Download Computer Basics

Computer Basics
Mr. Reese
Introduction to Computers
Lesson 1
1.1 Describe the Importance of Computers
in Today’s World
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Computer
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an electronic device that you can use to store and process
information
1.1 Describe the Importance of Computers
in Today’s World
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They are used in many different fields:
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Education - schools use to track student records and grades
Business and Finance – used to maintain accounts and prepare
reports
Healthcare – keeping track of patients information
Scientific Research – analyzing data from experiments
Government Affairs – ability to see laws online
Arts and Entertainment – computer animation has become a
huge field in movies and TV
Publishing – magazines, books, and newspapers have all gone
online!
1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer
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Input Device – a device that provides information to the
computer
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Mouse
Keyboard
Microphone
Scanner
Webcam
Stylus
1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer
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Output device – device that gets feedback from a
computer after it performs a task
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Monitor
Printer
Speaker/Headphone
1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer
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Processing Devices CPU – Central Processing Unit – the CPU is the “brain” of
the computer; sometimes called the Processor
Memory:
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Random Access Memory (RAM) – the “temporary” memory
Read Only Memory (ROM) – the “long term” memory
Flash Memory – memory that can be modified, mainly used as
storage
1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer
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Motherboard – main circuit board of the computer; it
connects the input, output, and process devices.
Expansion cards:
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Video Card – displays the images to the monitor
Network Interface Card (NIC) – connects to the internet
Sound Card – connects to speakers to play sounds
1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer
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Storage Devices – devices used to store computer
information
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Hard Drive – the main drive of a computer
CD/DVD Drive – portable storage disks
USB Flash Drive – small storage devices
Cloud Storage – an “internet” based storage device
1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer
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Ports and Connections – a port is a channel through which
data is transferred between input and output
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Universal Serial Bus (USB) – connect devices such as mouse,
keyboard, printer
FireWire – used to connected devices like a digital camera
Network Port – connects to the internet
Serial or Parallel Port – old school ports for printers
Display Adapter – used to connect a monitor (VGA, Dvi, and
HDMI)
Power – used connect to a wall outlet
1.3 Identify the Steps for Starting and
Shutting Down a Computer
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Power in the front
Log-in using your Username and Password
When shutting down:
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Log off click ok
Then shut down from the Log-in window
1.5 Perform Different Tasks by a Mouse
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Standard Mouse contains 2 buttons…ironically called Left
and Right
Functions included:
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Choosing a position to start typing
Clicking links in a web browser
Drawing lines in Paint and Word Documents
Common Computer Terminology
Lesson 2
2.1 Identify the Primary Hardware
Components of a Computer
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Hardware – any physical (touchable) part of the
computer
Hardware can be an input, processing, storage or output
device
The processor is one of the key hardware components;
as mentioned before it is the “brain” of the computer
2.2 Explain an Operating System
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Software – is the part of a computer that sends
instructions to the hardware to perform the tasks
Operating System Software – software that ensures your
computer functions properly.
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The operating system is “the teacher” of the computer. It controls all
of the functions done on the computer.
The most common systems are:
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Windows – a Microsoft system
Leopard – an Apple system
Android – a Google system
Other Software (Application Software) – Productivity programs –
operate with instructions from the Operating System
2.2 Explain Operating System
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History of Windows:
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Windows 1 – User could navigate programs with use of a
mouse
Windows 3 – provided the user it’s first glimpse of an
advanced graphics interface
Windows NT – mainly used for businesses and servers
Windows 95 – introduced the start button and contained built
in Internet support
Windows 98 – provided support for DVD and USB
Windows ME – introduced System Restore and enhanced A/V
Windows XP – upgraded the speed and allowed for Home and
Business use
2.2 Explain the Operating System
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Windows Server 2003 – used only for larger computers,
called Servers (our J: Drive), performed much better then
previous versions
Windows Vista – Provided a new interface called “Aero”
Windows Server 2008 – Improved security over 2003
Windows 7 – Introduced Windows Media Center and
better integration of all devices
2.3 Explain Programs and Data
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Programs (or Applications)
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Programs process data that you provide to the computer
Data can be in the form of:
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Software used to complete different types of tasks. Examples
include doing calculations, sending e-mail, playing a game.
Text
Graphics
Audio
Video
The programs receive the data, process it and display the
output on a screen.
THE PROCESSING CYCLE
Input-Processing-Output-Storage of Data
Input
Process
Storage
Output
2.4 Describe a network and the types of
networks
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A network is a group of computers and associated devices that
are linked together to facilitate sharing information. Networks
can also be used to share data, software and devices such as
printers .
A typical network has the following three components:
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Server: The main computer on a network that provides services to
other computers on the network. A server decides which computers
are allowed to access the hardware and software on the network.
Workstation: A computer connected to a network.
Communication channel: A path or link that connects computers
or peripheral devices, such as printers and disk drives, to transfer
information. Cables are commonly used as communication channels
in a network, but networks can also transfer information through
wireless connections.
2.4 Describe a network and the types of
networks, (continued)
A network expands as more workstations and servers
are connected to it.. A network can be categorized as
a:
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Local Area Network (LAN) A LAN connects devices
within a limited area, such as a home or a small group of
offices. It commonly includes computers and shared
resources such as printers and scanners, or a
Wide Area Network (WAN). A WAN is a network that
connects devices in geographically separated areas. Many
organizations use a WAN to connect their networks across
different countries. The Internet is an example of a WAN.
Computer Performance and
Features
Lesson 3
3.1 Compare the Features of Different Types
of Computers
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Today’s marketplace contains all types of computers. The
most common is a Personal Computer (PC) – used by
individuals and business organizations
Desktop Computer – the type in front of you, they have a
monitor, keyboard, and typically a printer
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Typically the most “powerful” of all types
No portability at all
Allows for more upgrades
3.1 Compare the Feature of Different Types
of Computers
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Laptop – portable lightweight computers. Also called
Notebook
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Smaller in size (usually 13.1, 15, and 17 inch models)
They’ve begun to get more powerful, though they still can’t
compete with Desktops
Can be upgraded but it’s usually done with USB devices
Netbook – smaller, but limited, computers
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Much smaller then Laptops (8 inch normal)
Limited hardware, typically just internet and general programs
USB ports allow for expansion
3.1 Compare the Features of Different Types
of Computers
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Tablet – in terms of future computers they are rising.
Portable device that allow you to “touch” your way
around
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Handheld – two main types: Smartphone and PDA
Personal Digital Assistant – a device that had limited
abilities; more like an electronic calculator.
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Limited to no expansion
Did allow for memory expansion but limited in overall use
Smartphone – replaced the PDA and allowed for
telephone capabilities
3.2 Explain the Role of Memory
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When a computer performs a task, it stores the data in
its memory. Memory is where data can be stored and
retrieved.
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Random Access Memory (RAM) is temporary memory. The
content stored on the temporary memory is erased when the
computer is turned off
Read-Only Memory (ROM) is permanent memory. ROM
contains instructions that need to remain unchanged for the
computer to function. For example, ROM stores commands
that check whether the motherboard, memory, hard drive and
other components are working when the computer is started.
Flash Memory can retain information after you have switched
off a computer, but it provides the benefit of allowing the
stored information to be erased or modified
3.2 Explain the Role of Memory (cont.)
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Data is stored in terms of 0’s and 1’s; each piece of data is
called a bit.
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Bit – the smallest unit of information a computer handles
Byte – is the combining of 8 bits
Kilobyte – is equal to 1,024 bytes (KB)
Megabyte – is equal to 1,024 KB (MB)
Gigabyte – is equal to 1,024 MB (GB)
Terabyte – is equal to 1,024 GB (TB)
Hard drives are the only ones in terms of TB, flash drives
are still relatively small in terms of GB
3.3 Explain the Basics of Computer
Performance
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CPU Speed – because it’s the brain, the speed that the
CPU, or processor, works at determines the performance
of the computer
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We now have dual and quad-core devices. These are CPU’s
that contain 2 or 4 processors in computer
Hard Disk – hard drives spin at different speeds, which
allows for access to your data at different speeds. The
faster speeds allow for faster access, however are more
prone to errors
Random Access Memory (RAM) – when the computer is
in use the RAM acts as the storage location. More RAM
space allows for more information.
Computer Operating Systems
Lesson 4
4.1 Explain the Common Functions of an
Operating System
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O.S. performs 4 main functions
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Manages and controls the hardware connected to the
computer
Helps other programs running on a computer to use the
hardware
Helps to organize and manage files and folders on the
computer
Provides the user interface that allows you to interact with the
hardware, the operating system, and other programs
4.2 Identify the Components of the Windows
Interface
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Desktop
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Task bar
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Typically located at the bottom, though you can move it
Applications that are running will appear in the task bar
System Tray
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The screen area that you can see when you log in to Windows
Contains shortcuts to programs on your computer
Located at the right of the task bar
Contains the programs running from Startup and the clock
Start Button
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The central link to all the programs on your computer
Overview of the Windows Interface within
Applications
Minimize
Maximize
Title Bar
Close
Ribbon
Start
Menu
Task Bar
System
Tray
4.3 Explain the Options Available in the Start
Menu of Windows.
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Start - the Start button opens the Start menu.You can use the commands on the
Start menu to start a program or to restart or shut down the computer. The Start
menu typically displays the following commands:
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My Documents: displays the contents in the My Documents folder.
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My Computer: displays the contents of your floppy disk, hard disk, CD-ROM drive and
network drives appear in a window.You can use the icons and menus in My Computer
window to search for or open files and folders.
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My Network Places: provides a view of all the shared computers and other resources
on the network to which your computer is connected.
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Control Panel: allows you to control the various aspects of the operating system or
hardware, such as setting the system time and date, adding and removing programmes,
troubleshooting hardware and software and setting keyboard characteristics.
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Printers and Faxes: allows you to install and share printing resources. After you install a
printer, you can print documents from your computer.
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Help and Support: You can use the Microsoft Help and Support Center whenever you
have a question about the operating system.
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Search: allows you to search for a file or a folder on your computer.
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Run: this allows you to start a program.
Productivity Programs
Lesson 5
Overview of Productivity Programs
Productivity Programs
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Tools that you can use to create documents, presentations,
tables, charts, and graphs
Help you perform a specific task easily and efficiently
Each task requires a specific specialized program
Examples of tasks you can use a computer to help with
are: writing a letter, taking notes, creating a project report,
making a sales presentation, maintaining household
accounts, or managing customer information.
Examples of Productivity Programs
Program
Description
Word processors
You can use a word processor to create documents that
mostly contain text. An example of a commonly used word
processor is Microsoft Word
Spreadsheet programs
You can use a spreadsheet program to work with numbers
and perform mathematical calculations. A common example
of a spreadsheet program is Microsoft Excel
Presentation programs
You can use a presentation program to combine graphics
and text to create presentations. An example of a
presentation program is Microsoft PowerPoint
Database programs
You can use a database program to organize data, such as
contact information of customers and products bought by
them, in a format that is easy to use and modify. A common
database program is Microsoft Access
1.1 Productivity Programs - Identify the
Main Components of the User Interface
Quick Access
Toolbar buttons
for commonly used
commands across
all programs
Home tab
most commonly
used tools in
this program
Each tab contains tools that relate to specific functions. Some
show all the time (Insert, Page Layout) and others appear when
you click a specific item,. (e.g. when you click a picture the Picture
Tools tab appears)
Title bar –
displays
name of the
program
currently
open
View
toolbar
magnify &
show the
file in
different
views.
1.2 and 1.3 Identify the Purpose of the Commands on the
Menu Bar & Work With the Buttons on the Toolbar
1.
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Commands that are related to working with document content are organized in logical groups on the tabs
that make up the Ribbon. Each tab relates to a type of activity, such as writing or laying out a page. The
Help button appears at the right end of the Ribbon. Using this button, you can search for topics that are
related to the program.
When you click the Microsoft Office Button, a menu consisting of commands that are related to managing
documents, such as creating, saving, and printing, is displayed. The buttons at the bottom of the menu
help you change the settings in the program and exit the program.
3.
The blank space within the program where you enter information is called work area.
4.
The Quick Access Toolbar provides buttons for commonly used commands. This toolbar displays the Save,
Undo, and Repeat buttons. However, you can customize the Quick Access Toolbar to include commands
that you use frequently.
1.2 and 1.3 Identify the Purpose of the Commands on
the Menu Bar & Work with the Buttons on the Toolbar
5.
The title bar displays the name of the document that is currently open. The title bar also
contains the Minimize, Restore Down/Maximize, and Close buttons.
6.
The status bar provides information about the document that is currently open. You can
customize the status bar to show the information that you want by right-clicking the status
bar and then by selecting the options that you require. The View toolbar is located at the
right end of the status bar. This toolbar provides tools for adjusting the view of contents in a
document.
7.
Scroll bars are vertical and horizontal bars located at the side or at the bottom of a display
area. You can use scroll bars to move to a specific location in the work area.
1.4 Work With the Pointer in a Program
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A cursor is a blinking vertical bar on the screen that
indicates the location where you can insert text or
graphics in a document.You can also use the cursor
to select text or graphics in a document.
A mouse pointer is an on-screen arrow or another shape
that moves when you move the mouse or other pointing
device.You change the location of the pointer by moving
the mouse. By moving the pointer and then clicking the
mouse button, you specify the new location of the cursor.
You also use the pointer to point to a menu or
button and to select text or graphics in a program.
1.5 Work with text and characters in a
program
When you open a productivity program, you see the Ribbon above the document area.
There are tabs on the Ribbon and groups of buttons on the tabs. The Home tab contains
buttons that you can use to change the way the text in a document looks. The backgrounds
of some buttons change color when you point to them. This means that the button is
available. Other tabs or buttons are temporarily unavailable.
1.5 Work with text and characters in a
program (cont.)
In some of your documents, you might want to add pictures or tables in addition to the text.
You can use the buttons from the Insert tab to insert pictures, tables, and symbols in your
document.
1.5 Work with text and characters in a
program (cont.)
You can give your document a professional look by adding page borders, by applying page
colors, or by changing the spacing between paragraphs. Buttons on the Page Layout tab help
you change the appearance of your document according to your desire.
1.5 Work with text and characters in a
program (cont.)
If you want to check the spelling and grammar in your document, search for a synonym of a
particular word, or search through dictionaries and encyclopedias for reference material, you
can use the buttons on the Review tab. These buttons help you review and make changes to
your document.
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1.5 Work with text and characters in a
program (cont.)
You can view your document in different ways by using the buttons on the View tab. For
example, you can use these buttons and view the document in full screen format.,zoom in
and out of a document and switch between windows if you have more than one document
open at the same time.
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1.6 Explain the Use of Primary Keyboard
Shortcuts and Key Combinations
You use the function keys for special tasks in different programs. For example, you use the
F1 key to display the Help file associated with a program. The tasks of the function keys are
specific to each program.
You use the navigation keys to control the movement of the cursor. These keys include
HOME, END, PAGE UP, PAGE DOWN and four arrow keys. The HOME key usually moves
the cursor to the start of a line or a document. The END key moves the cursor to the end
of a line or a document. The PAGE UP and the PAGE DOWN keys move the cursor up or
down, one screen at a time. You can also use the four arrow keys to move the cursor
vertically or horizontally on the display screen
Keyboard shortcuts are key combinations usually involving command keys that help you
quickly perform an action. For example, you can press CTRL+P to print the current
document by using the default printer settings