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Unit-1 Fundamental of Computer | BBA 2nd Sem

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computer

Unit-1

Fundamental of Computer

Classification of Computers

  1. Supercomputers: These are the big guns of the computer world. They’re incredibly powerful and can handle complex calculations and simulations. They’re used for tasks like weather forecasting, scientific research, and designing advanced technologies.
  2. Mainframe Computers: These are large, high-performance machines that can handle massive amounts of data processing. They’re often used by large organizations for tasks like transaction processing, database management, and hosting multiple users simultaneously.
  3. Minicomputers: These are smaller than mainframes but still pack quite a punch. They’re used by medium-sized businesses and organizations for tasks like data storage, network management, and running specific applications.
  4. Personal Computers (PCs): Ah, the good ol’ PCs! These are the computers we use at home, school, or work. They come in various forms like desktops, laptops, and tablets. They’re perfect for everyday tasks like browsing the internet, creating documents, playing games, and more.
  5. Workstations: These are powerful computers designed for professionals who need high-performance computing. They’re commonly used in fields like graphic design, video editing, animation, and engineering. Workstations have top-notch processors, ample RAM, and specialized graphics capabilities.
  6. Mobile Devices: We can’t forget about our trusty smart phones and tablets! These portable devices have become an essential part of our lives. They’re used for communication, browsing the internet, social media, entertainment, and even productivity tasks with various apps.
  7. Embedded Systems: These are computers hidden away in everyday objects like cars, appliances, and even medical devices. They’re designed to perform specific functions and are often programmed to operate autonomously.
  8. Servers: These computers are all about hosting websites, applications, and services. They handle requests from other devices and deliver the requested data. Servers can be specialized for different purposes like web servers, file servers, email servers, and more.
  9. Gaming Consoles: For all the gamers out there, gaming consoles are a dream come true. These dedicated machines provide an immersive gaming experience with powerful hardware and specialized gaming software.
  10. Wearable Devices: These are the latest trend in technology, including smart watches, fitness trackers, and augmented reality glasses. They’re designed to be worn on the body and offer various functionalities like health monitoring, notifications, and more.

Read More- https://pencilchampions.com/unit-5-international-business-bba-2nd-sem/


Types of Computer

  1. Supercomputers: These are the heavyweights of the computer world. Supercomputers are incredibly powerful machines that can handle complex calculations and simulations. They are used for tasks such as weather forecasting, scientific research, and designing advanced technologies. Supercomputers are known for their massive processing power and high-speed performance.
  2. Mainframe Computers: Mainframes are large, high-performance computers that can handle extensive data processing. They are often used by large organizations for tasks such as transaction processing, database management, and hosting multiple users simultaneously. Mainframes are known for their reliability, scalability, and robustness.
  3. Minicomputers: Minicomputers, as the name suggests, are smaller than mainframes but still pack a punch. They are used by medium-sized businesses and organizations for tasks such as data storage, network management, and running specific applications. Minicomputers are known for their affordability and versatility.
  4. Personal Computers (PCs): Ah, the good old PCs! These are the computers we use at home, school, or work. PCs come in various forms like desktops, laptops, and tablets. They are perfect for everyday tasks such as browsing the internet, creating documents, playing games, and more. PCs are known for their user-friendly interfaces and wide range of software options.
  5. Workstations: Workstations are powerful computers designed for professionals who need high-performance computing. They are commonly used in fields such as graphic design, video editing, animation, and engineering. Workstations have top-notch processors, ample RAM, and specialized graphics capabilities. They are known for their superior processing power and ability to handle resource-intensive tasks.
  6. Mobile Devices: We can’t forget about our trusty smartphones and tablets! These portable devices have become an essential part of our lives. Mobile devices are used for communication, browsing the internet, social media, entertainment, and even productivity tasks with various apps. They are known for their portability, touch interfaces, and connectivity options.
  7. Embedded Systems: Embedded systems are computers hidden away in everyday objects like cars, appliances, and even medical devices. They are designed to perform specific functions and are often programmed to operate autonomously. Embedded systems are known for their compact size, low power consumption, and integration into various devices.

Wikipedia- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Computer


On the basis of size types of computers

  1. Supercomputers:

  • Massive in size and power, used for complex calculations and simulations.
  • Employed in scientific research, weather forecasting, and advanced simulations.
  • Can process huge amounts of data at incredible speeds.
  1. Mainframe Computers:

  • Large computers that excel at handling extensive data processing.
  • Commonly used by large organizations and government institutions.
  • Provide centralized computing resources for multiple users simultaneously.
  1. Minicomputers:

  • Smaller than mainframes, but still powerful and versatile.
  • Often used by medium-sized businesses, universities, and research labs.
  • Capable of supporting multiple users and running complex applications.
  1. Personal Computers (PCs):

  • Widely used by individuals at home, school, or work.
  • Available in different sizes, including desktops, laptops, and tablets.
  • Used for various tasks such as browsing, gaming, content creation, and more.
  1. Workstations:

  • High-performance computers designed for professionals in specialized fields.
  • Used in areas such as graphic design, engineering, animation, and scientific research.
  • Equipped with powerful processors, ample memory, and advanced graphics capabilities.
  1. Mobile Devices:

  • Portable and compact computers, including smart phones and tablets.
  • Used for communication, entertainment, productivity, and accessing the internet.
  • Offer features like touch screens, mobility, and a wide range of apps.
  1. Embedded Systems:

  • Computers integrated into everyday objects and devices.
  • Found in cars, appliances, medical equipment, and industrial machinery.
  • Perform specific functions and are designed for reliability and efficiency.
  1. Microcomputers:

  • Small-sized computers, often referred to as microcontrollers.
  • Used in various devices like home automation systems, robotics, and consumer electronics.
  • Compact and low-cost, with limited processing power and memory.
  1. Single-Board Computers:

  • Compact computers built on a single circuit board.
  • Raspberry Pi and Arduino are popular examples.
  • Used for educational purposes, DIY projects, and prototyping.
  1. Wearable Computers:

  • Computers that can be worn on the body, like smart watches and fitness trackers.
  • Monitor health, track activities, and provide notifications on the go.
  • Integrated with sensors and wireless connectivity.

Characteristics of computers

  1. Speed:

  • Computers can perform calculations and execute tasks at incredibly high speeds.
  • The speed is measured in terms of clock cycles, gigahertz (GHz), or instructions per second (IPS).
  • Faster computers can process data more quickly, leading to improved efficiency.
  1. Storage Capacity:

  • Computers have the ability to store and retrieve vast amounts of data.
  • Storage capacity is measured in bytes, with units like kilobytes (KB), megabytes (MB), gigabytes (GB), and terabytes (TB).
  • Different types of storage include hard disk drives (HDD), solid-state drives (SSD), and cloud storage.
  1. Memory:

  • Computers have two types of memory: primary memory (RAM) and secondary memory (storage).
  • RAM (Random Access Memory) provides temporary storage for data and instructions that the computer is actively using.
  • Secondary memory stores data for long-term use even when the computer is powered off.
  1. Multitasking:

  • Computers can handle multiple tasks simultaneously, allowing users to switch between applications seamlessly.
  • Operating systems manage the allocation of resources and prioritize tasks to ensure efficient multitasking.
  1. Connectivity:

  • Computers can connect to networks, enabling communication and data sharing.
  • Wired connections include Ethernet cables, while wireless connections use Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or cellular networks.
  • Connectivity allows computers to access the internet, share files, and interact with other devices.
  1. Accuracy:

  • Computers perform tasks with a high level of accuracy, minimizing errors and inconsistencies.
  • Digital data is processed precisely, reducing human error and ensuring reliable results.
  1. Automation:

  • Computers can automate repetitive tasks, saving time and effort.
  • Through programming and scripting, computers can perform tasks automatically, such as data entry or report generation.
  1. Versatility:

  • Computers can be used for a wide range of tasks, from simple calculations to complex simulations.
  • They can handle various types of data, including text, images, audio, and video.
  • With the right software, computers can be customized for specific purposes, such as graphic design or programming.
  1. Scalability:

  • Computers can be upgraded and expanded to meet changing needs.
  • Components like memory, storage, and processors can be replaced or added to enhance performance and capacity.

History of computers

  1. Ancient Computing:

  • The concept of computing dates back to ancient civilizations.
  • Early devices like the abacus and the Antikythera mechanism were used for basic calculations.
  1. Mechanical Calculators:

  • In the 17th century, mechanical calculators like Blaise Pascal’s Pascaline and Gottfried Leibniz’s stepped reckoner were developed.
  • These devices used gears and levers to perform arithmetic operations.
  1. Analytical Engine:

  • In the 19th century, Charles Babbage designed the Analytical Engine, considered the precursor to modern computers.
  • It was a mechanical device capable of performing complex calculations and storing data.
  1. Early Computers:

  • The first electronic computers emerged during the mid-20th century.
  • The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC) was built in 1945 and used vacuum tubes for processing.

 

  • In the late 1940s, transistors were invented, replacing vacuum tubes and making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable.
  • Integrated circuits, developed in the 1960s, further miniaturized computer components and increased their capabilities.
  1. Mainframes and Minicomputers:

  • In the 1950s and 1960s, mainframe computers were used by large organizations for data processing and scientific calculations.
  • Minicomputers, introduced in the 1960s, were smaller and more affordable, making computing accessible to a wider audience.
  1. Personal Computers:

  • The 1970s saw the rise of personal computers (PCs), starting with the Altair 8800 and followed by the Apple II and IBM PC.
  • These computers brought computing power to individuals and revolutionized the way people work and communicate.
  1. Graphical User Interface (GUI):

  • The development of the graphical user interface in the 1980s, popularized by the Apple Macintosh, made computers more user-friendly.
  • GUI allowed users to interact with computers using icons, windows, and menus instead of complex commands.
  1. Internet and World Wide Web:

  • The 1990s brought widespread internet connectivity, connecting computers worldwide.
  • The World Wide Web, developed by Tim Berners-Lee, allowed easy access to information and transformed communication.

Personal Computer

  1. Birth of Personal Computers:

  • In the 1970s, the era of personal computers (PCs) began.
  • The Altair 8800, released in 1975, was the first widely available PC kit.
  • It was followed by the Apple II in 1977 and the IBM PC in 1981.
  1. Microprocessors and Miniaturization:

  • The invention of microprocessors in the early 1970s made PCs smaller and more affordable.
  • Microprocessors integrated the central processing unit (CPU) onto a single chip.
  • This led to the development of more compact and powerful PCs.
  1. Graphical User Interface (GUI):

  • The introduction of the graphical user interface (GUI) in the 1980s revolutionized PC usability.
  • The GUI allowed users to interact with PCs using icons, windows, and menus instead of complex commands.
  • Apple’s Macintosh, released in 1984, popularized the GUI.
  1. Operating Systems:

  • Operating systems (OS) such as Microsoft’s MS-DOS and Apple’s Mac OS were crucial for PC functionality.
  • MS-DOS, released in 1981, provided a command-line interface for IBM PCs.
  • Mac OS, with its user-friendly GUI, was a key feature of Apple’s Macintosh.
  1. Expansion of Software:

  • The availability of software played a vital role in the growth of PCs.
  • Word processors, spreadsheets, and database software became essential for productivity.
  • Games and entertainment software also became popular, appealing to a broader audience.
  1. Internet and Connectivity:

  • The 1990s brought widespread internet connectivity to PCs.
  • The World Wide Web, developed by Tim Berners-Lee, allowed easy access to information.
  • Email, instant messaging, and online services transformed communication.
  1. Portable PCs:

  • Laptops and notebooks emerged in the 1980s and became popular in the 1990s.
  • These portable PCs allowed users to work and access information on the go.
  • Advancements in battery technology and miniaturization made laptops more efficient and lightweight.
  1. Evolution of Hardware:

  • PCs continued to evolve with advancements in hardware technology.
  • Faster processors, increased memory, larger storage capacities, and better graphics capabilities became standard.

Generation of Computer

  1. First Generation (1940s-1950s):

  • Vacuum tube technology used as the main component.
  • Large in size, consumed a lot of power, and generated a significant amount of heat.
  • Examples include ENIAC and UNIVAC 1.
  1. Second Generation (1950s-1960s):

  • Transistors replaced vacuum tubes, making computers smaller, faster, and more reliable.
  • Magnetic core memory introduced, improving storage capacity.
  • High-level programming languages like FORTRAN and COBOL developed.
  • Examples include IBM 1401 and CDC 1604.
  1. Third Generation (1960s-1970s):

  • Integrated circuits (ICs) replaced individual transistors, further reducing size and increasing speed.
  • Operating systems and time-sharing systems developed.
  • Minicomputers introduced, providing computing power to smaller organizations.
  • Examples include IBM System/360 and DEC PDP-11.
  1. Fourth Generation (1970s-1980s):

  • Microprocessors emerged, integrating all computer components onto a single chip.
  • Personal computers (PCs) became accessible to individuals.
  • Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) and the mouse were introduced.
  • Examples include Apple II, IBM PC, and Commodore 64.
  1. Fifth Generation (1980s-Present):

  • VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration) technology allowed for the creation of powerful and compact microchips.
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI) and expert systems gained prominence.
  • Parallel processing and supercomputers advanced scientific research.
  • Examples include Cray-2, IBM Watson, and modern smartphones.
  1. Sixth Generation (Present and Beyond):

  • Still evolving, this generation focuses on further advancements in AI, quantum computing, and nanotechnology.
  • Emphasis on improving speed, efficiency, and connectivity.
  • Continued development of smart devices and the Internet of Things (IoT).
  • Examples include quantum computers, AI-powered virtual assistants, and wearable tech.

Introduction to computers basic anatomy

  1. Central Processing Unit (CPU):

  • Often referred to as the “brain” of the computer.
  • Responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations.
  • Consists of the control unit, arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and registers.
  1. Memory:

  • Primary memory, also known as Random Access Memory (RAM), stores data and instructions that the CPU needs to access quickly.
  • Secondary memory, like hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs), provides long-term storage for files and programs.
  1. Input Devices:

  • Allow users to input data and commands into the computer.
  • Examples include keyboards, mice, touch screens, and scanners.
  1. Output Devices:

  • Display or present information processed by the computer.
  • Examples include monitors, printers, speakers, and headphones.
  1. Motherboard:

  • Main circuit board that connects all the components of the computer.
  • Houses the CPU, memory, and other essential components.
  • Provides electrical connections and pathways for data transfer.
  1. Power Supply:

  • Converts electrical power from an outlet into usable power for the computer.
  • Supplies power to all components, ensuring they function properly.
  1. Graphics Processing Unit (GPU):

  • Specialized processor dedicated to rendering graphics and images.
  • Used for tasks like gaming, video editing, and graphic design.
  1. Ports and Connectors:

  • Allow the computer to connect with external devices.
  • Examples include USB ports, HDMI ports, audio jacks, and Ethernet ports.
  1. Operating System (OS):

  • Software that manages computer hardware and software resources.
  • Provides a user interface and allows users to interact with the computer.

Center Processing Unit

  • The CPU is like the brain of a computer. It’s responsible for carrying out instructions and performing calculations. It consists of three main components: the control unit, the arithmetic logic unit (ALU), and registers.
  • The control unit acts as the conductor, directing the flow of data and instructions within the CPU and coordinating communication with other parts of the computer. It fetches instructions from memory, decodes them, and executes them step by step.
  • The ALU is where the actual calculations and logical operations take place. It can perform tasks like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It can also handle logical operations like comparing numbers or evaluating conditions.
  • Registers are small, high-speed memory units within the CPU. They store data temporarily during processing. Registers are used to hold instructions, operands, and intermediate results, making calculations faster and more efficient.
  • The CPU works in a cycle called the fetch-decode-execute cycle. First, it fetches an instruction from memory, then it decodes the instruction to understand what operation needs to be performed. Finally, it executes the instruction by carrying out the required calculations or operations.
  • The speed of a CPU is measured in gigahertz (GHz), which indicates how many cycles it can complete in one second. Higher GHz means faster processing.
  • Modern CPUs often have multiple cores, allowing them to perform multiple tasks simultaneously. This is known as parallel processing and improves overall performance.
  • CPUs are designed with different architectures, such as x86, ARM, or PowerPC. These architectures determine how instructions are processed and the compatibility of software with the CPU.

Random Access Memory

  • RAM is like your computer’s short-term memory. It’s a type of storage that your computer uses to hold data and instructions that it needs to access quickly. Think of it as a temporary workspace where your computer can juggle multiple tasks at once.
  • When you open a program or a file, it gets loaded into RAM so that the CPU can easily access and work with it. The more RAM your computer has, the more programs and files it can handle simultaneously without slowing down.
  • RAM is different from the long-term storage on your hard drive or solid-state drive (SSD). Unlike those storage options, RAM is volatile, which means it loses its data when you turn off your computer. That’s why you need to save your work to your hard drive or SSD to keep it for the long term
  • RAM is made up of tiny electronic components called memory cells. Each cell can store a bit of information, which is either a 0 or a 1. These bits are organized into groups called bytes, and each byte has a unique address that the computer uses to locate and access the data stored in that byte.
  • The speed of RAM is measured in megahertz (MHz) or gigahertz (GHz), just like the CPU. Higher MHz or GHz means faster data transfer between the RAM and the CPU, resulting in snappier performance.
  • When you have too many programs or files open and your computer starts to slow down, it’s often because the RAM is getting overwhelmed. This is where “running out of memory” comes into play. If your computer doesn’t have enough RAM to handle all the tasks you’re throwing at it, it may start using a portion of your hard drive or SSD as virtual memory, which is much slower than RAM and can cause performance issues.
  • Upgrading your RAM can be a great way to improve your computer’s performance, especially if you frequently multitask or use memory-intensive applications like video editing software or games. Just make sure to check your computer’s specifications to see how much RAM it can support and what type of RAM is compatible.
  • To sum it up, RAM is like your computer’s short-term memory, allowing the CPU to quickly access data and instructions. It’s different from long-term storage and is volatile, meaning it loses data when the computer is turned off. More RAM means better multitasking and smoother performance. Upgrading RAM can be beneficial for heavy computer users.

Advantage and disadvantage of RAM

Advantages of RAM:

  1. Speed: RAM is much faster than other types of storage, such as hard drives or solid-state drives (SSDs). It allows for quick data access and retrieval, which leads to faster overall system performance. When your computer needs to access data or instructions, it can do so rapidly from the RAM, resulting in snappy response times.
  2. Multitasking: RAM enables your computer to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. It allows you to open and run multiple programs or applications at once without significant slowdowns. With more RAM, you can smoothly switch between different tasks, such as browsing the web, editing documents, and streaming media, without experiencing lag or performance issues.
  3. Improved Performance: Having an adequate amount of RAM can significantly enhance your computer’s performance. It reduces the need for your system to rely on virtual memory (using a portion of your hard drive or SSD as temporary memory), which is slower and can lead to decreased performance. By having sufficient RAM, your computer can store and access more data and instructions directly, resulting in a smoother and more efficient computing experience.
  4. Gaming and Multimedia: RAM plays a crucial role in gaming and multimedia applications. These types of software often require a substantial amount of memory to store and process large amounts of data, such as high-resolution textures, complex 3D models, or large audio and video files. With ample RAM, your computer can handle these demanding tasks effortlessly, providing a seamless gaming experience and smooth multimedia playback.

Disadvantages of RAM:

  1. Volatility: RAM is a volatile form of memory, meaning it loses all data stored in it when the computer is powered off or restarted. Unlike non-volatile storage like hard drives or SSDs, which retain data even when the power is turned off, RAM is temporary. This means you need to save your work to a more permanent storage device regularly to avoid losing any important data.
  2. Limited Capacity: While RAM is crucial for optimal performance, it has a limited capacity compared to long-term storage options like hard drives or SSDs. The amount of RAM your computer can support is determined by its hardware specifications. If you have too many programs or files open simultaneously and exceed your RAM’s capacity, your computer may slow down or become unresponsive. In such cases, you may need to close some applications or consider upgrading your RAM.

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By Atul Kakran

My name is Atul Kumar. I am currently in the second year of BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications). I have experience and knowledge in various computer applications such as WordPress, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, CorelDRAW, Photoshop, and creating GIFs.

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