Module 1.1: Computers in our everyday lives
Why we use computers:
Initially using a computerised solution is expensive & time consuming but in the long run it is more cost effective
Efficiency Computers save:
• Time: work faster than people can, perform ‘real-time’ tasks more effectively & quickly
• Labour: reduced labour for tasks that are mentally intensive/ repetitive physical tasks;
perform tasks that are dangerous for humans
• Resources: computers programmed to work efficiently with resources eg. sensors
Accuracy Requirement: quality programs & data -> 100% accuracy needed for mass production on
assembly
Reliability Computers can do tasks accurately without getting tired or bored, complaining, asking for more
money
Computers and their ability to communicate quickly & easily, enable us to:
• eliminate time & distance as business constraints
• communicate globally in different ways
• save on communication costs
• interact socially on world-wide scale
Types of computer systems
When buying computers, look at the following:
1. How powerful they are: CPU speed, amount of RAM installed, type of storage (SSD vs HDD), graphics card
2. Computer function: used as a server vs for basic office applications & internet
3. Size (mobility): mainframe computers, laptops, tablet, smartphone
4. Software: type of operating systems (OS) eg. Linux vs Windows
Computers
Non-
Portable
portable
desktop laptop/
server tablet
computer notebook
hybrid
smartphone
computer
phablet
Why we use computers:
Initially using a computerised solution is expensive & time consuming but in the long run it is more cost effective
Efficiency Computers save:
• Time: work faster than people can, perform ‘real-time’ tasks more effectively & quickly
• Labour: reduced labour for tasks that are mentally intensive/ repetitive physical tasks;
perform tasks that are dangerous for humans
• Resources: computers programmed to work efficiently with resources eg. sensors
Accuracy Requirement: quality programs & data -> 100% accuracy needed for mass production on
assembly
Reliability Computers can do tasks accurately without getting tired or bored, complaining, asking for more
money
Computers and their ability to communicate quickly & easily, enable us to:
• eliminate time & distance as business constraints
• communicate globally in different ways
• save on communication costs
• interact socially on world-wide scale
Types of computer systems
When buying computers, look at the following:
1. How powerful they are: CPU speed, amount of RAM installed, type of storage (SSD vs HDD), graphics card
2. Computer function: used as a server vs for basic office applications & internet
3. Size (mobility): mainframe computers, laptops, tablet, smartphone
4. Software: type of operating systems (OS) eg. Linux vs Windows
Computers
Non-
Portable
portable
desktop laptop/
server tablet
computer notebook
hybrid
smartphone
computer
phablet
