Introductory guide to computer operation in our modern Africa

In this topic, you would be able to learn the about these eight sub-topics which would enlighten you more on computer applications. These are:

1. Computer Operation
2. Computer Booting
3. Computer Classification
4. Computer Operating System
5. Computer Application Packages
6. Processor and Computer Memory
7. Computer Virus
8. Computer Maintenance

Introduction to Computer

A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or data. It has the ability to store, retrieve, and process data. You may already know that you can use a computer to type documents, send email, play games, and browse the Web.

The word “Computer” comes from the word “compute” which means to calculate. A computer is an electronic device, which stores and processes data to give meaningful information. Processing is done with the help of instructions given by the user, which are also stored within the computer.

A computer is a machine composed of hardware and software components. A computer receives data through an input unit based on the instructions it is given and after it processes the data, it sends it back through an output device. How does this come together to make the computer work?

The input devices of a computer can depend on the type of computer we are dealing with but most typically we will find a mouse, keyboard, scanner or even applications (software) installed on the computer. Once the data has been received, the central processing unit (CPU) along with the help of other components, takes over and processes the information it was given. Once the data is ready, it will be sent back through an output device which can be a monitor, speaker, printer, ports, etc.

1. Computer Operation

All modern computers function on the same general model of input, process and output. A computer receives an input, processes the information, then performs an output. … process – the phone’s hardware and network process the message. output – the message goes to the receiver.

Basic Operations of a Computer – Input, Process and Output

The computer performs five basic operations which are input, process, output, storage and control and are described as

Input: It is captures the data from user, or it is the process of accepting data or information, by using input the computer can do any process.
Process: It is the process to convert the input into output.
Output: It is the display or output of result from processing.
Storage: It stores the data or information or instructions, for future use.
Control: It directs the manner and sequence of all the operations to perform in a computer system.

 

Data Processing Operations are the operations that can be performed on data

• Arithmetic operations − This operations involved mathematical calculations Examples include calculations like addition, subtraction, differentials, square root, etc.
• Logical operations − This operations are operations that needs critical thinking. Examples include comparison operations like greater than, less than, equal to, opposite, etc.

 

Basic Features Of A computer
Every Computer has basic features that are needed for optimal performance and efficiency. Below are few:

Speed − Typically, a computer can carry out 3-4 million instructions per second.

Accuracy − Computers exhibit a very high degree of accuracy. Errors that may occur are usually due to inaccurate data, wrong instructions or bug in chips – all human errors.

Reliability − Computers can carry out same type of work repeatedly without throwing up errors due to tiredness or boredom, which are very common among humans.

Versatility − Computers can carry out a wide range of work from data entry and ticket booking to complex mathematical calculations and continuous astronomical observations. If you can input the necessary data with correct instructions, computer will do the processing.

Storage − Computers can store a very large amount of data at a fraction of cost of traditional storage of files. Also, data is safe from normal wear and tear associated with paper.