and assembly languages

Third Generation Computer

The period of third generation was from
1965-1971. The computers of third generation
used Integrated Circuits (ICs) in place of
transistors. A single IC has many transistors,
resistors, and capacitors along with the
associated circuitry.
The IC was invented by Jack Kilby. This
development made computers smaller in size,

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

reliable, and efficient. In this generation remote processing, time-sharing,

multiprogramming operating system were used. High-level languages (FORTRAN-II TO
IV, COBOL, PASCAL PL/1, BASIC, ALGOL-68 etc.) were used during this generation.

Some computers of this

The main features of third generation are
generation were
 IC used  IBM-360 series
 More reliable in comparison to  Honeywell-6000 series
previous two generations  PDP (Personal Data
 Smaller size Processor)
 Generated less heat  IBM-370/168
 Faster  TDC-316
 Lesser maintenance
 Costly
 AC required
 Consumed lesser electricity
 Supported high-level language
 SSI and MSI Technology was used

Fourth Generation Computer

The period of fourth generation was from 1971-

1980. Computers of fourth generation used Very Large
Scale Integrated (VLSI) circuits. VLSI circuits having
about 5000 transistors and other circuit elements with
their associated circuits on a single chip made it possible
to have microcomputers of fourth generation.
Fourth generation computers became more
powerful, compact, reliable, and affordable. As a result, it
gave rise to Personal Computer (PC) revolution. In this
generation, time sharing, real time networks, distributed
operating system were used. All the high-level languages
like C, C++, DBASE etc., were used in this generation.

The main features of fourth Some computers of this generation

generation are were
 MSI and VLSI technology used  DEC 10
 Very cheap  STAR 1000
 Portable and reliable  PDP 11
 Use of PCs  CRAY-1(Super Computer)
 Very small size  CRAY-X-MP(Super Computer)
 Pipeline processing
 No AC required
 Concept of internet was
introduced

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

 Great developments in the fields

of networks
 Computers became easily
available

Fifth Generation Computer

The period of fifth generation is
1980-till date. In the fifth generation, VLSI
technology became ULSI (Ultra Large-
Scale Integration) technology, resulting in
the production of microprocessor chips
having ten million electronic
components.
This generation is based on parallel
processing hardware and AI (Artificial
Intelligence) software. AI is an emerging
branch in computer science, which
interprets the means and method of
making computers think like human
beings. All the high-level languages like C and C++, Java, .Net etc., are used in this
generation.

Some computer
The main features of fifth generation
AI includes types of this
are
generation are
 Robotics  ULSI technology  Desktop
 Neural Networks  Development of true artificial intelligence  Laptop
 Game Playing  Development of Natural language  NoteBook
 Development of processing  UltraBook
expert systems to  Advancement in Parallel Processing  ChromeBook
make decisions in  Advancement in Superconductor
real-life situations technology
 Natural language  More user-friendly interfaces with
understanding and multimedia features
generation  Availability of very powerful and compact
computers at cheaper rates

The Future Computer

Future computers promise to be even faster than today's computers and

smaller than a deck of cards. Offer “smart” or artificial intelligence features like expert
intelligence, neural network pattern recognition features, or natural language
capabilities.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Types of Computers

Since the advent of the first computer different types and sizes of computers are offering
different services. Computers can be as big as occupying a large building and as small as a laptop
or a microcontroller in mobile & embedded systems.

The four basic types of computers are as under:

1. Supercomputer
2. Mainframe Computer
3. Minicomputer
4. Microcomputer

SUPERCOMPUTER

The most powerful computers in terms

of performance and data processing are the
Supercomputers. These are specialized and task
specific computers used by large organizations.
These computers are used for research and
exploration purposes, like NASA uses
supercomputers for launching space shuttles,
controlling them and for space exploration
purpose.

The supercomputers are very expensive and

very large in size. It can be accommodated in
large air-conditioned rooms; some super
computers can span an entire building.

MAINFRAME COMPUTER

Although Mainframes are not as

powerful as supercomputers, but certainly
they are quite expensive nonetheless, and
many large firms & government organizations
uses Mainframes to run their business
operations. The Mainframe computers can be
accommodated in large air-conditioned
rooms because of its size. Super-computers
are the fastest computers with large data
storage capacity, Mainframes can also process
& store large amount of data. Banks
educational institutions & insurance
companies use mainframe computers to store
data about their customers, students &
insurance policy holders.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

MINICOMPUTER

Minicomputers are used by small

businesses & firms. Minicomputers are also
called as “Midrange Computers”. These are
small machines and can be accommodated on
a disk with not as processing and data storage
capabilities as super-computers &
Mainframes. These computers are not
designed for a single user. Individual
departments of a large company or
organizations use Mini-computers for
specific purposes. For example, a production
department can use Mini-computers for
monitoring certain production process.

MICROCOMPUTER

Desktop computers, laptops, personal

digital assistant (PDA), tablets &
smartphones are all types of
microcomputers.
The micro-computers are widely used &
the fastest growing computers. These
computers are the cheapest among the other
three types of computers. The Micro-
computers are specially designed for general
usage like entertainment, education and work
purposes. Well known manufacturers of
Micro-computer are Dell, Apple, Samsung,
Sony & Toshiba.

Desktop computers, Gaming consoles,

Sound & Navigation system of a car,
Netbooks, Notebooks, PDA’s, Tablet PC’s, Smartphones, Calculators are all type of
Microcomputers.

CAPABILITIES OF COMPUTER

 Speed:
Computer operates on data and commands at incredibly fast speed.
 Storage:
Computer can store enormous amount of data and information in its memory.
 Reliability:
Computers made of modern technology rarely breakdown and when they do, they are
easily repaired.
 Consistent:
If you input the same data into the computer using the same program, it will give you the
same result all the time.
 Communicate:
People can connect with others by the use of computers.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Lesson 2: Computer system

Principle

Discussion:

Computer System: Is a collection of entities that are designed to receive, process,

manage and present information in a meaningful format.

A computer comprises of some basic elements. These include hardware, software, peopleware. No
computer can function in the absence of these elements. Apart from these elements, a computer
system comprises of three basic components. These components are responsible for making
computers actually function. Let’s take a look at them in detail.

ELEMENTS OF A COMPUTER SYSTEM

There are three major elements that make up a computer system. They all interact with each
other and perform the task at hand.

HARDWARE SOFTWARE PEOPLEWARE

Hardware
These are all the physical parts of a computer system. They are the tangible computer equipment
and devices, i.e. you can see and touch them. Hardware components are the electronic or
mechanical instruments that help the users interface with the software, and also display the result
of the tasks being performed.

However, most of a computer's hardware cannot be seen; in other words, it is not an

external element of the computer, but rather an internal one, surrounded by the
computer's casing (tower). A computer's
hardware is comprised of many different parts,
but perhaps the most important of these is
the motherboard.

The motherboard is made up of even more parts

that power and control the [Link] is a
picture of a standard computer.

Common computer hardware components have

been identified. Please take a moment to learn
the different hardware components of a
computer.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Peripherals
A computer cannot do everything by itself. It needs help.
Other devices that work with a computer are
called peripherals. These devices are outside of the
Central Processing Unit (CPU) and are not essential to the
computer itself. The mouse, speakers, microphone,
headphones, and printer above are peripheral devices.
Other examples of peripherals are shown in the picture
on the left.

Hardware basic Operation or Function:

Hardware can actually be of four types, depending on which function they perform.

Input: These components help users enter data and

commands into a computer system. Data can be in the
form of numbers, words, actions, commands, etc. The
main function of input devices is to direct commands
and data into computers. Computers then use their CPU
to process this data and produce output.
Examples: Keyboard, mouse, touch screens, Scanner,
barcode readers, Magnetic Ink Character Readers
(MICR), Optical Character Readers (OCR), etc.

Output Device: To translate and display the result of

the data processing. After data is processed, results are
sent to an output device in the form of hard or soft
copy.

Example: Monitor, Printer, Headphones, Speaker,

Webcam, Microphone, Etc.

Note: Monitor is the most common form of output

device.

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Processing: The Central Processing unit(CPU) is the 'brain' of any

computer system. Also called a central processor or main processor,
is the electronic circuitry within a computer that executes
instructions that make up a computer program. The CPU performs
basic arithmetic, logic, controlling, and input/output operations
specified by the instructions in the program.

It is responsible for all processing in the system. It takes data

entered from input devices or held in the main memory or from backing storage and
processes it, following instructions contained in software before passing it on to output
devices. The CPU is also responsible for processing the instructions contained in the
software programs.

The picture shows part of a CPU.

1. The pins are used to plug the CPU into the 'motherboard'.
2. The motherboard is the main circuit board on which all the main electrical
components are placed.
3. The pins are covered in gold to make sure a good electrical contact is
made. Gold is a very good electrical conductor.

Storage Device: A storage device is a piece of computer hardware

used for saving, carrying and pulling out data. It can keep and retain
information short-term or long-term. It can be a device inside or
outside a computer or server.

Other terms for storage device is storage medium or storage media. A storage
device is one of the basic elements of any computer device. It almost saves all data and
applications in a computer except for hardware firmware. It comes in different shapes and
sizes depending on the needs and functionalities.

A storage device is any computing hardware that is used for storing, porting and extracting
data files and objects. It can hold and store information both temporarily and permanently,
and can be internal or external to a computer, server or any similar computing device.

There are two different types of storage devices:

Note: The key difference between
 Primary memory
primary and secondary memory is
 Secondary memory
speed of access.

Primary memory includes ROM and RAM, and is located close to the CPU on the
computer motherboard, enabling the CPU to read data from primary memory very
quickly indeed. It is used to store data that the CPU needs imminently so that it does
not have to wait for it to be delivered.

Generally smaller in size, these are designed to hold data temporarily and are
internal to the computer. They have the fastest data access speed, and include RAM
and cache memory.

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

There are two key types of primary memory:

1. RAM, or random access memory

2. ROM, or read-only memory

Differences between RAM and ROM

ROM: Note: A loss of power does

 Non-volatile not affect their ability to
 Fast to read retain data.
 Storage devices do not require power to remember
the data stored. Mass storage devices.
 Usually used in small quantities.
 Cannot be written to quickly
 Used to store boot instructions or firmware
 Relatively expensive per megabyte stored
compared to RAM

Types of ROM

ROM is available in several different types,

including PROM, EPROM, and EEPROM.

 PROM PROM stands for Programmable Read-Only Memory, and it is different

from true ROM in that while a ROM is programmed (i.e. has data written to it)
during the manufacturing process, a PROM is manufactured in an empty state
and then programmed later using a PROM programmer or burner.

 EPROM EPROM stands for Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory, and

as the name suggests, data stored in an EPROM can be erased and the EPROM
reprogrammed. Erasing an EPROM involves removing it from the computer
and exposing it to ultraviolet light before re-burning it.
 EEPROM EEPROM stands for Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only
Memory, and the distinction between EPROM and EEPROM is that the latter
can be erased and written to by the computer system it is installed in. In that
sense EEPROM is not strictly read-only. However in many cases the write
process is slow, so it is normally only done to update
program code such as firmware or BIOS code on an
occasional basis Note: A loss of power
means that any data
stored will be lost
irretrievably. When you
are using an application,
RAM:
such as a word
processor, the data (the
 Volatile storage is more often called "Main memory".
document you are
 Fast to read and write
working on) is stored in
 Requires a continuous supply of electricity to
RAM (Random Access
store/retain data.
Memory). If you lose
 Used as system memory to store data (including program
power without explicitly
code) that the CPU needs to process imminently
saving your work, you
 Relatively cheap per megabyte stored compared to ROM,
will likely lose data.
but relatively expensive compared to secondary memor

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Types of RAM

 DRAM: DRAM stands for Dynamic RAM,

and it is the most common type of RAM
used in computers. DRAM consists of a
transistor and a capacitor in each cell.

 SRAM: SRAM stands for Static RAM, and

it is a particular type of RAM which is
faster than DRAM, but more expensive and
bulker, having six transistors in each cell.

The key differences between DRAM and SRAM is that SRAM is faster than DRAM
- perhaps two to three times faster - but more expensive and bulkier. SRAM is
usually available in megabytes, while DRAM is purchased in gigabytes.

DRAM uses more energy than SRAM because it constantly needs to be refreshed
to maintain data integrity, while SRAM - though volatile – does not need
constant refreshing when it is powered up.

Secondary memory by contrast, is usually physically located within a separate

storage device, such as a hard disk drive or solid state drive (SSD), which is
connected to the computer system either directly or over a network. The cost per
gigabyte of secondary memory is much lower, but the read and write speeds are
significantly slower.

These usually have large storage capacity, and they store data permanently. They
can be either internal or external to the computer, and they include the hard disk,
optical disk drive and USB storage device.

Examples:
Magnetic storage devices: Today, magnetic storage is one of the
most common types of storage used with computers. This
technology is found mostly on extremely large HDDs or hybrid
hard drives.

 Floppy diskette
 Hard drive
 Magnetic strip
 SuperDisk
 Tape cassette
 Zip diskette

Optical storage devices: Another common

type of storage is optical storage, which uses
lasers and lights as its method of reading and
writing data.
 Blu-ray disc
 CD-ROM disc
 CD-R and CD-RW disc.
 DVD-R, DVD+R, DVD-RW, and DVD+RW
disc.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Flash memory devices: Flash memory has replaced

most magnetic and optical media as it becomes
cheaper because it is the more efficient and reliable
solution.
 USB flash drive, jump drive, or thumb [Link]
 SD card
 Memory card
 SDHC Card
 Sony Memory Stick
 SSD
 xD-Picture Card

Software
Software, commonly known as programs or apps. The software component refers to the
instructions, data, and protocols, which helps the user to do a set of specific tasks. It helps the
user interact with the computer system with the help of hardware. Software, as you can imagine,
is the intangible aspect of the computer system.

Basically, there are two main categories of software, which are as follows,

 Application Software
 System Software

An illustration of software component running on a computer

Application Software
This is designed and created for end users to perform a specific personal,
business, scientific processing tasks and specialized assignment in
order to output useful information.

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

An example would be a word processing

application used to compose letters or
brochures, such as Microsoft Word.

Other popular examples include:

Adobe Photoshop, Corel Draw, and AutoCAD.

A collection of application software is bundled

in a package that is commonly known as a System Software
software suite. A typical suite includes
software for word processing, presentation,
graphic design, and spreadsheet.
Examples include Microsoft Office, OpenOffice,
and iWork.
Software is written in computer languages such as Visual Basic, C, and Java.

Note: The software component is stored

on optical media, disk drives
and cloud storage spaces

System Software

The system software is a programs that take control of the PC on start-up, and then play
a central role in everything that happens within a computer system by managing,
maintaining, and controlling other software and devices inside the computer.

System software is also designed for providing a platform for running application
software, and it includes the following:

 Operating systems
Are essential collections of software that manage resources and provide common
services for other software that runs "on top" of them. These specialized programmes
allow the communication between software and hardware. The operating systems
run all the other computer programmes, and even regulate the startup process of
the computer.

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

In a typical setup, the operating system is

like the motherboard for software. It is
the first thing that is installed, followed by
applications and other software.

Examples:
Windows, Mac OS X, and Linux
(Three popular operating systems for
traditional computers)

Android OS, iPhone OS, Windows Phone

OS, and Firefox OS.
( Popular mobile operating systems)

 Drivers
A device driver is a computer program that operates or controls a particular type of
device that is attached to a computer. Each device needs at least one corresponding
device driver; because a computer typically has at minimum at least one input device
and at least one output device, a computer typically needs more than one device driver.
 Examples: Printer, Video adapters, Network cards, Sound cards, etc.

 Utilities
Utility software is system software designed to help analyze, configure, optimize or
helps maintain and protect the
computer system. Utility software
focuses on how the computer
(including the
hardware, operating system, and
application software) operates. Utility
software is generally used by people
with an advanced level of computer
knowledge. Watch the video on the
right to learn more about
utility software .
Examples:
Anti-virus software,
backup software and disk tools.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

People ware
The people interacting with the computer system are also an element of it. We also call this
element as Liveware/humanware. They are the ultimate “users” of the computer systems.

There are three types of people that interact with the system, namely

 Programmers: Professionals who write the computer programs that allow users to
interact with the computer. They must have technical knowledge of computers
and computer languages.
 System Analyst: They mainly design data processing systems, and solve problems
that arise in data processing
 End-Users: Also known as operators, they are the people who interact with the
computer system.

Summary

Computer are everywhere today. From business to entertainment, from shopping to

education, in our daily lives, communication and in every situation, it is difficult to imagine a
world without computers.
This module provides a fundamental introduction to computer which is an electronic
device, operating under the control of instructions stored in its own memory that can accept data
(input), process the data according to specified rules, produce information (output), and store the
information for future use and it was discussed briefly in the first part.

The evolution of computer generation by generation are discussed in the second part
which a generation in computer technology is a change in technology a computer is being used.
This term was used to distinguish between varying hardware technologies. Generation
also includes both hardware and software, which together make up an entire computer system.
Finally, this module introduces and discuss the four basic types of computer which are
the Supercomputer, Mainframe Computer, Minicomputer and the Microcomputer.

Computer System consists of the components of digital technology that you can touch. In
this module, we reviewed the components that make up a personal computer, with the
understanding that the configuration of a personal computer is very similar to that of any type of
digital computing device. A personal computer is made up of many components, most importantly
the CPU, motherboard, RAM, hard disk, removable media, and input/output devices. We also
reviewed some variations on the personal computer, such as the tablet computer and the
smartphone. In accordance with Moore’s Law, these technologies have improved quickly over the
years, making today’s computing devices much more powerful than devices just a few years ago.
Finally, we discussed two of the consequences of this evolution: the commoditization of the
personal computer and the problem of electronic waste.

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Assessment-post test

Test I: Identification

1. _____ tells the computer how to accomplish tasks the user requires such as creating a document.
2. __________ is a software for creating great presentations.
3. ______ refers to all the physical components of a computer including the monitor, system unit.
4. Keyboard is one of the ways in which you can __________ data.
5. CPU stands for _________?
6. The period of first generation was from ______________.
7. The computers of third generation used __________________in place of transistors.
8. The most powerful computers in terms of performance and data processing are
the____________________.
9. Minicomputers are also called as __________________________.
10. The _______________is made up of even more parts that power and control the computer.

Test II: Multiple choice

4. The main circuit board on which all the main electrical components are placed.

a. CPU b. Main Memory c. Motherboard

5. Volatile storage is more often called _____________.

a. Main memory
b. Programmable Read-Only Memory
c. Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory

6. What type of storage is a hard disk drive?

a. Optical b. Magnetic c. Solid State

7. What type of medium is a Blu-ray disc?

a. Optical b. Magnetic c. Solid State

8. Is a collection of entities that are designed to receive, process, manage and

present information in a meaningful format.

a. Utilities b. Drivers c. Computer System

9. Which of these statements about ROM is true?

a. ROM is volatile and can only be read from
b. ROM is non-volatile and can be read from and written

7. Two basic functions of a computer system are

a. Word-processing and Spreadsheet

b. Sending email and web browsing
c. Sending and receiving information
d. Mouse and keyboard

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 SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

8. Which of the following are hardware items?

a. Motherboard
b. CPU
c. RAM
d. All the above

9. It is a system software designed to help analyse, configure, optimize or helps

maintain and protect the computer system.
1. End-Users b. Drivers c. Utility/utilities

10. The CPU can also be known as the _____________ of the computer.

a. Main memory
b. Brain
c. Main storage
d. Mainframe

Test II: Essay (5 pts each)

1. Why is storage needed in a computer?

2. Describe what is meant by a ‘peripheral’.
3. What does a CPU do?
4. Explain why a computer needs a hard drive.
5. Explain why the personal computer is now considered a commodity.

References

Internet Sources
1. [Link]
2. [Link]
future
3. [Link]
4. [Link]
accounting/meaning-and-elements-of-computer-system/
5. [Link]
6. [Link]
7. Moore, Gordon E. (1965). "Cramming more components onto integrated circuits" (PDF).
Electronics Magazine. p. 4. Retrieved 2012-10-18.
8. Smartphone shipments to surpass feature phones this year. CNet, June 4, 2013.
[Link]
phones-this-year/
9. Gartner Press Release. April 4, 2013. [Link]

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SOUTHERN LEYTE STATE UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF COMPUTER STUDIES
AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

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