The Basics

Basic Functions of a Computer:

- Receive Input: Accept information from the outside world.

- Process Information: Perform arithmetic or logical (decision-making) operations on information.

- Produce Output: Communicate information to the outside world.

- Store Information: Move and store information in memory.

Basic Components:

- Input Devices

- Keyboard and mouse

- output devices

- display or video monitor

- Printer

- Speakers

- CPU

Memory and Storage Devices:

- Primary storage: RAM

- Secondary storage: -Hard Disk

- CD

- Tape drives

Bits:

- Information

Communication that has value because it informs anything that can be communicated whether it has value or not.

Critical Thinking:

- Means correct thinking in the pursuit of relevant and reliable knowledge about the world.

-Ask appropriate questions.

- Gather relevant information.

- Efficiently and creatively sort through the information.

- Reason from this information.

- Come to a reliable and trustworthy conclusion.

Binary Number System:

- binary denotes all numbers with combinations of 2 digits.

- Decimal nuimbers are automatically converted into binary numbers and vice versa.

- Binary numbers processing is completely hidden from the user.

Bits and Codes:

- the most widely used code.

- An abbreviation of American standard Code for information interchange.

Unicode:

- A coding scheme that supports 65,000 unique characters.

Bits as instructions in Programs:

- programs are stored as collection of bits.

- Program instructions are represented in binary notation through the use of colors.

Green Computing:

- The manufacture of the hardware and software can have an impact on the environment.

- Buy green equipment (energy star)

- Use a notebook and a solar battery

- Use energy saving features

- Turn off the computer when your away.

- Screen savers dont save energy

- Print only once

- Recycle waste products