Introduction Flashcards
how is data processed into information?
The data is coded into a format that can be used understood by the instructions of the Computer for processing.
list three examples of data.
numerical (numbers)
Symbols, image, characters
voice, text
what is data?
data is unprocessed information or data that has to be input into the computer for processing.
it can also be signed as unprocessed facts or figures, a collection of characters, numbers or other symbols.
list output devices and functions
Output devices are hardware components that receive data from a computer system and display or produce the output in a human-readable form. Examples of output devices include:
- Monitor (display screen)
monitors- provide visual content, providing users with graphial user interface.
printer-produce physical copies of documents and graphics, facilitating document dissemination and archival
speaker- output audio content, enabling users to listen to music, watch videos and engage in multimedia experiences.
projecter- displays visual content on large screens or surfaces, suitable for presentations and multimedia displays.
what are output devices
hardware devices that display or present data generated by a computer system, such as monitors, printers, speakers, and projectors.
Output devices are hardware components that receive data from a computer system and display or produce the output in a human-readable form.
what are the functions of the following input devices.
keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, microphone,camera, scanner
Keyboard: input text and commands. Mouse: move cursor and interact with objects. Touchscreen: direct manipulation of objects on screen. Microphone: input audio. Camera: capture images and videos. Scanner: digitize physical documents.
list input devices, what they are and there functions.
Input devices include keyboards, mice, scanners, webcams, microphones, etc. They allow users to input data into a computer for processing and interaction
which Computer is more popular and why?
Digital Computer is more popular because they are universal.
compare and contrast between analogue Computers and digital Computers
analogue Computers are employed to measure changing conditions like pressure, temperature and humidity and convert the numerical into quantities within a range, while digital Computers are universal.
-analogue Computers are used for specific technological applications, while digital Computers can be used in many different applications.
analogue Computers use continuous data representations (e.g voltage, mechanical movements), while digital Computers use discrete binary representations
analogue Computers are less precise due to the susceptibility of continuous values to noise and degradation., while digital Computers are highly precise and reliable due to the use of binary logic and error correction.
list and describe two types of computers
there are two types of computers namely analogue Computers and digital Computers.
analogue Computers- are Computers that measure changing conditions like temperature, pressure and humidity.
Digital Computers- are computers that give precise and measurable results
Compare and contrast between analogue and digital Computers
Computers can be classified into two main types: analogue and digital. Each type has its unique way of processing data, distinct strengths, and specific applications. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for appreciating their respective roles and contributions to technological advancements.
How They Work:
- Data Representation: Analogue computers process data using continuous physical quantities such as electrical voltages, mechanical movements, or hydraulic pressures. They simulate physical systems and processes directly.
- Example: Consider a thermometer with mercury. The mercury level moves smoothly to indicate the temperature, representing continuous data.
Precision and Accuracy:
- Less Precise: Analogue computers are less precise because they rely on continuous values, which can be influenced by external factors like noise, temperature variations, and wear of mechanical parts.
- Example: A slight impurity in the mercury or a tiny error in the mechanical system can affect the reading.
Speed and Efficiency:
- Fast for Certain Tasks: These computers can be very fast for specific tasks, especially those involving real-time simulations of physical systems, such as solving differential equations or modeling fluid dynamics.
- Example: Early flight simulators used analogue computers to replicate aircraft controls and responses instantaneously.
Applications:
- Specialized Uses: They are primarily used in scientific research, engineering, and control systems where real-time data processing is crucial.
- Example: Engineers might use analogue computers to simulate and analyze the behavior of a bridge under various loads.
Examples:
- Slide Rules: Tools for performing mathematical calculations.
- Mechanical Integrators: Devices for solving mathematical problems, especially in calculus.
- Early Flight Simulators: Used by pilots for training by mimicking real aircraft behavior.
How They Work:
- Data Representation: Digital computers use binary code (0s and 1s) to represent and process data. They rely on digital circuits and binary logic.
- Example: Imagine a series of light switches that can be either on (1) or off (0). Digital computers use combinations of these states to represent complex information.
Precision and Accuracy:
- Highly Precise: Digital computers are highly precise due to their use of binary data, which minimizes errors caused by noise or other interferences.
- Example: A digital thermometer gives an exact reading, like 98.6°F, with minimal chance of error.
Speed and Versatility:
- Very Fast and Versatile: Modern digital computers are extremely fast and capable of handling a wide variety of tasks, from simple calculations to complex scientific simulations.
- Example: Smartphones can run multiple applications, access the internet, play games, and perform numerous tasks quickly.
Applications:
- Everyday and Professional Use: Digital computers are used universally, from personal and educational uses to business and scientific research.
- Example: They are essential for tasks like word processing, gaming, data analysis, and running complex algorithms.
Examples:
- Personal Computers (PCs): Used for general computing tasks at home and work.
- Smartphones: Portable devices used for communication, entertainment, and productivity.
- Servers: High-performance computers that manage networks and store data for websites and applications.
Data Representation:
- Analogue: Uses continuous data (e.g., voltages).
- Digital: Uses discrete binary data (0s and 1s).
Precision and Accuracy:
- Analogue: Less precise due to susceptibility to noise and physical degradation.
- Digital: Highly precise and reliable because of binary data and error correction.
Speed and Efficiency:
- Analogue: Can be faster for real-time simulations.
- Digital: Generally faster and more versatile across a wide range of applications.
Applications:
- Analogue: Specialized scientific and engineering tasks.
- Digital: Everyday computing, business operations, scientific research, and more.
Examples:
- Analogue: Slide rules, mechanical integrators, early flight simulators.
- Digital: Personal computers, smartphones, servers.
Analogue and digital computers serve different purposes and excel in various contexts. Analogue computers are ideal for real-time simulations and specific scientific tasks but lack precision. Digital computers, however, offer high precision, versatility, and are integral to modern technology in virtually every field. Understanding these differences underscores the evolution of computing and the specific roles each type plays in technological development.
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What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic device which accepts data or unprocessed information as output and process it and gives it out as output called information.
