This document provides an introduction to computers including their components and functions. It defines a computer as an electronic device that can accept data as input, process it, produce output, and store results. The key components that allow it to function are the input, output, storage, processor, and memory. The basic functions of a computer are to input data, process it, output results, and store information. It also discusses common input/output devices and storage media, as well as how computers have become integrated into many aspects of modern life and business through advances in technology.

1. Essential Introduction to ComputersMr.DowningComputer Information Systems

2. What Is a Computer?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 (process), produce results (output), and store the results (storage) for future use

3. What makes a computer so powerful?SPEED A computer can do billions of actions per secondRELIABILITY Failures are usually due to human error, one way or anotherSTORAGE A computer can keep huge amounts of data and is easily organized

4. What Are the Components of a Computer?InputMemoryStorageProcessorOutputMemoryStorageOutputInputProcessorI need 3 volunteers!

5. Information Processing Cycle (4 basic functions of a computer)InputProcessingOutputStorageExample: Report Card

6. Input DevicesAny hardware component that allows you to enter data, programs, commands, and user responses into a computerExamples??

7. ProcessorAlso called CPU (Central Processing Unit)Interprets and carries out the basic instructions that operate a computer2 partsControl unit interprets instructionsArithmetic/logic unit performs arithmetic and logical processes

8. Output DevicesOutput devices make the information resulting from processing available for useOutput Device Examples??

9. Storage DevicesUsed to store instructions, data, and information when they are not being used in memoryFloppy diskHard diskCD/DVD (ROM, R, RW)TapeFlash drive

10. MemoryAlso called RAM (Random Access Memory)Temporarily stores instructions waiting to be executed by the processor, data needed by those instructions, and the results of processed dataKilobyte, megabyte, gigabyteByte = 1 memory location ex. the letter A

11. System Unit

12. Computer Mobile DevicesPDA (personal digital assistant)Notebook computerSmartphonePocket PC

13. It’s Your Turn! Find a partner. Computers are everywhere. Watching TV, driving a car, using a charge card, ordering fast food, and typing a term paper all involve interactions with computers. Make a list of every computer you and your partner can recall that you encountered over the past week.Create a timeline of at least 10 milestones/major advances in computer technology.Who were some of the major contributors to computer technology (individuals, organizations, corporations)? List at least 4 and describe what they did.How have businesses and our personal lives been affected by computer technology?