CHOOSING APPROPRIATE INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES IN CONTEXT

Different situations or environments require specific peripherals.

Here are examples to guide selection:

Appropriate Input
Context / Situation Appropriate Output Device(s)
Device(s)

Typing a report in an
Keyboard, mouse Monitor, printer
office

Online teaching / video

Microphone, webcam Monitor, speakers
call

High-resolution monitor, color

Graphic design Graphic tablet, mouse
printer

Bank ATM Touch screen, card reader Display screen, receipt printer

Supermarket billing Barcode scanner, keyboard Receipt printer, monitor

Gaming Game controller, joystick Monitor, speakers

Hospital patient record

Keyboard, barcode scanner Monitor, printer
entry

MIDI keyboard,
Music recording studio Speakers, headphones
microphone

Student using a
Touch screen Screen, speakers
smartphone

FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING PERIPHERALS

When deciding which input/output devices to use, consider:
Nature of the task:
Text input: Keyboard
Graphic input: Scanner or drawing tablet
Audio input: Microphone
Environment:
Classroom: Projector, speakers
Office: Printer, monitor
Speed and Accuracy:
Barcode scanners are faster and more accurate than manual typing.
User Skills:
Choose devices that the user can easily operate.
Cost and Compatibility:
Choose devices that fit the budget and work with the computer system.
CHAPTER 3: DESCRIBING INTERNAL COMPONENTS OF THE COMPUTER
LESSON: STORAGE AND PROCESSING DEVICES
CPU (CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT)
The central processing unit, also known as processor, is the brain of the computer system that
processes data (input) and converts it into meaningful information (output).
SOME OF THE BASIC FUNCTIONS OF A CPU ARE AS FOLLOWS:
• Controls the transmission of data from input devices to memory.
• Processes the data held in memory.
• Controls the transmission of information from memory to output device or storage.
GPU (GRAPHICS PROCESSING UNIT)
The GPU is a special processor that focuses on handling images, videos, and animations. It
supports the CPU by taking care of all visual and graphical tasks.
Some of the basic functions of a GPU are as follows:
• Renders graphics for games, videos, and apps.
• Accelerates video editing and 3D modeling.
• Reduces load on the CPU by managing image processing.
Example When playing a video game, the GPU generates all the moving images on the
screen.
PROCESSOR CORE
A processor core is an individual processing unit inside a CPU. Each core can handle one task
at a time. Example A dual-core processor can type a document and play music at the same
time, each on a different core.
MULTICORE PROCESSOR
A multicore processor is a CPU that contains two or more cores in one chip. It allows the
computer to perform multiple tasks at the same time. Example A quad-core processor can
browse the web, run antivirus software, play music, and open Word at once each task handled
by a separate core.
CLOCK SPEED
Clock speed is the rate at which a processor completes tasks. It is measured in cycles per
second, using Hertz (Hz).
COMPONENTS CPU
1. Control Unit: This unit checks the correctness of the sequence of operations. It fetches the
program instructions from the memory unit, interprets them and ensures correct execution of
the program. It also controls the input/output devices and directs the overall functioning of the
other units of the computer.
2. Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): This unit performs the arithmetic (add and subtract) and
logical operations (and, or) on the available data. Whenever an arithmetic or logical operation
is to be performed, the required data are transferred from the memory unit to ALU, the
operation is performed, and the result is returned to memory unit. Before the completion of
the processing, data may need to be transferred back and forth several times between these
two sections.
3. Registers: These are special storage locations with small memory space within the CPU
that offer an advantage of fast speed. They work under the direction of the control unit to
accept and hold data that is being processed. Since the CPU uses registers for the processing
of data, the number of registers in a CPU and the size of each register affect the power and
speed of the CPU.
THE MACHINE CYCLE OR INSTRUCTION CYCLE OR MACHINE
INSTRUCTION CYCLE OR FETCH-DECODE-EXECUTE CYCLE.
Step 1 (Fetch): Control Unit retrieves instruction from memory.
- Step 2 (Decode): Instruction is interpreted.
- Step 3 (Execute): ALU executes the instruction.
- Step 4 (Store): Result is saved back into memory or register.
CONCEPTS OF STORAGE
STORAGE • Storage is the general term for keeping digital data for later use.
• There are two types: primary storage (temporary) and secondary storage (permanent).
PRIMARY STORAGE
• Also called main memory or internal memory.
• It stores data and instructions currently being used by the CPU.
• It is faster than secondary storage but usually smaller in size.
VOLATILE VS NON-VOLATILE MEMORY
Volatile Loses all data when the power is off Non example RAM while NON-Volatile Keeps
data even when the power is off Example ROM
UNITS FOR MEASURING STORAGE
Unit Size Estimate
1-bit smallest data unit (0 or 1)
1 byte 8 bits
1 KB 1,024 bytes
1 MB 1,024 KB
1 GB 1,024 MB
1 TB 1,024 GB
FUNCTIONS OF TYPES OF PRIMARY STORAGE
RAM (Random Access Memory) RAM is a type of volatile memory that temporarily stores
data and instructions that are currently being used by the computer. It is the main working
memory of the computer and is erased when the computer is turned off.
FUNCTION
• Temporarily holds instructions and data that are actively used.
• Data is lost when power is off.
• Helps the CPU access information quickly.
CACHE MEMORY Cache is a small-sized, high-speed memory located close to or inside
the CPU, which stores frequently accessed data or instructions to speed up the processing time
of the CPU. Cache is also volatile and faster than RAM.
FUNCTION
1. A small amount of high-speed memory close to or inside the CPU.
2. Stores the most frequently used data.
3. Faster than RAM, but much smaller.
CONCEPT OF SECONDARY STORAGE
• Secondary storage is a non-volatile memory, meaning it does not lose data when power is
off.
• It is used to store data permanently, unlike RAM which is temporary.
• It has much higher capacity than primary storage and is used to hold files, media, software,
and backup data.
• It is slower than RAM but more reliable for long-term use.
DEFINITIONS OF COMMON TYPES OF SECONDARY STORAGE
HARD DISK DRIVE (HDD)
A magnetic storage device that uses spinning metal disks (called platters) to store and retrieve
data. Commonly used in desktops and laptops. It can store large amounts of data but can be
slower and noisy.
SOLID STATE DRIVE (SSD)
A fast and durable storage device that uses flash memory and no moving parts. SSDs are
faster than HDDs, more reliable, but also more expensive.
OPTICAL DISCS (CD/DVD)
Circular plastic discs that use laser technology to read or write data. They are often used for
storing music, videos, software, and backups. A CD/DVD drive is required to access the data.
COMPARISON BETWEEN HDD AND SSD
HDD Speed Slower in reading/writing data while SSD Much faster in accessing and saving
data
HDD Contains moving parts (more fragile) WHILE SSD No moving parts (more durable and
shockproof)
HDD Can be noisy due to spinning disks WHILE SSD Silent operation
HDD Cheaper per GB WHILE SSD More expensive per GB
OTHER INTERNAL COMPONENTS
MOTHERBOARD
The motherboard is the main printed circuit board (PCB) of the computer. It serves as the
central platform that connects all other internal components.
FUNCTION:
• Allows the CPU, RAM, storage devices, and other hardware to communicate with each
other.
• Acts like the nervous system of the computer, linking all components together.
POWER SUPPLY, BATTERY, AND FANS 1. POWER SUPPLY UNIT (PSU) A device
that converts AC (alternating current) from a wall socket into DC (direct current) power used
by computer components.
FUNCTION: Provides regulated power to all parts of the computer (motherboard, drives,
fans, etc.).
COOLING FANS Internal rotating devices designed to push hot air out of the computer and
pull cooler air in.
FUNCTION: Prevent overheating, especially of the CPU and GPU, and keep the internal
temperature at safe levels.
CMOS and Battery
CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductor):
A small chip on the motherboard that stores BIOS settings (like system time, date, and
hardware configuration).
Battery (CMOS Battery):
 • Provides power to CMOS so that settings are not lost when the computer is turned
off.
Function:
• Maintains system clock and BIOS configuration even when PC is unplugged.
TYPES OF BUSES
A bus is a set of electrical pathways that allow communication between the CPU and other
internal components.
TYPES AND FUNCTIONS:
1. DATA BUS: Transfers actual data between the CPU, memory, and other parts.
2. ADDRESS BUS: Carries the addresses of data in memory that the CPU wants to access or
store.
3. CONTROL BUS: Carries signals or commands (like read, write, reset) that control what
other parts of the system should do.
COMPUTER PORT
A port is a physical interface on a computer or mobile device that allows it to connect to other
devices, for the purpose of transferring data, audio, video, network signals, or electrical
power.
TYPES OF PORTS ON A COMPUTER AND THEIR FUNCTIONS
USB Port: Connects keyboard, mouse, flash drive, phone, etc. EXAMPLE Computer, laptop
HDMI Port: Sends video + audio to a monitor, TV, or projector EXAMPLE Laptop, desktop
VGA Port: Sends video only to monitors/projectors (older systems) EXAMPLE Desktop,
projectors
Ethernet Port: Provides wired internet or network connection EXAMPLE Desktop, laptop
Audio Jack: Connects headphones, speaker, microphone EXAMPLE Laptop, desktop
CHAPTER 3: GETTING APPLICATION SOFTWARE
LESSON: TYPES OF APPLICATION SOFTWARE
CONCEPT OF SOFTWARE
Software is a collection of instructions or programs that tell the computer how to operate or
perform specific tasks. Without software, hardware cannot function.
SYSTEM SOFTWARE
This type of software manages and controls the computer hardware. It acts as a bridge
between the user and the machine.
Examples of system software:
1. Operating systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
2. Utility programs (antivirus, disk cleanup)
3. Device drivers
FUNCTIONS OF SYSTEM SOFTWARE
• Process management: manages processes and threads
• Memory management: manages memory allocation and deallocation
• File management: manages file creation, deletion, and modification
• Input/Output management: manages input/output operations
APPLICATION SOFTWARE
This is designed to help users perform specific tasks or solve real-life problems using a
computer.
PURPOSE OF APPLICATION SOFTWARE Each type of application software is created
for a specific purpose, such as:
• Word processing: Writing documents (e.g., Microsoft Word, Google Docs)
• Spreadsheets: Calculations and data analysis (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets)
• Presentation: Creating slide shows (e.g., PowerPoint, Prezi)
• Database management: Storing and retrieving information (e.g., Access, MySQL)
• Web browsing: Accessing websites (e.g., Chrome, Firefox)
• Media playing: Playing music and videos (e.g., VLC, Windows Media Player)
COMMON APPLICATION SOFTWARE 2
EMAIL SOFTWARE (EMAIL CLIENTS)
Purpose: Used to manage and organize electronic mail (email) messages.
Key Features:
• Send, receive, reply, forward, and delete emails
• Attach files or images
• Organize mail using folders and filters
• Support for multiple email accounts
• Notification of new emails
Examples: • Microsoft Outlook • Gmail (web-based) • Mozilla Thunderbird • Apple Mail
EDUCATIONAL SOFTWARE
Purpose: Used to help students learn and revise subjects, practice exercises, and track
progress.
Key Features: • Multimedia learning content (videos, text, audio)
• Quizzes and practice tests
• Tutorials and lessons
• Progress tracking
Examples: • Typing Master • Duolingo • Khan Academy • Scratch
ANTIVIRUS SOFTWARE
Purpose: Protects computers from malicious programs such as viruses, worms, and spyware.
Key Features:
• Real-time file scanning
• Virus detection and removal
• Automatic virus definition updates
• System scan scheduling
• Email and web protection
Examples: • Avast • Norton • Kaspersky • Windows Defender

DIFFERENCE BETWEEN COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION

Term Meaning
Sharing information or messages between
Communication two or more people. E.g. Talking with
friends on WhatsApp
Working together with others to achieve a
Collaboration common goal or complete a task e.g.
Writing a project together on Google Docs

Quick Tip: You can communicate without collaborating, but you cannot collaborate
effectively without communicating.

EXAMPLES OF COMMUNICATION AND COLLABORATION TOOLS

COMMUNICATION TOOLS

These tools help people to talk, send messages, or share ideas.

• WhatsApp
• Telegram
• Messenger
• Gmail

COLLABORATION TOOLS

These tools help people to work together on a task or project.

 • Trello
• Google Doc
• Google Drive
• Microsoft Team
• Github

CHAPTER 4: DESCRIBING WAYS OF ACQUIRING AND DISTRIBUTING

SOFTWARE

LESSON: METHODS TO OBTAIN SOFTWARE

OPEN-SOURCE SOFTWARE
These are software whose source code is available for everyone to see, use, and even modify.
This means anyone can improve the software, fix bugs, or even build their own version of it.
Open-source software is usually free.
• Transparent: You can see how it was built
• Free to download and use
• Programmers can modify or add new features
Examples: • Linux: an operating system used on many servers and desktops
• LibreOffice: a free alternative to Microsoft Office • GIMP: free image editing software •
Mozilla Firefox: a web browser

CLOSED SOURCE SOFTWARE

It is the opposite of open source. Its source code is not available to the public. Only the
company that made it has the right to see or change it. Most closed source software is
commercial, meaning you must pay to use it.
• Code is protected and hidden from users
• Often sold as a product (needs a license)
• Cannot be modified by users
Examples: • Microsoft Windows: the most common PC operating system • Adobe Photoshop:
used for photo editing • macOS: the Apple computer operating system • Microsoft Office:
includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint

SHAREWARE
This is software that you can download and use for free, but only for a limited time (trial).
After the trial ends, you must pay to continue using it or to unlock all features.
• Trial version (e.g., 7 or 30 days)
• Some features may be locked
• Used to test before buying
Examples: • WinRAR: a file compression tool
• Adobe Acrobat Pro: or editing PDF documents (trial version)
• Some antivirus software: like AVG or Avast free trials

FREEWARE
Freeware is software that is completely free to use, but unlike open-source, its code is not
available for public editing. You can use it, but you cannot change or sell it.
• Free to use forever
• Cannot be modified
• Safe and legal for public use
Examples:
• VLC Media Player: plays music and videos
• Skype: for video calls
• Zoom (basic version): used for video meetings
• Google Earth: shows maps and satellite images

SOFTWARE INSTALLATION:
Software installation is the process of adding a new program to your device so that it becomes
ready to use. This involves copying program files, setting up the system to recognize the
program, and creating shortcuts.

SOFTWARE UPDATING:
Software updating means modifying an existing software program by adding new files, fixing
errors, or improving performance. Unlike installation, you are not adding something new
you're improving what is already there.