Chapter Outline

GETTING STARTED ON THE COMPUTER

I. Computer Classifications

1. Computers are divided into three categories: mainframes, minicomputers, and microcomputers. Primary differences among the categories are related to memory capacity, speed, capability, price range, and size. The categories have become blurred over time, because many new microcomputers have the same capabilities as old mainframes.
2. Computer classifications can be distinguished in terms of their uses:

II. What is a computer? (definitions and operations)

1. A computer is a machine that can handle large amounts of information at an incredible speed. Computers can only solve the problems they are programmed to solve.
2. A typical computer set-up might include a monitor, keyboard, mouse, printer, internal disk drive, hard disk drive, CD-ROM drive, modem, and speakers.
3. A computer performs four tasks.
4. The computer chip, synonymous with integrated circuit, is a silicon wafer that holds from a couple dozen to millions of electronic components.
5. The central processor is the computing part of the computer. A personal computer’s central processor, or CPU, is contained on one single chip called a microprocessor, smaller than a fingernail. This essential unit controls the way the computer operates and consists of these components:
6. The central processing unit needs memory as a way to store information while it is not being processed.
7. All computer input is converted into binary numbers consisting of two digits, 0 and 1, known as bits, short for binary digits. An instruction read as 1 tells the computer to turn on a circuit, and an instruction read as 0 tells the computer to turn off a circuit. The computer can represent letters, numbers, and symbols by combining individual bits into a binary code.
8. The most prevalent method of memory storage is the disk. The four most common types of storage devices are the 3.5" floppy, optical, hard drive, and zip disks. The number of tracks that are on a disk is a function of how accurately the disk is constructed, how fast it spins, how sensitive it is to magnetization, and so forth.
9. The operating system of a computer handles the transfer of data and programs to and from the computer’s disks. The operating system controls the computer’s components and allows them to communicate with each other. The abbreviation DOS stands for disk operating system.
10. Macintosh and Windows have different operating systems.
11. Basic system utilities on a computer are formatting, copying disks, copying files, and deleting files.

III. Getting started on a computer

1. Before users turn on a computer, they should familiarize themselves with the accepted sequence for turning most computers on and off. A computer checklist would include turning on the printer, monitor, other peripherals, and computer, in that order. When finished working, the user should remove any disk from the disk drive and turn off the computer, then turn off the printer, monitor, and peripherals.
2. Check the manual or read me document first for correct procedures.