Chapter 1 Flashcards
Overview of Computers and Programming
Computer
A programmable device that manipulates varieties of data
Hardware
A physical part of computer that was designed to be flexible as possible.
Software
A program that enable user to solve problems and perform a specific task through the execution of a set of instruction by the computer
BASIC components of computer SYSTEM
Hardware,
Software,
User
MAIN components of computer
Input Device,
Output Device,
Memory,
Central Processing unit (CPU)
Function of Main Memory
Stores Programs,
Data,
Result.
Types of memory
Random access memory (RAM),
Read only memory (ROM)
RAM role
Temporarily stores program and data while they are being executed or manipulated by the computer
RAM
Is a VOLATILE memory;
everything in RAM will be lost when the computer is switched off.
ROM
Is NON-VOLATILE memory;
the data stored do not disappear when the computer is switched off
ROM role
Stores information permanently within the computer.
Secondary storage
An additional storage to support main memory
Why secondary is needed?
Computer needs storage that is permanent;
information can be retained during a power loss or the
computer is turned off
CPU
Is a brain of computer
CPU perform
Data processing
Parts of CPU
Control Unit (CU), Arithmetic Logic Unit (ALU)
CU
Coordinates and controls all the other parts of
computer system
ALU
Perform mathematical operations and logic comparisons.
Input Devices
To enter data into the computer in many ways.
Output Devices
To display or print information
Output devices can be categorize to:
Softcopy,
Hardcopy
Computer Network
Medium for computers to communicate with one another via networks
Local Area Network (LAN)
Connects computers and other devices;
Allowing them to share information and resources such as printers, scanners, and secondary storage devices for intercommunication
Wide Area Network
A network that links many individual computer and local
area networks over a large geography area
System Software
A type of computer program that is designed to run a computer’s hardware and application programs.
Also known as the interface between the hardware and user applications.
Application Software
Any program, or group of programs, that is designed for the end user; also known as end-user program.
Special-Purpose Program
Created to execute one specific task
General-Purpose programs
Sometimes known as ‘off-the-shelf’ is the sort of software that you use at home and school
Software development
Used when creating software or system computer
Software development method
Step 1: Specify the problem requirements.
Step 2: Analyze the problem
Step 3: Design the algorithm to solve the problem
Step 4: Implement the algorithm
Step 5: Test and verify the completed program
Step 6: Maintain and update the program
