Introduction to Computer Science

INTRODUCTION The computer is fast becoming the universal machine of the 21st century. Early computers were large in size and too expensive to be owned by individuals. Thus they were confined to the laboratories and few research institutes.

There could only be programmed by computer engineers. The basic applications were confined to undertaking complex calculations in science and engineering.

Today, the computer is no longer confined to the laboratory. Computers and, indeed, computing have become embedded in almost every item we use. Computing is fast becoming ubiquitous. Its application transcends science, engineering, communication, space science, aviation, financial institutions, social sciences, humanities, the military, transportation, manufacturing, and extractive industries to mention but a few.

This unit presents the background information about computers.

OBJECTIVES

At the end of this unit you should be able to:

• define the computer
• explain data processing
• explain data and information
• identify methods of data processing
• mention the characteristics of a computer.

MAIN CONTENT

Definitions Computer: A computer is basically defined as a tool or machine used for processing data to give required information.

It is capable of:

1. taking input data through the keyboard (input unit),
2. storing the input data in a diskette, hard disk or other medium,
3. processing it in the central processing unit (CPU) and
4. giving out the result (output) on the screen or the Visual Display Unit (VDU). (DATA) (INFORMATION)

INPUT PROCESSING OUTPUT