Summary

1. Explain the many uses for computers in modern life. Computers are used in business and government around the world. There are the computers we see and those we don't — both large and small, from banking to auto brakes.

2. Describe the components that make up all computers. The system unit is where the computer electronics are stored. The keyboard is used to enter data and instructions. The monitor or video display screen is where you see your work. A separate printer provides a finished copy of the results.

3. Name and identify the different types of computers. The personal computer, or microcomputer as it is sometimes called, is designed for use by a single individual. It's usually small enough to fit on a desktop and is affordable for the average person. The minicomputer is a versatile computer designed so that more than one person can use it at the same time. It is a smaller, less expensive alternative to the mainframe. A mainframe is a large, general-purpose computer capable of performing many tasks simultaneously, while permitting hundreds, even thousands, of people to use if at the same time. The supercomputer is a special type of computer that is commonly used to perform a single, very complex task that requires massive processing power.

4. Understand the difference between data and instructions. Data is defined as facts and numbers suitable for communication or interpretation. An instruction is typically a group of characters the computer understands.

5. Describe the five data processing steps. When we give the computer either instructions or data, it is called input. The computer executes the instructions, which is processing. The product of the processing, or the answer we seek, is termed output. One additional step is storage, or holding the data in computer memory. This may be for a short, indefinite period or permanently, depending on the type of storage we choose. The final step is called results, or presenting the data in a form that a person can use. Most commonly, the results are displayed on the monitor or printed on the printer.

6. Name the two types of software. One is system software, which controls the computer's primary operations. The other form computer software takes is application software, the programs we use to produce useful work.