Monya Le Hanie
,Theory:
Section 1: System Technologies
Module 1.1: Computers in our everyday lives
1. Why we use computers
The reasons for using computers can be summarised in three words: efficiency, accuracy and
reliability.
Another reason is that computers have become an important means of communication.
1.1. Efficiency, accuracy and reliability
Efficiency
Computers save the following:
- Time:
Computers and computer controlled machines work faster than people can.
A wide range of time consuming tasks can be performed much faster with the aid
of computers.
Computerised solutions save time.
- Labour
Computers have reduced the labour involved in mentally intensive tasks and in
repetitive physical tasks.
They can also perform tasks that could be dangerous for people to perfrom
themselves.
- Resources
Resources include everything from electrical power, the air wê breathe en
production materials to something as simple as the paper we use in an office.
Resources cost money and computers can be programmed to work môre
efficiently with resources.
E.g. technology can also be used to monitor and limit carbon emissions in
factories and cars, keeping the air we breathe cleaner.
Accuracy
As long as computers have quality programs and quality data, they are extremely accurate.
Accuracy that is repeatable is essential in mass production on assembly lines.
If the software is correct, the computer can perform the same tasks over and over with 100%
accuracy.
Reliability
Computers can be relied on to do tasks accurately, without timing, getting bored, complaining
or asking for more money.
Computers can be relied on as they don’t have a family or need a vacation.
1
, 1.2. Communication
The efficiency, accuracy and reliability of computers, combined with the ability to communicate,
enable us to:
o Virtually eliminate time and distance as business constraints
The global reach and speed of computer-based communications mean that
distance is now only relevant when transferring physical goods.
Communication is no longer restricted by time or distance.
o Communicate and share information in many different ways globally
ICT gives us a wide range of communication methods.
E.g. via files, websites, video conferencing
o Save on communication costs
We can use VoIP software like Skype to make calls at a fraction of the cost of a
traditional telephone call.
A document can be sent or shared with people all over the world electronically
as a fraction of the cost (or even for free) via the internet.
o Interact socially on a world-wide scale
Social networking tools (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) and blogs
(online journals) are used to share and connect socially with others all over the
world.
People can generate friendships and contacts far beyond the limits of their local
communities.
2. Types of computers systems
When you want to compare computers with each other you should look at factors such as the
following:
o How powerful they are – this usually refers to the specifications of the computers, lije
the speed of their CPUs, and how much RAM they have installed.
o Purpose – some computers function for example as servers in a network, while others
are used for basic office appilcations and the internet
o Size (mobility) – computers can range from huge (mainframe) computers that fill large
rooms to laptops, tablets and smartphones.
o Software used – operating systems (‘platforms’), ‘Linux machines’ or ‘Windows
machines’
Categories:
o Non-portable
o Portable
o Mobile computing devices
2
, 2.1. Non-portable computers
Generally consist of a system unit, screen, mouse and keyboard.
(Some all-in-one models have the system unit built into the screen, e.g. Apple iMac).
Are large in size – not meant to be moved around and are generally more powerful than mobile
or portable computers.
The all-in-one units are easier to transport and take up less space, but are more difficult to
repair or upgrade.
Types of non-portable computers:
Desktop Most people buy desktop when they buy a non-portable computer.
Available in all sorts of configurations.
Computers with lower specifications (such as less processing speed, memory and
storage) cost less.
Server Powerful computer used to provide resources and services to all the computers that
are linked together in a network.
Workstations High-end desktops, high specifications.
Designed for technical use.
CAD (Computer aided design) – architecture.
What is an entry-level computer?
- All types of computers have an entry-level model.
Cheapest to purchase in their range, they have low hardware
specifications.
Often installed with so-called Home Editions of office suites and
operating systems.
- Specifications change over time.
3
,Theory:
Section 1: System Technologies
Module 1.1: Computers in our everyday lives
1. Why we use computers
The reasons for using computers can be summarised in three words: efficiency, accuracy and
reliability.
Another reason is that computers have become an important means of communication.
1.1. Efficiency, accuracy and reliability
Efficiency
Computers save the following:
- Time:
Computers and computer controlled machines work faster than people can.
A wide range of time consuming tasks can be performed much faster with the aid
of computers.
Computerised solutions save time.
- Labour
Computers have reduced the labour involved in mentally intensive tasks and in
repetitive physical tasks.
They can also perform tasks that could be dangerous for people to perfrom
themselves.
- Resources
Resources include everything from electrical power, the air wê breathe en
production materials to something as simple as the paper we use in an office.
Resources cost money and computers can be programmed to work môre
efficiently with resources.
E.g. technology can also be used to monitor and limit carbon emissions in
factories and cars, keeping the air we breathe cleaner.
Accuracy
As long as computers have quality programs and quality data, they are extremely accurate.
Accuracy that is repeatable is essential in mass production on assembly lines.
If the software is correct, the computer can perform the same tasks over and over with 100%
accuracy.
Reliability
Computers can be relied on to do tasks accurately, without timing, getting bored, complaining
or asking for more money.
Computers can be relied on as they don’t have a family or need a vacation.
1
, 1.2. Communication
The efficiency, accuracy and reliability of computers, combined with the ability to communicate,
enable us to:
o Virtually eliminate time and distance as business constraints
The global reach and speed of computer-based communications mean that
distance is now only relevant when transferring physical goods.
Communication is no longer restricted by time or distance.
o Communicate and share information in many different ways globally
ICT gives us a wide range of communication methods.
E.g. via files, websites, video conferencing
o Save on communication costs
We can use VoIP software like Skype to make calls at a fraction of the cost of a
traditional telephone call.
A document can be sent or shared with people all over the world electronically
as a fraction of the cost (or even for free) via the internet.
o Interact socially on a world-wide scale
Social networking tools (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) and blogs
(online journals) are used to share and connect socially with others all over the
world.
People can generate friendships and contacts far beyond the limits of their local
communities.
2. Types of computers systems
When you want to compare computers with each other you should look at factors such as the
following:
o How powerful they are – this usually refers to the specifications of the computers, lije
the speed of their CPUs, and how much RAM they have installed.
o Purpose – some computers function for example as servers in a network, while others
are used for basic office appilcations and the internet
o Size (mobility) – computers can range from huge (mainframe) computers that fill large
rooms to laptops, tablets and smartphones.
o Software used – operating systems (‘platforms’), ‘Linux machines’ or ‘Windows
machines’
Categories:
o Non-portable
o Portable
o Mobile computing devices
2
, 2.1. Non-portable computers
Generally consist of a system unit, screen, mouse and keyboard.
(Some all-in-one models have the system unit built into the screen, e.g. Apple iMac).
Are large in size – not meant to be moved around and are generally more powerful than mobile
or portable computers.
The all-in-one units are easier to transport and take up less space, but are more difficult to
repair or upgrade.
Types of non-portable computers:
Desktop Most people buy desktop when they buy a non-portable computer.
Available in all sorts of configurations.
Computers with lower specifications (such as less processing speed, memory and
storage) cost less.
Server Powerful computer used to provide resources and services to all the computers that
are linked together in a network.
Workstations High-end desktops, high specifications.
Designed for technical use.
CAD (Computer aided design) – architecture.
What is an entry-level computer?
- All types of computers have an entry-level model.
Cheapest to purchase in their range, they have low hardware
specifications.
Often installed with so-called Home Editions of office suites and
operating systems.
- Specifications change over time.
3
