Category: basics Of Computer Science

Data Processing ”; Previous Next Collection, manipulation, and processing collected data for the required use is known as data processing. It is a technique normally performed by a computer; the process includes retrieving, transforming, or classification of information. However, the processing of data largely depends on the following − The volume of data that need to be processed The complexity of data processing operations Capacity and inbuilt technology of respective computer system Technical skills Time constraints Methods of Data Processing Let us now discuss the different methods of data processing. Single user programming Multiple programming Real-time processing On-line processing Time sharing processing Distributed processing Single User Programming It is usually done by a single person for his personal use. This technique is suitable even for small offices. Multiple Programming This technique provides facility to store and execute more than one program in the Central Processing Unit (CPU) simultaneously. Further, the multiple programming technique increases the overall working efficiency of the respective computer. Real-time Processing This technique facilitates the user to have direct contact with the computer system. This technique eases data processing. This technique is also known as the direct mode or the interactive mode technique and is developed exclusively to perform one task. It is a sort of online processing, which always remains under execution. On-line Processing This technique facilitates the entry and execution of data directly; so, it does not store or accumulate first and then process. The technique is developed in such a way that reduces the data entry errors, as it validates data at various points and also ensures that only corrected data is entered. This technique is widely used for online applications. Time-sharing Processing This is another form of online data processing that facilitates several users to share the resources of an online computer system. This technique is adopted when results are needed swiftly. Moreover, as the name suggests, this system is time based. Following are some of the major advantages of time-sharing processing − Several users can be served simultaneously All the users have almost equal amount of processing time There is possibility of interaction with the running programs Distributed Processing This is a specialized data processing technique in which various computers (which are located remotely) remain interconnected with a single host computer making a network of computer. All these computer systems remain interconnected with a high speed communication network. This facilitates in the communication between computers. However, the central computer system maintains the master data base and monitors accordingly. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Software Programming ”; Previous Next In order to make a computer functional, a set of instructions need to be programmed, as these programmed languages are carriers to the performance of a task. Likewise, a computer accepts users’ instructions in the form of computer programming and then carries out the given task. Features of Software Programming A computer program, which actually is a set of instructions and helps computer to perform a specific task, has the following basic features − It ensures the given instructions are performed successfully. It ensures the given instructions are performed in sequential order. Explains the input (data) given is correct or insufficient and accordingly gives the result. It is written with high level language. Steps to Development of Program Development of programming language is entirely dependent on the kind of problem and requirement. However, development of a programming language normally (not essentially, but) includes the following steps − Defining the Problem This the first step, wherein the problem has to be defined. Analysis of Task and Methods Once the problem is defined, the developer analyzes and develops various solutions in order to solve the problem and finally, the best feasible solution is developed. Development of Algorithm Algorithm is a proper technique that illustrates the right solution in logical and feasible steps. Algorithm is normally done in the form of flowcharts and pseudo codes. Verification of Algorithm Once the algorithm is developed, it cannot be applied directly rather primarily it needs to be tested specially for the accuracy. If there is any error, it is rectified and solved in the beginning itself. The verification process saves time, money, and energy. Coding Once the basic processes and steps are completed successfully, then the actual coding of a program starts in the given programming language. Testing of Program Testing of the development of program code is another essential feature, as it is bound with errors; hence, testing makes it error free. The developer keeps testing and correcting the coding until he/she develops it finally. Documentation Once the coding and programming is done successfully, it is the job of the developer to document all these features and steps. The documented program instructs users on how to run and operate the respective program. Implementation Once the above steps are executed successfully, the developed codes (programming language) are installed in the computer system for the end users. The users are also manuals – explaining how to run the respective programs. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Windows Desktop Elements ”; Previous Next Once you are logged in a window computer system, you will get dozens of applications, so you can choose an option of your requirement. Many of the options have shortcut icon readily available on your computer screen; however, in some computers, you may not find any such option on the screen; in such a case, you can take the help of menu button (as shown in the image given below) − As you can see in the above image, in the left bottom, there is a window symbol (i.e., menu button); once you click on it, the given menu option will appear and from here you can choose your option. Start Menu Options The following table lists down the options that appear after clicking on the Start menu − Sr.No. Option & Description 1 All programs It displays all those programs, which are installed in your system. 2 Document It displays a list of folders used by the user. 3 Recent file It displays the recently used file. 4 My picture It displays a list of pictures. 5 My music It displays a list of music/song, etc. 6 My computer It displays the drives of computer where user keeps his/her work, file, folder, song, video, picture, e-book, etc. 7 Control panel It displays all the installed computer programs (software). 8 Printer It displays the installed printers (if printer is installed in the system, user can take print easily). 9 Help (support) It helps users to know how to do a particular task. 10 Search It helps a user to find a file in computer. 11 Run It helps to start an application program or execute a DOS command. 12 Setting It has different options that help to manage different settings of the computer, software as well as hardware. 13 Log Off It helps a user to log off the currently logged in user of the system. 14 Sleep It makes the system non-functional; however, puts the ongoing work and settings in memory and also keeps drawing small amount of power. 15 Hibernation Hibernation puts the open documents and programs on hard disk and then turns off your computer; in comparison to ‘sleep’, it uses very low power. 16 Restart Its function is to shut down and again start (log on) computer; it is done normally to refresh computer especially when computer is hanged. 17 Shut down It simply shuts down the system. Note − Depending on the version of your window, the menu option may vary in terms of appearance and number of menu options; however, there would not be any change in basics. Recycle Bin Recycle Bin is a trash location where deleted files remain stored. Once you delete any sort of file, it gets stored (automatically) into recycle bin; therefore, if you mistakenly deleted some important file, don’t panic, go to recycle bin and restore it. However, if you deleted file from recycle bin as well, then it is very difficult to restore that permanently deleted file. Internet Option The option (i.e., short-cut key) of the Internet browser may be available on the main screen or at the bottom menu bar (as shown in the image given below). However, if do not find it at both these places, go to the menu, as all programs are listed there. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Types of Computer ”; Previous Next All the computers that are developed are not alike rather they have different designs and features. Some computers have very high capacity as well as working speed; however, some are slow. Depending upon the requirements, computers are being developed. Types of Computer Depending upon the internal structure and subsequent features and applicability, computer system is categorized as follows − Mainframe Computer It is high capacity and costly computer. It is largely used by big organizations where many people can use it simultaneously. Super Computer This category of computer is the fastest and also very expensive. A typical supercomputer can solve up to ten trillion individual calculations per second. Workstation Computer The computer of this category is a high-end and expensive one. It is exclusively made for complex work purpose. Personal Computer (PC) It is a low capacity computer developed for single users. Apple Macintosh (Mac) It is a sort of personal computer manufactured by Apple company. Laptop computer (notebook) It is a handy computer that can be easily carried anywhere. Tablet and Smartphone Modern technology has advanced further. It has helped develop computers that are pocket-friendly. Tablets and smartphones are the best examples of such computer. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Computer Networking Terminology ”; Previous Next In this chapter, we will discuss the major terminologies used in computer networking − WAN It stands for Wide Area Network and covers a wide area such as a city. LAN It stands for Local Area Network and covers a small area such as a small office or home. It physically connects all the computers located in the premises. Internet It is a computer network system that connects the computers of the world. It is normally connecting through WAN and LAN. Intranet It is a close room computer network system, as it covers a small area and only authorized people can access it. Extranet It is also a sort of Internet the access to which is granted only to a few. World Wide Web (WWW) It is the service that is used on Internet to view and search contents (in the form of web-pages). Instant messaging (IM) It is an online facility that facilitates us to chat or talk. Such service is provided by Skype, Google Talk, Windows Live Messenger, Yahoo Messenger, etc. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) It is a Protocol, which is used especially for voice transfer over IP network. Likewise, it facilitates users to make phone-calls by using internet. Really Simple Syndication (RSS) It is a technique, which is used for the dissemination of information, articles, etc. Users normally subscribe to the RSS channel in order to receive news. After subscription, users do not need to visit the respective website rather they receive emails regarding the same. Web log It is a sort of online inventory (normally on a specialized topics) that consists of a series of entries. These entries are arranged in opposite chronological order. The person who maintains the weblog regularly update it with a new information. Podcast It is a digital file that normally contains audio or video record and is available on the Internet as well. Social networking websites It refers to the websites that facilitate users with a common platform where they can share their message (in text, audio, or even video form), images, videos, etc. For example, Facebook, Google+, Twitter, LinkedIn, MySpace, etc. Chat Rooms It is a dedicated area on the Internet that facilitates users to communicate. Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) It is a technical expression for public telephone system. Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) It is a set of communication standards that transmits voice, video, data, and other network services simultaneously. Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line (ADSL) It is a sort of digital subscriber line (DSL) technology that facilitates faster data transmission. Download It is a process that saves data from Internet onto a personal computer. Upload It is a process that transfers the saved data from a personal computer to Internet server. Dial-up It is a technique in which a phone line is used in order to connect to the Internet. Broadband It is a wide bandwidth data transmission that transports multiple signals and traffic types swiftly. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Operating System ”; Previous Next An operating system is the fundamental basis of all other application programs. Operating system is an intermediary between the users and the hardware. Operating system controls and coordinates the use of hardware among application programs. The major services of an operating system are − Memory management Disk access Creating user interface Managing the different programs operating parallel Likewise, it controls and manage the hardware’s working Applications of Operating System Following are the major applications of an operating system − An operating system is accountable for the formation and deletion of files and directories. An operating system manages the process of deletion, suspension, resumption, and synchronization. An operating system manages memory space by allocation and de-allocation. An operating system stores, organizes, and names and protects the existing files. Further, an operating system manages all the components and devices of the computers system including modems, printers, plotters, etc. In case, if any device fails, the operating system detects and notify. An operating system protects from destruction as well as from unauthorized use. An operating system facilitates the interface to user and hardware. Types of Operating System Following are the major types of operating system − Disk Operating System (DOS) Windows Operating System Unix Operating System Let us now discuss each operating system in detail. Disk Operating System MS-DOS is one of the oldest and widely used operating system. DOS is a set of computer programs, the major functions of which are file management, allocation of system resources, providing essential features to control hardware devices. DOS commands can be typed in either upper case or lower case. Features of DOS Following are the significant features of DOS − It is a single user system. It controls program. It is machine independence. It manages (computer) files. It manages input and output system. It manages (computer) memory. It provides command processing facilities. It operates with Assembler. Types of DOS Commands Following are the major types of DOS Command − Internal Commands − Commands such as DEL, COPY, TYPE, etc. are the internal commands that remain stored in computer memory. External Commands − Commands like FORMAT, DISKCOPY, etc. are the external commands and remain stored on the disk. Windows Operating System The operating system window is the extension of the disk operating system. It is the most popular and simplest operating system; it can be used by any person who can read and understand basic English, as it does not require any special training. However, the Windows Operating System requires DOS to run the various application programs initially. Because of this reason, DOS should be installed into the memory and then window can be executed. Elements of Windows OS Following are the significant element of Windows Operating System (WOS) − Graphical User Interface Icons (pictures, documents, application, program icons, etc.) Taskbar Start button Windows explorer Mouse button Hardware compatibility Software compatibility Help, etc. Versions of Windows Operating System Following are the different versions of Windows Operating System − Version Year Version Year Window 1.01 1985 Windows XP Professional x64 2005 Windows NT 3.1 1993 Windows Vista 2007 Windows 95 1995 Windows 7 2009 Windows 98 1998 Windows 8 2012 Windows 2000 2000 Windows 10 2015 Windows ME 2000 Windows Server 2016 2016 Windows XP 2001 Unix Operating System The Unix Operating System is the earliest operating system developed in 1970s. Let us consider the following points relating to the Unix Operating System − It is an operating system that has multitasking features. It has multiuser computer operating systems. It runs practically on every sort of hardware and provides stimulus to the open source movement. It has comparative complex functionality and hence an untrained user cannot use it; only the one who has taken training can use this system. Another drawback of this system is, it does not give notice or warn about the consequences of a user’s action (whether user’s action is right or wrong). Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Fundamental Concept ”; Previous Next A computer is basically a programmable machine capable to perform arithmetic and logical operations automatically and sequentially. It is also known as a data processor, as it can store, process, and retrieve data as per the wish of the user. Data processing involves the following three activities − Input of data Manipulation/processing of data Giving output (i.e. management of output result) In computer system, data is arranged orderly and systematically. The term “computer” is derived from a Latin term “compute,” which means ‘to calculate.’ Initially, the computer system had been designed to calculate; it was intended to be a computing device. However, over a period of time, this device technically advanced; at present, it can perform a wide range of desirable works apart from data processing. Major Functions of Computer System Following are the core functions of a computer system − A computer accepts the command and/or data as input given by the user. A computer follows the instructions and stores the data given by the user. A computer processes the data as per the instructions given by the user. A computer gives the desirable results in the form of output. Salient Features of Computer System Following are the salient features of a Computer System − Automation − The operating system of a computer system is automatic, as no human intervention is required; simply you need to give the command and then it will do the work automatically. Speed − Depending upon the power of the computer, it can perform, it can take Millions of instructions per second. Storage − A computer system can store enormous quantity of data in different format. The storage capacity of a computer system is normally expressed in terms of Kilobytes (KB), Megabytes (MB), Gigabytes (GB), or Terabytes (TB). Accuracy − The accuracy of a computer system is very high. Versatility − A computer system is capable of performing a wide range of tasks. Diligence − A computer neither get tired nor lose concentration. Reliability − As a computer system always gives accurate result; therefore, its reliability is very high. Vast memory − A computer system can have a wide range of memory which can recall the desired data at any point of time. Evolution of Computer System The present Computer System has evolved after centuries of efforts from different intellectuals who contributed their works during different periods of time. Abacus is (most likely) considered as the earlier counting device. Let us now read about the innovators who contributed immensely in the development of a computer system. John Napier Napier was a Scottish mathematician who invented logarithms. Further, Napier also invented a computing device, which consisted of sticks with numbers imprinted on them. Napier named sticks ‘bones,’ as they were made up of bones. Blaise Pascal Pascal was a French mathematician who invented a machine based on gear wheels, which helped greatly in calculation. Charles Babbage Babbage was an English Polymath, Mathematician, Mechanical Engineer, Philosopher, and Inventor. In 1822, he developed a machine capable to calculate the successive difference of expression and prepared a table which helped him in his calculations. Lady Ada Lovelace Lovelace was an English mathematician, who researched on Babbage’s work. She has given the concept that ‘computers can be programmed’. Her work helped a great deal in the advancement of computer system. John Atanstoff With the assistance of Berry, John Atanstoff developed the Atanstoff Berry Computer (more popular as ABC) in 1937. It marked the beginning of the development of electronic digital computer. John Mauchly and Eckart In 1947, John Mauchly and Eckart developed the first large scale Electronic Digital Computer. It was called the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Calculator (ENIAC). Maurice V. Wilkes In 1949, Wilkes (at Cambridge University) designed Electronic Delay Storage Automatic Calculator (EDSAC). It was the first computer that started its operating system on the stored program concept. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Computer Related Jobs ”; Previous Next The fast computerization of every work and gradual dependency on computer based work has exponentially opened a new arena of Information technology for employment. However, the IT field requires qualified and trained employees who can design and develop a new information system. Information technology has also helped in research and development and has further developed new technologies. The IT employees emphasize on planning, designing, developing, managing the work, and providing technical support to various users. Types of Computer Related Jobs In recent times, a number of jobs have come up that are done with the assistance of computer. We will discuss the different job titles performing computer related jobs − Programmer A person who is qualified enough to write a creative code for the computer program is known as Programmer. The codes written by programmer are the instructions given to the computer over what to do, how to do, when to do, etc. There are dozens of languages, which are written by the different programmers. E.g. Java, C, C++, python, Ajax, etc. System Analyst The job of a system analyst is highly classified and also very crucial. A system analyst fundamentally designs, develops, and implements new systems or adds some additional features in the existing system to give instructions to perform additional tasks. System analyst also specializes in fields such as engineering, science & technology, finance, business, accounting, etc. Database Administrator A database administrator or simply DBA is a trained person who is accountable for the storage of and management of the database system. Network Administrator Computer networking is another specialized field where a qualified person is required. A network administrator specializes in installing, configuring, and supporting computer network system. Likewise, he manages the local area network, wide area network, the Internet system or the segment of a network system in the respective organization. The job of a network administrator is a very crucial one as almost every network in an organization requires at least one network administrator. Web Designers A web designer is an architect who designs an effective and communicative website. He places the images, contents, and other such information on right places to make the website interactive and user friendly. Information Security Analysts This is one of the most significant jobs under which an Information Security Analyst designs, implements, and supports the security system of a computer or whole network. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Basics of Computer Science – Networking ”; Previous Next A computer networking is a process of connecting two more than two computers with the purpose to share data, provide technical support, and to communicate (especially for the business purpose. Internet is the technology that is used to connect different computer systems (located in different geographic location). Networking technology has revolutionized the world and created a new arena for the overall development of every nation. Advantages of Networking Let us now discuss the advantages of networking. The advantages are described below − Facility of Technical Support Because of having computer networking, a person sitting in the United States of America provides technical support to a person sitting in a remote part of India. Easy Sharing of Data With the help of networking, it is very simple to share all formats of digital data from one computer system to another (irrespective of their geographic location). Easy Sharing of Hardware Resource With the help of networking, it has now become very simple to share the expensive resources including storage space, processor, fax, etc. Easy Sharing Software Through the networking system, it is easy to share and install the software from one computer system to another computer system. Easy to Decentralize Data Processing Through the networking system, it is very simple to decentralize the data processing system. It ultimately helps to control, secure, and manage the important data. Easy to Communicate With the help of networking, the communication system has now become highly efficient, frugal, and fast. The different modes of communication are text chatting, video chatting, emails, etc. Types of Network In this section, we will discuss the different types of network. The types are described below − Local Area Network (LAN) Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) Wide Area Network (WAN) Local Area Network Local Area Network or simply LAN is the technique of interconnecting a few computers located in a given premise. It is normally used for a single business office or a residential apartment. The major purpose of such interconnectivity is to establish a communication system in order to make the work easier. However, in such connectivity, some other devices can also be attached such as laser printers, fax machine, etc. Metropolitan Area Network Metropolitan Area Network or simply MAN is a system of network that normally covers a large metropolitan area (city part). It provides high speed Internet services throughout the area covered within the network. Wide Area Network Wide Area Network or simply WAN is a system of network that covers a large geographical area across the world. The services of WAN are provided by public (government) agencies as well as private agencies. The network also provides the facility to access databases located remotely. The WAN system is highly beneficial for MNCs and other big corporate companies (offering online services). Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;

Role of Computer in Today’s World ”; Previous Next In today’s world, for almost every activity whether personal (for example, operating personal savings bank account) or business-related (for example, selling any product or services); in some or the other way, we rely on the computer system. Due to the growing dependency on computers, every small and big organizations and other business companies have started offering computer-based service. Furthermore, the advancement of communications, electronic service networks, and multimedia have opened a new door for corporates by providing an effective way of business processing, payment transfer, and service delivery. Advantages of Computers in Business Following are the major advantages of introducing computer system in business − Independency As computers help in making the business automated, the businesses are becoming more and more independent. No more, there is the need to put man-power for every work, as with the help of computer most of the works can be automated. Starting from ticket booking to a luxury car manufacturing, everything is automated. Cost Cutting A number of business are based online in recent times; therefore, there is no need to open business branch in every city, rather having one centralized inventory can make the business easier. There is no need to employ many man-power. Marketing With the use of computer system with Internet facility, it is very simple to make a business global in a given period of time. Website, email, social media websites, online advertisements, etc. are the important tools of online marketing. Huge Transaction Capacity A number of tasks are being done by computer including ticket booking to money transactions; this increases the transaction capacity. Huge Storage Capacity Normally, most of the businesses need to store and maintain huge data and other records; manually, it is very difficult to maintain, but the use of computer not only increases the storage capacity, but also facilitates the processing and retrieval of data anytime. Improvement of Productivity & Efficiency As most of the tasks in almost every industry has become automated, it has now become much easier to manufacture a huge bulk of products in very less time. Through computer technology, services also became faster and easier. High Accuracy There is hardly any scope of errors in an automated system; however, if any error occurs, it is largely a human error. Ease of Data Sharing Data sharing has now become very simple just the way it is simple to link one computer system to another. Competition The applicability of computer technology has increased competition; now, the customers can avail support 24×7. Enhanced the Security System Computer also helps keep the data of businesses secure. However, this security can face threats too. For instance, if someone hacks the system or there is a virus attack, it can have the potential to damage all the data that is secured. Print Page Previous Next Advertisements ”;