INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Module Goals ______________________________________________________ 1
SECTION 1– COMPUTER PROCESSING PRINCIPLES
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 3
The Parts of a Computer______________________________________________ 4
Binary Systems_____________________________________________________ 4
Logic Gates________________________________________________________ 7
Bits, Bytes and Logic Gates in the SCADA System ________________________ 9
Review 1__________________________________________________________ 10
SECTION 2 – THE SYSTEM UNIT
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 13
Parts of a System Unit _______________________________________________ 14
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) _____________________________________ 15
How the CPU Works ________________________________________________ 15
Data Buses ________________________________________________________ 17
Ports _____________________________________________________________ 17
Power Supply ______________________________________________________ 18
Expansion Slots ____________________________________________________ 18
Review 2__________________________________________________________ 19
SECTION 3 – STORAGE DEVICES
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 21
Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read Only Memory (ROM) ____________ 22
Magnetic Storage ___________________________________________________ 23
Optical Storage _____________________________________________________ 24
Review 3__________________________________________________________ 26
SECTION 4 – INPUT DEVICES
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 27
Input Devices ______________________________________________________ 28
Review 4__________________________________________________________ 30
SECTION 5 – OUTPUT DEVICES
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 31
Output Devices _____________________________________________________ 32
Review 5__________________________________________________________ 34
SECTION 6 – OPERATING SYSTEMS & APPLICATION SOFTWARE
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 35
Operating Systems __________________________________________________ 36
What an Operating System Does _______________________________________ 37
Application Software ________________________________________________ 37
Development & Operating Environments ________________________________ 38
Custom Applications ________________________________________________ 38
Review 6__________________________________________________________ 39
SECTION 7 – NETWORKS
Introduction _______________________________________________________ 41
What is a Network ________________________________________________ 42
Protocols ________________________________________________________ 44
Communications Media ______________________________________________ 45
Review 7__________________________________________________________ 48
SUMMARY __________________________________________________________ 47
GLOSSARY _________________________________________________________ 50
ANSWERS __________________________________________________________ 53
PLEASE NOTE
Operations personnel use technology to accomplish specific goals. A key
objective of the Pipeline Operations Training Program is to promote an
understanding of the technology that pipeline operations personnel use on
the job every day. This training program enhances job-related skills by
providing relevant and current information with immediate application for
pipeline employees.

Information contained in the modules is theoretical. A foundation of basic

information facilitates an understanding of technology and its applications
in the context of a pipeline system. Every effort has been made to reflect
pure scientific principles in the training program. Nevertheless, in some
cases, pure theory conflicts with the practical realities of daily opera-
tions. Usefulness to the pipeline employee is our most important
priority during the development of the materials in the Pipeline
Operations Training Program.

INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS
Pipeline Control Systems

© 2000 ENBRIDGE TECHNOLOGY INC.

Reproduction Prohibited

ENBRIDGE TECHNOLOGY INC.

Suite 601, PO Box 398
10201 Jasper Avenue
Edmonton, Alberta
Canada T5J 2J9

Telephone +1 - 780-412-6469
Fax +1 - 780-412-6460

Reference: 4.1 Intro. to Computers – JAN 2004

STUDY SKILLS
The following study skill tips are suggested to make the learning of
your modules more effective.

1. Try to keep each study period short but concentrated (from ten
minutes to forty-five minutes). If you have set up your study time
so that you study five days a week for a total of two hours each
day, break your study time into sets with two to five minutes
between each session. Remember that generally one week of self-
study replaces 10 hours of in-class attendance. For example, if you
have a three week self-study block, then you have to account for
30 hours of study time if you want to keep pace with most learning
programs.

2. When you are studying, look for connections between chapters and
tasks. The more connections you can make, the better you will be
able to recall information.

3. There are self-tests at the end of each module section. Habitually

completing these tests will increase your ability to recall informa-
tion.

4. When reading a section or module, briefly look it over before you

begin detailed reading. Read the introduction, conclusion, and the
questions at the end of each section. Next, as a separate task, study
all the headings, charts, visuals, and captions. After this excellent
preview technique you will be familiar with the skeleton of your
reading assignment. The preview reading is then followed by
detailed reading. Your detailed reading reinforces what you’ve
already studied and also fleshes out the subject. While you are
doing your detailed reading, stop after each sub-section and ask
yourself, “What have I just read?”

5. Another useful study technique is to write out your own questions

based on your study notes and/or the module’s titles and subtitles.
6. When you are in a classroom taking notes, please consider this
technique. If you use a standard spiral notebook, write only on the
right-hand page. Reserve the left-hand page for your personal
observations, ideas, or areas you want to clarify. Importantly,
record questions your instructor asks – chances are you’ll see them
on a final test.

7. Review. Review. Review. Taking opportunities to review material

will dramatically increase your recall.

8. Using index cards helps you to quickly pinpoint areas you need to
review or concentrate on before an exam. Start by consciously
keeping index cards after each reading session. When you come
across a new word write it on one side of the index card. On the
reverse side, write the definition. It works for every module. For
example, chemistry symbol/what it stands for; terminal
station/definition; and acronym/what it means. Once you’ve
compiled your index cards and you are preparing for a test, shuffle
your index cards with the term word face up. Go through each card
to see if you know what is on the reverse side. Why spend unneces-
sary time on meanings or concepts you know? The cards you don’t
know, identify areas that you need to review.

9. Additionally, these modules have incorporated specific learning

tools to assist comprehension and subject review. Terms are bold-
faced and added to the glossary. To cross-reference term meanings,
page numbers are attached to glossary definitions to identify where
the term and explanation first appear in the text. Glossary defini-
tions that do not have attached page numbers are still important to
understanding, but are fully explained in another module.
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

INTRODUCTION

Computers – we often expect them to magically solve problems or to

make our decisions for us. Computers, however, are only tools. They
can only do what somebody tells them to do. A person is still required
to give the computer direction.
Control Center operators use computers daily. The computers make it
possible to monitor the condition of the pipeline. By using computers,
operators can turn pump units on or off, open or close valves in the
correct sequence, and perform many other operational functions.
Sending commands to the computers allows operators to perform all
their daily tasks. Pipeline Control Systems depend on computers to
control the many tasks that were once done manually. As well, the
computers provide instant access to information about pump station
conditions and liquid flow in the pipeline.

This module is divided into seven sections. Starting with a section

detailing the basics of computer processing principles, the other sections
then examine the components of a computer, along with how these
components are controlled by a set of instructions. The final section tells
you how computers can communicate with each other through networks.

This module presents information on the following goals.

• It presents the basics of computer processing principles. MODULE GOALS
• It shows the common components of a computer.
• It describes how the computer components themselves are controlled.
• It describes how computer networks allow communication.

None PREREQUISITES

1
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 1

COMPUTER PROCESSING PRINCIPLES

This section covers the basic parts and principles of a computer - from
the hardware and software to the bits, bytes, and logic gates that are the INTRODUCTION
heart of the modern computer system. It introduces the binary number
(Boolean) system, which forms the basis for computer operations. Even
though the computers in the Control Center do not show the bits, bytes,
and logic gates – what you see is the result of their combined operation
at all levels in the SCADA system.

After this section, you will be able to complete the following.

• Define hardware and software. OBJECTIVES
• Recognize how binary code is used in a computer.
• Recognize how logic gates are used in a computer.
• Identify some examples of when bits, bytes and logic gates can be
seen in the SCADA system.

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 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Computers are often thought of in terms of their physical components,

THE PARTS OF A such as the system unit, screen or monitor, mouse, keyboard, and printer.
However, a computer really consists of two parts, hardware and
COMPUTER software. Hardware is all of the physical components of the computer.
This includes the screen, keyboard, the Central Processing Unit (CPU),
input and output devices, and storage devices. Software is the instruc-
tions, or programs that tell the computer how to operate.

Hardware and software operate together to perform all of the functions

of the computer. Software and hardware work together using binary
number systems.

In your Control Center, your workstations may look slightly different

than the one in Figure 1 – but they have the same basic components.

Printer

Monitor

System Unit Modem

(CPU)

Keyboard Mouse

Power Source Telephone Line

Figure 1
The Different Parts of a Computer

In a binary system, there are two ways to represent information. A

statement that can be either TRUE or FALSE is a type of binary system.
BINARY SYSTEMS Conditions that are either ON or OFF are also binary systems. A
numbering system in binary has 2 parts, 0 or 1. ON, TRUE and 1 are
equivalent in a binary system. OFF, FALSE and 0 are also equivalent in a
binary system.

4
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Computers use an electronic version of the binary system called a binary

switch. In a binary switch: BINARY SWITCHES
• the current is flowing through a transistor (1)
• the current is not flowing through a transistor (0).

By checking to see if the current is flowing through a transistor, the

microprocessor can tell if the transistor is ON or OFF. The binary switch
is the basic component of a computer. The switch is always in one of two
possible positions. The switch is either ON or OFF. There is no middle or
in between stage. By using thousands of binary switches, computers can
store and manipulate large amounts of data using binary code.

ON
1
OFF
0
Figure 2
A Binary Switch

The numbering system everyone is most familiar with is called the base
10 system. There are 10 digits used for each place - 0 through 9. In BINARY CODE
Figure 3, the structure of a 4-digit number in base 10 is shown.
thousands hundreds tens ones
place place place place

1 0 0 0
103 102 101 100
Figure 3
Base 10 Number System showing 1000.

5
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

To use a familiar example, writing the number thirteen in base 10 is as

simple as this: 13. There is a 1 in the ten’s place and a 3 in the one’s place.
10
They are added together like this. + 3
13
The binary system uses a base 2 number system instead of the more
familiar base 10 system. In binary there are only 2 digits, 0 and 1. In
Figure 4, the structure of a 4-digit number in base 2 is shown.

eights fours twos ones

1 0 0 0
23 22 21 20
Figure 4
Base 2 Number System showing the Number Eight

In base 2 the number thirteen would be represented by 1101. There is

a 1 in the eight’s place, a 1 in the four’s place, a 0 in the twos place, and
a 1 in the ones place. They are added together:
1000 (this is equal to 8 in the base 2 system)
+100 (this is equal to 4 in the base 2 system)
+1 (this is equal to 1 in the base 2 system)
1101 (this is equal to 13 in the base 2 system)

Each 0 or 1 is called a bit, and is the smallest piece of data used by a

computer. So, the number 13 needs 4 bits to represent it.

Because the base 2 system needs many digits or place holders, they are
grouped by 8 bits and this is called a byte. The number 13 would
be 00001101 in byte format.
ON ON ON ON ON ON ON ON

OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF OFF

0 0 0 0 1 1 0 1
Figure 5
Binary Code for the Number 13

6
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Binary code can be used to represent letters as well as numbers.

Standards have been put in place to make sure that each computer uses
the same format to represent characters in binary code. One of the most
common standards is called the American Standard Code for
Information Interchange (ASCII). Each number, letter, symbol, and
punctuation mark is represented by a different byte.

To represent more than one character, we simply arrange a group of

bytes in a series. To represent the word “oil”, for example,

take the byte that represents "o" 01101111

and combine it with the byte for "i" 01101001
and combine them with the byte for "l" 01101100

to give a 3 byte series for 01101111 01101001 01101100

the word "oil"

In order to talk about large amounts of information, bytes are grouped

into even larger sets:
8 bits = 1 byte
1024 bytes = 1 kilobyte (K)
1024 kilobytes = 1 megabyte (M)
1024 megabytes = 1 gigabyte (G)
1024 gigabytes = 1 terrabyte (T)

Not only can bits be grouped together to represent data such as letters
and numbers, they can also be used to perform calculations and other LOGIC GATES
operations in binary code using logic gates. The term logic gate refers to
a circuit that accepts one or more inputs and always produces a single
predictable output. Computers use a binary code to represent data, but
how can the computer process this data and make meaningful decisions
about the data? The answer lies in logic gates.

Logic gates are special kinds of switches that operate using Boolean
algebra. Whether or not the logic gate is set to a 1 or a 0 depends on the
information that is sent to it and the type of gate being used. There are
three basic types of logic gates, AND, OR and NOT.

For example, an AND gate looks at the incoming signals and says to
itself “if signal A is 1 AND signal B is 1, then I will switch myself to 1.
However, if signal A is 0 or signal B is 0 or both signals are 0, then I
will switch myself to 0.”

7
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Logic gates are special switches that only allow current to pass through
them if certain conditions are met. The AND gate, for example, only
allows current to pass through if both input lines A AND B have current
flowing to the gate. If Line A has no current, or Line B has no current, or
neither lines have current, then no current will pass through the gate.
Recall that current flow represents a 1 and no current flow represents a 0.
The AND gate, then, will only give a 1 if inputs A AND B are 1s.
0
0
AND 0

1
0
AND
AND 0

0
1 AND
AND 0

1
1 AND
AND 1

Figure 6
AND Logic Gates

0
0
OR
OR 0

1
0 OR
OR 1

0
1 OR 1

1
1
OR 1

Figure 7
OR Logic Gates

The OR gate allows current to pass through it if either Line A OR Line B

has current flow. If neither line has current flow then no current will flow
through the OR gate.

0 NOT 1

1 0
NOT

Figure 8
NOT Logic Gate

8
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

The NOT gate outputs an opposite state of current flow to what it

receives. For example, if the input line has current flow, the NOT gate
outputs no current flow. If the input line has no current flow, the NOT
gate will output current flow. Thus, NOT gate changes a 0 into a 1, and a
1 into a 0.

Using the combination of logic gates, the microprocessor can make very
simple decisions, such as whether a number is larger or smaller than
another number. When thousands of logic gates are combined, the
microprocessor can make very complex decisions.

All operations in a computer are based on the binary number representa-

tion and logic gates.

Bits, bytes or logic gates cannot be seen at the Control Center. They
operate at a level of detail transparent to the operator. There are many BITS, BYTES &
levels between the operator and this level. However, everything that is
done, any command that is sent or information received, is done at the LOGIC GATES IN
bit level. THE SCADA
There are some cases in which an operator may actually notice the
SYSTEM
effects of particular bits and they may even be referred to. For example,
contact sense bits are bits at the station computer level that are
triggered by an on/off condition at the station, such as “high holding
pressure.”

The effect of a logic gate can also be seen. For example, if the suction
pressure OR discharge pressure does not match the set point, it will
cause the pressure control valve to open or close.

There are also "smart" devices that use the binary system.
A fire detector is one example. If a fire is detected, a switch goes ON
and the extinguishing system is automatically started.

9
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

1. The term hardware refers to ________ .

REVIEW 1 a) a binary code
b) data
c) computer programming
d) the physical components of a computer

2. The property of having two components or possible states

is called ________ .
a) coupling
b) binary
c) duality
d) pairs

3. A bit is ________ .
a) the smallest piece of data used by a computer
b) a short form of the term binary digit
c) represented by a single 1 or a single 0
d) all of the above

4. The term byte is defined as ________ .

a) a group of 8 bits
b) binary code for any three letter word
c) any single character
d) the smallest piece of data used by the computer

10
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

5. What is the output for each of the following logic gates?

a) 0 1
b) 01
AND
AND
?
6.
a) 0
b) 1 OR ?
7.
a) 0
b) 1 NOT ?

8. A circuit that accepts one or more input(s) and always produces a

single, predictable output is called ________ .
a) an integrated circuit
b) a logic gate
c) a program
d) a closed circuit

Answers are at the end of this module.

11
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 2

THE SYSTEM UNIT

In the previous section, the hardware portion of the computer was

described as consisting of the Central Processing Unit or CPU, the data INTRODUCTION
storage devices, input devices, and output devices.

In this section, the system unit and its components are presented. It is
called the system unit because it is the housing for the major compo-
nents of the computer.

The heart of any computer is the Central Processing Unit or CPU. The
CPU is located on the motherboard. Other components presented in this
section include the power supply, data buses, and external device ports.
The next sections will discuss the other hardware components such as
data storage, input, and output devices.

Before discussing the components that make up a computer system, it is

important to understand how a computer “thinks.” All modern
computers use a system of logic called the Boolean, or binary, system.
This section describes the basics of how this works.

After this section, you will be able to complete the following.

• Identify the parts of a system unit. OBJECTIVES
• Identify the parts of a CPU and how they work.
• Identify the purpose of data buses, ports, power supply, and expansion
slots.

13
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

The system unit is the part of the computer that receives, manipulates, and
PARTS OF A outputs data to and from the input and output devices. Inside the system
unit is a collection of hardware that is the workhorse of a computer.
SYSTEM UNIT
Part Description
CPU the Central Processing Unit is the “thinking" part of the
computer. In most computers today, the CPU is contained on
one chip. This is called a microprocessor.
Storage the place where the information is kept - either temporarily or permanently
(the RAM, ROM, and disk storage are discussed in the next section).
Data buses the path the information uses to move between the different parts.
Ports connections between the computer and other input or output devices.
Power supply and converter for the computer.
Expansion slots are additional places where you can add options to the computer, such as
more ports, storage, fax modems, and other additional hardware.

Inside the system unit is a board that is called the system board or the
motherboard. The motherboard is an integrated circuit.

ROM
Power CPU
Expansion
Supply
Slots

Hard Drive

RAM

Bus

3 1/2
Floppy Drive

Figure 9
The Inside of a Typical Personal Computer

14
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

The Central Processing Unit is the thinking part of the computer. The
Central Processing Unit (CPU) is a collection of transistors (ON and THE CENTRAL
OFF switches), resistors (to control electricity), and capacitors (to store PROCESSING UNIT
electricity) that are set in a silicon chip.
(CPU)
The CPU may be divided into several parts. Not all CPUs have this
exact configuration, but they will have most of them.
Part of the CPU Description
Clock acts as a metronome to keep everything the CPU does
synchronized.
Bus Interface Unit receives data and passes it to the CPU.
Cache is an optional holding place - if there is a cache, the CPU will
use this to temporarily store information instead of the main
RAM. This is a private, very high speed RAM.
Decode Unit prepares the instructions for the execution unit.
Math Co-processor is included in the latest versions of the CPU and it does
all of the instructions dealing specifically with floating
point numbers (numbers that include a fractional part).
Execution Unit actually performs the instructions.

Here is how the CPU works. When the operator gives the computer a
command, the instruction travels to the CPU through the data bus. The HOW THE
bus interface unit regulates the flow of data to and from the CPU. CPU WORKS
The instruction is fetched by the decode unit, which prepares the
instructions for the execution unit. If there is any floating point math in
the instruction - it is sent to the math co-processor. The rest of the
instruction is sent to the execution unit.

15
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

The execution unit carries out the instruction. To speed things up, some
computers have a cache in the CPU.
The results of the command travel through the bus interface unit to the
monitor.

B
he
U
BI

I
Ca

U
e
cod
De
kc
Clo

it n
Un utio
ec
th

Ex
Ma
B

U
I

BI
U

Figure 10
Parts of a CPU

Fetch

Decode

Execute

Figure 11
The Microprocessor Machine Cycle

This cycle of handling instructions - fetch, decode, execute - is called a

machine cycle. The instructions a CPU handles are very simple. They
only tell the CPU to place a certain value in memory, or to perform a
single simple mathematical or logical step. However, a CPU executes
millions of these instructions every second, so it can perform even
complex operations very quickly. One measure of a CPU's speed is
measured in millions of cycles per second, or megahertz (mHz).

16
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Data travels on the motherboard through a data bus. A bus is an electronic

conduit on a circuit board. For example, data travels on a bus to get from DATA BUSES
the microprocessor to RAM and back again. Think of a bus as an elec-
tronic data highway for the bits to travel on - a highway that is several
lanes wide. If a computer has a 32-bit bus, 32 bits (4 bytes) of data can
move on the bus at the same time. Generally, the wider the bus, the faster
data can move, and the faster the computer operates as a system.

0
1
1
1
0
1 Byte
0
1
0
1
1
0
1
1
1 Byte
Figure 12
0
1
1
1
1
0
1 Byte
Data Moving on a
1
1
0
1
1

32 -Bit Bus
1
1
0
1
1
1 Byte
0
1
1

A port is a connector on the system unit used to attach an external

device such as the keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer, or network. There PORTS
are many kinds of ports. Several of these are:
Type of Port Description
Serial Ports move data in single file, one bit after another.
Parallel Ports move data several bits at a time.
SCSI SCSI (pronounced “scuzzee”) is an acronym that stands for
Small Computer Systems Interface. The SCSI is a special
parallel port that moves data much faster than ordinary parallel ports.
SCSI ports also allow several external devices to be chained together
in a series, so several devices only use one port.

Many devices are able to connect to the system unit through more than
one type of port. Some printers, for example, connect to the serial port,
while others connect to the parallel port. A typical computer has at least
one serial port and at least one parallel port.
Power Supply Vent Power Sockets Game Port Monitor Port
IN
OUT

Figure 13
MIC

Types of Ports

Keyboard Port Parallel Port

Serial Ports

17
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

The term power supply refers to a transformer inside the system unit that
POWER SUPPLY transforms supply voltage into voltages which are normally smaller, and
can be used by the computer. The microprocessor and integrated circuit
boards can only handle very small amounts of electrical voltage. Voltage
not regulated by the proper transformer will destroy the board.

Vents
Connection to
System Components

ON/OFF
Switch

Figure 14
A Typical Power Supply

Expansion slots are slots on the motherboard that allow specialized

EXPANSION SLOTS integrated circuit boards to be added to the motherboard. For example,
you can add a board containing extra RAM to the motherboard, or a
network card that allows you to connect with other computers. These
newly attached boards then operate as though they were just another part
of the motherboard.

18
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

1. The system unit ________ .

a) has a retrieve, decode, and execute unit REVIEW 2
b) is the part of a computer that receives, manipulates, and outputs
data
c) handles the way computers communicate with each other
d) is an electronic circuit on a circuit board along which data
travels

2. Which of the following is NOT part of a CPU?

a) clock
b) cache
c) disk drive
d) math co-processor

3. The motherboard is an integrated circuit board whose purpose

is to ________ .
a) write data onto a magnetic medium
b) control the flow of data between the microprocessor and other
parts of the computer
c) transform supply voltage into voltages which are normally
smaller than the supply voltage
d) connect the parts of the system unit

4. An expansion slot is a slot that allows________ .

a) data to be printed directly from the CPU
b) additional output devices to be connected to the computer
c) specialized integrated circuits to be added to the motherboard
d) several computers to be connected together

Answers are at the end of this module.

19
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 3

STORAGE DEVICES

This section discusses the different types of memory used by computers.

The difference between Random Access Memory (RAM) and Read INTRODUCTION
Only Memory (ROM) will be presented. Also the common forms of
Magnetic Storage and Optical Storage will be described. Finally, this
section also describes the differences between storage systems (hard
disk, floppy disk, and tape drives).

After this section, you will be able to complete the following objectives.
• Identify the difference between Random Access Memory (RAM) and OBJECTIVES
Read Only Memory (ROM).
• Identify the difference between magnetic storage and optical storage.
• Recognize the difference between hard, floppy, and tape drives.

21
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Random Access Memory (RAM) refers to silicon chips inside the system
RANDOM ACCESS unit that are used for temporary storage space. The microprocessor can
only handle small amounts of data at a time. When a microprocessor has a
MEMORY (RAM) & large amount of data to process, it stores the data in RAM and takes a little
READ ONLY out at a time, processes it, and then gets a little more. RAM is volatile - if
MEMORY (ROM) the computer is turned off, the information stored in RAM is lost.

Read Only Memory (ROM) is permanent information stored on silicon

chips inside the system unit. The microprocessor can read the information
but cannot write more or change it in any way. ROM is not volatile, and
the data stored in ROM cannot be changed. Permanent instructions, such
as what to do when the computer is first turned on, are stored in ROM.

ROM
CPU

RAM

Figure 15
RAM and ROM on the Motherboard

22
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Large amounts of data cannot be stored in RAM or ROM. Instead, it is

either kept on non-volatile magnetic or optical media that are designed MAGNETIC
to handle large amounts of data. For example, an operator can keep a
record of all the commands that have been sent from the Control Center STORAGE
and all of the information received about the status of the pipeline.

Magnetic storage devices take binary information from the CPU and
transfer it onto a magnetic medium. The magnetic medium can be a
tape, or a thin metal or plastic disk coated with a special magnetic film.
Read/ write heads transfer data from the CPU to the media. The heads
transform the data into electrical signals that alter the direction of the
magnetic surface on the disk - one direction for a 0, another for a 1.
When the CPU requires data from the magnetic medium, the read/write
heads convert the magnetic alignment on the medium into electronic
signals and sends them back to the CPU.
There are many types of magnetic storage devices; three common
examples of which are:
• floppy disks
• hard disks, and
• tapes.

Magnetic
Read/Write
Head

Figure 16
Binary Data on Magnetic Medium

23
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Optical storage media (CDs, CD-RWs and now DVDs) allow for storage
OPTICAL STORAGE of binary information generated by, or to be read by, a computer system.
A typical CD consists of a plastic disc on which a reflective spiral track
(extending from the disc’s center to its outside) is used to store binary
information. Mass-produced optical storage media (such as music CDs)
encode binary information in permanently embedded sequenced of
bumps and flat spots along the spiral track.

An optical drive is used to read information from optical storage media.

A laser within the optical drive is precisely focused on the reflective
spiral track. The given bumps and flatspots of the spiral track reflect the
laser back towards an optical pickup. The intensity of the reflected laser
will vary depending on whether it has been reflected from a bump or a
flat spot. The optical pickup and associated optical drive circuitry
convert the changing reflected laser intensities into corresponding elec-
tronic signals which can be used by the computer system.

Floppy drives read and write information to and from floppy disks. The
FLOPPY DRIVES disks are called floppy because they are made out of a flexible plastic
coated with magnetic material. They are also called "diskettes". Floppy
disks are removable. A floppy disk can be inserted into a floppy disk
drive to give the CPU a certain piece of data, then ejected, and a new
disk inserted. The information contained on the floppy disk is portable
from one computer to another.

Figure 17
Floppy Drive and Diskette

24
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Hard drives work much like floppy drives. However, hard drives have
several disks mounted together on a spindle, each with a separate HARD DRIVES
read/write head and can therefore store more information. Hard drives
have disks that are made out of a stronger material than floppy disks and
always remain in a fixed position. One of the other major differences
between floppy and hard drives is that the read/write heads touch the
surface of the disk in floppies, but not on hard disks. This allows for the
higher rotation speeds (some as much as 7200 rpm and upwards) and
much faster movement of the heads between tracks.
Hub

Read/Write
Heads

Platters

Figure 18
Hard Drive

Tape drives work the same way as tape recorders except that the
read/write heads only generate two magnetic fields that form only two
TAPE DRIVES
magnetic patterns on the tape. The two magnetic patterns represent the
1’s and 0’s of the binary code that the computer is storing. Tape is a very
slow method of data storage. Today, it is only widely used for backup.

25
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

1. The permanent instructions for a computer are stored in ________ .

REVIEW 3 a) RAM
b) ROM
c) the hard drive
d) floppy disk

2. The main difference between magnetic storage and optical storage

is ________ .
a) method used to read binary information
b) the speed
c) the physical size
d) the compatibility

3. Floppy disks, tapes, and hard drives are all ________ .

a) fast methods of storage
b) optical storage
c) magnetic storage
d) reliable methods of storage

Answers are at the end of this module.

26
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 4

INPUT DEVICES

This section explains the different ways that you can enter information
into a computer. The most common input device, the keyboard, is based INTRODUCTION
on the standard typewriter keyboard (often called the ‘qwerty’ keyboard)
devised at the turn of the century.

Another common input device is the mouse, named so because of the

appearance of early forms of the device.

Other input devices such as touch screens and scanners conclude this
section.

After this section, you will be able to complete the following.

• Identify the purpose of an input device.
OBJECTIVES
• Identify the most common types of input devices.

27
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

The system unit is the workhorse of the computer, but there needs to be
INPUT DEVICES some way to tell it what to do. This is done through a variety of different
types of input devices. An input device is any type of device that is used
to enter data or instructions in the computer. For example, operator can
select the command to start a pump. Input devices take the information
and send it to the CPU.

Some common examples of input devices are:

• keyboard
• mouse
• trackball, and
• touch screen.

A keyboard is a type of input device that uses a set of keys and that
KEYBOARD looks like a regular typewriter. A microprocessor built into the keyboard
constantly scans the keyboard to see if any keys are pressed. When a
key is pressed, the microprocessor in the keyboard sends the information
to the system unit telling it what key was pressed.

At the Control Center, the keyboard is not used extensively. The input
device used most frequently in the Control Center is the mouse. The
newest installations of station control systems also use a mouse as the
primary input device.
Function Keys Status Lights

` 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 0 - = = / *

Q W E R T Y U I O P [ ] 7 8 9 -

A S D F G H J K L ; ' 4 5 6 +

Z X C V B N M , . / 1 2 3

0 .
enter

Alphanumeric Keys
Arrow Keys Numeric
Keypad

Figure 19
Standard Keyboard

28
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

A mouse is an input device consisting of a ball and at least one button.

Moving the mouse moves the pointer (sprite) around on the monitor. By MOUSE & TRACKBALL
moving the mouse so that the pointer is on a command and then clicking
the mouse button, you can tell the computer to perform that command.
When the mouse is moved across a flat surface, a ball at the bottom of
the mouse rolls, causing guided wheels inside the mouse to move. The
mouse sends a message to the CPU which gives the speed and direction
to the rolling ball. The CPU then moves the pointer on the monitor to
correspond with the movement of the mouse. When the button on the
mouse is pressed, a message is sent to the CPU telling it that the button
has been pressed. The CPU checks to see where the pointer is on the
screen. If the pointer is on a button or other special area of the screen,
the CPU acts accordingly.

Figure 20
Mouse and Trackball

A trackball resembles a mouse turned upside down. Instead of moving

the entire device, to roll the ball, the device remains stationary and only TOUCH SCREENS
the ball is moved.

Another type of input device is a touch screen. One example of how a

touch screen can work, uses a special type of display device to accept
direct input. A pen or even a finger can be used to enter the information
into the computer.

29
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

1. Input devices are ________ .

REVIEW 4 a) ways to move information in the system unit
b) a type of storage device
c) a method to increase the speed of the computer
d) used to enter data or instructions into the computer

2. The most common input device used by operators in the control

room is a ________ .
a) keyboard
b) mouse
c) touch screen
d) printer

Answers are at the end of this module.

30
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 5

OUTPUT DEVICES

This section describes the most common types of output devices an

operator can use to access information on a computer. INTRODUCTION
The most common form of display is the computer monitor (CRT). The
Pipeline Control System relies on multiple full color CRTs that display
line information to the operator.

A hard copy of the information from a computer is obtained through a

printer. Different printers are described in this section.

After this section, you will be able to complete the following objectives.
• Identify the purpose of output devices. OBJECTIVES
• Identify the most common types of output devices.

31
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Just as there is a way to get information into the system unit, there has to
OUTPUT DEVICES be a way to get information out. An output device is any type of device
that is used to display information from the computer. For example, at
the Control Center, the workstation displays the status of the various
parts of the pipeline. Output devices take the binary code sent by the
CPU and turn the binary code into a medium such as text or graphics
that can be understood by the operator.

Some common examples of output devices are:

• monitors
• printers, and
• plotters.

The most used output device is the monitor. It may be called several
MONITORS things - monitor, display, screen or CRT. They work much the same way
as televisions. Monitors use a cathode ray tube. A Cathode Ray Tube
(CRT) is a large vacuum tube that forms a wide screen on one end and
has a small socket on the other end.

The screen’s surface is coated with phosphorous material that emits light
when electrons collide with it. An electron gun located at the socket end
shoots electrons onto the screen. The CRT is surrounded by coils of
magnetic wire that can alter the direction of the electrons so the
electrons can strike the screen in very precise patterns. Each point where
an electron strikes the phosphorous coating is called a pixel. These
patterns of glowing pixels form text and graphics.

At the Control Center, your workstation will have one or more monitors.
You can view information about the pipeline status from all of these
monitors.
Cathodes

Pixel

Figure 21
Monitor

32
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Printers are devices that convert the electronic information to print.

Some common types of printers are: PRINTERS
• dot matrix
• laser, and
• ink jet.
Dot matrix printers form low to medium quality text and images by
pressing tiny pins against a ribbon to form a series of dots on the paper.
The dots are arranged into letters or graphics. Dot matrix printers print
lower quality text and graphics than inkjet and laser printers, but are less
expensive to purchase and operate. Dot matrix printers are also used to
print carbon copies because the pins striking the ribbon are hard enough
to make text appear on carbon copies.

Laser printers use a laser beam to draw an image of the desired page onto
a photosensitive drum. The image on the drum is then converted into an
electrostatic charge that attracts tiny particles of toner. The electrostati-
cally charged paper is rolled over the drum, causing the toner to be
transferred onto the paper. The toner is fused permanently onto the paper
using heat, giving sharp, detailed text and graphics. It also results in a dot
system, but the dots are so close together they appear indistinguishable.

Figure 22
Dot Matrix
A Laser Ink Jet

Dot Matrix, Laser, and Ink Jet Printers’ Results.

An ink jet printer uses a special printing head to shoot a tiny stream of
ink onto the paper. Ink jet printers are as precise as laser printers, but the
ink is not fused to the paper and will run if the paper gets wet. Ink jet
printers are also much slower than laser printers.

Printers are used at the Control Center and at the station. They are used to
print a log of the alarms in both locations. At the Control Center printers
can also be used to print real time and historical pipeline information.

Plotters actually draw on the paper using precise pens held in a

PLOTTERS
cartridge. Plotters produce very high quality lines. They cannot produce
good quality filled images, such as pictures. As a result, plotters are
used primarily for producing blueprints and other line drawings.

33
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

1. Output devices are a type of ________ .

REVIEW 5 a) storage device
b) used to display information from the computer
c) data communications
d) keyboard

2. The most common type of output device used by the operators in

the control room is a ________ .
a) keyboard
b) monitor
c) printer
d) plotter

Answers are at the end of this module.

34
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 6

OPERATING SYSTEMS & TYPES OF

APPLICATION SOFTWARE

As mentioned earlier – software is a set of instructions that tell the

CPU how to accept and process data. Up until now only the physical INTRODUCTION
components of computers have been discussed. However, these physical
components cannot do anything useful until they are provided with
instructions. This section discusses the two main types of software:
operating systems and applications.

After this section, you will be able to complete the following.

• Idnetify the purpose of operting systems. OBJECTIVES
• Identify some common types of application software.
• Identify the purpose of environments.
• Identify the purpose of custom application.

35
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

An operating system is the set of instructions that runs the computer – it

OPERATING manages the computer resources and the overall operations. It acts as
an interpreter between the computer hardware and the application
SYSTEMS software. Because the operating system and the hardware are so closely
linked - they are developed together and are dependent on one another.
For example, an IBM compatible machine uses MS-DOS or Windows
NT as its operating system. The Macintosh computer has its own
operating system, as do many other computer systems.
Hardware

Application
Software
Operating RF A 300

System

Operator

Figure 23
The Operating System as an Interpreter

The operating system makes sure the data is sent to the right places at
the right times, and allows the application software to function without
having to worry about controlling the hardware.
There are several types of operating systems – and there may also be
different versions of these. A few types of operating systems include:
Type Description
UNIX multi-tasking (multiple programs can be run simultaneously) and multi-user
operating system. It can be used on personal computers,minicomputers,and main
frames. This is the operating system used by the Control Center workstations.
MS-DOS/Windows is the most common operating system used on IBM compatible computers. There
are several versions that have been developed by different companies.
Macintosh System is an operating system used on most Macintosh computers.

36
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

An operating system does several things.

• It is the first program that is run when the computer is started. WHAT AN
• It manages the memory – the starting or opening of files and programs. OPERATING
• It manages the computer’s resources – directing things to the right SYSTEM DOES
place at the right time.
• It manages the files – saving, retrieving, and deleting information.

Managing
Files

Operating
Managing
the PCs System ON

OFF

Managing
System
Startup
RAM
Managing
Memory

Figure 24
What an Operating System Does

When using a computer, what is seen and used is probably the applica-
tion software. As shown in Figure 23, the application software is the APPLICATION
interface between the user and the operating system. SOFTWARE
There are many kinds of application software. Some examples are:
• word processors
• spreadsheets
• databases
• computer-aided design and drafting
• custom or task-specific applications such as the PCS SCADA system,
and
• development and operating environments.

37
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

A computer environment is the interface and tools that you use to

DEVELOPMENT & operate the computer.
OPERATING An example of an operating environment would be Windows. You
ENVIRONMENTS interface with the Windows screens and icons and use the Windows
tools in your day-to-day operations. Another example of an operating
environment is the PCS (Pipeline Control System). There is a separate
environment for each line – but they are really one environment with
only one active line.

A development environment is a way of creating computer programs

using a pre-defined set of tools and rules. The PCS system was
developed in this way. Many of the basic tools of a SCADA system are
all included in the development environment.

Custom applications are types of application software that are developed

CUSTOM using computer languages to meet specific needs. Computer languages
are methods of writing instructions so the computer can understand
APPLICATIONS them. There are many different types of computer languages that fall
into several different categories.

The pipeline system is a combination of custom applications and

applications that were created through a development environment.

38
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

1. An operating system __________________.

a) is developed at the same time as the application software REVIEW 6
b) is an interface
c) is a set of instructions
d) acts as an interpreter between the computer hardware and the
application software

2. Application software ___________________.

a) is an interface between the user and the hardware
b) is a set of instructions for the user
c) can be a word processor, spreadsheet, or database
d) is a connection between two computers

3. Windows and PCS are some samples of ___________________.

a) operating environments
b) databases
c) software
d) modems

4. Custom applications are ___________________.

a) data communications
b) resources for the computer system
c) types of specialized software developed using special computer
languages
d) the physical components of a computer

Answers are at the end of this module.

39
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 7

NETWORKS

This section describes what a network is, how networks operate, and
how they are used in the Pipeline Control System. INTRODUCTION
Networks can be connected in different ways, depending on the function
to be performed.

This section explains different network topologies and computer

protocols. A topology is the method of connecting computers on a
network. A protocol is a set of rules and agreed specifications which
determines how all of the computers will interact.

After this section, you will be able to complete the following.

• Define a network. OBJECTIVES
• Recognize the different types of topologies.
• Identify the purpose of a protocol in a network.
• Recognize the different types of networks.
• Describe the different types of communications media in a network.

41
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

A network is a series of two or more computers connected together.

WHAT IS A Understanding how networks operate is very important because the
NETWORK entire SCADA system is a computer network. A network can send
information back and forth between computers and share devices such
as printers and hard drives.

Networks can be small – two or more computers connected within

several hundred feet of each other. Or they can be large – spanning the
globe with no limits to the number of computers attached.

A topology is the method of connecting computers on a network. This

TOPOLOGIES includes the cable used to connect computers, modems and telephone
lines, and other communications devices, such as satellites and
microwave transmitters. Some configurations are faster than others, some
are cheaper – but they all basically do the same thing – share informa-
tion. There are several common topologies: bus, token ring, and star.

BUS TOPOLOGY In a bus topology computers are connected to each other in a series. For
example, computer A sends a packet of data to computer C. As the
packet travels along the line, computers B and C both check the packet
of data to see if it is addressed to them. They ignore the packet if it has
the wrong address.

Bus Figure 25
Bus Topology

Computer A

Computer B

Computer C

42
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

In a token ring topology, the computers are connected in a circle or TOKEN RING TOPOLOGY
chain. Travelling constantly around the circular network is a single
token. When computer A wishes to send data to computer D, computer
A attaches the data and the destination computer to the token. The token
travels around the network until it reaches computer D. Computer D
takes the data from the token.
Computer B

Figure 26
Token Ring
Computer A Computer C Topology

In a star topology, the computers are all joined to a central hub called the STAR TOPOLOGY
router. When computer A wishes to send data to computer D, computer
A first sends the data and the name of the destination computer to the
router. The router reroutes the data directly to computer D.

Computer D Computer A

Router

Figure 27
Computer C Computer B
Star Topology

43
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Besides the topologies, computer networks must have a protocol. A

PROTOCOLS protocol is a set of rules and agreed specifications about how all of the
parts will interact. The information in a network travels in bits and
bytes, but there are other things to take into consideration, such as the
method of checking the data for accuracy and synchronization of the
network activities.

Just as there are many topologies, there are many different types of
protocols:
• TCP/IP
• Token Ring
• ARCnet, and
• X25.

Local Area Network (LAN) is a network where the joined computers are
LOCAL AREA relatively close together. The computers are joined using some type of
NETWORK cable and configured according to any one of the possible topologies and
protocols. In each Control Center, the workstations are linked together
using a LAN.

Wide Area Network (WAN) is a network where the joined computers are
WIDE AREA too far apart to be physically linked with cable and communicate
NETWORK through other means such as telephone lines, fiber optic lines,
microwave signals, or satellite systems. A WAN is a slower means of
communicating between joined computers than a LAN.

To communicate with all of the stations on the pipeline a LAN is not

LARGER NETWORKS possible because the distances are much too great. Instead, a different
method of networking is used, called a data circuit.

While sitting at your Control Center computer, or workstation, an

operator sends a command to start a pump unit. The command entered is
sent from the operator’s computer across the local network to another
computer, also called the communications front end. The command is
sent through a modem, through a communications medium and through
another modem to yet another computer at the final destination. This
hierarchy of communication is discussed in more detail in the
INTRODUCTION TO PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEM (SCADA) module.

44
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

If you pick up the phone to call someone, you may be communicating

through traditional phone lines, fiber optic lines, microwave radios, or COMMUNICATIONS
even through satellites. Computer networks use these same media for
data transmission. It doesn't matter what method is used – they all
MEDIA
appear the same to you.

Data can be sent from one computer to another over a telephone line
using a modem. Modem stands for modulator-demodulator. Modems MODEMS
take the binary data from the CPU and convert it to analog signals that
can be transmitted over telephone lines. A modem at the other end of
the telephone line receives the analog signal, converts it back into
binary form, and sends it to the receiving CPU. For example, using a
modem, an operator receives information from another computer in the
field about the status of a pump, and can send commands through a
modem to the computer at the pump station.

Data

Modem Modem
Analog Signal
1010010110 1010010110

Binary Binary
Computer A Computer B

Figure 28
Communication Using Modems

In many cases, the pipeline data circuit consists of a privately leased

voice grade telephone circuit. PHONE LINES
The telephone company uses a mix of two types of communications
lines – copper wire or fiber optic cable. Fiber optic cables are much more
efficient than copper wire – they can carry many more signals much
longer distances with virtually no distortion. The telephone company
uses fiber optic cable for any new installations. The telephone company
monitors the integrity of the data circuit and checks the circuit using a
loopback – a tone sent over the circuit and back to determine whether the
signal is strong enough and if the circuit is too noisy or corrupted. If the
circuit is faulty, another is used, or, if there isn't another line to a location,
the location may go off-line until the telephone circuit is repaired.

45
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

Microwaves are small and have very high frequencies. The small wave-
MICROWAVE length means they can be directed very accurately to another location.
TRANSMISSION The high frequency means they can carry much more information at one
time than conventional phone lines.

There are two key issues in microwave transmission. The first is that
microwaves travel through the air in a straight line only. That means that
the signals will simply keep going in a straight line unless stopped or
somehow rerouted. Therefore, the curvature of the earth limits the
distance these signals can be sent.

The second issue is that a lot of communications equipment is used to

route a transmission through a microwave communications circuit. The
most visible and important pieces of equipment are the series of relay
towers. The microwave is relayed from one tower to another until it is
re-transmitted into a phone line.

Figure 29
Microwave Communications Circuit

46
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

Satellite transmission may be used at some locations. A communications

satellite dish and transceiver are installed at every location on a satellite SATELLITE
line and exchange signals with the orbiting communications satellite. TRANSMISSION
The orbiting satellite is linked to a central computer on the ground
called a hub. The hub is the “traffic cop” of the satellite system. It makes
sure all signals are routed where they belong, and it corrects or enhances
signals as required.

The orbiting satellite redirects the signal to the hub on the ground. The
hub checks the signal and corrects it if necessary. The signal is then
broadcast back to an orbiting satellite that directs it to the appropriate
pump station. This configuration is often called a double hop.

Configurations where the signal goes directly from the originating site to
the destination, called “single hop,” also exist.

Satellite in Geosynchronous Orbit

.75 sec. .75 sec.

Central
Computer HUB

Control
Pump Center
Station

Figure 30
Double Hop Satellite

47
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

1. A network is ________ .
REVIEW 7 a) a type of topology
b) a modem
c) two or more computers connected together
d) satellite communications

2. Which of the following is not a type of topology?

a) bus
b) token ring
c) star
d) circle

3. Protocols are important for networks because they _______ .

a) are the rules and agreed specifications
b) transmit data correctly
c) check for data accuracy
d) determine the type of topology

4. A WAN is a faster means of communicating between joined

computers than a LAN.
a) true
b) false

5. Computer networks use _____________as a media for data trans-

mission.
a) operating systems
b) phone lines, fiber optic lines, microwave radios or satellites
c) topologies
d) protocols

Answers are at the end of this module.

48
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 1 - COMPUTER PROCESSING PRINCIPLES

• The term hardware refers to the physical components of the computer, SUMMARY
while the term software refers to the instructions, or programs that
tell the computer how to operate.

• Using a binary code such as a series of ON or OFF switches, or a

series of 1’s and 0’s, different characters or numbers can be repre-
sented.

• A byte is a group of 8 bits, arranged in a series. Each single character,

such as the letter A, the number 7, or an exclamation point (!) is
generally represented by a 1 byte binary code.

• Logic gates are specialized switches that examine one or more inputs
and create a predictable output based on an exact set of rules.

SECTION 2 - THE SYSTEM UNIT

• The purpose of the motherboard is to house the parts of the system unit.

• A command sent to the CPU is fetched, and decoded, and executed.

• Expansion slots on the motherboard allow specialized integrated

circuit boards, including accelerator boards, special video boards, and
disk drive controllers to be added to the system unit.

• The power supply transforms supply voltage into voltages for use by
the integrated circuit boards in a computer.

• Serial ports move data in single file, one bit after another.
• Parallel ports move data several bits at a time in parallel.

• SCSI (pronounced “scuzzee”) is an acronym that stands for small

computer systems interface. The SCSI is a special kind of parallel
port that moves data much faster than ordinary parallel ports. SCSI
ports also allow several external devices to be chained together in a
series, so several devices only use one port.

49
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

SECTION 3 - STORAGE DEVICES

• Random Access Memory (RAM) is volatile, and can be read from
and written to by the CPU. Read Only Memory (ROM) is non-
volatile, and can only be read, not written, by the CPU.

• Magnetic storage devices take binary information from the CPU and
transfer it onto a magnetic medium. Magnetic or optical media are
non-volatile and are designed to handle large amounts of data.

• There are three types of magnetic storage devices: floppy disks, hard
disks, and tapes.

• Optical drives use a laser to read and write the data. The laser
mechanism is much more precise than the read/write head on
magnetic drives.

SECTION 4 - INPUT DEVICES

• An input device is any type of device used to enter data or instruc-
tions into the computer.

• There are several types of input devices: keyboard, mouse, trackball,

touch screen, and scanner.

SECTION 5 - OUTPUT DEVICES

• An output device is any type of device that is used to display informa-
tion from the computer. Output devices include: monitors, printers,
and plotters.

• The most used output device is the monitor. Pipeline operators can
view information about the pipeline status from all of the monitors in
the Control Center.

• Printers convert the electronic information to a printed version. There

are several types of printers: dot matrix, laser, and ink jet.

50
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

SECTION 6 - OPERATING SYSTEMS & TYPES OF

APPLICATION SOFTWARE
• An operating system is the set of instructions that run the computer.

• The operating system is the first program that is run when the
computer is started. It manages the memory, the computer’s
resources, and the files.

• A computer environment is the interface and the tools used to operate

the computer. The Pipeline Control System (PCS) is an example of an
operating environment.
• Custom applications are types of application software that are
developed using computer languages to meet specific needs.

SECTION 7 - NETWORKS
• There are several common topologies: bus, token ring, and star.

• A protocol is a set of rules and agreed specifications about how all of

the parts will interact. There are several types of protocols: TCP/IP,
token ring, ARCnet, and X25.

• In order to communicate with all of the stations on the pipeline, a data

circuit is used.

• Computer networks use modems, phone lines, microwave, and

satellite transmission as communications media.

51
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

American Standard Code for Information Interchange (ASCII)

GLOSSARY Each number, letter, symbol and punctuation mark is represented by
a different byte. (p. 7)
binary system
a system of representing information in two ways. (p. 4)
bit
binary digit - the smallest piece of data used by a computer. (p. 5)
bus
in a computer, the bus is the electronic conduit where the data travels.
(p. 17)
byte
a group of 8 bits. (p. 6)
contact sense bits
bits at the station computer level that are either on or off. For example:
fire, gas, man on-site. (p. 9)
Central Processing Unit (CPU)
is a collection of transistors (ON and OFF switches), resistors (to control
electricity), and capacitors (to store electricity) that are set in a silicon
chip. (p. 15)
Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)
is a large vacuum tube that forms a wide screen on one end and has a
small socket on the other. It is the most common computer output
device. (p. 32)
double hop
in satellite communications, signals are broadcast from a pump station to
an orbiting satellite, to a central hub, back to the satellite, and then to the
Control Center. (p. 47)
expansion slots
slots on the motherboard that allow specialized integrated circuit boards
to be added to the computer. (p. 18)
hardware
the physical components of a computer. (p. 4)

52
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

input device
any type of device used to enter data or instructions into the computer,
such as a keyboard, mouse, trackball, touch screen, and scanner. (p. 28)
keyboard
an input device that uses a set of keys modelled on the standard type-
writer. (p. 28)
Local Area Network (LAN)
is a network in which the joined computers are relatively close together.
(p. 44)
logic gate
a circuit that accepts one or more inputs and always produces a single
predictable output. (p. 7)
machine cycle
the cycle of handling instructions in the CPU through fetch, decode, and
execute. (p. 16)
microprocessor
another name for the CPU. (p. 15)
motherboard
an integrated circuit board inside the system unit where all of the
components of the system unit are plugged in.(p. 14)
mouse
an input device consisting of a ball and at least one button. (p. 29)
network
a series of two or more computers connected together to share resources
and information. (p. 42)
operating system
a set of instructions that runs the computer. (p. 36)
output device
any type of device used to display information from the computer, such
as monitors, printers, and plotters. (p. 32)
pixel
each point where electrons strike the phosphorous coating. (p. 32)

53
 PIPELINE CONTROL SYSTEMS

port
a connector on the system unit used to attach an external device such as
the keyboard, mouse, monitor, printer, or network. (p. 17)

power supply
refers to a transformer inside the system unit that transforms supply
voltage into voltages used by the computer. (p. 18)
protocol
is a set of rules and agreed specifications about how all of the parts will
interact. (p. 44)

Random Access Memory (RAM)

a temporary storage place for information in the system unit. (p. 22)
Read Only Memory (ROM)
permanent storage place for information in the system unit. (p. 22)

software
the set of instructions that tell the computer how to operate. (p. 4)

system unit
the part of the computer that receives, manipulates, and outputs data to
and from the input and output devices. (p. 14)

topology
the method of connecting computers to a network. (p. 42)

touch screen
uses a special type of display device to accept direct input. (p. 29)
trackball
resembles a mouse turned upside down. (p. 29)

Wide Area Network (WAN)

a network where the joined computers are too far apart to be physically
linked. (p. 44)

54
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

REVIEW 1
1. d
REVIEW 2
1. b
REVIEW 3
1. b
ANSWERS
2. a 2. c 2. a
3. b 3. b 3. c
4. d 4. c
5. a
6. a
7. b
8. b
9. b

REVIEW 4 REVIEW 5 REVIEW 6

1. d 1. b 1. d
2. b 2. b 2. c

REVIEW 7
1. c
2. d
1. a

55