COURSE Bashiru Muhammed ND/MEC/25/0001 Assignment
ASSIGNMENT ON INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER
Question 1: Define a Computer
Definition of a Computer
A computer is an electronic device that accepts data as input, processes the data according to a
set of instructions (called a program), stores the processed data, and produces meaningful
information as output. It performs calculations and logical operations quickly and accurately.
Different scholars have defined a computer as follows:
1. A computer is an electronic machine that receives data, processes it, stores it, and produces
useful information.
2. A computer is a programmable electronic device capable of performing arithmetic and logical
operations automatically.
3. A computer is a high-speed electronic device used for processing, storing, and retrieving
information.
Computers are widely used in schools, hospitals, banks, industries, government offices, homes,
and businesses. They make work easier, faster, and more accurate.
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Five Basic Characteristics of a Computer
1. Speed
A computer performs millions or even billions of operations within a second. It completes tasks
much faster than humans.
Example:
- Banks process thousands of customer transactions every minute.
- JAMB CBT computers score examination results immediately after the examination.
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2. Accuracy
A computer produces correct results when the input data and instructions are correct. Errors
usually occur because of wrong data entered by the user.
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Example:
- Payroll systems calculate workers' salaries correctly.
- Hospitals use computers to calculate patients' laboratory results accurately.
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3. Storage
A computer can store a very large amount of information and retrieve it whenever needed.
Example:
- Universities store students' records.
- Banks keep customers' account information for many years.
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4. Diligence
Unlike humans, a computer does not become tired or lose concentration. It can perform the
same task repeatedly with the same speed and accuracy.
Example:
- ATM machines operate throughout the day and night.
- Factory machines controlled by computers work continuously without getting tired.
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5. Versatility
A computer can perform different types of jobs depending on the software installed.
Example:
A laptop can be used to:
- Type documents
- Browse the Internet
- Watch movies
- Play games
- Design graphics
- Attend online classes
- Calculate accounts
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This ability to perform many different tasks makes the computer a versatile machine.
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Importance of Computers
Computers are important because they:
- Save time.
- Improve accuracy.
- Store large amounts of information.
- Increase productivity.
- Facilitate communication.
- Support education and research.
- Improve healthcare services.
- Promote business growth.
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Summary
A computer is one of the most important inventions of the modern world. Its speed, accuracy,
storage capacity, diligence, and versatility make it useful in almost every aspect of life, including
education, banking, healthcare, business, communication, engineering, and entertainment. As
technology continues to improve, computers will become even more powerful and useful in
solving human problems.
Question 2: History and Generations of Computers
History of Computers
The history of computers dates back to ancient times when people used simple devices for
counting. As technology developed, computers became faster, smaller, cheaper, and more
powerful.
Early Computing Devices
1. Abacus (around 3000 BC)
- The Abacus is the earliest known calculating device.
- It consists of beads moved on rods.
- It was used for counting and performing basic arithmetic operations.
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2. Napier's Bones (1617)
- Invented by John Napier.
- Used for multiplication, division, and finding square roots.
3. Pascaline (1642)
- Invented by Blaise Pascal.
- It was the first mechanical calculator used for addition and subtraction.
4. Stepped Reckoner (1673)
- Invented by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz.
- It could perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
5. Difference Engine (1822)
- Designed by Charles Babbage.
- Used for solving mathematical tables automatically.
6. Analytical Engine (1837)
- Also designed by Charles Babbage.
- Considered the first design of a modern computer because it had an input unit, processing
unit, memory, and output unit.
- Charles Babbage is therefore known as the Father of the Computer.
7. Hollerith Tabulating Machine (1890)
- Invented by Herman Hollerith.
- Used punched cards to process census data quickly.
- Its success later led to the formation of IBM.
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Generations of Computers
Computers are divided into five generations based on the technology used.
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First Generation of Computers (1946–1959)
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Technology Used
- Vacuum Tubes
Characteristics
- Very large in size.
- Produced a lot of heat.
- Consumed much electricity.
- Slow compared to modern computers.
- Programming was done in machine language.
Examples
- ENIAC
- EDVAC
- UNIVAC I
Advantages
- First electronic computers.
- Performed calculations faster than mechanical machines.
Disadvantages
- Very expensive.
- Generated excessive heat.
- Required frequent maintenance.
- Large size occupied entire rooms.
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Second Generation of Computers (1959–1965)
Technology Used
- Transistors
Characteristics
- Smaller than first-generation computers.
- Faster and more reliable.
- Consumed less electricity.
- Used assembly language and high-level languages.
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Examples
- IBM 1401
- IBM 7094
- CDC 1604
Advantages
- Faster processing.
- More reliable.
- Less heat production.
- Lower power consumption.
Disadvantages
- Still expensive.
- Required air conditioning.
- Needed skilled operators.
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Third Generation of Computers (1965–1971)
Technology Used
- Integrated Circuits (IC)
Characteristics
- Smaller and faster.
- More reliable.
- Supported multitasking.
- Used operating systems.
Examples
- IBM System/360
- PDP-8
- Honeywell 6000
Advantages
- High speed.
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- Greater storage capacity.
- Lower maintenance cost.
- Improved reliability.
Disadvantages
- IC technology was costly to manufacture.
- Required sophisticated technology.
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Fourth Generation of Computers (1971–Present)
Technology Used
- Microprocessors (VLSI Technology)
Characteristics
- Very small in size.
- Portable.
- High processing speed.
- Large memory capacity.
- Affordable.
Examples
- Desktop Computers
- Laptop Computers
- Apple Macintosh
- IBM Personal Computer (PC)
Advantages
- Very fast.
- Low power consumption.
- Easy to use.
- Large storage capacity.
- Supports networking and the Internet.
Disadvantages
- Can become outdated quickly.
- Vulnerable to viruses and cyber-attacks.
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- Requires regular software updates.
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Fifth Generation of Computers (Present and Future)
Technology Used
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Machine Learning
- Natural Language Processing
- Robotics
- Parallel Processing
Characteristics
- Intelligent systems.
- Voice recognition.
- Self-learning capability.
- High-speed processing.
- Automation.
Examples
- AI-powered computers
- Smart Robots
- Self-driving vehicles
- Virtual assistants such as ChatGPT, Siri, and Google Assistant
Advantages
- Extremely fast.
- Intelligent decision-making.
- Improved automation.
- Better communication between humans and computers.
- Solves complex scientific problems.
Disadvantages
- Very expensive.
- Requires highly skilled professionals.
- May reduce employment opportunities due to automation.
- Raises privacy and security concerns.
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Summary Table
Generation| Period| Technology| Example| Major Advantage| Major Disadvantage
First| 1946–1959| Vacuum Tubes| ENIAC| First electronic computer| Large and generated much
heat
Second| 1959–1965| Transistors| IBM 1401| Faster and more reliable| Expensive
Third| 1965–1971| Integrated Circuits| IBM System/360| Smaller and faster| Costly technology
Fourth| 1971–Present| Microprocessors| Desktop PC, Laptop| High speed and portability| Virus
attacks
Fifth| Present–Future| Artificial Intelligence| AI Computers, Robots| Intelligent systems|
Expensive and complex
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Conclusion
The development of computers from the first to the fifth generation shows tremendous
improvement in technology. Computers have evolved from large machines that occupied entire
rooms into small, portable, and intelligent devices capable of performing billions of operations
every second. Today, fifth-generation computers use Artificial Intelligence to solve complex
problems and assist humans in education, healthcare, banking, communication, research, and
many other fields.
Question 3: Basic Components of a Computer System
Introduction
A computer system is made up of three main components that work together to receive data,
process it, store it, and produce useful information. These components are:
1. Hardware
2. Software
3. Humanware (Peopleware)
Without any one of these components, a computer system cannot function effectively.
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Diagram of a Computer System
COMPUTER SYSTEM
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│
┌──────────────────┼──────────────────┐
│ │ │
HARDWARE SOFTWARE HUMANWARE
│
┌────┼─────┬───────────┬───────────┐
│ │ │ │
Input Processing Storage Output
Unit Unit Unit Unit
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1. Hardware
Definition:
Hardware refers to all the physical and tangible parts of a computer that can be seen and
touched.
Categories of Hardware
A. Input Unit
The input unit consists of devices used to enter data and instructions into the computer.
Examples
- Keyboard
- Mouse
- Scanner
- Microphone
- Webcam
Functions
- Accepts data from the user.
- Converts data into a form the computer understands.
- Sends data to the CPU for processing.
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B. Processing Unit (CPU)
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The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is the brain of the computer. It performs calculations,
processes data, and controls all computer operations.
Parts of the CPU
(i) Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
- Performs arithmetic operations such as addition and subtraction.
- Performs logical operations such as comparison.
(ii) Control Unit (CU)
- Controls and coordinates all computer activities.
- Directs the flow of data between different components.
(iii) Registers
- Temporary storage locations inside the CPU.
- Hold data and instructions currently being processed.
Functions of the CPU
- Processes data.
- Executes instructions.
- Controls all computer operations.
- Produces results.
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C. Storage Unit
The storage unit keeps data, programs, and information for future use.
Types
- Primary Storage (RAM and ROM)
- Secondary Storage (Hard Disk, SSD, Flash Drive, CD/DVD)
Functions
- Stores data.
- Stores software.
- Saves processed information.
- Allows future retrieval of information.
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D. Output Unit
The output unit displays processed information to the user.
Examples
- Monitor
- Printer
- Speakers
- Projector
- Plotter
Functions
- Displays information.
- Produces printed documents.
- Plays sound.
- Shows images and videos.
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2. Software
Definition
Software is a collection of programs and instructions that tells the computer what to do. Unlike
hardware, software cannot be touched physically.
Types of Software
(i) System Software
This controls the operation of the computer.
Examples:
- Windows
- Linux
- macOS
(ii) Application Software
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This helps users perform specific tasks.
Examples:
- Microsoft Word
- Microsoft Excel
- Google Chrome
- CorelDRAW
Functions of Software
- Controls hardware.
- Helps users perform tasks.
- Manages computer resources.
- Provides a user-friendly interface.
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3. Humanware (Peopleware)
Definition
Humanware refers to the people who use, manage, and maintain the computer system.
Examples
- Computer users
- Programmers
- System analysts
- Computer engineers
- Network administrators
- Database administrators
Functions
- Operate computers.
- Develop software.
- Repair hardware.
- Manage computer networks.
- Maintain computer systems.
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Relationship Between Hardware, Software and Humanware
The three components depend on one another.
- Hardware cannot work without software.
- Software cannot operate without hardware.
- Both hardware and software require human beings to operate and manage them.
Together, they make the computer system efficient and useful.
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Summary Table
Component| Meaning| Examples
Hardware| Physical parts of a computer| Keyboard, CPU, Monitor, Printer
Software| Programs and instructions| Windows, Microsoft Word, Excel
Humanware| People who use and manage computers| Users, Programmers, Engineers
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Conclusion
The computer system consists of Hardware, Software, and Humanware. Hardware performs the
physical operations, software provides instructions, and humanware operates and manages the
system. These three components work together to ensure that computers perform their
functions efficiently in schools, banks, hospitals, industries, and homes.
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