Computer Basics Mr. Reese. Introduction to Computers Lesson 1

Computer Basics

Mr. Reese

Introduction to Computers

Lesson 1

1.1 Describe the Importance of Computers in Today’s World Computer

an electronic device that you can use to store and process information

1.1 Describe the Importance of Computers in Today’s World They are used in many different fields:

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 Input Device – a device that provides

information to the computer Mouse Keyboard Microphone Scanner Webcam Stylus

1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer Output device – device that gets feedback

from a computer after it performs a task Monitor Printer Speaker/Headphone

1.2 Identify the Main Parts of a Computer Processing Devices - CPU – Central Processing Unit – the CPU is the

“brain” of the computer; sometimes called the Processor

Memory: 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 Motherboard – main circuit board of the

computer; it connects the input, output, and process devices.

Expansion cards: 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 Storage Devices – devices used to store

computer information 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 Ports and Connections – a port is a channel

through which data is transferred between input and output 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 Power in the front Log-in using your Username and Password When shutting down:

Log off click ok Then shut down from the Log-in window

1.5 Perform Different Tasks by a Mouse Standard Mouse contains 2 buttons…ironically

called Left and Right Functions included:

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 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 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. The operating system is “the teacher” of the computer. It

controls all of the functions done on the computer. The most common systems are:

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 History of Windows:

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 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 Programs (or Applications)

Software used to complete different types of tasks. Examples include doing calculations, sending e-mail, playing a game.

Programs process data that you provide to the computer

Data can be in the form of: Text Graphics Audio Video

The programs receive the data, process it and display the output on a screen.

THE PROCESSING CYCLEInput-Processing-Output-Storage of Data

Process

Output

Storage

Input

2.4 Describe a network and the types of networks 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: 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: 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 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 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 Laptop – portable lightweight computers. Also

called Notebook 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

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 Tablet – in terms of future computers they are

rising. Portable device that allow you to “touch” your way around Limited to no expansion

Handheld – two main types: Smartphone and PDA

Personal Digital Assistant – a device that had limited abilities; more like an electronic calculator. 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 When a computer performs a task, it stores the data

in its memory. Memory is where data can be stored and retrieved. 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.) Data is stored in terms of 0’s and 1’s; each

piece of data is called a bit. 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 CPU Speed – because it’s the brain, the speed that

the CPU, or processor, works at determines the performance of the computer 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 O.S. performs 4 main functions

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 Desktop

The screen area that you can see when you log in to Windows

Contains shortcuts to programs on your computer Task bar

Typically located at the bottom, though you can move it

Applications that are running will appear in the task bar

System Tray Located at the right of the task bar Contains the programs running from Startup and

the clock Start Button

The central link to all the programs on your computer

Overview of the Windows Interface within Applications

Title Bar

Ribbon

Minimize Maximize

Close

Start Menu

Task Bar

System Tray

4.3 Explain the Options Available in the Start Menu of Windows.

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: My Documents: displays the contents in the My Documents folder. 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.

My Network Places: provides a view of all the shared computers and other resources on the network to which your computer is connected.

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.

Printers and Faxes: allows you to install and share printing resources. After you install a printer, you can print documents from your computer.

Help and Support: You can use the Microsoft Help and Support Center whenever you have a question about the operating system.

Search: allows you to search for a file or a folder on your computer. Run: this allows you to start a program.

Productivity Programs

Lesson 5

Overview of Productivity Programs Productivity Programs

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

Home tab most commonly used tools in this program

Quick Access Toolbar buttons for commonly used commands across all programs

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.

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.

2.

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 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.


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.


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..


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 screenKeyboard 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