Digital Literacy: Computer Basics

Essential Question:What are the functions and components of

operating systems, programs, and networks?

HardwareThe components of the computerMade up of the following:

Input DevicesProcessing DevicesStorage DevicesOutput Devices

Hardware includes:Keyboard, mouse, motherboard, monitor, hard

disk drive, cables and printer

CPUCentral Processing UnitThe brains of the computerProcesses input to perform calculations and

produce output

MotherboardA large circuit board that connects input,

output, and processing devicesPathways that allow data to pass through

various componentsContains chips to determine how, when, and

where data can flow through the computer

Computer NeedsTwo things computer need:

Hardware The physical parts of the computer

Software Instructions sent to hardware to perform tasks

Operating System SoftwareThe most important software on the

computer (computer can not work without)What does it do?

Controls and manages hardwareProvides an interface that helps you interact

with the computerEnsures your computer is working properly

Example: Windows Vista

Graphical User Interface(GUI)Used by most operating systemsDisplays images and pictures that allow you

to interact with a computer easily

Updating SoftwareIt is important to keep your software up to

date.Keeping it up to date will keep the software

and new hardware compatible

Computer PlatformIncludes Hardware and Operating System

SoftwareAllows for the use of Programs

AKA ApplicationsPerforms very specific tasks

ApplicationsUsed for:

Writing lettersDoing calculationsSending E-mailCreating illustrations (drawings)Playing gamesWatching moviesCommunicating with other computers

Example: Mircrosoft Office Word 2007 (allows you to type a letter

Used to process data you provide as input

DataInformation entered into the computerExamples:

TextGraphicsAudioVideo

NetworksA group of computers and associated devices linked together to facilitate sharing information

Components:Server

Main computer on the network Provides services to other computers on the network Decides which computers have access to hardware and software on

the networkWorkstation

Computer connected to network Used to access hardware and software

Communication Channel Path or link that connect computers or peripheral devices (printers

and disk drives) to transfer data Cables are most common, but can be wireless

Types of NetworksLAN

Local Area NetworkConnects computers within a limited areaExample: Home or small office group

WAN• Wide Area Network• Connects devices in a geographically separated area

• Connects two or more LANs• Example: Internet

InternetWorldwide collection of public networks linked to each

other for information exchangeOriginally began to allow communication between the

government and educational departments in the United States

Services Provided:File transfersElectronic Mail (E-Mail)WWW (World Wide Web)Search and apply for jobsWatch moviesBuy and sell Products

The World Wide WebSpecially formatted documents that are

interlinked and stored on servers around the world.

IntranetType of network to communicate and share

information within an organization.Designed to be used by authorized users

(generally employees of a company)Smaller than the InternetServices Provided:

Document distributionSoftware distributionAccess to databasesTraining