Basic Computer Fundamentals
Information Technology
What Is a Computer?
A computer is a programmable machine with two principal characteristics:
Computer.. Latin word.. Compute
Calculation Machine
It responds to a specific set of instructions in a well-defined manner.
It can execute a prerecorded list of instructions (a program).
A computer system includes a computer, peripheral devices, and software
Capabilities of Computers
Speed:
computer operates on data and commands at incredibly fast speed.
Storage:
computer can store enormous amount of data and information in its memory.
Reliability:
computers made of modern technology rarely breakdown and when they do, they are easily repaired.
Consistent:
if you input the same data into the computer using the same program, it will give you the same result all the time.
Communicate:
people can connect with others by the use of computers.
Information Processing System
DATA is a collection of independent and unorganized facts.
INFORMATION is the processed and organized data presented in a meaningful form.
DATA PROCESSING is the course of doing things in a sequence of steps.
COMPUTER is an electronic machine that follows a set of instructions in order that it may be able to accept and gather data and transform these into information.

PROCESSING SYSTEM
DATA
INFORMATION

Four Functions:
Input (Data): is the raw information entered into a computer from the input devices. It is the collection of letters, numbers, images etc.
Process:
is the operation of data as per given instruction. It is totally internal process of the computer system.
Output:
is the processed data given by computer after data processing. Output is also called as Result. We can save these results in the storage devices for the future use.
Storage:
is the area where data can be left on a permanent basis.