Week 1 – Computing Fundamentals
Chapter 1 – Computer Basics
A computer is an electronic device that receives data (input), processes it,
stores it, and produces information (output).
Types of Computers:
a. Desktop Computer – a fixed personal computer, usually on a desk.
b. Laptop – a portable computer.
c. Mobile Devices – smartphones and tablets.
The Information Processing Cycle
The information processing cycle is the sequence of steps a computer
[Link] include:
a. Input – entering raw data using devices such as a keyboard or mouse.
b. Processing – the CPU works on the data.
c. Output – displaying results on a screen or printer.
d. Storage – saving data for later use.
Main Parts of a Computer
a. Hardware- The physical components of a computer, e.g., monitor,
keyboard, hard drive.
b. Software- The set of instructions (programs) that tell the hardware what to
do.
System Components
❖ Processor (CPU)-TThis is the “brain” of the computer.
❖ Memory- Temporary (RAM) and permanent (ROM) storage used by the
computer.
❖ Storage Devices- Hard drives, SSDs, flash drives.
❖ Input/Output Devices- Tools to enter and display information (keyboard,
mouse, monitor, printer).
Computer Communication
a. Networking-This is a system where computers are connected to share
resources and information.
b. Port- A connection point for plugging in devices (USB, HDMI, Ethernet).
c. Protocol- A set of rules for communication between computers (e.g., HTTP,
FTP).
d. Binary- A numbering system of 0s and 1s used by computers to represent
data.
Chapter 2 – The System Unit
System Unit
The system unit is the main body of a computer that contains the CPU, memory,
power supply and other essential hardware parts.
Components inside the system unit:
i. CPU (Central Processing Unit)- Controls and processes instructions.
✓ Control Unit (CU): Directs operations.
✓ Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU): Performs calculations and logic
operations.
ii. Motherboard- The main circuit board connecting all components.
iii. RAM (Random Access Memory)- Temporary working memory. Data
disappears when the power is off.
iv. ROM (Read-Only Memory)- Permanent memory storing startup
instructions.
v. Power Supply- Converts electricity into usable power for the computer.
vi. Expansion Cards- Additional hardware plugged into slots to add features
(graphics card, sound card).
Connecting Components
❖ Bus- A set of pathways that transfer data inside the computer.
❖ Ports- Connection points for devices outside the computer.
❖ Slots (PCI, SATA)- Openings for adding expansion cards or drives.
❖ Diagnostics/Troubleshooting- Tools and processes to detect and fix
computer problems.
Chapter 3 – Input, Output, and Storage
Input Devices
Input devices are hardware tools used to enter data into a computer.
Examples:
i. Keyboard – typing.
ii. Mouse – pointing and clicking.
iii. Scanner – digitizing documents.
iv. Touchscreen – touch-based input.
Output Devices
Output devices are hardware tools that display or produce results.
Examples,
a. Monitor (screen)- Shows images and text.
b. Printer- Produces paper copies (inkjet or laser).
c. Speakers/Headphones- Play sound.
Storage Devices
Storage is the process of saving data for future use.
a. Primary Storage (RAM)
✓ Volatile memory (data is lost when the computer is turned off).
✓ Fast, temporary.
b. Secondary Storage (HDD, SSD, Flash Drives)
✓ Non-volatile (data is kept permanently until deleted).
✓ Hard Disk Drive (HDD): Large storage, slower.
✓ Solid State Drive (SSD): Faster but more expensive.
Chapter 4 – Operating System (OS) Basics
An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware
and software resources and provides services for programs.
Functions of an OS
a. Manages memory and processes.
b. Controls input and output devices.
c. Organizes files.
d. Provides a user interface.
Types of Operating Systems
a. Windows- Popular, easy to use, compatible with many programs.
b. macOS- Apple computers, stable, attractive design, costly.
c. Linux- Open-source, secure, customizable, often used by experts.
Device Drivers and Updates
❖ Device Driver-A small program that allows hardware to work with the OS
(e.g printer driver).
❖ Updates- Improvements released to fix bugs, improve security, and add
features.
Chapter 6 – Understanding Application Software
Application software is a type of software designed for end-users to perform
specific tasks.
Types of Applications
a. Productivity- Word processing, spreadsheets, presentations.
b. Graphics- Drawing and photo editing software.
c. Educational- Learning programs.
d. Communication- Email, messaging apps, video calls.
e. Utilities- Tools like antivirus, file compression.
Software Life Cycle
✓ Installing- Adding the program to the computer.
✓ Updating-Improving or fixing the program.
✓ Uninstalling-Removing unwanted programs.
Evaluating Applications
✓ License- The legal terms of use (freeware, shareware, open-source,
commercial).
✓ Compatibility- The software must work with your OS and hardware.
✓ Security- The software should be safe from viruses and not expose the user
to risks.