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BCT Unit 1:
Basic Computer Hardware Notes

Vocabulary:

  1. Central Processing Unit (CPU): The hardware device that stores data and programs, executes program instructions, and performs arithmetic/logic operations. AKA, the "brain" of the computer.
  2. Control Unit: The part of the CPU that directs instructions.
  3. Arithmetic/Logic unit: The component of the CPU that processes calculations.
  4. Main Memory: The component of the CPU that holds instructions, stores data, and keeps results during the processing.
  5. Boot: Start the computer. (Generally the CPU receives the "start" instructions from the hard drive.)
  6. ROM (Read Only Memory): permanent memory holds instructions to start the computer.
  7. RAM (Random Access Memory): temporary memory available only as long as the computer is turned on.
  8. Hard Disk: Storage device that allows the fastest access to data.
  9. Disk Drive: Device that reads and writes on a disk.
  10. File: A document stored on a disk.
  11. Hard Copy: A printed copy of data.
  12. Soft Copy: "Print Preview" copy viewed on the monitor. AKA: WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get)
  13. Modem (MOdulator DEModulator): Device that permits a computer to transmit and receive data over a telephone line.
  14. Scanner: Peripheral device that converts text or pictures into a digitized image can then be edited.
  15. Dot Matrix Printer: Uses a pattern of dots to form words and images on paper.
  16. Inkjet Printer: Sprays ink through small holes to form words and images on paper.
  17. Laser Printer: Uses light beams to form words and images on paper.
  18. Plotter: Device that draws images with pens.
  19. Ergonomics: The study of creating an efficient, comfortable, and healthy workplace while working on a computer.
  20. Virtual Reality: Lifelike world that is created by a computer in which participants can become a part of the action.
  21. Information Processing Cycle: The interactions of humans and computers that consists of input, processing, output, and storage.
  22. Input: The process of entering information into a computer.
  23. Processing: Executes instructions given to the computer.
  24. Output: Displays or manifests the results of processing (via monitor, printer, speakers, etc.)
  25. Storage: A device that holds data.
  26. Virus Protector: A program that protects a computer from damage.
  27. Service Technician: One who repairs hardware and software problems.


Why were computers created? Because people needed to solve a problem.


Today, computer limits are few and "can do" just about anything!
o Speed and Accuracy > chips
o General Purpose, Size, and Cost Efficiency > PC, mini computer, mainframe, super computer
o Durable and Reliable
o Ever-growing need for more information.


How can computers affect you?
o Web TV
o Touch Screens
o Satellite TV
o Cellular Phones
o Digital Video Disks
o Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs / Palm Pilots)


The Impact of the Changing Role of Technology and Society
o Education: Learning aids & Virtual Reality
o Home: Electronic Banking, Shopping at Home, Home Security
o Business: Information Super Highway, Dangerous Jobs (possibly the least impact of those on this list)
o Government: Environmental Controls; Weather; Transportation; Municipal services; health care


The computer system is made up of elements that interact with each other.
Elements are:

· Hardware > touchable, physical equipment
· Software > programs that tell the computer what to do.


Information Processing Cycle - the interaction of humans and computers that consists of input, processing, output, and storage.

o Input > communicates with the computer
o Processing > the computer executing instructions and performing calculations.
o Output > Communicates with you
o Storage > Holds information


Input Devices: Compact Disks (CDs); Floppy Disks; Keyboard; Graphics Tablet; Joystick; Light Pen; Microphone; modem; mouse; sound board; touch screen; scanners (bar code, OCR, OMR, digitizer, magnetic, MICR, realtime)


Processing: receives and carries out instructions (Processing is done in the Central Processing Unit [CPU])


Functions of the processor:

o It controls the computer by 1) decoding instructions and 2)directing instructions
o It performs "Arithmetic/Logic Functions"

§ Classify category (example: grade level 6th, 7th, 8th)
§ Sort alpha or numeric order (example: a,b,c, c,b,a, 1,2,3, 3,2,1)
§ Compare/summarize words or numbers (example: pick names for honor roll from all grade point averages)
§ Calculate basic math (example: 5*6/2+8-1)

o Storage stores the results of instructions in memory

§ RAM temporary memory while computer is on
§ ROM permanent memory, holds instructions to start computer.


Output (Hard copy output on paper; Soft copy output on monitor)

Output Devices: Dot Matrix Printer; Inkjet Printer; Laser Printer; Monitor; Modem; Microfilm; Plotter; Realtime Controllers; Robots; Sound Synthesizers

Storage:
o Magnetic Disks (floppy and hard); Magnetic Tapes (tape cartridge and tape reels); Optical Storage (CD ROMs and DVDs)


Computer Care


Basic guidelines:

· Keep away from direct sunlight
· Do not block vents on the CPU
· Keep away from air conditioning ducts
· Use surge protector
· Keep magnets away

Keyboard:
· Should not have food, liquid, paper clips, or loose staples placed near by.

Monitor:
· Clean screen regularly
· Turn off monitor when not in use.

Mouse:
· Clean mouse ball rgularly
· Use a mouse pad.

Hard Drive:
· Install virus protection software
· Backup drives of tapes or disks in case of a major computer problem.


Disk/CD Care

Disks and CDs should:
· Not be removed from drives while the drive is running. (look for the active light)
· Be kept away from magnets
· Be kept away from liquids
· Be kept in containers designed for storing disks/CDs
· Not be stored close to heat vents or air conditioning vents.


Printer Care
· Dust periodically with a soft, damp cloth
· Secure all connections
· Do not shut off printer while it is printing
· Have manual available
· Have technical support telephone number available.


Computer Maintenance
· Check and secure all plug-ins, then restart your computer.
· Keep computer manuals available.
· Locate and read the "Troubleshooting" section of your manual.
· Make back up disks/tapes of all programs and data files.
· Locate and keep the technical support phone number next to your computer.


Ergonomics
(Making a comfortable, efficient workspace while using the computer)


Suggestion for body positions:
· Feet touching the floor
· Use an adjustable chair
· Sit at least 24 inches away from the monitor
· Top edge of monitor at eye level
· Wrists equal to or slightly lower than elbows.
· Avoid special lights that cause glare on the computer screen
· Occasionally rest your eyes and take short breaks.