Chapter 1
Objectives
Identify the functions of the PC Explain the different types of computers List the components of the PC Explain the front and back side of the PC Discuss the Power-On Self Test (POST)
Functions of a PC
Accepts data input from user Stores data Processes the input using instructions Displays processed data on output devices
Types of Computers
Types of Computers
Microcomputer
Minicomputer
Mainframe
Supercomputer
Microcomputer I
Digital computer that works on a microprocessor Used in homes and offices Performs tasks such as word processing, desktop publishing, and accounting
Microcomputer II
Advantages
Small size Low cost Portability
Disadvantages
Low processing speed
Minicomputer I
Known as the mid-range server Medium sized multiprocessing and multi-user computer Used by small sized companies
Minicomputer II
Advantage
Cater to multiple users Lower costs than mainframes
Disadvantage
Large Bulky
Mainframe I
Known as enterprise servers Occupies entire rooms or floors Used for centralized computing Serve distributed users and small servers in a computing network
Mainframe II
Advantage
Supports many users and instructions Large memory
Disadvantage
Huge size Expensive
Supercomputer
Fastest and expensive Used by applications for molecular chemistry, nuclear research, weather reports, and advanced physics Advantage
Speed
Disadvantage
Generate a large amount of heat during operation
Components of a PC
Input Devices Output Devices Storage Devices Processing Devices Communication Devices Infrastructure
Input Devices
Used to enter data in computer Different types are:
Keyboard Pointing Devices Scanner Digital Camera
Output Devices
Used to display or produce processed data Monitors and printers used to display output Different types of output devices are:
Display System Display Card Sound Card Printers Fax
Storage Devices
Used to store data in the computers Different types of storage devices are:
Magnetic Devices Optical devices Solid-State Storage devices Digital Audio Tape
Processing Devices
Computer main function is to process data Various types of processing devices are:
Microprocessor Chipset BIOS
Communication Devices
Establish communication between computer using different cables, interfaces and wireless devices Various types of communication devices are:
Interfaces I/O Ports and Cables LAN Card Modem Network Cables
Infrastructure
Refers to main components and foundation on which computer functions All the peripheral devices of the computer are attached Various types of components are:
System Case Power Supply Motherboard Expansion Boards
Summary I
Personal Computer is an electronic machine that accepts data, processes it on the basis of some instructions and produces output Personal Computer performs a wide range of functions like data processing, programming, playing audio, video and games Different types of computer are, microcomputers, minicomputers, mainframes and supercomputers System case provides protective
Summary II
LED displays on system case indicate operations going on inside PC Different ports are located on back of system case Power supply of PC converts alternating current to direct current The motherboard is main part of a PC Different types of I/O ports, serial, parallel, and USB
Summary III
Different types of storage devices, magnetic, optical, and solid-state Storage Digital Audio Tapes (DAT) record and store music digitally Different types of network cables, UTP, STP, coaxial, and fiber optic BIOS runs a test called Power On Self Test when a PC turns on