At the end of this lesson, you will be able to;
(a) define the term “computer” and “computer system”.
(b) identify computer peripherals and state their functions.
(c) draw a block diagram of the computer system.
(d) state the uses of the computer system.
(e) state the various places computer can be applied.
(f) list and explain characteristics of computer.
(g) list and explain users of the computer.
(h) mention the advantages and disadvantages of the computer.
Introduction
Modern technology uses the principle of accepting, processing, storing and bringing out data as information to solve complex human problems. Such a machine is reffered to as a computer.
What is a computer?
A computer is an electronic machine that accepts data, process and stores data and bring out the result as information.
• The computer as an electronic device implies that it makes use of electricity to function.
• The computer accepts input of data through input devices suck as keyboard, mouse. E.t.c
• The computer processes data in the central processing unit and stores it in its memory.
• The computer brings result of processed data through the output device e.g monitor.
What is a computer system?
Computer system is a collection of parts that make the whole computer. They are also referred to computer peripherals.
Identifying computer peripherals and their functions
The following peripherals makes up the computer system.
- Keyboard: The keyboard is a peripheral device that is made up of keys including alphabetic (A -Z) keys, numeric (0-9) keys, special characters and commands. It is used in typing and sending commands to the system unit.
The image below shows what a keyboard looks like. - Mouse: The mouse is a peripheral device that looks like a mouse (animal). It is used for pointing, clicking and dragging objects on the screen.
The image below shows what a mouse looks like.
The mouse has its buttons namely;
(a) Left mouse button: The left mouse button is used to point, click and drag objects on the screen.
(b) Right mouse button: The right mouse button is used in Microsoft word application to edit properties of text. It is used on the desktop to modify properties of application, files and folders. It can also be used in corel draw application for artistic design.
(c) And a roller in between: The roller is used to scroll up and down contents of the system.
Basic operations of the mouse
The following are the basic operations that can be carried out using the mouse.
i. Pointing: The mouse is used to point at system icons, folders, applications and files on the screen.
ii. Clicking: The mouse is mouse button enables the user of the system to click on icons, folders, applications and files on the screen.
iii. Dragging: The left button of the mouse enables the user of the system to hold and drag icons, folders, applications and files on the screen.