1A-*The Computer DefinedElectronic deviceConverts data into informationModern computers are digitalTwo digits combine to make dataBit/Nibble/Byte/Word etcASCII /Uni Code Older computers were analogA range of values made data

1A-*Computers For Individual UseDesktop computersThe most common type of computerSits on the desk or floorPerforms a variety of tasksWorkstationsSpecialized computersOptimized for science or graphicsMore powerful than a desktop

1A-*Computers For Individual UseNotebook computersSmall portable computersWeighs between 3 and 8 poundsAbout 8 by 11 inchesTypically as powerful as a desktop

1A-*Computers For Individual UseTablet computersNewest development in portable computersInput is through a penRun specialized versions of office products

1A-*Handheld computersVery small computersPersonal Digital Assistants (PDA)Note taking or contact managementData can synchronize with a desktopSmart phonesHybrid of cell phone and PDAWeb surfing, e-mail accessComputers For Individual Use

1A-*Computers For OrganizationsNetwork serversCentralized computerAll other computers connectProvides access to network resourcesMultiple servers are called server farmsOften simply a powerful desktop

1A-*Computers For OrganizationsMainframesUsed in large organizationsHandle thousands of usersUsers access through a terminal

1A-*Computers For OrganizationsMinicomputersCalled midrange computersPower between mainframe and desktopHandle hundreds of usersUsed in smaller organizationsUsers access through a terminal

1A-*Computers For OrganizationsSupercomputersThe most powerful computers madeHandle large and complex calculationsProcess trillions of operations per secondFound in research organizations

1A-*Computers In SocietyMore impact than any other inventionChanged work and holiday activitiesUsed by all demographic groupsComputers are important because:Provide information to usersInformation is critical to our societyManaging information is difficult

1A-*Computers In SocietyComputers at homeMany homes have multiple computersMost (American) homes have InternetComputers are used forBusinessEntertainmentCommunicationEducation

1A-*Computers In SocietyComputers in educationComputer literacy required at all levelsComputers in small businessMakes businesses more profitableAllows owners to manageComputers in industryComputers are used to design productsAssembly lines are automated

1A-*Computers In SocietyComputers in governmentNecessary to track data for populationPolice officersTax calculation and collectionGovernments were the first computer users

1A-*Computers In SocietyComputers in health careRevolutionized health careNew treatments possibleScheduling of patients has improvedDelivery of medicine is safer

Copyright 2006 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. All rights reserved.McGraw-Hill Technology Education

Reference Book:Introduction to Computers , Peter NortonMcGraw-Hill.

www.mhhe.com/peternorton

*Insider informationSystem units are commonly called cases. Many computer enthusiasts customize or mod their cases with windows and lights. See www.casemodgod.com for examples of cases and products.

Sun Microsystems makes the most popular workstations on the planet. Suns systems are used in diverse applications such as medical imaging and CGI (computer generated image) animation.

*Discussion pointHave students contrast desktop and notebook computers. Focus on the pros and cons of each type of computer. *Teaching tipThe tablet PC was designed to simulate a piece of paper. Users interact with the tablet as if it was an unlimited paper notebook.For more informationSee www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/tabletpc/evaluation/tours/default.mspx for an example of the Tablet PC in action. *Teaching tipAt this point, refer the students to the productivity tip on page 13. This tip helps the student determine what type of PC is best for them. *Teaching tipStudents have a hard time understanding trillions of calculations. A simple explanation is to add 1 trillion random numbers together in a second. Contrast the speed of a super computer to the fastest desktop computer advertised during the week of class. *Insider informationThe 2000 Census determined that 51% of American households had computers. Over 42% of these households also had Internet access. This can be contrasted to 36% and 18% in 1997. See www.census.gov/prod/2001pubs/p23-207.pdf for more information. *Insider information Specialized mountain bikes are designed on Sun workstations. *Teaching tipMost state departments of motor vehicles rely on a mainframe computer. Officers access the mainframe from a remote intelligent terminal. *Discussion pointPage 19 of the text introduces the first Norton Notebook, the Merging of Media and Meaning. The author draws an analogy between electricity and computers in our lives. Discuss with your students how difficult live would be without either of these devices. Remember that computers exist in nearly all of our modern devices, including cars, phones, kitchen appliances and entertainment devices.