Basic Computer Information
The computer
Before you start it
helps to know what a computer is and a little about how it works.
You will probably be using a desktop computer that looks something like
this.
What you see is
simply a collection of electronic circuits, boxes and other components, known
as computer hardware.
The computer box
houses the parts that make the computer work. The other hardware components
connect to the computer box by cables. Some components put information into the
computer (the keyboard, mouse and scanner) and others output information (the
monitor, printer and speakers).
Storage of information
The computer
contains two different kinds of data storage: memory chips are for temporary
storage and disks are used for permanent storage.
Disk storage
Each computer has
its own internal hard disk, usually labeled C: drive. This is
where the computer
stores software programs and data files. Data stored on the hard disk is not
lost when the computer is switched off.
Data can also be
permanently stored in a range of portable devices, The most
Common is the usb pen drive.
Software
Software is the
name given to the sets of instructions that tell the computer what
to do. The machine itself (the hardware) is useless without software.
The Operating System
The operating
system (OS) is the most important set of instructions. It enables
the computer to
understand all the other instructions (programs) it receives.
When you turn on
your computer it is the OS software that gets the computer
going.
The OS for most
computers is Microsoft Windows. There are several different
Versions of
Windows®. Your computer may have Windows 98, Windows ME or
Windows XP.
Recycle Bin in
Windows
In the Microsoft Windows operating systems, the Recycle
Bin is a holding area for files and folders before final deletion from a
storage device.
Safety rules
In
the Computer lab you should observe basic safety rules.
1.
Report any hazards in the lab.
2.
Do not have food or drink near the computers at any time.
3. Always
shut down the computer via Windows’ Start button
4. Do
not use computer if the power cables are damaged. Only plug computers with a
reliable source of power.
5. Unplug
the computer or turn off the wall socket when the machine is not in use.
6. Always have at least two copies of all your important
files, in case the worse happens!
Electrical hazards
Electricity has long been recognized as a serious workplace hazard, exposing employees to electric shock, electrocution, burns, fires, and explosions.
Roughly half of
electrical incidents causing injury were caused by working directly on
energized electrical equipment.
Report faulty
equipment, do not use till properly repaired.
Key Devices for Personal Computer
System
Unit
System unit is the core unit of a
computer. It is the brain of the computer. To provide and see instruction it
needs some key components to be connected such as a keyboard, mouse, monitor
etc
.
Keyboard
The keyboard is an input device used
to enter in text, characters and other commands.
There are two types of common
connector’s available in the market to connect the keyboard to the system unit.
1) PS2 and
2) USB (Universal Serial Bus).
If this is a PS/2 keyboard, then it will
connect with the purple PS/2 board available in I/O Socket.
Mouse
Mouse is an input device that gives
commands into the computer to do selective work. It uses generally two types of
port as keyboard do. If this is a PS/2 mouse, then it will connect with the
green PS/2 board available in I/O Socket.
The mouse controls the arrow on the
screen.
The easiest way to control the mouse
is to cup your right hand firmly over it with your index finger resting lightly
on the left button.
Your mouse may have several buttons.
At this stage I will concentrate on the two main buttons.
·
The left button is
used for most actions – Clicking on objects, selecting text or menu options, or
for operations such as closing programs.
·
The right button is used to get a shortcut
menu.
Monitor
Printer
A Printer is an output device that
provides the output as a printed paper document. There are several types of
printer. Such as laser printer, dot matrix printer etc
Starting the computer
It is found in system unit to start a
computer process. When the system unit connected with all the key devices and
get power from power board, then if we press this button it will start the
computer.
1. Check if the
computer is on—look for lights on the front of the computer.
2. If has not been
turned on, find the power button and start the computer.
3. You should now
see the Windows desktop:
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