Com hardware

KEMENTERIAN PELAJARAN MALAYSIA

Self Access Learning Module

ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware

Evolution and Types of the Computers

PUSAT PERKEMBANGAN KURIKULUM

ICTL for Secondary School - Computer Hardware Module

MODULE 1
Evolution and Types of the Computers

Curriculum Development Centre
Ministry of Education Malaysia

-1-


1.

Name of Module :

2.

Learning Outcomes: The students should be able to:
•
•
•

•

3.

state the generations of computers together with the respective
processors used
explain the generations of computers together with the respective
processors used
identify the types of computers:
o Supercomputer
o Mainframe
o Mini Computer
o Micro Computer
o Work Station
define different types of computer

Knowledge and Skills:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

4.

Computer Hardware: Evolution and Types of Computers

Explain the evolution of the computer generation.
Match the types of processors used.
Introduce various types of computers.
Labelling a flow chart of the types of computers.
Gathering and presenting information on the types of computers

Module Summary: At the end of the module, students should be able to
explain about the evolution of the computer generation and types of processors
used.

This module contains 5 activities:
Activity 1:
Activity 2:
Activity 3:
Activity 4:
Activity 5:

Explaining the evolution of the computer generation.
Matching the types of processors used.
Introducing various types of computers.
Labelling a flow chart of the types of computers.
Gathering and presenting information on the types of computers

-2-


Introduction to Computer

Activity 1: Evolution of the Computer
Generation
First

Years
1939 to 1954

Circuitry
Vacuum
tubes

Devices
Calculators

Second

1954 to 1959

Transistor

Mainframes

Third

1959 to 1971

Fourth

1971 to 1991

Integrated
circuits (IC)
Very-largescale
integration
(VLSI) and
the
Microprcessor

Timesharing,
minicomputer
Microcomputer,
Embedded computer,
Personal computer,

Fifth

1991 to
present and
Beyond

Small
Computer
System
Interface
(SCSI), Video
Electronic
Standard
Association
(VESA)

Super Computers
Mainframe
Computers
Mini Computers
Personal Computers
Mobile Computers
Personal computer,
PowerPC,
PowerMacs,
PlayStation.

Additional source: http://history.sandiego.edu/GEN/recording/computer1.html#gp05

-3-

Processors
ENIAC, EDSAC,
EDVAC,
UNIVAC, IBM
IBM,
System/360,
BUNCH
PDP, System/32,
System/36
VAX, AS/400,
Intel. Motorola,
MOS, Zilog,
WDC, Pentium,
ARM
architecture,
MIPS, SPARC
Commodore,
UNIX System,
Intel Pentium,
Pentium MMX,
Pentium II, AMD,
Athlon, Pentium
III, Pentium IV


Activity 2: Types of Computers

Supercomputer
Supercomputer is a computer that led the world (or was
close to doing so) in terms of processing capacity,
particularly the speed of calculation, at the time of its
introduction. The term "Super Computing" was first used
by the New York World newspaper in 1929[1] to refer to
large custom-built tabulators IBM made for Columbia
University. It was used to solve problems involving by
major universities, military agencies and scientific
research laboratories.
Additional Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Supercomputer

The Cray-2 was the world's fastest
computer from 1985 to 1989.

Mainframes
Mainframes are designed to handle very high volume input and output (I/O) and
emphasize throughout computing. It is used mainly, by large organizations for critical
applications, typically bulk data processing, industry and consumer statistics, ERP, and
financial transaction processing. The term probably originated from the early
mainframes, as they were housed in enormous, roomsized metal boxes or frames. [1] Later the term was used
to distinguish high-end commercial machines from less
powerful units which were often contained in smaller
packages. Today in practice, the term usually refers to
computers compatible with the IBM System/360 line, first
introduced in 1965. (IBM System z9 is IBM's latest
incarnation.) Otherwise, systems with similar functionality
but not based on the IBM System/360 are referred to as
"servers." However, "server" and "mainframe" are
A Honeywell-Bull DPS 7 mainframe,
different (see client-server).
circa 1990.
Additional source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mainframe_computer

Mini Computer
Minicomputer is a midsized computer. It is an old term for
a class of multi-user computers, lies between the largest
multi-user systems (mainframe computers) and the
smallest single-user systems (microcomputers or personal
computers). In the past, it formed a different group with its
own hardware and operating systems.
Additional source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Minicomputer

-4-

Multi-user mini computer at RAL


Microcomputer
Small desktop or portable computer, typically designed to be used by one person at a
time, although individual computers can be linked in a network so that users can share
data and programmes. Its central processing unit is a microprocessor, contained on a
single integrated circuit.
Microcomputers are the smallest of the four
classes of computer (the others are
supercomputer, mainframe, and minicomputer).
Since the appearance in 1975 of the first
commercially available microcomputer, the Altair
8800, micros have become ubiquitous in
commerce, industry, and education.
© From the Hutchinson Encyclopaedia.
Helicon Publishing LTD 2007.
All rights reserved.
Additional source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microcomputer
: http://www.tiscali.co.uk/reference/dictionaries/computers/data/m0008890.html

Work Station
A type of computer used for engineering applications (CAD/CAM), desktop publishing,
software development and other types of applications that require a moderate amount of
computing power and relatively high quality graphics capabilities.
Workstations generally come with a large, high-resolution graphics screen, at least 64
MB (megabytes) of RAM, built-in network support and a graphical user interface. Most
workstations also have a mass storage device such as a disk drive, but a special type of
workstation, called a diskless workstation, comes without a disk drive. The most
common operating systems for workstations are UNIX and Windows NT.
In terms of computing power, workstations lie between personal
computers and minicomputers, although the line
is fuzzy on both ends. High-end personal
computers
are
equivalent
to
low-end
workstations. And high-end workstations are
equivalent to minicomputers.
Like personal computers, most workstations are
single-user computers. However, workstations are
typically linked together to form a Local Area Network, although they can also be used
as stand-alone systems.
In networking, workstation refers to any computer connected to a Local Area Network. It
could be a workstation or a personal computer.

-5-


Activity 3: Different Types of Computer
There are a lot of terms used to describe computers. Most of these words imply the size,
expected use or capability of the computer. While the term computer can apply to
virtually any device that has a microprocessor in it, most people think of a computer as a
device that receives input from the user through a mouse or keyboard, processes it in
some fashion and displays the result on a screen.
•

PC - The personal computer (PC) defines a computer designed for general
use by a single person.. PCs were first known as microcomputers because
they were a complete computer but built on a smaller scale than the huge
systems in use by most businesses.

•

Desktop - A PC that is set up in a permanent location(not portable). Most
desktops offer more power, storage and versatility for less cost than their
portable brethren.

•

Laptop - Also called notebook. Laptops are portable computers that
integrate the display, keyboard, a pointing device or trackball, processor,
memory and hard drive all in a battery-operated package slightly larger than
an average hardcover book.

•

Palmtop - More commonly known as Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs),
palmtops are tightly integrated computers that often use flash memory
instead of a hard drive for storage. These computers usually do not have
keyboards but rely on touchscreen technology for user input. Palmtops are
typically smaller than a paperback novel, very lightweight with a reasonable
battery life. A slightly larger and heavier version of the palmtop is the
handheld computer.

•

Workstation - A desktop computer that has a more powerful processor,
additional memory and enhanced capabilities for performing a special group
of task, such as 3D Graphics or game development.

•

Server - A computer that has been optimized to provide services to other
computers over a network. Servers usually have powerful processors, large
memory and hard drives.

•

Mainframe - In the early days of computing, mainframes were huge
computers that could fill an entire room or even a whole floor. The size of
computers has diminished while its power has increased, the term mainframe
has fallen out of use in favor of enterprise server. You'll still hear the term
used, particularly in large companies to describe the huge machines
processing millions of transactions every day.

•

Minicomputer - Another term rarely used nowadays. Minicomputers fall in
between microcomputers (PCs) and mainframes (enterprise servers).
Minicomputers are normally referred to as mid-range servers now.

-6-


•

Supercomputer - This type of computer usually costs hundreds of thousands
or even millions of dollars. Although some supercomputers are single
computer systems, most are comprised of multiple high performance
computers working in parallel as a single system. The best known
supercomputers are built by Cray Supercomputers.

•

Wearable - The latest trend in computing is wearable computers. Essentially,
common
computer
applications
(e-mail,
database,
multimedia,
calendar/scheduler) are integrated into watches, cell phones, visors and even
clothing.

-7-


Worksheet 1
Compare the features of the generations of computers.

Generations

Years

Circuitry

Devices

First

Second

Third

Fourth

Fifth

-8-

Processors


Worksheet 2
Differentiate between a single user system and a multi user system.
Single user system

Multi user system

1.

1.

2.

2.

3.

3.

-9-


Worksheet 3
Matching the description with the correct types of computers.
It was used to solve problems in major
universities, military agencies and scientific
research laboratories.

•

Supercomputer

It is designed to handle very high volume
input and output (I/O) and emphasized
throughout computing.

•

Micro Computer

A midsized and multi-user computer

•

Mini Computer

Small desktop or portable computer,
typically designed to be used by one person
at a time although individual computers can
be linked in a network so that users can
share data and programs

•

Work Station

•

Mainframe

A type of computer used for engineering
applications, desktop publishing, software
development and other types of applications.

- 10 -



ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware
Computer System



MODULE 2
Overview of the Computer System


1


1.

Name of Module :

Computer Parts and Components
– Overview of the Computer System

2.

•
•

state the functions of the main components in the computer system

•

3.

Identify main components in the computer system

explain briefly the data processing cycle of a computer system

1. What is a computer
2. The different types of computer

4.

Module Summary:

At the end of the module, students should be able to identify and

state the functions of the main components in the computer system as well as explain
briefly the data processing cycle of a computer system.

Activity 1:

Identifying the main components in the computer system
and their functions

Activity 2:

Briefly explain the data processing cycle of the computer
system

2


Activity 1
MAIN COMPUTER SYSTEM

monitor
system Unit
speaker

keyboard

mouse

Monitor
A monitor is a computer display that is like a TV monitor. A computer monitor image is made up
of pixels (dots). In general, the higher the resolution, the better the image. The smaller the dots
pitch (typically from 0.25 mm to 0.31 mm), the better the image. The different types of display
screens are:
•

Standard television set

An ordinary home televisionthat can be used for computer output.

•

Standard computer monitors

These monitors have better resolution than TV monitors. Some are
flat screens.

•

Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD)

These screens are made up of two glass plates with liquid in
between.

3


Keyboard

Multimedia keyboard

Wireless keyboard

The keyboard is the main input device for text and commands. The computer keyboard uses the
same key arrangement as typewriters. It also contain standard function keys, such as the
escape, cursor movement and control keys.

Keyboards come with three (3) different types of port such as:
•

Serial port

•

PS/2 port

•

USB port.

4


Speakers

Speakers give out information in the form of sound. Computer speakers range widely in quality
and price. Computer speakers are typically packaged with computer systems in small plastic
boxes with mediocre sound quality. The internal amplifiers requires an external power source,
known as 'wall-wart'.
Mouse

PS/2 port mouse
A mouse is an input device used to controls the movement of the cursor or pointer on a display
screen. It has right click, left click and double click to function

USB port optical mouse

Cordless optical mouse

An optical mouse uses camera technology and digital processing to compare and track the
position of the mouse, rather than a ball and rollers used on PS/2 port mouse. A small LED
(light-emitting diode) provides light underneath the mouse, helping to highlight slight differences
in the surface underneath the mouse. It does not require maintenance or regular cleaning.
(source : http://images.search.yahoo.com)

5


System Unit

A system unit is also known as a base unit. It is the main body of a desktop computer
consisting of a metal or fibre enclosure containing the motherboard, power supply, cooling fans,
internal disk drives, memory modules and expansion cards(such as video and network cards)
that are plugged into the motherboard.
(source : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/System_unit)

Printer
A printer is a device that produces a hard copy (permanent human readable text or graphics) of
documents stored in electronic form that prints texts or illustrations on paper.
Many printers are used as computer peripherals and are attached by a printer cable to a
computer that serves as a document source.
There are many types of computer printers.
Dot-Matrix printer

The dot matrix printer is a low-cost printer that produces low quality output. It works like an
automatic typewriter. It can also be used when carbon copies of a document are required.

6


Ink-Jet printer

The ink jet printer is a low-cost printer that produces a mid-quality output. This type of printer is
the most economical for colour output.
Laser printer

The laser printer uses a laser beam to produce the best quality output. The speed of a laser
printer is typically about 8 ppm (page per minute).

7


Activity 2

Data Processing Cycle
The computer system processes data into information through four operations; input, process,
storage and output.

Input

Process

Output

Storage

The user enters the data by using an input device (such as keyboard, mouse) electronically
and is processed by the processor. In the processing operation, data is manipulated to process
or transform it into information

The storage (such as hard disk, compact disc (CD), diskettes) holds data, information and
programs. The output devices (such as monitor, printer) present the processed data as useful
information products to the user

8


Activity 3
Task A
Label the pictures below . Write your answers in the boxes given.

1.

2.

5.

3.
4.

9


Task B

Look at the pictures given in Column A. Then, name the components of the computer and state
their functions.

COLUMN A

COLUMN B
(Component name and function)

10


Task C

Complete the data processing cycle of a computer system below.

Input

11


Reference
Cashman, S. (2006) Discovering Computers 2006. USA : Thomson Course Technology.
Ibrahim Ahmad, Mohd Hafiz et al (2007) Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
Based on SPM Syllabus. Selangor: Venton Publishing (M) Sdn Bhd.
NCC Education (2002) Computer Studies, Computer Ace. Sri Lanka : Computer Pioneers.
Basic Computing (2003) by TMEdu Tech (M) Sdn Bhd
http://www.wikipedia.org
http://images.search.yahoo.com
http://www.google.com.my

12



ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware
System Unit


ICTL For Secondary School - Computer Hardware Module

MODULE 3

SYSTEM UNIT


1


1.

Name of Module :

System Unit

2.

•

identify the components of a system unit

•

state the functions of the main components of a system unit

•

state the functions of cpu, ram, rom and expansions slots found
on the motherboard

3.

•
main components in the computer system

4.

Module Summary:
•
•
•

At the end of the module, a student is able to :
identify main components of system unit and motherboard
state the functions of main components of system unit
state the functions of CPU, RAM, ROM and expansion slot

Activity 1 : Identify the components of a system unit
Activity 2 : Identify the components of a motherboard

As you are doing this module, use the computer in the lab to identify the components in the
system unit.

2


Notes: What is system unit?

Box-like case that contains computer’s electronic components
Sometimes called the chassis

Figure 1 Examples of System Unit

3


Activity 1 : Identify the components of a system unit

Inside view of system unit

Figure 2 Inside view of System Unit

4


Front layer of a system unit

DVD-ROM drive
CD-ROM/CD-RW drive
Zip drive
Empty drive bay
Floppy disk drive
Power button
Reset button

Figure 3 Front View of a System Unit

5


Input/Output port (I/O port)

Power port
mouse

keyboard

USB

USB

printer (parallel
port)

serial port

speaker
monitor

microphone

game port
network
telephone
line out

telephone
line in

FM reception

svideo out

cable TV
Figure 4 Back View of a System Unit

6


Functions of the main components of a system unit
No.
1.

Components
Input/Output port
(I/O port)

Functions
A port is the point at which a peripheral attaches to a system unit
so that the peripheral can send data to or receive information from
the computer.
An external device, such as a keyboard, monitor, printer, mouse
and microphone is often attached by a cable to a port on the
system unit.
The back of the system unit contains so many ports. Some newer
personal computers also have ports on the front of the system unit.
Ports have different types of connectors. A connector joins a cable
to a peripheral. One end of a cable attaches to the connector on
the system unit and the other end of the cable attaches to a
connector on the peripheral.

2.

Power button

To start on computer

3.

Reset button

Kick of soft boot, instructing the computer to go through the
process of shutting down, which would clear memory and reset
devices to their initialized state. It simply removes power
immediately.

4.

Motherboard

Main circuit board of the system unit, which has some electronic
components attached to it and others built into it.

5.

Power Supply

Convert standard electrical power into the form that computer can
use. If a power supply is not providing the necessary power, the
computer will not function properly.

6.

DVD-ROM drive

A device that reads DVD-ROM, also can read audio CDs, CDROMSs, CD-Rs and CD-RWs.

7.

CD-ROM drive

A device that reads audio CDs, CD-ROMs, CD-Rs and CD-RWs.

8.

DVD/CD-RW
drive

It is a combination drive that reads DVD and CD media, it also
writes to CD-RW media. This drive also allows watching a DVD or
burn a CD.

9.

Zip drive

A high-capacity disk drive that reads from and writes on a Zip disk.

10.

Floppy drive

A device that reads from and writes on a floppy disk

11.

Hard disk drive

Type of storage device that contains one or more inflexible, circular
platters that store data, instructions and information. Also called a
hard disk.

7


Activity 2 : Identify the components of a motherboard

for RAM

Expansion
slots

Figure 5: Layout of a motherboard

8


CPU

Expansion
Slots
Expansion
Card

9


Functions of the components of the motherboard

No.
1.

Components

Functions

Central
Processing
Unit (CPU)

A Central Processing Unit or CPU is a microprocessor (or processor
for short). It is an integrated circuit chip that is capable of processing
electronic signals. The CPU is the most important element in a
computer system.
A CPU interprets instructions given by the software and carries out
those instructions by processing data and controlling the rest of the
computer’s components.

2.
Random
Access
Memory
(RAM)

RAM is installed inside computers. RAM is also known as a
working memory.
The data in RAM can be read (retrieved) or written (stored).
RAM is volatile which means the programs and data in RAM
are lost when the computer is powered off.
A computer uses RAM to hold temporary instructions and data
needed to complete tasks. This enables the computer's CPU
(Central Processing Unit) to access instructions and data
stored in the memory very quickly.
RAM stores data during and after processing.

Read Only
Memory
(ROM)

ROM is another type of memory permanently stored inside the
computer.
ROM is non-volatile. It holds the programs and data when the
computer is powered off.
Programs in ROM have been pre-recorded. It can only be
stored by the manufacturer; once it is done, it cannot be
changed.
Many complex functions, such as start up operating
instructions, translators for high-level languages and operating
systems are placed in ROM memory.
All the contents in ROM can be accessed and read but cannot
be changed.

Expansion
Slots

Expansion slots are the sockets where the circuit boards or the
adapter cards can be inserted into the motherboard. It is a place to fit
an expansion card containing the circuitry that provides some
specialised capability, such as video acceleration, sound or disk drive
control.

3.

4.

10


Appendix 1

11


Worksheet 1

Label the system unit below with the words given.

Expansion
Cards
RAM

Power Supply

Zip Drive

Hard Disk Drive

Floppy Drive

Mother Board

CD/DVD Drive

Expansion
Slots

CPU Chip

12


Worksheet 2
Look at the diagram carefully and match them to the name of the ports in the table given using
numbers.
Label of the ports
No
1

Power port

USB port

VGA port (Monitor display)

Serial port (Modem)

PS2 port (Mouse)

Game port (Joystick)

Audio ports (speaker, headphone
and microphone)

Parallel port (printer port)

PS2 port (keyboard)

13


Worksheet 3
Names the component parts of the motherboard.

14


Worksheet 4

Mark T for True and F for False
1. The processor (CPU) interprets and carries out the basic instructions that
operate a computer.
2. Computers can use only one processor at a time.
3. ROM is the main circuit board of the system unit.
4. Expansion slot is a socket on the motherboard that can hold an adapter card.
5. RAM is non-volatile
6. The most important chip on the main circuit board is the microprocessor chip.
7. I/O port is the point at which a peripheral attaches to a system unit so that the
peripheral can send data to or receive information from the computer.
8. Reset button is to start on computer.
9. A device that reads from and writes on a floppy disk is called hard disk drives.
10. Power supply convert standard electrical power into the form that computer
can use.

15


Worksheet 5
Fill in the blank with the correct name of components and functions.
No. Components
1.
Input/Output port
(I/O port)

Functions

2.
To start on computer
3.
Reset button
4.
Main circuit board of the system unit, which has some electronic
components attached to it and others built into it.
5.
Convert standard electrical power into the form that computer can
use.
6.
DVD-ROM drive
7.
CD-ROM drive
8.
This drive also allows watching a DVD or burn a CD.
9.
A high-capacity disk drive that reads from and writes on a Zip disk.
10.
Floppy drive
11.
Type of storage device that contains one or more inflexible, circular
platters that store data, instructions and information.

16


Worksheet 6
Find the differences between primary storage RAM and ROM
RAM

ROM

17


Reference
IBasic Computing (2003) by TMEdu Tech (M) Sdn Bhd
CD courseware ICT

18



ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware
COMPUTER PARTS & COMPONENTS
PERIPHERALS


ICTL for Secondary School - Hardware Module

MODULE 4

PERIPHERALS


1


1.

Name of Module : Computer Parts & Components - Peripherals

2.

•
•

identify different types of peripherals

•

state examples different types of peripherals

•
3.

state the definition of peripheral

explain the functions of each peripheral

1. Main computer components

4.

Module Summary: At the end of the module, students should be able to know the
functions of each peripheral

Activity 1:

Definition of Peripheral

Activity 2:

Different Types and Functions of Peripheral

2


Activity 1:

Definition & types of peripheral

Peripheral Device
External hardware devices attached to the computer
are called peripheral devices
There are three types of peripheral devices :
• Input devices
• Output devices
• Storage devices
Figure 1: Peripheral Device
Input Devices
Input devices are any electronic device that are connected to a computer and produces
input signals.

Figure 2: Input Device
Output Devices
Output is the result of data processing activity when it is presented externally to the
system. The output from a computer can be printed or displayed form .
An output device is hardware that is capable of delivering or showing information to one or
more users. An output device shows, prints and presents the results of a computer’s work.

Figure 3: Output Device

3


Storage Devices
Information and documents are stored in a computer storage so that it can be retrieved
whenever they are needed later on.
Computer storage is the holding of data in an electromagnetic form for access by a
computer processor.

Hard Disk

Activity 2:

Diskette

CD Rom

Thumb Drive

Different types and the functions of peripheral

1. Printers
A printer is another example of an output device that can be used to print text and graphics
on mediums such as paper, transparency film or even cloths.

Figure 3: Printer
A photo printer is a colour printer that produces photo quality pictures.
An image setter produces high quality output compared to an ordinary laser printer. An
image setter is a high resolution output device that can transfer electronic text and graphics
directly to film, plates, or photo-sensitive paper.

Figure 4: Printer

4


2. Scanners
In computing, a scanner is a device that analyzes images, printed text, handwriting, or
objects (such as an ornament) and converts it into a digital image.
These are examples of scanners:
a. The flatbed scanner is the most common in offices.
b. Hand-held scanners are no longer used due to the difficulty in obtaining a highquality image.
c. Digital camera scanners, that are based on the concept of reprographic cameras.
d. Planetary scanners, which take photographs of books and documents
e. 3D scanners, for producing three-dimensional models of objects,
Planetary and 3D scanners are considerably more expensive than other types of scanners.
( source http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Image_scanner)

Pen or
handheld

Figure 5: Handheld Scanner

Drum

Flatbed
Sheet-fed
5


3. LCD Projector
LCD projector is a type of video projector for displaying video, images or computer data on
a screen or other flat surface. It is a modern equivalent of the slide projector or overhead
projector.
A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) projector uses its own light source to project what is
displayed on the computer onto a wall or projection screen. A digital light processing (DLP)
projector uses tiny mirrors to reflect light that can be seen clearly in a well-lit room.

Figure 6: LCD Projector
4. Digital Cameras
Digital Cameras are electronic devices used to capture and store photographs digitally,
using the memory card without using photographic film like conventional cameras, or
recording images in an analog format to magnetic tape like many video cameras.
Modern compact digital cameras are typically multifunctional, with some devices capable of
recording sound and/or video as well as photographs.

Figure 7: Digital Camera

6


5. External CD Drives
The external DVD/CD-RW combo drive functions as a DVD player, a CD-RW drive and a
CD-ROM drive. This allows you to install computer applications, files, music and movies on
CD. It is easy to be carried around.

Figure 8: CD/DVD Writer

6. External Storages
External storage is an alternative storage. It is very useful to store programs and data for
future use. The storage is required for two reasons:
1. The working memory of the CPU is limited in size and cannot always hold the amount of
data required.
2. Data and programmes in storage do not disappear when the power is turned off.

Figure 8: Storage Device

7


Worksheet 1:
Label The Figure
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.

CD or DVD
External hard disk
Tape drive
Miniature hard disk
Zip disk
Flash memory card
USB Flash drive

2. _________
1. _________

4. _________

3. _________

8


5. _________

6. _________

7. _________

9


Worksheet 2:
Fill in the blank with the correct word.
Laser printer
Tape
flat panel monitor

Output device
Bar code

Flash card
Pen drive

1. Identification code that consists of vertical line and spaces of different widths is known
as _________________________
2. __________ storage requires sequential access.

3. A _____________ is commonly used as the ‘film’ for digital cameras.
4. __________________ is any type of hardware component that conveys information to
one or more people.

5. An LCD monitor also call a _______________ produces harp, flicker free images.
6. A ______________ is flash memory storage device that plugs in a USB port.

7. _____________ is a high speed, high quality non impact printer

10


Worksheet 3:

Devices

Types & Names

11

Functions


Reference
CD courseware ICT

12



ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware
COMPUTER PARTS & COMPONENTS
INPUT DEVICES
OUTPUT DEVICES
STORAGE DEVICES



MODULE 5

INPUT DEVICES
OUTPUT DEVICES
STORAGE DEVICES


1


1.

Name of Module :

Computer Parts & Components –Input devices, Output devices
and Storage devices.

2.

•
•

state the respective functions of input devices

•

identify and list the output devices

•

state the respective functions of output devices

•

identify and list the storage devices

•

state the functions of storage devices

•

identify differences between primary and secondary storage devices

•
3.

identify and list the input devices

state the units for data measurement

1. Main components of computer system
2. System unit
3. Peripherals

4.

Module Summary: At the end of the module, students should be able to identify input,
output and storage devices and their functions respectively.

Activity 1:

Input devices

Activity 2:

Output devices

Activity 3:

Storage devices

2


Activity 1:

Input Devices

Input devices are any electronic devices connected to a computer that produce input
signals.

A keyboard is an example of input device for text input.

A scanner is an example of input device for graphical as well as text
input.

A microphone is an example of input device for audio input

A webcam is an example of an input device for video input.

A mouse is also an input device but it is called a pointing device used
to input data into a computer.

3


a. Input Devices for Texts

You can enter data such as text and commands into a computer by pressing the keys on the
keyboard.
You can press the keys of a virtual keyboard on the screen.
An optical reader is a device that uses a light source to read characters, marks and codes
and then converts them into digital data that a computer can process.
b. Input Devices for Graphics

A scanner is a device that captures images from photographic prints, posters, magazine
pages and similar sources for computer editing and display.
A digital camera allows you to take pictures and store the photographed images digitally.
c. Input Devices for Audio

Audio input is the speech, music and sound effects entered into the computer. This can be
done by using input devices such as a microphone and digital musical instruments like the
Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) keyboard.

4


d. Input Devices for Video

Video input are motion images captured into the computer by special input devices.
A Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) video camera is a type of digital video camera that
enables a home or small business user to capture video and still images.
A webcam is a video camera that displays its output on a web page.
A digital video camera allows you to record full motion and store the captured motion
digitally.
e. Pointing Devices

A pointing device is another form of input device. Pointing devices such as a mouse,
trackball, graphics tablet and touch screen are used to input spatial data into the computer.
Spatial data refers to data that is continuous and multi-dimensional.

5


Activity 2: Output Devices
An output device is hardware that is capable of delivering or showing information to one or
more users. An output device displays, prints and presents the results of a computer’s work.
Types of Output Devices
A display device is an output device that visually conveys texts, graphics and video
information.

A monitor is an example of an output device that can be used to display text. It can also
display graphics and video. It is similar to a television set that accepts video signals from a
computer and displays information on its screen.

A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) projector uses its own light source to project what is
displayed on the computer on a wall or projection screen. A digital light processing (DLP)
projector uses tiny mirrors to reflect light which can be seen clearly in a well-lit room.

6


A printer is an output device that prints text and graphics on a physical medium such as
paper or transparency film.

A photo printer is a colour printer that produces photo quality pictures.
An image setter produces high quality output compared to an ordinary laser printer. An
image setter is a high resolution output device that can transfer electronic text and graphics
directly to film, plates or photo-sensitive paper.

An audio output device produces music, speech, or other sounds. A pair of speakers is an
audio output device that generates sound. The headphone is a pair of small speakers
placed over the ears and plugged into a port on the sound card. A woofer or subwoofer is
used to boost the low bass sound and is connected to the port on the sound card.

speaker

headphone

7

woofer


Activity 3:

Storage Devices

What Is Computer Storage?
Information and documents are stored
in computer storage so that it can be
retrieved whenever they are needed
later on.

Hard Disk

Thumb Drive

Diskette

CD ROM

Computer storage is the storing of data
in an electromagnetic form to be accessed
by a computer processor.

Types of Computer Storage
1. Primary storage
2. Secondary storage

Primary Storage
Primary storage is the main memory in a computer. It stores data and programs that can be
accessed directly by the processor.
Types Of Primary Storage
There are two types of primary storage which are RAM and ROM.

8


The Differences Between RAM And ROM
Random-Access Memory (RAM)

Read-Only Memory (ROM)

.RAM is an acronym for RandomAccess Memory which means the
data and program in RAM can be
read and written.

ROM is an acronym for ReadOnly Memory. The data or
program in ROM can only be read
but cannot be written at all

RAM stores data during and after
processing. RAM is also known as
a working memory.

ROM is another type of memory
permanently stored inside the
computer.

The data in RAM can be read
(retrieved) or written (stored).

All the contents in ROM can be
accessed and read but cannot be
changed.

RAM is volatile which means the
programs and data in RAM are
lost when the computer is
powered off.

ROM is non-volatile. It holds the
programs and data when the
computer is powered off.

A computer uses RAM to hold
temporary instructions and data
needed to complete tasks. This
enables the CPU (Central
Processing Unit) to access
instructions and data stored in the
memory very quickly

Programs in ROM have been prerecorded. It can only be stored by
the manufacturer once and it
cannot be changed.

.

9


Secondary Storage

Secondary storage is another alternative
storage to save your work and documents. It
is very useful to store programs and data for
future use.
It is non-volatile, which means that
it does not need power to maintain
the information stored in it. It will
store the information until it is erased.

Types Of Secondary Storage

Magnetic Medium
Magnetic Medium is a non-volatile storage medium. It can be
any type of storage medium that utilizes magnetic patterns to
represent information. The devices use disks that are coated
with magnetically sensitive material. Examples of magnetic
storage are:
magnetic disk such as:
o a floppy disk, used for off-line storage
o hard disk, used for secondary storage
o
magnetic tape such as
o video cassette,
o audio storage reel-to-reel tape

10


Optical Medium
Optical Medium is a non-volatile storage media , holds content
in digital form that are written and read by laser. These media
include various types of CDs and DVDs. These following forms
are often commonly used :

Optical Media
CD, CD-ROM, and
DVD

Description
Read only storage, used for distribution of digital
information such as music, video and computer
programs.

CD-R

Write once storage, the data cannot be erased or
written over once it is saved.
Slow to write but fast reading storage; it allows data
that have been saved to be erased and rewritten

CD-RW, DVD-RW,
and DVD-RAM

Optical media has more advantages over magnetic media such as:
•
•

Disk Capacity. One optical disk holds about the equivalent of 500 floppy disks worth of
data.
Durability. They are able to last for up to seven times as long as traditional storage
media.

Flash Memory
Flash Memory is a solid-state, non-volatile, rewritable memory that
functions like RAM and a hard disk drive. Flash memory store bits
of electronic data in memory cells just like DRAM (Dynamic RAM)
but it also works like a hard disk drive that when the power is
turned off, the data remains in the memory. Flash memory cards
and flash memory sticks are examples of flash memory.
Flash memory cards are also used with digital cellular phones,
MP3 players, digital video cameras and other portable digital
devices.
Flash memory is also called USB drive, thumb drive, pen drive or
flash drive, are the up and coming players in the portable storage
market.
The advantages of flash memory are:
• offers fast reading access times among the secondary storage
devices, (though not as fast as RAM)
• durable and requires low voltage.
• light and small.
The disadvantage is, it is more expensive than the magnetic disk of
the same capacity.
11


The Differences Between Primary And Secondary Storage
PRIMARY STORAGE
Known as the main memory of a computer.
Examples are: RAM / ROM.

SECONDARY STORAGE
Alternative storage in a computer.
Examples are: Floppy disc, Hard disk, CDROM, USB storages
Storage capacity is larger.
An external storage that refers to various ways
a computer can store program and data.
INon-volatile, which means that
it does not need power to maintain
the information stored in it.

Storage capacity is limited.
An internal memory (inside the CPU) that can
be accessed directly by the processor.
Has a volatile memory for RAM and nonvolatile memory for ROM.

Units for data measurement
•
•
•
•
•

Bit
Byte
Kilobyte (KB)
Megabyte (MB)
Gigabyte (GB)

Basic terminology
•
•
•
•

8 Bits = 1 Byte
1024 Byte = 1 KB
1,048,576 Bytes = 1024 KB = 1 MB
1,073,741,824 Bytes = 1024 MB = 1 GB

12


Worksheet 1
Fill in the blank with the correct word.

Laser printer
Tape
flat panel monitor

Output device
Bar code

Flash card
Pen drive

1. Identification code that consists of vertical line and spaces of different widths is known
as _________________________
2. __________ storage requires sequential access.

3. A _____________ is commonly used as the ‘film’ for digital cameras.
4. __________________ is any type of hardware component that conveys information to
one or more people.

5. An LCD monitor also call a _______________ produces harp, flicker free images.
6. A ______________ is flash memory storage device that plugs in a USB port.

7. _____________ is a high speed, high quality non impact printer

13


Worksheet 2
Identify the type of input the devices produce. Tick (/) in the appropriate column

Devices
1.

Bar Code Scanner

6.

Pointing

Scanner

5.

Video

Webcam

4.

Graphics

Keyboard

3.

Audio

Microphone

2.

Text

Mouse

Worksheet 3
Mark on the types of output each device produces.
Device

Text

Graphic

Monitor
Printer
LCD Projector
Speakers
Headphone
Facsimile Machine

14

Audio

Video


Worksheet 4
Tick (/) the correct answer.
No

QUESTIONS

1

A display device is an output device that visually conveys text.

2

A microphone produces music.

3

A photo printer is a colour printer that produces photo quality
pictures.

4

Output is the result of raw input data that has been processed by
the central processing unit into meaningful information.

5

A Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) projector uses its own light
source to project what is displayed on the computer on a
wall or projection screen

6

A digital light processing (DLP) projector uses large mirrors to
reflect light which can be seen clearly in a well-lit room.

7

A video camera is an electronic device used to capture and
store photographs digitally

15

TRUE

FALSE


Worksheet 5
Convert the following storage to the particular measurement
1. 1 GB =

______ MB

2. 1024 KB = ______ Bytes

3. 2 GB =

______ KB

4. 1024 MB = ______ GB

5. 10 GB =

______ MB

6. 2000 KB = _______ MB

7. 2 MB =

______ KB

8. 4800 MB = _______ GB

9. 6 MB =

______ Bytes

10. 100 GB = _______ MB

16


Reference
CD courseware ICT

17



ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware
Basic Maintenance
Handling Input and Output Devices



MODULE 6

HANDLING INPUT AND OUTPUT DEVICES


1


1.

Name of Module :

Basic Maintenance – Handling input and output devices

2.

•
•

state the steps to connect the peripherals to system unit

•

3.

to set up the input and output devices correctly

powering the system

Knowledge and Skills
1. Connecting the peripherals
2. Powering the system

4.

Module Summary: At the end of the module, students should be able to connect
peripherals; monitor, keyboard, mouse and speaker to the system unit


Activity 1:

Naming the peripheral port on the system unit

Activity 2:

Connecting the Monitor to the system unit

Activity 3:

Connecting the Keyboard and mouse to the system unit

Activity 4:

Connecting the Speaker to the system unit

Activity 5:

Powering the System

2


Activity 1:

Naming the Peripherals Port

No:

Label of the ports

1

Power port

2

PS2 port (Mouse)

3

PS2 port
(keyboard)

4

USB port

5

Parallel port (printer
port)

6

Serial port (Modem)

7

VGA port (Monitor
display)

8

Game port
(Joystick)

9,10,11 Audio ports
(speaker,
headphone and
microphone)
( 9-Line Out, 10Line In, 11-Mic)

Figure 1: Back view of the System Unit (ports)

3


Activity 2:

Connecting the Monitor to the system unit

Steps:
1. Plug the VGA cable of the monitor to the display device port as in Figure 2. The VGA
cable is blue in colour must be connected to the display that has the same colour.
Students must connect the tiny pin on VGA cable carefully.

Figure 2: Connecting VGA cable to monitor port

Activity 3:

Connecting the Keyboard and mouse to the system unit

1. Plug the PS2 cable of the keyboard (purple nozzle) and mouse (green nozzle) to the
device port as Figure 3.1. Students also need to be extremely careful to attach the
keyboard and mouse to their respective PS/2 port. For keyboard and mouse that have
USB toggle use Figure 3.2

Figure 3.1 : Connecting keyboard and mouse to the PS2 ports

4


Figure 3.2 : Connecting keyboard and mouse to the USB ports

Activity 4:

Connecting Audio and Microphone Devices to the system unit

1. Plug the cable of the speaker (green nozzle) and microphone (blue nozzle) to the device
port as figure 4.

Figure 4 : Connecting peripherals Audio and Microphone to the Audio ports

5


Activity 5:

Powering the System

Steps:
1. Plug in the power cord and switch the power supply switch to the ‘On’ position.
2. Press the power button. If everything is connected as it should be, all system fans
should start spinning. You should hear a single beep, and after 2-5 seconds, the
computer will start to boot.

Figure 5: Connecting the power cable

6



ICT Literacy for
Secondary School
Programme

Computer Hardware
Computer Setting



MODULE 7

BASIC COMPUTER SETTING


1


1.

Name of Module :

2.

•
•
•
•
•

3.

customize settings for display
customize settings for mouse
customize settings for sound
customize settings for date and time
regional and language options

•
•

4.

Computer Setting

Customize setting for display, mouse and sound.
Customize setting for date and time, language and regional option.

Module Summary: At the end of the module, student should be able to set the
computer by customize the setting for display, mouse, sound, date and time,
regional and language options.

Activity 1:
Activity 2:
Activity 3:
Activity 4:
Activity 5:

Customizing settings for display.
Customizing settings for mouse.
Customizing settings for sound.
Customizing settings for date and time.
Customizing settings for regional and language

2

options.


Activity 1:

Customizing settings for display

1. Click Start button, then click Control Panel

Control Panel

2. Control Panel window will appear as shown below. Then click Appearance and
Setting.

Appearance and Setting

3


3. Click Display

Display

4. Display Properties window will appear as shown below. In the Themes option, you
can change the themes of your computer by choosing from the drop down menu.
Choose Window XP and click OK.
Theme
s
Drop down menu

4


5. Click Desktop tab. You can change your desktop background. Choose Bliss in the
Background menu and than click OK.

Desktop

Background Menu

OK

6. Click Screen Saver tab. You can change your screen saver by choosing from the drop
down menu. Choose 3D Flying Objects and click OK.

Screen Saver

Drop down menu

5


7. Click Appearance tab. You can change the appearance of windows and buttons,
colour schemes and font size by choosing from drop down menu. In Windows and
buttons, choose Window XP style. In colour scheme choose Default(blue). In Font
size choose Normal. Then click OK.
Appearance

Windows and buttons
Colour schemes

Font Size

Activity 2: Customizing settings for mouse
1. In the Control Panel, click Appearance and Themes. Appearance and Themes
window will be displayed, then click Mouse Pointers.

Appearance and
Themes

Mouse Pointers

6


2. The Mouse Properties window will appear as shown below. Choose Pointer tab
option. You can customize the mouse pointer by choosing from the customize drop
down menu. Choose Normal Select and click OK.

Pointers

Customize Drop
down Menu

3. Click Pointer Option tab. You can select the pointer speed by moving the motion
slide indicator. Click OK.

Pointer Option

Motion Slide Indicator

7


Activity 3: Customizing settings for sound
1. In the Control Panel, click Sounds, Speech and Audio Devices. Then click Adjust
the system volume.

Adjust the system volume

Sounds, Speech and Audio
Devices

2. Choose the volume level by moving the volume slide indicator.

Volume Slide Indicator

8


3. For advance volume control setting, click Advanced. A window will appear
Adjust the volume level by moving the volume slide indicator.

Advanced…

9

Volume Slide
Indicator


Activity 4. Customizing settings for Date and Time
1. In the Control Panel, click Date, Time, Language and Regional Options. Then click
Date and Time.

Date, Time, Language, and
Regional Options

Date and time

2. Click Date and Time tab. Choose day, month and year from the Date options.
Change the time in the time option.Then click OK.

Date and Time
Year
Month
Time Option
Day

10


3. Click Time Zone. Choose the time zone from the drop down menu according to the
country you stay. Choose (GMT+08:00) Kuala Lumpur, Singapore and click OK.

Time Zone

Drop Down
Menu

11


Activity 5: Customizing settings for Regional and Language Options.
1. In the Control Panel, click Date, Time, Language and Regional Options. In the
Date, Time, Language, and Regional Options window, click Regional and Language
Options.

Date, Time, Language, and
Regional Options

Regional and Language
Options

2. Click Regional Options tab. IRegional option will set how some programs format
numbers, currencies, dates and time. Then, click the drop down menu. English (United
States) is commonly use. Choose English (United States) and click OK.
Regional
Options

Drop down
menu

12


3. Control Panel window will appear as below. Close the Control Panel Window.

Close

4. The interface will be shown as below.

13


Evaluation Form
COMPUTER HARDWARE

Module 2: Computer Settings
Name

: ___________________

Class

:____________________

Date

:____________________

1.
2.
3.
4.

Customize setting for Window Themes
Customize setting for desktop
background
Customize setting for screen saver
Customize setting for Window
Appearance

5.

Customize setting for mouse

6.

Customize setting for sound

7.

Customize setting for date

8.

Customize setting for time

9.

Customize setting for regional

Please tick (√) one of the check box

14

EXCELLENT

GOOD

AVERAGE

SKILLS

A LITTLE

DON’T
KNOW

At the end of the lesson students have learned the following skills.

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