Fundamentals Of Computer System
Computers have become an integral part of our life; be it in
the form of desktop, laptop, tablet or a Smartphone. They are used for various
applications ranging from simple to complex calculations, video calling,
instant messaging, automated central heating/cooling systems, burglar alarms,
simulations, virtual reality and much more. Indeed, a computer is one of the
most brilliant inventions of mankind. Hence, they are used in various fields,
such as railways, airlines, banks, schools, universities, hospitals, research
centers and so on. It is also used by children for educational games, videos
and virtual lab activities. It is amazing to know and release how fast
technology has grown and that now with artificial intelligence, robots have
replaced humans in many jobs. In spite of a lot of tasks being done on a click,
we still feel the need for more memory, more speed and yet not find it enough.
The word computer comes from a Greek word 'compute' which means 'to calculate'.
It is a machine primarily designed to store and retrieves information; perform
arithmetic and logical operations to produce meaningful output in desired
format. Therefore, it is also referred as a data processor.
Characteristics of a Computer
You all know how powerful and intellectual machine a computer
is. It performs several tasks better than humans and in no time. The salient
characteristics of computers are as follows:
Speed
Computer is a very fast device. It takes only few seconds to
solve mathematical calculations that you take hours to complete. Computers can
process millions of instructions per second. The time taken by computers for
such operations is microseconds or nanosecond. Now, imagine how fast your
computer works.
Accuracy
Computers perform
calculations with 100% accuracy. It never makes mistakes. Errors may occur due
to data inaccuracy, inconsistency or due to human error. You will get wrong
result only if there is error in the instruction(s).
Diligence
A computer is a machine
and hence can perform millions of tasks or calculations with the same
consistency and accuracy. It does not feel any fatigue, tiredness and does not
lack concentration even after continuously working for hours. It can work for
hours without introducing any error. If millions of calculations are to be
performed, it will perform every calculation with the same accuracy. Its memory
also makes it superior to that of human beings.
Versatility
Versatility means the capability of a computer to perform different
kinds of work with same accuracy а and efficiency. Computers are used for
solving mathematical problems, create web sites, play videos and audios, create
documents, presentations, animations, manage huge database and so on. Apart
from being used for different tasks at different times they also can at the
same time perform calculations, play music, print documents, open a new
software, thus being a multi-tasker.
Reliability
A computer is reliable as it gives consistent result for
similar set of data i.e., if you give same set of input any number of times,
you will get the same result. They perform repetitive jobs efficiently.
Automation
Computer performs all the tasks without manual intervention. A
program defines its instructions.
Vast storage capacity
A computer has built-in memory called primary memory where it
stores data and secondary memory as removable storage devices, such as CDs, pen
drives, etc., which are also used to store large amount of data. Any
information can be stored and recalled as long as you require it, for any
numbers of years.
Limitations
of a Computer System
Not
able to take decision
Computers cannot think
on their own as it is a machine and it works on the instructions given by
humans/ user. It just processes the data and give the result. It cannot take
decisions on its own.
Zero IQ
Computers do not have
IQ (Intelligence Quotient), it is dependent to work on given step-by-step
instructions. Whatever set of instruction(s) is given, it just follows them.
Incapable to learn and implement
A human being learns
from his mistakes and past experiences, but a computer cannot. It will generate
the error until that incorrect instruction or program is corrected. It cannot
understand the difference between right and wrong.
Areas
of Application
It is a fact that
computers are very productive, efficient and make personal and professional
lives more rewarding. A computer due to high speed of calculation, diligence,
accuracy and versatility, it is an intergrated part in all the fields you can
think of.
Education
Most schools in the world have computers available for use in
the classroom. New and emerging technologies challenge the traditional process
of teaching and learning, and the way education is managed. Computers store
huge amounts of data in a very small space, shrinking shelves of reference
books down to a single flash drive. Students have access to a vast array of
data, online tutorials that can be uploaded to websites in written or video
form, making information more accessible.
The computer helps in providing a lot of facilities in the
education system. A few advantages are as follows:
· Use of
the new multimedia technologies to communicate ideas, describe projects and ICT
enabled course materials, such as e-books and online training materials,
enhances the process of learning.
· Enables
to study anytime, anywhere. One can study whenever he wants irrespective of
whether it is day or night and irrespective of being in India or in US. Other tasks or
projects could be carried out from multiple locations as one could access data
from anywhere.
· Easy to collaborate with peers, teachers or experts. You can
study in groups.
· Enhances
teacher training through online resources and sharing of teaching resources
among teachers.
· Facilitates
learning across the curriculum using interesting visual aids, such techniques
encourage the student to learn.
· Acquisition
of basic skills that improves confidence and enthusiasm.
· Promote
greater efficiency as the course and the teaching material could be shared
using the ICT mediums such as email, discussion groups and chat rooms.
·
Ease of learning and access of information to learners with
disabilities.
Business
Today, businesses use
technology to speed up their services and cut down on costs. They save money by
using technology to perform numerous tasks. For instance, when you compare the
amount of money spent on hiring an individual to accomplish a certain task and
then train him to be able to perform that function reliably, is often costly.
When it comes to technology, a small business can scale out and consistently
deliver more at high quality with less human resources, often equating less
cost. Computer is used in business for:
· Budgeting
·
financial
forecasting
·
Sales
analysis
·
managing
employee database
·
payroll
calculation
·
Maintenance
of stock, etc.
So, that’s all. In next blog we will Discuses on other
applications of computer.
Thank You !!
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