Introduction to Computers |
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While some of us are busy working with Web pages and scanners, others are just getting their feet wet in the area of computer technology. The following article will provide some background information and terminology for the beginner student or instructor.
A computer is a device for processing and storing information. Information related to computer processing is often referred to as data. Because computers are generally used for processing information, this technology is referred to as Information Technology, or IT.
A supercomputer is a very large, powerful computer which is only used for complex mathematical tasks. These are usually found in large companies or universities. Mainframe computers are also very large, and may be used for the central functions of a large organization, hospital or university. mainframes are extremely efficient for storing large amounts of data. The personal computer, usually called a PC, was developed by IBM in the early 1980’s, and is now the most commonly used computer for home and office. PCs can also be desktops or portables. A desktop is the larger model that sits on a desk or table. A portable is smaller, and can be carried around. Laptops and notebooks are common terms for a portable computer. Smaller versions are called palmtops, as they can be held in the hand for use. A palmtop is small enough to fit in a pocket. Note: desktop, laptop and palmtop can also be spelled with hyphens (desk-top, lap-top and palm-top).
The central processing unit (CPU) of a computer is a form of microprocessor, based on a chip or microchip (micro meaning very small) which holds a large number of electronic circuits. Silicon, which is found in sand and many types of rocks, is used in the production of these chips. In the 1950’s, Stanford University in San Francisco, USA, leased land to several high tech companies, to work in partnership with the university. The concept was popular, and soon it became a major high tech centre. Silicon is an important component of computers, thus the area became known as Silicon Valley.
Computers process information (data) in the form of bits - the expression of letters and numbers in ones or zeros. When you transfer information to this form it is digitized. Data is measured in bytes, and there are eight bits in a byte. A kilobyte (KB) is one thousand bytes, a megabyte (MB) is one million bytes and a gigabyte (GB) is one thousand million bytes. When processing information, a megabyte will hold approximately 1000 pages of text, if there are no graphics or special designs involved. Until a few years ago, it was common to hear storage referred to in megabytes when buying a computer, but all of the newer ones measure storage in gigabytes. |
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