CAT module 1.1 computers in our everyday lives
Why we use computers:
Efficiency:
Computers save the following:
-Time: work faster than people can.
-Labour: Computers have reduced the labour in mentally intensive tasks and can
perform tasks that are too dangerous for humans to perform.
-Resources: Resources cost money and computers can be programmed to work
more efficiently with resources.
Accuracy: As long as computers have quality data and quality programs they are
extremely accurate. If the software is correct the computer than perform tasks
over and over with 100% accuracy.
Reliability: Computers can be relied on to do tasks without getting tired, bored,
complaining or asking for more money.
Communication:
-Virtually eliminate time and distance as business constraints
-Communicate and share information in many different ways globally
-Save on communication costs: VOIP software cheaper than making telephone
calls.
-Interact socially on a world-wide scale.
Types of computer systems:
When comparing computers, one must look at the following factors:
-How powerful they are: this refers to the speed of the CPU and how much RAM
is installed.
-What they are used for: for example, some computers function as a server in a
network.
-Their size (mobility)
-The software they use.
Non-portable computers:
These computers generally consist of a system unit, mouse, screen and
keyboard.
They are large in size and not meant to be moved around.
The following are non-portable:
-A desktop computer
-Server
Portable computers:
A portable computer uses an additional operating system (windows, Linux,
MacOS) and hardware that is designed for portability. (all-in-one design).
Why we use computers:
Efficiency:
Computers save the following:
-Time: work faster than people can.
-Labour: Computers have reduced the labour in mentally intensive tasks and can
perform tasks that are too dangerous for humans to perform.
-Resources: Resources cost money and computers can be programmed to work
more efficiently with resources.
Accuracy: As long as computers have quality data and quality programs they are
extremely accurate. If the software is correct the computer than perform tasks
over and over with 100% accuracy.
Reliability: Computers can be relied on to do tasks without getting tired, bored,
complaining or asking for more money.
Communication:
-Virtually eliminate time and distance as business constraints
-Communicate and share information in many different ways globally
-Save on communication costs: VOIP software cheaper than making telephone
calls.
-Interact socially on a world-wide scale.
Types of computer systems:
When comparing computers, one must look at the following factors:
-How powerful they are: this refers to the speed of the CPU and how much RAM
is installed.
-What they are used for: for example, some computers function as a server in a
network.
-Their size (mobility)
-The software they use.
Non-portable computers:
These computers generally consist of a system unit, mouse, screen and
keyboard.
They are large in size and not meant to be moved around.
The following are non-portable:
-A desktop computer
-Server
Portable computers:
A portable computer uses an additional operating system (windows, Linux,
MacOS) and hardware that is designed for portability. (all-in-one design).
