Category: basics Of Computer Science

Basics of Computer Science – Multimedia ”; Previous Next In this chapter, we will discuss how the Computer Multimedia works. If a system presents, some information through more than two media, it is known as multimedia. For example, TV presents audio and video; book presents text, image, and graphs, computer, etc. The information presented through multimedia has better quality and capability, as it can be understood easily. The advanced computer system is a great example of modern multimedia. Literal Meaning of Multimedia In this section, we will understand the literal meaning of multimedia. Multi − it means more than one Medium − it is singular and it means intermediary or mean Media − it is plural and it means conveying the information Likewise, Multimedia is the field of Computer Science that integrates different forms of information and represents in the form of audio, video, and animation along with the traditional media, i.e., text, graphics/drawings, images, etc. Multimedia Computer System Multimedia computer system has high capacity to integrate different media including text, image, graphics, audio, and video. The multimedia computer system stores, represents, processes, manipulates, and makes available to users. Significant Features of Multimedia Computer System Following are the major features multimedia computer system − Its Central Processing Unit (CPU) is very fast, as it needs to process large amount of data. It has huge storage capacity. It has huge memory power that helps in running heavy data programs. It has high capacity graphic card that helps in displaying graphics, animation, video, etc. The sound system makes it easy to listen to audio. With all these features (discussed above), a computer system is known as high end multimedia computer system. However, all the features listed above are not essentially required for every multimedia computer system, but rather the features of a multimedia computer system are configured as per the need of respective user. Multimedia Components Following are the major components of a multimedia computer system − Text It contains alphanumeric and some other special characters. Keyboard is usually used for input of text; however, there are some internal (inbuilt) features to include such text. Graphics It is technology to generate, represent, process, manipulate, and display pictures. It is one of the most important components of multimedia application. The development of graphics is supported by a different software. Animation Computer animation is a modern technology, which helps in creating, developing, sequencing, and displaying a set of images (technically known as ‘frames’). Animation gives visual effects or motion very similar to that of a video file (see image given below). Audio This technology records, synthesizes, and plays audio (sound). There are many learning courses and different instructions that can be delivered through this medium appropriately. Video This technology records, synthesizes, and displays images (known as frames) in such sequences (at a fixed speed) that makes the creation appear as moving; this is how we see a completely developed video. In order to watch a video without any interruption, video device must display 25 to 30 frames/second. Multimedia Application Let us now see the different fields where multimedia is applied. The fields are described in brief below − Presentation With the help of multimedia, presentation can be made effective. E-books Today, books are digitized and easily available on the Internet. Digital Library The need to be physically present at a library is no more necessary. Libraries can be accessed from the Internet also. Digitization has helped libraries to come to this level of development. E-learning Today, most of the institutions (public as well as private both) are using such technology to education people. Movie making Most of the special effects that we see in any movie, is only because of multimedia technology. Video games Video games are one of the most interesting creations of multimedia technology. Video games fascinate not only the children but adults too. Animated films Along with video games, animated film is another great source of entertainment for children. Multimedia conferencing People can arrange personal as well as business meetings online with the help of multimedia conferencing technology. E-shopping Multimedia technology has created a virtual arena for the e-commerce. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science – Security ”; Previous Next Advancement of computer technology has radically changed the world; resultantly, most of the works whether it is matter of nation’s security system or buying a shoe online everything depends on computer. Such increased dependency also raises the issue of security, as most of the data is now stored in the computer system. Your computer systems store various sorts of data and hence if it is not secured, then you might be in for a big trouble. Why Do We Computer Security? Let us now see why do we need Computer security. It is required for the following major reasons − To prevent damage of the hardware. To prevent theft or damage of the installed software. To prevent theft or damage of stored data and information. To prevent the disruption of service. Likewise, security system keeps the computer system safe by protecting the installed software and the stored data (information). Protection of Data and Information Following are the important steps to protect data − Make backup of all your important files. Keep your system virus by using anti-virus software. Keep updating your computer system. Run disk defragmenter and disk cleanup on certain interval of time. Use a firewall. Use anti-spyware software. Further, if you use internet, then you need to take greater precaution. Consider the following points to understand the precautions that need to be taken − Do not click on any link that you don’t know (as it may be dangerous for your computer – virus attack). Do not open unauthorized an unlawful website (it may damage your computer system). Do not download unsolicited data from unknown website. What is Defragmentation? Frequent saving and deleting of file (data) from the hard disk creates problems in performance and also reduce the space; therefore, defragmentation again clean-up the drive and restore the system to run smoothly. Following are the simple steps of defragmentation − Disk Cleanup While browsing websites (on internet), many of the files get stored in the hard disk automatically (actually these stored files later help to reopen the website faster); besides some other cookies also get stored in the hard disk. All these stored files create problem along with eating space. So, disk cleanup process cleans all these files and releases the space occupied by these unwanted files. Following are the simple steps of disk cleanup − Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science – Extranet ”; Previous Next An extranet is a sort of personalized service, which is controlled and regulated by private network. This personalized and controlled technology provides access only to partners, vendors, and suppliers; sometimes, not essentially, but also to some specific customers. An extranet is a private network organization, which is actually the part of respective company’s intranet and its services are extended to users outside the company. Sometimes, it is also considered as a specialized technique to practice business with other companies and selling products to the customers. In order to do business with other business partners, extranet technology facilitates the intranet from one location to other and also provides security to data flow. An extranet service requires firewall server management in order to provide security and privacy. Features of Extranet Services Following are the significant features of extranet services − Extranet is an extended Internet service to the private business network. The services extend outside the corporate firewall. Sometimes, it can be referred to an Intranet, as it can be (partially) accessible to some outsiders (with permission). The technique of extranet links two (or more) business organizations who share common business goals. Application of Extranet Extranet can be applied for the following services − It facilitates collaborative business between two (or more) companies By using this technology, a joint training program (with other company) is conducted By using electronic data interchange, large volumes of data are shared swiftly It is used to share product catalogs especially with wholesalers Extranet service is also used in providing customer support It is used to share business news with partner companies Advantages of Extranet The advantages of Extranet services are as follows − It makes business (services) swift and faster. It helps greatly in improving the business communication. It helps in reducing the cost (especially in terms of stationery stuff). It helps in improving the efficiency and confidence of the employees. It reduces some big physical barriers (especially the geographical distance). Major Fields Using Extranet Following are some of the major fields that are using Extranet service on a large scale − Corporate houses Government offices Education centers Intranet is more localized, as only internal employees have the accessibility. In contrast, Extranet covers a wider area, as outsiders (such as partner, vendor, or even customer) have the authorized accessibility. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Computer Science: Development ”; Previous Next In this chapter, we will discuss the development in Computer Science chronologically. The following table lists down the development − Year Development 1959 Transistors: IBM 7090; IBM 1401 1962 NPN transistor 1963 Mouse; CMOS patented 1964 CDC 6600; IBM Data Cell Drive 1966 Integrated circuits: HP 2116A 1966 Apollo Guidance Computer 1969 Honeywell 316 1971 8″ floppy disk; ILLIAC IV 1973 Micral first microprocessor PC 1980 Sinclair ZX80, Seagate hard disk drive 1981 IBM PC, Acorn BBC Micro 1983 Apple Lisa; 3.5″ floppy 1984 Apple Mac; Apple Lisa 2 1988 Dell 1989 NeXT 1991 Apple Switches to PowerPC 1992 HP 95LX; Palmtop PC 1995 IBM Deep Blue chess computer 1996 USB 1.0 1997 Compaq buys Tandem; CD-RW 1998 iMac 2000 USB 2 2001 Apple iPod 2005 Mac Mini 2006 Apple transition to Intel 2007 iPhone 1 2008 USB 3.0 2010 Apple iPad 2012 IBM zEnterprise System Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science Online Test ”; Previous Next This Basics of Computer Science Online Test simulates a real online certification exams. You will be presented Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) based on General Knowledge Concepts, where you will be given four options. You will select the best suitable answer for the question and then proceed to the next question without wasting given time. You will get your online test score after finishing the complete test. Total Questions − 46 Max Time − 46 Min Start Test Previous Finish Test Next Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science – Applications ”; Previous Next A number of tasks in today’s world is computer based – filling an application, transferring fund, or doing online business everything can be done through computer application. Easily accessible and user friendly, computer applications process the required transactions very quickly and accurately. Computer applications are designed in such a simple manner that no qualification or training is required to use it; any person who can read and write can use computer application. Uses of Computer Applications In this section, we will discuss the different computer applications and their uses. On-line Application Real Time Application Business Application Online Applications Today, most of the applications are being accepted online, whether it is for opening a bank account, filling admission form, filling job application, etc. Following are the important forms of online applications − Banking Most of the banks are interlinked through computer networking and offer core banking facilities. Computer networking helps maintain accounts online, offers net banking facility, makes available online transactions facility, and offers digital signature facility, the biggest advantage being that ATM machines can dispense money anytime, etc. Ticket Booking Ticket booking has become easier with computer networking. Flight ticket, railway ticket, and even bus ticket can be booked online with simple and easy steps. Passport Application If you want to apply for a new passport, you can do it by yourself online. Besides, you can also apply for other essential documents online such as PAN card, Aadhaar Card, etc. Job Application Today, most of the applications (private as well as government) are being filled online. Many of the organizations also conduct competitive exams leading to employment online. Admission Application Most of the schools and universities have made their admission applications available online; they also accept fees online. Real-time Application Real-time application is a computer based application program that functions in a given period of time. Or in other words, in a given period of time, a user has to perform certain functions before the time lapses. For example, if you are making online transactions, then you have to provide the required information in a given time framework or else you will miss the chance. Following are significant examples of real-time application − Videoconferencing With this technology, people can connect with each other visually from different places. VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol) This technology helps to make telephone calls over digital computer networks. E-commerce transactions This technology helps in buying and selling products over the digital computer network. Online banking Online banking is virtual banking from any place with the help of computer networks. Instant messaging This is where messages can be exchanged over the Internet instantly. Online gaming This enables playing of games partially or completely over the Internet. Business Application Different businesses have different computer applications; however, a few applications such as for maintaining the data base (of respective business), keeping employees’ records, offering online business facilities, online promotions, etc. are the common features of almost every business organization. As such, introduction of computer technology has made business easier, simpler, and accessible 24×7. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Generations of Computer ”; Previous Next The development of computer systems is normally discussed as the development over different generations. With the succession of different generations, came the advancement in computer technology. Computer Generations Let us now discuss the development in Computer Technology over the different generations. First Generation The period 1940 to 1956, roughly considered as the First Generation of Computer. The first generation computers were developed by using vacuum tube or thermionic valve machine. The input of this system was based on punched cards and paper tape; however, the output was displayed on printouts. The first generation computers worked on binary-coded concept (i.e., language of 0-1). Examples: ENIAC, EDVAC, etc. Second Generation The period 1956 to 1963 is roughly considered as the period of Second Generation of Computers. The second generation computers were developed by using transistor technology. In comparison to the first generation, the size of second generation was smaller. In comparison to computers of the first generation, the computing time taken by the computers of the second generation was lesser. Third Generation The period 1963 to 1971 is roughly considered as the period of Third Generation of computers. The third generation computers were developed by using the Integrated Circuit (IC) technology. In comparison to the computers of the second generation, the size of the computers of the third generation was smaller. In comparison to the computers of the second generation, the computing time taken by the computers of the third generation was lesser. The third generation computer consumed less power and also generated less heat. The maintenance cost of the computers in the third generation was also low. The computer system of the computers of the third generation was easier for commercial use. Fourth Generation The period 1972 to 2010 is roughly considered as the fourth generation of computers. The fourth generation computers were developed by using microprocessor technology. By coming to fourth generation, computer became very small in size, it became portable. The machine of fourth generation started generating very low amount of heat. It is much faster and accuracy became more reliable. The production cost reduced to very low in comparison to the previous generation. It became available for the common people as well. Fifth Generation The period 2010 to till date and beyond, roughly considered as the period of fifth generation of computers. By the time, the computer generation was being categorized on the basis of hardware only, but the fifth generation technology also included software. The computers of the fifth generation had high capability and large memory capacity. Working with computers of this generation was fast and multiple tasks could be performed simultaneously. Some of the popular advanced technologies of the fifth generation include Artificial intelligence, Quantum computation, Nanotechnology, Parallel processing, etc. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science – Internet ”; Previous Next Internet is a system that interconnects the different computer systems across the world. It uses the Internet protocol suite to link devices located in different corners of the world. The Internet system carries an extensive range of information resources and services including World Wide Web (WWW), telephony, electronic mail, etc. It uses standard internet protocols, such as TCP/IP and HTTP, etc. An internal web comprises of all Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) nodes on a private network; for example, an organization’s LAN or WAN. Features of Internet Let us now discuss the features of Internet. The features are described below − Accessibility An Internet is a global service and accessible to all. Today, people located in a remote part of an island or interior of Africa can also use Internet. Easy to Use The software, which is used to access the Internet (web browser), is designed very simple; therefore, it can be easily learned and used. It is easy to develop. Interaction with Other Media Internet service has a high degree of interaction with other media. For example, News and other magazine, publishing houses have extended their business with the help of Internet services. Low Cost The development and maintenance cost of Internet service are comparatively low. Extension of Existing IT Technology This facilitates the sharing of IT technology by multiple users in organizations and even facilitates other trading partners to use. Flexibility of Communication Communication through Internet is flexible enough. It facilitates communication through text, voice, and video too. These services can be availed at both organizational and individual levels. Security Last but not the least, Internet facility has to a certain extent helped the security system both at the individual and national level with components such as CCTV camera, etc. Internet Software Internet Software comprises of all the tools needed for networking through computer. Following are a few important components of the Internet Software − Transmission Control Protocol/ Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Dialer Software Interment Browser Internet Applications Internet applications are server-based applications. Following are a few Internet Applications − World Wide Web (WWW) Electronic mail (e-mail) File Transfer Protocol (FTP) Telnet (i.e., log-in to the computer located remotely) Internet Relay Chat (IRC) (Real time video chatting) Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Electronic Commerce ”; Previous Next The advancement of computer technology and internet, domestic as well as international businesses are being fascinated towards these technologies. Today, most of the small or big businesses and domestic or international businesses offer their products and services through Internet. The business organizations these days have attractive and interactive website through which they promote and market their business. The facility of computer based technology and Internet collectively integrates the fragmented markets by offering them a common arena. Technology has further helped organizations in cost cutting and has also helped reduce the cost of products and services. Technology facilitates customers in buying products or services of their requirement by sitting at home or any place. What is Electronic Commerce? Electronic commerce or simply ecommerce is normally a process that involves facilitating the availability of products and services online. The users can search, choose, sell, buy from a wide range of options through Internet. The major activities of ecommerce are as follows − Selling products and services online (through internet) Buying products and services online Paying and accepting payment online Transaction of businesses and other services online Features of E-Commerce Following are the important features of ecommerce − It efficiently increases the business capability. It substantially reduces the cost. It perceptively increases the delivery services. It unbreakable solution of quick business transactions and office automation. It potentially increases the intra-business functionality. It competently increases the business communication. Types of E-Commerce Following are the major types of e-commerce businesses − Business-to-Business (B2B) It is conducted between two business firms. Business-to-Consumer (B2C) It is conducted between the business firm and the consumer. Consumer-to-Consumer (C2C) Consumer-to-consumer business deals happen between two consumers; there are certain websites that facilitate a common platform to both the consumers – one who wants to buy and one who wants to sell. Benefits of E-Commerce Let us now discuss the benefits of e-commerce − It facilitates free market. It is available 24×7. Its presence is global (there is no constrain of political boundary as such). Set up cost is substantially low. It provides user-friendly technology. It offers multiple opportunity parallel and simultaneously. It provides frugal facilities to promote and market businesses. It has features to offer market research facility. It makes customer relations management easier. It facilitates the provision of 24×7 customer care services. It provides fund transfer facility domestically as well as internationally with simple steps. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science – System ”; Previous Next A computer system is an integrated form of different components that work together to give a desirable result. It has different component and each works for a specific purpose; however, they generate a common result as required by the user. Components of Computer System Let us now understand the following basic components of a computer system. Hardware Software Humanware Firmware Bridgeware Hardware The physical components collectively form the hardware of a computer system. Hardware comprises of the equipment that helps in the working system of the computer. Following are the different types of hardware components (which have specific functions) − Monitor − It displays (visual) the result. CPU − It is the Central Processing Unit that controls the computer’s functions and transmits data. Motherboard − It is mainly accountable to establish communication between components and transmission of information. RAM − It is the Random Access Memory and responsible for the storage of programs that are currently running and also stores data temporarily. Hard Disk Drive − It is a permanent memory storage device. Floppy Disk Drive − It is hardly being used in recent times. Optical disks − It is a device that also store data. For example, CD, DVD, etc. Input & Output Device The following table categorically lists down the input and output device − Input Device Output Device Input Device Output Device Mouse Monitor Microphone Speaker Keyboard Printer Camera Earphone Scanner Projector Trackball Monitor Touchpad Plotter Joystick Monitor Software The hardware components can only function when software components are added to the computer system. Software is a program that performs different commands given by a user. Software is an intangible part of hardware and controls the sequence of operations. Types of Software Depending on the basic features and functionality, software can be categorized as − Operating Systems (OS) Application Software (AS) E-accessibility Software Let us now discuss the software components in brief. Operating System This software helps to load the basic program automatically as soon as the computer is started. Following are the major types of operating system − Operating Software Examples Microsoft Windows XP, Vista, etc. Mac OS X Panther, Cheetah, Snow leopard, etc. Linux Debian, Ubuntu, Fedora, Knoppix, etc. Application Software The software, which can be used on an installed operating system, is known as application software. Following are the significant examples of application software − Application Software Examples Office programs Microsoft Office, OpenOffice, LibreOffice, etc. Web browser Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Opera, Safari, etc. Antivirus Program Norton, McAfee, Quick Heal, Avira, Kaspersky, etc. E-accessibility Software The E-accessibility software components additional facilities to users such as − Voice recognition software Screen reader Magnifying tool On-screen keyboard Video games Learning software, etc. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;