Module 1 computer fundamental

HIGHER COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY Department of Information Technology

HIGHER COLLEGE OF TECHNOLOGY
Department of Information Technology

A Course Material
in

IT for Foundation

IT for Foundation Page 1


Computer System(Hardware and Software)

Objectives

At the end of this chapter, the student will be able to:

1. Define the Computer
2. Identify different hardware components
3. Identify types of computers
4. Identify input and output devices
5. Identify types of memories ( RAM, ROM )
6. Identify units used to Measure the memory capacity
7. Enumerate the different types of Software
8. Explain how to install and uninstall software applications

I NTRODUCTION

In our history of civilization we can find that man had been inventing various tools to
control the world around us. These tools range from the simple to complex machine of our
modern civilization. In the last 20 years, however, a powerful general purpose mind tool;
computer has become widely available. The computer can help us think, write, learn, keep
records, perform arithmetic operations and retrieve information..
A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data, stores and processes it according to
instructions (programs) in order to produce the results (information).
The computer can store and manipulate large quantities of data at very high speed, but a
computer cannot think.

Process
Data Information



Data: is a raw material and unorganized facts that need to be processed
Information: When data are processed, organized, structured or presented in a given context
so as to make them useful, they are called Information.

ODULE CONTENT
M
1.1 Function of Different Hardware and Software
Hardware
The term hardware refers to the physical components of your computer

Components of Personal Computer.

1. Monitor 6. Power supply
2. Motherboard 7. CD-ROM Drive
3. CPU 8. Hard Disk
4. RAM Memory 9. Keyboard
5. Expansion card 10. Mouse



Software

The software is the instruction (programs) that makes the computer work.
Software is held either on your computers hard disk, CD-ROM, DVD or on a diskette (floppy
disk) and is loaded (i.e. copied) from the disk into the computers RAM (Random Access
Memory),
COMMON INPUT/OUTPUT DEVICES
Input devices - any peripheral (piece of computer hardware equipment) used to provide data
and control signals to an information processing system (such as a computer).

• Text input devices
o Keyboard - a device to input text and characters by depressing buttons (referred
to as keys), similar to a typewriter. The most common English-language key
layout is the QWERTY layout.

• Pointing devices
o Mouse - a pointing device that detects two dimensional motion relative to its
supporting surface.



o Optical Mouse - a newer technology that uses lasers, or more commonly LEDs to
track the surface under the mouse to determine motion of the mouse, to be
translated into mouse movements on the screen.

o Trackball - a pointing device consisting of an exposed protruding ball housed in
a socket that detects rotation about two axes.

• Gaming devices
o Joystick - a general control device that consists of a handheld stick that pivots
around one end, to detect angles in two or three dimensions.
o Gamepad - a general handheld game controller that relies on the digits
(especially thumbs) to provide input.
o Game controller - a specific type of controller specialized for certain gaming
purposes.



• Image, Video input devices
o Image scanner - a device that provides input by analyzing images, printed text,
handwriting, or an object.

o Webcam - a low resolution video camera used to provide visual input that can
be easily transferred over the internet.

• Audio input devices
o Microphone - an acoustic sensor that provides input by converting sound into
electrical signals.

Output Devices - is any piece of computer hardware equipment used to communicate the
results of data processing carried out by an information processing system (such as a
computer) to the outside world.



Monitor (VDU Visual Display Unit) - The computer screen is used for outputting
information in an understandable format for humans.

Printers - There are many different types of printers. In large organizations laser
printers are most commonly used due to the fact that they can print very fast and give a
very high quality output.

Plotters - A plotter is an output device similar to a printer, but normally allows you to
print larger images.

Speakers - Enhances the value of educational and presentation products.



THE CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT (CPU)

• Often referred to as the “brain” of the computer.
• Responsible for controlling all activities of the computer system.
• The three major components of the CPU are:
1. Arithmetic Unit (Computations performed)
Accumulator (Results of computations kept here)
2. Control Unit (Has two locations where numbers are kept)
Instruction Register (Instruction placed here for analysis)
Program Counter (Which instruction will be performed next?)
3. Instruction Decoding Unit (Decodes the instruction)
• Motherboard: The place where most of the electronics including the CPU are mounted.



1.2 TYPES OF MEMORY

I. Primary Memory:

The following terms related to memory of a computer are discussed below:
RAM

The RAM (Random Access Memory) is where the operating system is loaded and also
where your applications are copied to when you load an application, such as a word processor
or database program.

The storage of data and instructions inside the primary storage is temporary. So now we can
say that RAM is volatile memory.

ROM
The ROM-BIOS (Read Only Memory - Basic Input Output System) chip is a special chip
held on your computer's system (mother) board. It contains software that is required to make
your computer work with your operating system The storage of program and data in the
ROM is permanent. ROM is non-volatile memory.



II. SECONDARY MEMORY STORAGE DEVICES

Removable media devices

• CD (compact disc) - the most common type of removable media, suitable for music and
data.
o CD-ROM Drive - a device used for reading data from a CD.
o CD Writer - a device used for both reading and writing data to and from a CD.

o
• DVD (digital versatile disc) - a popular type of removable media that is the same
dimensions as a CD but stores up to 12 times as much information. It is the most
common way of transferring digital video, and is popular for data storage.
• Floppy disk - an outdated storage device consisting of a thin disk of a flexible magnetic
storage medium. Used today mainly for loading RAID drivers.

• USB flash drive - a flash memory data storage device integrated with a USB interface,
typically small, lightweight, removable, and rewritable. Capacities vary, from hundreds
of megabytes (in the same ballpark as CDs) to tens of gigabytes (surpassing, at great
expense, Blu-ray discs).



• Tape drive - a device that reads and writes data on a magnetic tape, used for long term
storage and backups.

INTERNAL STORAGE- are hardware that keeps data inside the computer for later use and
remains persistent even when the computer has no power.

• Hard disk - for medium-term storage of data. Hard disks are the main, large data
storage area within your computer. Hard disks are used to store your operating system,
your application programs (i.e. your word processor, games etc) and your data.

UNITS USED TO MEASURE THE MEMORY CAPACITY:
Byte = 8 bits
KiloByte(KB) = 1,024 Bytes
MegaByte(MB) = 1,024 KB
GigaByte (GB) = 1,024 MB
TeraByte (T) = 1,024 GB

A peripheral device: is any device that you can attach to your computer.
Thus you could attach a scanner or modem to the back of your system unit.



1.3 Classifications of Computers :

1) Micro Computers (Personal Computers, Laptop)

Cheap and easy to use. Often used as stand-alone computers or in a network. May be
connected to large mainframe computers within big companies.

2) Mini and Mainframe Computers
Very powerful, used by large organizations such an banks to control the entire business
operation. Very expensive!

3) Supercomputers
Supercomputers are the most powerful computers. They are used for problems requiring
complex calculations. Because of their size and expense, supercomputers are relatively
rare. Supercomputers are used by universities, government agencies, and large
businesses.

1.4 Different Types Of Software
The software is the instructions or the programs that make the computer work.
Types of Software:

1- Operating Systems Software

The operating system is a special type of program that loads automatically when
you start your computer. The operating system allows you to use the advanced features of
a modern computer without having to learn all the details of how the hardware works.
Examples of operating system that use a GUI include Windows 3.1, Windows
95/98/2000/XP/Vista/7, Windows NT and IBM's OS/2.



2- Applications Software
An application program is the type of program that you use once the operating
system has been loaded. Following are some examples of application programs:

Microsoft Word. WordPerfect.
Spreadsheets. Microsoft Excel.
Microsoft Access. Sage software.
Microsoft PowerPoint. Adobe Photoshop.

1.5 Install and Uninstall Software Applications:

Program Get Programs and Uninstall programs
Get or uninstall Programs helps you manage programs and components on your
computer. You can use it to add or remove programs (such as Microsoft Excel or Word) from a
CD-ROM, floppy disk, or a network, or to add Windows updates and new features from the
Internet.
Get or uninstall Programs also helps you add or remove Windows components you
chose not to include in the original
installation (such as Networking
Services).

To Add or Remove Programs, click
Start, point to Settings, click Control
Panel, and then under Programs option
select “Get program” to install new
application and select “Uninstall
Program” to remove applications.



Working with Computers

Objectives

At the end of this module, the students will be able to:

1. Identify the specifications and requirements of computer suitable for
student usage.
2. Describe computer ergonomics as associated with computer usage.
3. Discuss the concept of software copyright.
4. Differentiate shareware, freeware and end-user license agreement.
5. Explain the Omani data protection legislation

I NTRODUCTION

Computers are everywhere. Take a moment to try and think of a place where you have
seen a computer in use. From the small local corner store to the largest hospital, computers are
in every gas station, grocery store, bank, restaurant, beauty shop, and doctor's office around.
A student basically needs the computer to write on Microsoft Word, surf the web with
Internet Explorer or Firefox and the student also needs the computer to be relatively fast and
safe from virus, hacks, spies and more. Such computer is usually inexpensive if you know
where to buy it.



M
ODULE CONTENT

WORKING WITH COMPUTERS

Students of all ages are using computers more often than ever. They are using
computers for schoolwork, chatting, e-mail, games, and surfing. However, choosing the right
computer for a student can be a difficult task. Operating system, computer size, hard drive
size, processor speed, and available hardware and software all help determine what makes a
computer a good buy.

1.6 SPECIFICATION OF A BASIC COMPUTER SYSTEM

At a minimum, your PC should be able to run the Microsoft Windows 2000, XP, or
Vista operating systems, Microsoft Office 2000, XP, 2003, or 2007 Professional, Internet
Explorer 6 web browser, and anti-virus software. A CD-ROM drive that enables you to read a
CD is sufficient, but a CD-RW drive, or one that can both read and write a CD, is
recommended. A DVD burner is common in most new machines, but ensuring you have a
CD-RW drive that reads DVDs is highly recommended.

Your computer should have an approved high-speed network interface card or
integrated network interface capable of accessing a 10/100 Base-T Ethernet network
connection. If you are living off campus, you should have a cable or DSL connection to access
campus resources.

These specifications are the minimum requirement:



Personal Computer - base system

• Intel Pentium IV or equivalent, 1.6 GHz
• 1024 MB RAM
• Windows XP or Windows Vista Home Premium operating system
• Video memory: at least 64 MB, 256 MB or more suggested
• 80 GB hard drive
• CD-ROM (DVD or CDRW is recommended)
• 100 Base-T Ethernet or equivalent wireless card
• Monitor
• Keyboard
• Mouse

Recommended Components

• 3.5 floppy disk drive
• 2 USB I/O Ports
• Integrated sound or sound card with speakers/headphones

It can significantly improve the performance of the computer and increase its useful life by
configuring it at a higher level. The best value added upgrades are additional memory, a faster
processor and larger hard drive. Remember to plan for the future and buy not what is needed
today, but what might be needed to keep the machine for at least three years.

Software Requirements

In addition to the hardware requirements, students looking to connect their computers
to ensure that their systems have up-to-date service packs and security patches for their
operating system.

Run Windows Update at least twice a month to ensure that your system is updated.
You must also have up-to-date antivirus software like Norton, Trend or McAfee installed and



active on your computer with virus definitions updated at least weekly. PC user will need to
have:

(a) all critical windows updates done and

(b) a valid anti-virus program with all updates done in order to access the Internet.

The purpose of keeping the system current with Windows Updates is to ensure it
cannot be hacked. The anti-virus software also ensures some protection against viruses so that
the machine runs smoothly.

1.7 ERGONOMICS

Ergonomics is the science of designing the job, equipment, and workplace to fit the
worker, necessary to prevent repetitive strain injuries, which can develop over time and can
lead to long-term disability.

Ergonomic Principles for Appropriate Working Environments

Sitting in front of the Computer

• Adjust the height of the chair according to the height of the work station,
ensuring that your hands are: at a 90 degrees angle, between arm and forearm,
parallel to the table and that your shoulders are relaxed and without strain.
• Should your legs not reach the floor in this position, add a stool so as to allow a
sitting posture in which your legs are supported, for more convenience.
• Lean back on the chair in a 105 degrees angle. This will reduce pressure on your
back. (Use the chair lever to change the angle of the back rest)
• Adjust the height of the back rest of your chair for full support of the lower back
(Use the chair lever to change the height of the back rest.)



• Adjust the height of the computer screen until its upper edge is on the same level
as your eyes. If the screen is low, its height should be adjusted. Another option is
to raise the screen.
• The optimal distance between your eyes and the screen should be that of the
extended arm, i.e., between 60 to 70 cm.
• The keyboard and the mouse should be placed side by side, 8 – 10 cm away from
the edge of the table, to enable placement of the palms in a straight line with the
mouse and the keyboard.
• Make sure that your wrist is positioned straightly when typing and that your
wrist is not bent.
• The forearm should be supported by the table or by the arms of the chair.
• Take regular intervals (5 minutes every hour) and perform stretch and relax
exercises.

In order to have a more comfortable computer use, the following are some suggestions:



Finding Your Comfort Zone:

Find your comfort zone by adjusting the viewing angle of the monitor, using a
footrest, or raising your sitting height to achieve maximum comfort. Observe
the following tips:
• refrain from staying too long in one fixed posture
• avoid slouching forward and/or leaning backward
• stand up and walk around regularly to remove the strain on your leg muscles
• take short rests to relax your neck and shoulders
• avoid tensing your muscles or shrugging your shoulders
• install the external display, keyboard and mouse properly and within
comfortable reach
• if you view your monitor more than your documents, place the display at the center of your
desk to minimize neck strain

Taking care of your vision
Long viewing hours, wearing incorrect glasses or contact lenses, glare, excessive room
lighting, poorly focused screens, very small typefaces and low-contrast displays could stress
your eyes. The following sections provide suggestions on how to reduce eyestrain.

Eyes
• Rest your eyes frequently.
• Give your eyes regular breaks by looking away from the monitor and
focusing on a distant point.
• Blink frequently to keep your eyes from drying out.
Display
• Keep your display clean.
• Keep your head at a higher level than the top edge of the display so your
eyes point downward when looking at the middle of the display.
• Adjust the display brightness and/or contrast to a comfortable level for



enhanced text readability and graphics clarity.
• Eliminate glare and reflections by:
• placing your display in such a way that the side faces the window or
any light source
• minimizing room light by using drapes, shades or blinds
• using a task light
• changing the display's viewing angle
• using a glare-reduction filter
• using a display visor, such as a piece of cardboard extended from the
display's top front edge
• Avoid adjusting your display to an awkward viewing angle.
• Avoid looking at bright light sources, such as open windows, for extended
periods of time.

Developing Good Work Habits

Develop the following work habits to make your computer use more relaxing
and productive:
• Take short breaks regularly and often.
• Perform some stretching exercises.
• Breathe fresh air as often as possible.
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy body.

1.8 SOFTWARE COPYRIGHT

Computer Software is usually protected under a single site or multi-site license based
on number of users, type of users, number of computers, and size of institutions.

Software copyright is the relatively recent extension of copyright law to machine-
readable software.



Software copyright is commonly used by proprietary software companies to prevent
the unauthorized copying of their software. Open source licenses also rely on copyright law to
enforce their terms.

1.9 SHAREWARE, FREEWARE, END-USER LICENSE AGREEMENT

Type DEscription
Shareware • popularized by Bob Wallace, refers to
proprietary software that is provided to users
without payment on a trial basis.
• Once the trial period has passed, the program
may stop running until a license is purchased.
• Shareware is mostly being offered as a
download from an Internet website where the
aim of shareware is to give buyers the
opportunity to use the program and judge its
usefulness before purchasing a license for the
full version of the software.

FREEWARE • software that is fully functional for an unlimited time
with no cost, monetary or otherwise.
• The author usually restricts one or more rights to copy,
distribute, and make derivative works of the software.
• The software license may impose restrictions on the
type of use including personal use, individual use,
non-profit use, non-commercial use, academic use,
commercial use or any combination of these.
• The license of Freeware software may be "free for
personal use but not for commercial use".



END-USER LICENSE AGREEMENT (EULA)
End User License Agreement (EULA) is a legal contract between the manufacturer
and/or the author and the end user of an application. EULA details how the software can and
cannot be used and any restrictions that the manufacturer imposes. The license may define
ways under which the copy can be used, in addition to the automatic rights of the buyer
including the freedom to use, archive, re-sale, and backup.

End-User License Agreements form contracts accompany shrink-wrapped software that
is presented to a user sometimes on paper or more usually electronically, during the
installation procedure. The user has the choice of accepting or rejecting the agreement, often
without reading it first. The installation of the software is conditional to the user clicking a
button labeled "Accept".

1.10 THE DATA PROTECTION LEGISLATION

The Data Protection Act 1998 (DPA) is a United Kingdom Act of Parliament which
defines UK law on the processing of data on identifiable living people. It is the main piece of
legislation that governs the protection of personal data in the United Kingdom.
As of February, 2008, the following countries do not have any rule regulating Data
Protection & Privacy: Bahrain, Jordan, Iraq, Kuwait, Oman, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria,
Yemen.
Oman has the Royal Decree No. 37/2000, an Omani legislation promulgating the law
on the protection of copyrights and neighbouring rights.
Some of the provisions undertaking the decree specify protection that shall be enjoyed
by authors of created literary, scientific, artistic and cultural works in general, regardless of the
value, type, method of expression or objective of such works. Such protection shall extend in
particular to authors of:
(a) books, computer programs and other written material.



(b) oral works such as lectures, speeches and sermons.
(c) dramatic and dramatic - musical works.
(d) musical works, with or without accompanying words.
(e) choreographic works and pantomimes.
(f) aural and audiovisual works.
(g) drawings, paintings, works of architecture, sculpture, engraving, and ornamental
works.
(h) works of applied arts, whether handicraft or industrial.
(i) illustrations, maps, plans, sketches, three-dimensional works relative to geography
or topography, architecture and science.
(j) folklore.
(k) title of the work, where such title is creative and is not a common term identifying
the subject of the work.

The decree gives protection that shall be enjoyed by:
(a) anyone who translates into another language, summarizes, modifies, adapts or
transforms the work in such a manner as to appear in a new form.
(b) collections of works, expressions of folklore from popular traditional heritage,
anthologies and databases, provided that such collections are creative by reason of their
arrangement or selection of their contents.
Protection provided for in the foregoing paragraphs shall be without prejudice to
protection enjoyed by authors of the original works and their successors in title.


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