Introduction to Computer

In the modern era, computers are an essential part of our everyday existence. That
means computers are present in almost every field, making our day-to-day tasks easier
and faster. Nowadays, computers can be seen in banks, shops, schools, hospitals,
railways, and many more places, including our home. As they are such an essential part
of our lives, we must know about the basic computer introduction. Let us start with
defining the computer first:

What is a Computer?
The straightforward meaning of a computer is a machine that can calculate. However,
modern computers are not just a calculating device anymore. They can perform a variety
of tasks. In simple terms, a computer is a programmable electronic machine used to
store, retrieve, and process data.

According to the definition, "A computer is a programmable electronic device that

takes data, perform instructed arithmetic and logical operations, and gives the
output."

Whatever is given to the computer as input is called 'data', while the output received
after processing is called 'information'.
A Brief History of Computer
The term 'Computer' was first introduced in 1640 and referred to as 'one who
calculates'. It was derived from the Latin word 'computare', which meant 'to calculate'. In
1897, it was known as the 'calculating machine'. Later in 1945, the term 'computer' was
introduced as 'programmable digital electronic computer, which is now called a
'computer'.

When the computers were introduced, they were large and could fill an entire room.
Some computers were operated using large-sized vacuum tubes. In 1833, Charles
Babbage (known as the father of the computer) invented an early calculator, which was
named as the 'difference engine'. Later in 1837, he introduced the first mechanical,
general-purpose computer 'Analytical Engine'. Over time, computers became powerful
in performance and small in size.

Generations of Computer

First Generation (1946 - 1959): During the first generation, computers were based on
electronic valves (Vacuum Tubes). Some popular computers of first-generation are
ENIAC Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer, EDVAC Electronic Discrete
Variable Automatic Computer, UNIVAC UNIVersal Automatic Computer
etc.

Second Generation (1959 - 1965): During the second generation, computers were
based on Transistors. Some popular computers of second-generation are IBM 1400, IBM
1620, IBM 7000 series, etc.
Third Generation (1965 - 1971): During the third generation, computers were based
on Integrated Circuits (ICs). Some popular computers of the third generation are IBM
360, IBM 370, PDP, etc.

Fourth Generation (1971 - 1980): During the fourth generation, computers were based
on very large scale integrated (VLSI) circuits. Some popular computers of fourth-
generation are STAR 1000, CRAY-1, CRAY-X-MP, DEC 10, etc.

Fifth Generation (1980 - Present): The fifth generation is still ongoing. The computers
are based on multiple technologies, such as ultra large scale integration (ULSI),
artificial intelligence (AI), and parallel processing hardware. The fifth generation of
computers includes Desktop, Laptop, NoteBook, etc.

Computer Software and Hardware

Software
Computer software is a group of instructions or programs that instructs the computer
system to work accordingly. There are mainly two types of software:

System Software: System software help establish communication between hardware

components so that the user can interact with the computer. These types of software are
necessary for the computer to operate correctly. They provide an interface to run
additional third party programs or utility tools. Operating systems, drivers, utility
software, and firmware are typical examples of the system software.

Application Software: Application software is designed to help users to perform

specific tasks, such as online surfing, setting the alarm, listening to music, playing
videos, photo designing, editing, etc. This type of software mostly runs in the frontend
and allows end-users to work on. Web browsers, Photoshop software, multimedia
software and word processors are the example of the application software.

Hardware
The physical parts attached to a computer that form a whole computer are
called hardware or hardware components. There can be different types of hardware,
depending on the structure. Some most common hardware
are mouse, keyboard, monitor, printer, etc. These are the parts that can be seen and
touched by humans.
Basic Parts of Computer
Input Unit: Input Units or devices are used to input the data or instructions into the
computers. Some most common input devices are mouse and keyword.

Output Unit: Output Units or devices are used to provide output to the user in the
desired format. The most popular examples of output devices are the monitor and the
printer.

Control Unit: As its name states, this unit is primarily used to control all the computer
functions and functionalities. All the components or devices attached to a computer
interact with each other through the control unit. In short, the control unit is referred to
as 'CU'.

Arithmetic Logic Unit: The arithmetic logic unit helps perform all the computer
system's arithmetic and logical operations. In short, the arithmetic logic unit is referred
to as 'ALU'.

Memory: Memory is used to store all the input data, instructions, and output data.
Memory usually has two types: Primary Memory and Secondary Memory. The
memory found inside the CPU is called the primary memory, whereas the memory that
is not the integral part of the CPU is called secondary memory.

Functions of Computer

Input: Whatever is given to a computer is called the input. The input data is given to the
computer using the input devices. The computer only takes data in a binary form (raw
format). The input devices help convert the entered data in the binary form to be
understandable by the computer. Data can be inputted in various forms, such as letters,
numbers, images, etc.
Processing: Processing is the primary function of the computer. CPU helps to process
the data according to the instructions entered into the computer system. The processing
of data is an internal process of the computer system, and the data is executed in a
queue. After the processing has been completed, the data is further transferred as the
output. The processor (CPU) is the computer's brain, and it is a microchip. The
processor's speed varies in different computers because it depends on several factors,
such as the type of CPU, memory, and motherboard.

Typically, the following operations are performed on the data during the processing:

o Arithmetic Operations, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, differentials,

square root, etc.
o Logical Operations, such as equal to, not equal to, greater than, less than,
opposite, etc.

Output: Anything that comes out from the computer is called the output. It is the
human-readable data and displayed on the computer screen (monitor). Output can be
stored in the storage devices if desired. The output devices help convert the processed
data of the CPU into the human-understandable form.

Storage: The device used to store the data of a computer system is called the storage.
Storage devices help to store digital data. They can store the data while the computer is
operating and after processing. There are volatile and non-volatile storage options. The
volatile storage can store the data as long as the power source is connected, whereas
non-volatile can store the data permanently even after the power source is
disconnected.

Characteristics of Computer
Speed: Computers are a high-speed electronic machine. They can carry around 3-4
million instruction per second. Even advanced computers can handle trillions of
instructions per second, cutting down the time to perform any digital tasks.

Accuracy: Computers are also known for their accurate performance. They can complete
the given jobs at almost 100% accuracy. Although errors may occur in computers, they
are usually caused by incorrect input, incorrect instructions, or bugs in chips. All of these
are human errors.

Storage Capacity: Computers can easily store a massive size of data. Modern
computers come inbuilt with high storage features compared to older days. Additional
data can be stored on secondary devices like external hard disks, or flash memory, etc.
Due to incredible speed, data can be retrieved from storage in no time.

Reliability: Computers are reliable and consistent; they can process the same tasks any
number of times without throwing any error. Computers don't get tired like humans, so
they are superior to perform rule-based, repetitive tasks.

Versatility: The variety of tasks that a computer can perform are almost infinite. That
means computers can perform different tasks back to back without making errors; they
are no longer just a computing machine. For one moment, a computer can be used to
perform data entry tasks or ticket booking, and the very next moment, it can be used for
complex mathematical calculations or continuous astronomical observations, etc.

Classification of Computer

Supercomputer: Supercomputers are the fastest and the most expensive type of
computer. They are large and require more space for installation. These types of
computers are mainly designed to perform massive data-based and complex tasks.
Supercomputers are capable enough to handle trillions of instructions at the same time.

Mainframe Computer: Mainframe computers are comparatively smaller in size as

compared to supercomputers. However, they are not much small. These types of
computers are designed to perform hundreds or thousands of jobs at a time
simultaneously. These computers can handle heavy tasks, including complex calculations
and can store vast amounts of data. They are best suited for big organizations such as
banking, telecom, and educational sectors.

Microcomputer: Microcomputers are cheap in price and support multi-user platform.

These are the general-purpose computers designed to handle all the necessary tasks of
individual needs. Since they are comparatively slower than mainframe computers,
thereby are suitable for small organizations. They are best suited for internet café,
schools, universities, offices, etc. A microcomputer is also referred to as the 'Personal
Computer (PC)' in general life. Laptop and desktop are examples of microcomputers.

Minicomputer: Minicomputers are also referred to as Miniframe computers. These are

the midsize multiprocessing computer designed purposely for easy carry. These types of
computers are light-weight and can fit in a small space. They are suitable for billing,
accounting, education, and business purposes. Since these minicomputers are easy to
carry, they are the best option for those who need a computer while traveling. Tablet PC,
Notebooks, and cell phones are examples of minicomputers.

Workstation: Workstation is a powerful, single-user computer. A workstation is a

personal computer with a faster microprocessor, a massive amount of RAM, higher-
quality monitors, high graphic memory, etc. This is best suited for performing any
specific type of task professionally. According to the type of tasks, a workstation can be
referred to as a music workstation, graphic workstation, or engineering design
workstation. Most businesses and professionals use workstations for performing tasks
like animation, music creation, video editing, poster designs, data analysis and more.

Advantages of Using Computer

o Computers can perform given tasks at incredible speed.
o Computers can perform the same task multiple times with the same accuracy.
o Computers allow doing several tasks simultaneously as they are best suited for
multitasking.
o Computers keep the stored data secure and inaccessible from unauthorized
users.
o Computers can automatically perform routine tasks with automation, making
humans available for more intelligent tasks.

Disadvantages of Using Computer

o Computers cannot work on their own. They need instructions from humans to
complete tasks. Moreover, computers follow the given instructions blindly
without thinking about the outcomes.
o Computers need a power supply to work. Without a power supply, they are just
useless.
o Working on a computer continuously for a long period can cause several health
issues.
o Wastage of computers and their parts leave a negative impact on the
environment.
o Computers are taking human jobs in many sectors. They are replacing human
work and thus increasing unemployment