Post on 09-Apr-2018
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Typical Computer Ad
Is the computer fast enough to run necessary programs?
Is the computer cost-effective?
Will it be obsolete in 6 months
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What is a computer?
Historically, a computer was a job title, nota piece of equipment!Requirements of a computer: Process data Store data
Move data between the computer and theoutside world Control the operation of the above
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Computer Characteristics
1. Speed:
Extremely fast
Million instructions per second( billions also)MIPS architecture
It is calculated in MHz/GHz
In Secs a job: human being may do indays/years
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2. Accuracy
Very accurateDepends upon instruction and the type of
machine
Capable of doing what is instructed accurately,Therefore, GIGO
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3. Diligence
No trait of tiredness and lack of concentration (ashuman beings)
Even the millionth instruction is calculated withsame accuracy and speed.
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4. Reliability
Measurement of performancePredefined standard for operation without any
failure
It is reliable, No human intervention in-betweenBuilt in diagnostic capability
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5. Storage capability
Large amount of dataAlthough Small Main memory, virtually infiniteauxiliary storage in the form of Tape, Floppy,CD, flash, memory card etc.
Retrieve in the required information almostinstantaneously
Ex:Computer dictionary
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6. Versatility
Multiple tasks with equal easeoffice automation(text), music(sound),
games(video and graphics), scientific calculations,
CAD, CAM, modeling and simulation, navigatingsatellites and missions, communication, etc
provided its is programmed to do so
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7. Automation
Once a task is initiated, can proceed till the task gets
over.
flawless operations
execute programs in sequence, switch on off the
machines at appropriate time, monitor operationalparameters, send warning signals or take corrective
actions if the parameters exceed the control.
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8. Resource Sharing:
capability of connecting to each othercostly resources(scanners, printers etc) and
information(internet) can be shared.
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Computer limitations
Only performs what is programmed to do
Qualitative considerations are limitedReasoning is poor, cant think
Cant differentiate between sensible thing or
ridiculous.
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Ref Books
Introduction to computers Alexis Leon
Introduction to IT:ITL ESL Introduction to computers:Peter Norton
Foundations of computing:Sinha
How computers work:Computers Today: SAnders