The term computer is derived from the word compute. The word compute means to calculate. A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data from the user, processes the data by performing calculations and operations on it, generates the desire output results. computer performs both simple and complex operations, with speed and accuracy.
The basic Organisation of a computer includes the following:
1. Input Unit: The data is entered using an input device such as a Keyboard or a Mouse.
2. Processing Unit: The computer processes the data according to a set of instructions called Program.
3. Output: The computer returns the processed information in the form of output that can either be printed or displayed on the output devices like Printer or Monitor.
4. Memory: The computer saves the data and the instructions in the memory for further retrieval.
Characteristics of Computer
1. Speed :-
The computer is very high speed electronic device. It can perform millions of operationxs on the data in one second. The speed is usually measured in Mega Hertz (MHz) or Giga Hertz (GHz)..
2. Accuracy :-
In addition to being very fast, computer is also very accurate device. It can give you accurate output provided you give correct input data and set of instructions to the computer.
3. Reliability :-
The modern computer can perform very complicated calculations without creating any problem. The results produced by computer are consistent (reliable).
4. Automation :-
A computer can automatically perform operations without any need for manual interference during the operations. It controls different devices attached to it.
5. Storage :-
The computer has internal storage (primary memory) as well as external or secondary storage. In secondary storage, you can store a large amount of data and programs(set of instructions) for future use.
6. Versatility :-
Through modern computer you can perform different kind of tasks one by one or simultaneously. It is the most important feature of computer. At one moment you could be playing game on computer as well as downloading songs from internet, the next moment you could be composing a letter and sending emails etc.
7. Communications :-
Today computer is mostly used to exchange messages or data through computer networks all over the world. For example, you can receive or send the information through the internet with the help of computer. It is most important feature of the modern information technology.
8. Precision and Consistency :-
Computers are not only fast and consistent but they also perform operations very accurately and precisely. For example, in complex calculations involving fractional values (where value with decimal point can change the actual result), the computer is very precise with the result.
Q: What is a system? Why do we refer to a computer as a system?
Ans:a system is a group of integrated parts that have the common purpose of achieving some objective(s). so, the following three characteristics are key to a system.
1) All system has more than one element.
2) All the elements of a system are logically related
3) All the system elements are controlled in such a way that the system goal is achieved.
Basic Applications of Computer
Computers have a wide range of use in almost every field of our life. They are specially used in the following fields:..
a) Office Use
b) Data analysis
c) Accounting and investment analysis.
d) Graphics and Animation
e) Education
f) Banks
g) Ticket Reservation
g) E-mailing
The work done in offices is mostly the preparation of letters, reports, memoranda, copy of advertisement, publicity, minutes, contracts, forms, notes etc. which can be done through computer in most efficient manner.
You can analyse the data through special software called spreadsheet programs. You can also prepare the product sales, profits and investment reports. You can also sort, merge and manipulate data (as needed) by accepting the data from other files.
Investment Analysis
A spreadsheet program is a software package through which you can analyse investment, inventory control, preparation of budget etc. Specialized software packages such as Tally are available to handle accounts in medium sized companies.
Accounting Programs are used for data entry, billing, inventory control, Sales Analysis. Many companies issue shares, debentures, etc. Software packages for such analysis are available at a small price, like MS-Office Suite supported by Microsoft Corporation.
Graphics and Animation
Computers can be used to make drawings, graphics and movies. CorelDRAW, Illustrator, Visio 2000 and FreeLance Plus for Windows are some such software packages, which can help you in increasing your drawing capability.
In educational institutions computers are used as teaching aid, research tool and analyzing system. When computer is used as a teaching aid it is referred to as computer-assisted instruction (CAI).
Banks use computers to provide online service to customers and to answer customer queries regarding their bank balance etc. To handle cash, banks use cash dispensing machines (Asynchronous Transfer Mode(ATM)).With the use of computers, electronic transfer of funds from one account to another has become possible.
Indian Railways have computerized ticket reservation in almost all important railway stations. The computer stores all necessary information required for ticket processing such as train number, stations, distance between stations, number of seats available in each train for each class, train fare etc. The computer can also give information regarding train timings, fares etc. on telephone enquiry.
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Electronic mail (E-mail) is a system whereby through computer users can exchange messages, greetings etc. with each other via Internet, at a very cheap rate. E-mail allows you to create, send, receive and store messages. You can send mail to individuals or groups with a single click.
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