WEEK 1 TOPIC: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER (I)
WEEK 2 TOPIC: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER (II)
WEEK 3 TOPIC: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER (III)
WEEK 4 TOPIC: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER (IV)
WEEK 5 TOPIC: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER (V)
WEEK 6 TOPIC: HISTORICAL DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTER (I)
WEEK 7 TOPIC: DEFINATION OF COMPUTER
WEEK 8 TOPIC: PRACTICAL 1
WEEK 9 TOPIC: BASIC CONCEPT OF COMPUTER (I)
WEEK 10 TOPIC: BASIC CONCEPT OF COMPUTER (II)
1. Introduction: Early humans relied on various primitive tools for counting and basic arithmetic operations. These devices evolved over time as societies developed more complex needs for recording and manipulating numerical data.
2. Examples of Early Counting Devices:
o Fingers and Toes:
Description: Fingers and toes were among the earliest tools used by humans for counting. Each digit represented a unit, allowing for basic arithmetic operations such as addition and subtraction.
Significance: They provided a simple method for numerical representation and calculation, essential for everyday tasks and trade.
o Stones, Sticks, Pebbles, and Cowries:
Description: Small objects like stones, sticks, pebbles, and cowries were used in various ancient civilizations for counting and keeping track of quantities.
Significance: These objects were portable and allowed for rudimentary arithmetic operations. They were used in commerce, agriculture, and other activities requiring quantitative measurement.
Early counting devices laid the foundation for numerical literacy and basic arithmetic skills among ancient civilizations. They were essential tools for early humans to manage resources, conduct trade, and solve simple mathematical problems.
Assignment
1. Research and compare the use of counting devices across different ancient civilizations.
2. Discuss the limitations of early counting devices compared to modern digital computers.
1. Introduction: Before the advent of modern electronic computers, various mechanical devices were invented to aid in counting and calculating tasks. These early devices laid the foundation for the development of more sophisticated computing technologies.
2. Examples of Mechanical Devices:
o Abacus:
Description: The abacus is one of the oldest known counting devices, dating back thousands of years.
Function: It consists of beads or stones moved along rods or wires, allowing users to perform basic arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
o Slide Rule:
Description: Invented in the 17th century, the slide rule is a mechanical analog device used for multiplication, division, and other mathematical calculations.
Function: It consists of logarithmic scales that slide against each other, enabling rapid calculations by aligning marks on the scales.
3. Significance:
o These mechanical devices were crucial in facilitating mathematical calculations, aiding scientists, engineers, and merchants in their work.
o They provided a tangible means of performing calculations faster and more accurately than manual methods alone.
Explanation
Mechanical counting and calculating devices such as the abacus and slide rule represent early innovations in computational technology. They demonstrate humanity's ongoing quest for efficient tools to handle mathematical tasks, laying the groundwork for the development of more advanced computing machines in the future.
1. Compare and contrast the functionalities of the abacus and the slide rule in performing mathematical calculations.
2. Discuss the impact of mechanical counting devices on the development of modern computing technology.
1. Electro -Mechanical Counting Devices:
o John Napier Bone (Napier's Bones):
Description: Invented by John Napier in 1617, Napier's Bones are a manually -operated calculating device made of a set of rods, used for multiplication and division.
Significance: This device made calculations easier and faster, laying the groundwork for future mechanical calculators.
o Blaise Pascal Machine (Pascaline):
Description: Invented by Blaise Pascal in 1642, the Pascaline was a mechanical calculator that could add and subtract directly and multiply and divide by repetition.
Significance: It was one of the first mechanical devices capable of performing basic arithmetic operations, showcasing early automation in calculation.
o Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Machine (Stepped Reckoner):
Description: Invented by Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz in 1673, the Stepped Reckoner could perform addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Significance: Leibniz's machine introduced the concept of a stepped drum, which is still used in some modern mechanical calculators.
o Joseph Jacquard Loom:
Description: Invented by Joseph Marie Jacquard in 1804, this loom used punched cards to control the weaving of patterns in textiles.
Significance: The punched card concept was later adapted for use in computers, influencing the development of data input and storage methods.
o Charles Babbage Analytical Engine:
Description: Proposed by Charles Babbage in 1837, the Analytical Engine was a mechanical general -purpose computer that used punched cards for input and featured an arithmetic logic unit, control flow in the form of conditional branching and loops, and integrated memor y.
Significance: Often considered the first concept of a modern computer, Babbage’s Analytical Engine introduced fundamental ideas that underpin today's computers.
o Philip Emeagwali:
Description: A Nigerian computer scientist born in 1954, Philip Emeagwali is renowned for his contributions to high-performance computing.
Significance: Emeagwali's work on parallel processing using thousands of microprocessors has greatly influenced the development of supercomputers and their applications in fields such as oil reservoir simulations and weather forecasting.
The development of electro -mechanical counting devices marked significant milestones in the evolution of computing technology. Each invention contributed unique advancements that collectively paved the way for the sophisticated digital computers we use today. From manual devices like Napier’s Bones to complex machines like Babbage’s Analytical Engine, these innovations laid the foundation for modern computing principles and methodologies.
1. Describe the significance of John Napier’s invention in the history of computing.
2. Explain how Joseph Jacquard's loom influenced the development of computer technology.
3. Discuss the contributions of Charles Babbage to the field of computing.
4. Investigate the impact of Philip Emeagwali’s work on modern supercomputers.
1. Electronic Counting Devices: The era of electronic counting devices marked a significant transformation in computing technology, transitioning from mechanical to electronic systems. Key milestones include:
o Vacuum Tubes: The first generation of electronic computers, developed in the 1940s, used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. These computers were large, expensive, and produced a lot of heat. An example is the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrato r and Computer).
o Transistors: In the late 1950s, transistors replaced vacuum tubes in the second generation of computers. Transistors were smaller, more reliable, and more energy -efficient, significantly improving computer performance and accessibility.
o Integrated Circuits (ICs): The third generation of computers, developed in the 1960s, used integrated circuits, which are small chips containing thousands of transistors. This advancement greatly increased processing power and efficiency.
o Microprocessors: The invention of the microprocessor in the 1970s revolutionized computing by incorporating the entire CPU (Central Processing Unit) onto a single chip. This innovation led to the development of personal computers (PCs).
2. Modern Computers: Modern computers are characterized by advanced capabilities, high speed, and miniaturization. Key features and advancements include:
o High Processing Speed: Modern computers have powerful processors capable of performing billions of calculations per second due to advancements in microprocessor technology.
o Memory and Storage: Modern computers are equipped with large amounts of RAM (Random Access Memory) and substantial storage capacity, including solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs).
o Connectivity: Modern computers offer various connectivity options such as Wi -Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and Ethernet, enabling easy access to networks and other devices.
o User Interface: Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) make modern computers user -friendly, allowing users to interact with software through icons and menus rather than text commands.
o Portability: The development of laptops, tablets, and smartphones has made computers portable, allowing users to perform computing tasks anywhere.
o Advanced Software: Modern computers run advanced operating systems and applications that cater to a wide range of needs, from office productivity to entertainment and scientific research.
Explanation
The evolution from electronic counting devices to modern computers highlights the remarkable advancements in technology over the decades. The shift from vacuum tubes to transistors, then to integrated circuits and microprocessors, has led to the development of powerful, efficient, and user -friendly computers that are integral to modern life.
Assignment
1. Explain how the invention of the microprocessor revolutionized computing.
2. Compare and contrast vacuum tubes and transistors in terms of their impact on computer development.
3. Discuss the advantages of integrated circuits over previous technologies in computer history.
1. Electronic Counting Devices: The era of electronic counting devices marked a significant transformation in computing technology, transitioning from mechanical to electronic systems. Key milestones include:
o Vacuum Tubes: The first generation of electronic computers, developed in the 1940s, used vacuum tubes for circuitry and magnetic drums for memory. These computers were large, expensive, and produced a lot of heat. An example is the ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrato r and Computer).
o Transistors: In the late 1950s, transistors replaced vacuum tubes in the second generation of computers. Transistors were smaller, more reliable, and more energy -efficient, significantly improving computer performance and accessibility.
o Integrated Circuits (ICs): The third generation of computers, developed in the 1960s, used integrated circuits, which are small chips containing thousands of transistors. This advancement greatly increased processing power and efficiency.
o Microprocessors: The invention of the microprocessor in the 1970s revolutionized computing by incorporating the entire CPU (Central Processing Unit) onto a single chip. This innovation led to the development of personal computers (PCs).
2. Modern Computers: Modern computers are characterized by advanced capabilities, high speed, and miniaturization. Key features and advancements include:
o High Processing Speed: Modern computers have powerful processors capable of performing billions of calculations per second due to advancements in microprocessor technology.
o Memory and Storage: Modern computers are equipped with large amounts of RAM (Random Access Memory) and substantial storage capacity, including solid-state drives (SSDs) and hard disk drives (HDDs).
o Connectivity: Modern computers offer various connectivity options such as Wi -Fi, Bluetooth, USB, and Ethernet, enabling easy access to networks and other devices.
o User Interface: Graphical User Interfaces (GUIs) make modern computers user -friendly, allowing users to interact with software through icons and menus rather than text commands.
o Portability: The development of laptops, tablets, and smartphones has made computers portable, allowing users to perform computing tasks anywhere.
o Advanced Software: Modern computers run advanced operating systems and applications that cater to a wide range of needs, from office productivity to entertainment and scientific research.
Explanation
The evolution from electronic counting devices to modern computers highlights the remarkable advancements in technology over the decades. The shift from vacuum tubes to transistors, then to integrated circuits and microprocessors, has led to the development of powerful, efficient, and user -friendly computers that are integral to modern life.
Assignment
1. Explain how the invention of the microprocessor revolutionized computing.
2. Compare and contrast vacuum tubes and transistors in terms of their impact on computer development.
3. Discuss the advantages of integrated circuits over previous technologies in computer history.
Computers have evolved through several generations, each marked by significant technological advancements. Here’s an overview of each generation:
1. First Generation (1940s -1950s):
o Technology Used: Vacuum tubes
o Key Features:
Large size and bulky
High power consumption
Produced a lot of heat
Limited programming capabilities, used machine language
Examples: ENIAC, UNIVAC
2. Second Generation (1950s -1960s):
o Technology Used: Transistors
o Key Features:
Smaller and more reliable than first -generation computers
Less heat production and power consumption
Used assembly language and early versions of high-level programming languages (e.g., COBOL, FORTRAN)
Examples: IBM 7094, CDC 1604
3. Third Generation (1960s -1970s):
o Technology Used: Integrated Circuits (ICs)
o Key Features:
Even smaller and more reliable
Greater speed and efficiency
Introduced keyboards and monitors for input and output
Used high-level programming languages
Examples: IBM 360 series, PDP-8
4. Fourth Generation (1970s -Present):
o Technology Used: Microprocessors
o Key Features:
Very small, portable, and powerful
Highly efficient and reliable
Introduction of personal computers (PCs)
Used advanced operating systems and user -friendly software
Examples: Apple II, IBM PC
5. Fifth Generation (Present and Beyond):
o Technology Used: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced parallel processing
o Key Features:
Incorporates AI and machine learning capabilities
Advanced computing power with parallel processing
Natural language processing and advanced robotics
Examples: IBM Watson, Google AI systems
Features of the Five Generations of Computers
1. First Generation:
o Technology: Vacuum tubes
o Programming Language: Machine language
o Size and Power: Very large and consumed a lot of power
o Input/Output: Punched cards and paper tape
2. Second Generation:
o Technology: Transistors
o Programming Language: Assembly language and high-level languages (COBOL, FORTRAN)
o Size and Power: Smaller, more efficient
o Input/Output: Magnetic tape and punched cards
3. Third Generation:
o Technology: Integrated Circuits (ICs)
o Programming Language: High-level languages
o Size and Power: Even smaller, more reliable
o Input/Output: Keyboards, monitors, and magnetic disks
4. Fourth Generation:
o Technology: Microprocessors
o Programming Language: Advanced high-level languages
o Size and Power: Very small, portable, and efficient
o Input/Output: Graphical user interfaces (GUIs), mice, and advanced storage devices
5. Fifth Generation:
o Technology: AI and parallel processing
o Programming Language: AI languages (e.g., Prolog, Lisp)
o Size and Power: Extremely powerful and efficient
o Input/Output: Voice recognition, advanced GUIs, and virtual reality interfaces
Explanation
The evolution of computer generations highlights the rapid advancements in technology. Each generation has brought about significant
improvements in size, efficiency, power, and capabilities. The transition from vacuum tubes to microprocessors and now to AI and parallel processing has revolutionized computing and its applications in everyday life.
Assignment
1. Describe the key technological advancement of the second generation of computers.
2. Explain how microprocessors have impacted the development of personal computers.
3. Discuss the potential future developments in the fifth generation of computers.
De f i n i t i o n o f C o mp u t e r
1. De f i n i t i o n o f C o mp u t e r : A computer is an electronic device that can accept data (input), process that data according to specified rules (processing), produce information (output), and store the information for future use. It is a powerful tool for performing various tasks with s peed and accuracy.
2. De f i n i t i o n o f T h r e e Ma i n P a r t s :
o C o mp u t e r a s a Ma c h i n e / De v i c e : A computer is a machine made up of electronic components that can execute a series of instructions. It consists of hardware (physical parts) and software (programs and data). The hardware includes input devices (keyboard, mouse), output devices (monitor, printer), storage devices (hard drive, SSD), and the central processing unit (CPU).
o P r o c e s s i n g Ma c h i n e : The computer is often referred to as a processing machine because its primary function is to process data. This processing involves performing arithmetic calculations, making logical decisions, and transforming data
into useful information. The CPU is the core component responsible for processing tasks.
o Controlled by a Stored Program: Computers operate based on instructions provided by programs stored in their memory. These programs tell the computer what actions to perform and in what sequence. This characteristic allows computers to perform a wide range of tasks by simply changing the program.
o Computer as an Input -Process -Output System: The computer can be understood as an input -process -output system, which involves:
Input: Receiving data from input devices such as a keyboard, mouse, or scanner.
Process: Manipulating or transforming the input data through the CPU, following the instructions of a program.
Output: Producing the result of the processing in a humanreadable form via output devices such as a monitor or printer.
Storage: Saving the processed information for future use in storage devices like hard drives or SSDs.
Explanation
A computer's ability to perform complex tasks quickly and accurately is due to its design as an electronic processing machine controlled by stored programs. This design allows it to take raw data, process it according to specific instructions, and produce useful information, making it an invaluable tool in various fields such as education, business, healthcare, and entertainment.
Assignment
1. Define the term 'computer' in your own words.
2. Explain the role of the CPU in a computer.
3. Describe the input -process -output system with an example.
4. List three different types of input devices and three types of output devices.
Recommended Textbook
WEEK 8 TOPIC: PRACTICAL 1
Practical Work I: Booting the Computer System
Objective: Students will learn how to properly boot up a computer system, understand the steps involved, and recognize the importance of each step in the booting process.
1. Ensure Power Supply:
o Make sure the computer is connected to a power source.
o Check that all cables, including the power cable and monitor cable, are securely connected.
o Confirm that the power switch on the power strip (if used) is turned on.
2. Turn On the Computer:
o Press the power button on the computer case.
o Observe the power indicator light to confirm that the computer is starting up.
3. BIOS/UEFI Initialization:
o When the computer is turned on, it performs a Power -On SelfTest (POST) to check the hardware components.
o The BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) screen will display, indicating that the system is performing initial checks.
4. Loading the Operating System:
o After the POST is completed successfully, the BIOS/UEFI hands over control to the bootloader, which loads the operating system (OS) from the storage device.
o You will see the OS loading screen, such as the Windows logo or another OS splash screen.
5. User Login:
o Once the OS is loaded, the login screen appears.
o Enter your username and password to access the desktop environment.
6. Desktop Environment:
o After logging in, the desktop environment appears, and the computer is ready for use.
o You can now open applications, access files, and perform various tasks on the computer.
Practical Exercise
Materials Needed:
• A computer system (desktop or laptop)
• Power supply and necessary cables
• Operating system installed on the computer
Procedure:
1. Ensure all cables are properly connected to the computer.
2. Turn on the power supply and press the power button on the computer.
3. Observe the POST process on the screen.
4. Wait for the operating system to load.
5. Log in with the provided username and password.
6. Once on the desktop, explore the environment by opening different applications and navigating through files.
Assignment:
1. Describe the steps involved in booting a computer system in your own words.
2. What is the purpose of the POST process?
3. Explain what happens during the loading of the operating system.
Objective: Students will learn about the main parts of a computer system and understand the basic concepts of computer operations.
System Unit:
• The system unit is the core of the computer system.
• It houses the motherboard, central processing unit (CPU), memory (RAM), storage devices (hard drive or SSD), and power supply.
• The system unit is responsible for processing and managing data.
Monitor:
• The monitor is an output device that displays information visually.
• It allows users to interact with the computer by showing text, images, videos, and graphical user interfaces.
• Monitors come in various sizes and resolutions.
K e y b o a r d :
• The keyboard is an input device used to enter data into the computer.
• It consists of keys for letters, numbers, symbols, and special functions.
• The keyboard is essential for typing commands, writing documents, and navigating software.
a s i c C o n c e p t s o f C o mp u t e r
I n p u t De v i c e s :
• Input devices are used to enter data and commands into the computer.
• Common input devices include the keyboard, mouse, scanner, and microphone.
• Example: The keyboard is used to type text, and the mouse is used to point and click on items on the screen.
Ou t p u t De v i c e s :
• Output devices are used to display or present data from the computer.
• Common output devices include the monitor, printer, speakers, and projectors.
• Example: The monitor displays the graphical user interface, and the printer produces hard copies of documents.
P r o c e s s i n g Un i t :
• The processing unit, often referred to as the central processing unit (CPU), is the brain of the computer.
• It processes instructions from software and performs calculations.
• The CPU executes programs and manages data flow within the computer system.
• Example: The CPU processes commands from the keyboard and displays the results on the monitor.
Ex a mp l e s o f De v i c e s :
K e y b o a r d ( I n p u t De v i c e ) :
• Used to type text and commands.
• Essential for data entry and communication with the computer.
P U ( P r o c e s s i n g Un i t ) :
• Executes instructions and performs calculations.
• Manages data flow and ensures smooth operation of software.
Printer (Output Device):
• Produces hard copies of digital documents.
• Useful for printing text documents, images, and reports.
Practical Exercise
Materials Needed:
• A computer system with a system unit, monitor, keyboard, and mouse.
Procedure:
1. Identify the system unit, monitor, and keyboard.
2. Turn on the computer and observe the booting process.
3. Use the keyboard to type a simple text document.
4. Use the mouse to navigate the desktop and open applications.
5. Print a document using the printer.
Assignment:
1. List the main parts of a computer and describe their functions.
2. Explain the difference between input and output devices.
3. Describe the role of the CPU in a computer system.
Fu n c t i o n s o f I n p u t De v i c e s
K e y b o a r d :
• The keyboard is used to input text, numbers, and commands into the computer.
• It allows users to interact with software applications by typing instructions.
• Special function keys (e.g., F1 to F12) perform specific tasks, such as refreshing a webpage or opening a help menu.
Mo u s e :
• The mouse is used to point, click, and drag items on the computer screen.
• It enables users to navigate the graphical user interface (GUI), select icons, and open files or applications.
• The scroll wheel helps users scroll through documents and web pages.
S c a n n e r :
• A scanner converts physical documents and images into digital formats.
• It captures the content of paper documents, photos, and illustrations for electronic storage and editing.
• Scanners are useful for creating digital copies of important papers and archiving photos.
Mi c r o p h o n e :
• The microphone captures audio input, allowing users to record sounds or communicate through voice.
• It is essential for applications like voice recognition, video conferencing, and multimedia presentations.
• Microphones are also used in gaming for real -time communication with other players.
W e b c a m:
• A webcam captures live video input, often used for video calls and recordings.
• It enables face -to -face communication over the internet through applications like Skype, Zoom, or Google Meet.
• Webcams are also used for streaming and creating video content.
Joystick:
• Joysticks are input devices primarily used for gaming and controlling simulations.
• They provide directional input and control in video games, flight simulators, and other interactive applications.
• Joysticks can have buttons and triggers for additional functions.
Objective: Students will understand the functions of various output devices and their roles in presenting data from the computer.
Monitor:
• The monitor displays visual output from the computer, showing text, images, videos, and graphical user interfaces.
• It allows users to see the results of their inputs and interact with software applications.
• Monitors come in different sizes and resolutions, affecting the quality of the display.
Printer:
• Printers produce hard copies of digital documents, images, and other content.
• They are essential for printing text documents, photographs, reports, and forms.
• Common types of printers include inkjet, laser, and dot matrix printers.
Speakers:
• Speakers output audio from the computer, enabling users to hear sounds, music, and voice recordings.
• They are used in multimedia applications, gaming, video playback, and virtual meetings.
• Speakers vary in size and quality, from built -in laptop speakers to external surround sound systems.
Headphones:
• Headphones provide personal audio output, allowing users to listen to sounds without disturbing others.
• They are useful for private listening, audio editing, and noisecanceling in noisy environments.
• Headphones can be wired or wireless, offering different levels of sound quality and convenience.
Projector:
• A projector outputs visual content by projecting images onto a large screen or wall.
• It is commonly used for presentations, lectures, and movie screenings.
• Projectors are valuable in educational settings, business meetings, and home theaters.
Practical Exercise
Materials Needed:
• A computer system with input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone) and output devices (monitor, printer, speakers).
Procedure:
1. Identify and connect the input devices (keyboard, mouse, scanner, microphone) to the computer.
2. Use the keyboard and mouse to navigate the desktop and open applications.
3. Scan a document using the scanner and save it as a digital file.
4. Record a short audio clip using the microphone and play it back through the speakers.
5. Connect the printer and print a test document.
6. Use the monitor to display the content and check the output quality.
Assignment:
1. List different input devices and describe their functions.
2. List different output devices and describe their functions.