Computer Lesson

Chapter 1: Introduction to Computers
| Overview | Expand Your Knowledge | Checkpoint | Practice Test |
Overview
1. Explain the importance of

computer literacy
6. Explain the purpose of a

network
2. Define the term computer
7. Discuss the uses of the Internet

and the World Wide Web
3. Identify the components of a

computer
4. Explain why a computer is a
powerful tool
5. Differentiate among the various
types of software
8. Describe the categories of

computers and their uses
9. Identify the various types of
computer users
10. Understand how a user can be a
Web publisher
This chapter presents a broad survey of concepts and terminology related to computers. The idea
of computer literacy is introduced. You discover what a computer is and what it does. You learn
about the components of a computer, the power of computers, computer software, and networks
and the Internet. Categories of computers are identified, including personal computers,
minicomputers, mainframe computers, and supercomputers.
You discover how people employ computers, from home users to large business users. Finally,
you learn how people use computers to provide information. Reading and understanding the
material in this chapter should help you better understand these topics as they are presented in
more detail in the following chapters.
Explain the importance of computer literacy

Computers have touched every part of our lives: the way we work, the way we learn, the way we
live, even the way we play. It almost is impossible to go through a single day without
encountering a computer, a device dependent on a computer, information produced by a
computer, or a word that was introduced or whose meaning has changed with the advent of
computers. Because of the significance of computers in todays world, it is important to be
computer literate. Being computer literate means you have knowledge and understanding of
computers and their uses.
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Define the term computer

A computer is an electronic machine, operating under the control of instructions stored in its
own memory, that can accept data, manipulate the data according to specified rules, produce
results, and store the results for future use. Computers process data to create information. Data is
a collection of raw unprocessed facts, figures, and symbols. Information is data that is
organized, meaningful, and useful. To process data into information, a computer uses hardware
and software. Hardware is the electric, electronic, and mechanical equipment that makes up a
computer. Software is the series of instructions that tells the hardware how to perform tasks.
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Identify the components of a computer

Computer hardware components include input devices, output devices, a system unit, storage
devices, and communications devices. An input device is any hardware component that allows a
user to enter data and instructions into a computer. Six commonly used input devices are the
keyboard, mouse, microphone, scanner, digital camera, and PC camera. An output device is any
hardware component that can convey information to a user. Three commonly used output devices
are a printer, a monitor, and speakers.
The system unit is a box-like case made from metal or plastic that protects the internal electronic
components of the computer from damage. The system unit contains the central processing unit
and memory. The central processing unit (CPU) is the electronic device that interprets and
carries out the basic instructions that operate the computer. Memory is a temporary holding
place for data and instructions.
A storage device records and retrieves data to and from a storage medium. Six common storage
devices are a floppy disk drive, a Zip drive, a hard disk drive, a CD-ROM drive, a CD-RW
drive, a DVD-ROM drive, and a DVD+RW drive. A communications device enables computer
users to communicate and exchange items such as data, instructions, and information with
another computer. A modem is a communications device that enables computers to communicate
usually via telephone lines or cable.
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Explain why a computer is a powerful tool

A computer is a powerful tool because it is able to perform the information processing cycle
operations (input, process, output, and storage) with amazing speed, reliability, and accuracy;
store huge amounts of data and information; and communicate with other computers. Computers
allow users to generate correct information quickly, hold the information so it is available at any
time, and share the information with other computer users.
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Differentiate among the various types of software

There are two categories of computer software: system software and application software.
System software consists of the programs that control the operations of a computer and its
devices. Two types of system software are the operating system and utility programs. An
operating system (OS) coordinates all activities among hardware devices and contains
instructions that allow you to run application software. A utility program performs specific
tasks, usually related to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs. You interact with
software through its user interface.
Application software consists of programs that perform specific tasks for users. Popular
application software includes word processing software, spreadsheet software, database software,
and presentation graphics software. Application software can be packaged software
(copyrighted software that meets the needs of a variety of users), custom software (tailor-made
software developed at a users request), freeware (copyrighted software provided at no cost),
public-domain software (software donated for public use with no copyright restrictions), or
shareware (copyrighted software distributed free for a trial period).
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Explain the purpose of a network

A network is a collection of computers and devices connected together via communications
devices, such as a modem, and communications media, such as cables, telephone lines, cellular
radio, and satellites. Networks allow users to share resources, such as hardware devices,
software devices, data, and information. Most business computers are networked, either by a
local area network (LAN) in a limited geographic area or by a wide area network (WAN) in a
large geographical area.
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Discuss the uses of the Internet and the World Wide Web
The worlds largest network is the Internet, which is a worldwide collection of networks that
links together millions of businesses, government agencies, educational institutions, and
individuals. Users connect to the Internet to send messages, access information, shop for goods
and services, meet or converse with other users, and access sources of entertainment and leisure.
Most users connect to the Internet through an Internet service provider (ISP) or an online service
provider (OSP). The World Wide Web is a popular segment of the Internet that contains billions
of documents called Web pages. These documents can contain text, graphics, sound, video, and
built-in connections, or links, to other Web pages stored on computers throughout the world.
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Describe the categories of computers and their uses

The six major categories of computers are personal computers, handheld computers, Internet
appliances, mid-range servers, mainframes, and supercomputers. These categories are based on
differences in size, speed, processing capabilities, and price. A personal computer can perform
all of its input, processing, output, and storage activities by itself. Personal computers include
desktop computers and notebook computers. A desktop computer is designed so the system
unit, input devices, output devices, and any other devices fit entirely on or under a desk or table.
Variations of desktop computers include tower models (computers with tall and narrow system
units that can sit vertically on the floor), all-in-one computers (less expensive computers that
combine the monitor and system unit into a single device), and workstations (more expensive
and powerful computers designed for work that requires intense calculation and graphics
capabilities).
A notebook computer is a portable personal computer small enough fit on your lap. Notebook
and desktop computers are used at home or in the office to perform application software-related
tasks or to access the Internet. A handheld computer is a small computer that fits in your hand.
Handheld computers can perform specific, industry-related functions, or can be general-purpose.
A PDA (personal digital assistant) is a handheld computer that provides personal organizer
functions, such as a calendar, appointment book, and notepad. An Internet appliance is a
computer with limited functionality whose main purpose is to connect to the Internet from home.
A mid-range server is more powerful and larger than a workstation computer. Users typically
access a mid-range server through a personal computer or a terminal, which is a device with a
monitor and a keyboard that usually has no stand-alone processing power.
A mainframe is a large, expensive, very powerful computer that can handle hundreds or
thousands of connected users simultaneously. A supercomputer is the fastest, most powerful,
and most expensive category of computer.
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Identify the various types of computer users

Computer users can be divided into five categories: home user, small office/home office users,
mobile users, large business users, and power users. A home user spends time on the computer
for personal and business communications, budgeting and personal financial management,
entertainment, and Web access. A small office/home office (SOHO) user includes any company
with fewer than 50 employees, as well as self-employed people that work out of their home. A
mobile user travels to and from a main office or school to conduct business, communicate, or do
homework. A large business user works for a company that has a large number of employees
and computers usually connected to a network. The power user such as an engineer, architect,
or desktop publisher typically works with multimedia, which combines several media
elements into one application, and requires the capabilities of a workstation or other powerful
computer.
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Understand how a user can be a Web publisher

In addition to being a recipient of information, Internet users have the ability to provide
information to other connected users around the world. Users can create a Web page with word
processing software or with Web page authoring software. Publishing a Web page is the process
of making it available on the Internet.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. Computer literacy
6. Networks
2. Computer
7. The Internet
3. Computer components
8. Computer categories
4. Computer power
9. Types of computer users
5. Computer software
10. Web publishing
Here you will find additional information that will expand and enhance your knowledge beyond
that contained in your textbook. Compare this information to what may be provided in a
traditional classroom by your instructor or peers.
Computer Literacy
It is difficult to think of a field in which computers are not used. In addition to general-purpose
computers, special-purpose computers are used in everything from automobiles to electric razors.
Consider how computers have influenced our daily lives, both positively and negatively. (To err
is human, but to really foul things up requires a computer. Anonymous, from a BBC Radio
broadcast.) List ways in which computers are being used today. What is the most common use?
What is the most unusual use? As a result of the expanding use of computers, in 1986 Florida
became the first state to demand computer literacy of all students by grade 12.
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Computer
Although computers are thought of as a relatively recent innovation, the term computer has a
long history. Prior to 1940, computer was a job title that referred to anyone performing
calculations.
Consider how data is different from information. Data is processed into information. Clifford
Stoll lecturer, computer security expert, and author of Silicon Snake Oil: Second Thoughts on
the Information Superhighway notes a wide gap between data and information. Stoll insists that
information has a pedigree, or lineage. Its source is known, whether by a respected professor or a
seventh grader. The Internet has great gobs of data, Stoll maintains, and little, little
information.
The first three operations in the information processing cycle input, process, and output are
performed to process data into information, while the fourth operation storage refers to a
computers electronic reservoir capability. Think about how we perform each phase in the
information processing cycle in the human computer (i.e., the human brain) while completing
a common task, such as learning a telephone number.
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Computer Components
Different types of input devices are designed to transmit different types of data or to transmit
data in different ways. Think of other input devices (joysticks, scanners, digital cameras, and so
on) and the different types of data they transmit or the different ways they transmit data.
Because it is more lasting than output from a monitor or speaker, the printers output often is
called hard copy. Think of other output devices with which you are familiar (data projectors,
computer output microfilm, and so on).
Some computer components are considered internal, while others are considered external.
External components are called peripherals. Input, output, and communications devices often
are peripheral devices.
The difference between the temporary character of memory and permanent nature of storage will
be made painfully clear the first time you experience a power failure while working on a
computer. Think of other examples of storage devices (magnetic tape, PC Cards, and so on).
The capability to communicate may be one of the most significant factors influencing how
computers are used now and in the future.
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Computer Power
In one billionth of a second, an electronic signal travels almost 12 inches. This means that
todays supercomputer (the fastest, most powerful, and most expensive category of computers)
can perform 1.8 trillion operations per second. If a person did one arithmetic operation a second
without stopping, it would take more than 31,000 years to perform the number of operations a
supercomputer can do in one second. Researchers predict that one day computer speed will be
measured in exaflops, or one quintillion (1 x 1018) calculations per second.
The reliability of computer components often is measured in MTBF (mean time between failure,
in hours). A typical component might be rated 10,000 MTBF.
Although the term computer error is widespread, most computer errors can be traced to human
mistakes. Consider instances of computer error with which you are familiar. How might human
blunders have resulted in the computer error? Why are people apt to blame computers?
Supercomputers have more than 600 gigabytes of memory, meaning that they can store more
than 600 billion letters, numbers, and special characters, and have 2 terabytes (2 trillion bytes) of
disk space. Equally important is the speed at which data can be retrieved, processed, and stored
again.
Connected computers can share each operation in the information processing cycle. To recognize
the value of communication, imagine trying to solve a problem individually, and then trying to
solve the same problem with the assistance of several classmates.
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Computer Software
The difference between computer hardware and computer software is important. A 3-inch
floppy disk is hardware; however the programs stored on it are software. Programs or software,
like data, are input into the computer.
Because you interact with it directly, you may be more consciously aware of application software
than system software. Remember that system software determines how you interact with
application software. Popular operating systems include DOS (Disk Operating System),
Windows 3.x (technically, not an operating system but an operating environment that makes DOS
easier to use), Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Mac OS, OS/2, UNIX,
Linux (rhymes with cynics), and NetWare. DOS was developed by Microsoft for IBM personal
computers. DOS started Microsofts climb to the top of the software world -- at one time,
versions of DOS were used worldwide by more than 100 million people. DOS has a commandline interface, meaning that people have to memorize and type instructions.
Today, operating systems with a graphical user interface, such as Microsofts Windows, are far
more popular.
Most application software packages are designed to be used with specific operating systems.
Much of the software with which you are familiar is packaged software. Because of their
complexity, most software programs are written by teams of programmers working together. Just
as people understand a variety of spoken languages (English, French, Chinese, and so on),
computers recognize a number of programming languages.
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Networks
A network with which you might be familiar is the school computer lab. Consider resources that
can be shared on a network. For example, the school computer lab may share a single printer.
Think of advantages of sharing resources. Why are most business computers part of a network?
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The Internet
Estimates claim that more than 50 percent of U.S. homes are connected to the Internet, and more
than 13 million do so through an online service provider. Although the growth rate of the Internet
and online services has slowed from a peak of more than 140 percent in 1994-95, the growth rate
still is around 20 percent annually. Surveys show the number of Web site visitors continues to
expand rapidly, practically doubling every year. Interestingly, surveys show that teenage boys
and girls are accessing the Internet for different reasons. While boys seem to focus on
entertainment, girls use the Internet more for schoolwork and chat.
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Computer Categories
In addition to differences in size, speed, processing capabilities, and price, other factors, such as
the size of main memory and number of peripheral devices, also can be considered when
categorizing computers. Rapid changes in technology make it difficult to define categories
precisely. As a rule of thumb, todays PCs have about as much memory and processing power as
the mainframes of a decade ago.
Think of personal computers with which you are familiar. How is the computer used? What
factors influence the choice of a personal computer? In addition to such obvious considerations
as processing speed and amount of memory, less apparent factors, such as available software or
even the computers footprint (the amount of space it occupies on the work surface) also may
be important. A desktop computer monitor often is placed on top of the system unit case. This
sometimes can be an ergonomic problem, forcing users to look up. Server computers often are
used in academic environments. What features of server computers would make them
particularly attractive to schools? In todays mobile society, notebook computers have become
indispensable tools. Since 1993, sales of notebook, and smaller computers have rivaled sales of
larger systems, partly because of their enhanced capabilities and increased use by field sales
forces. The capabilities of handheld computers also continue to expand. Visor, a new handheld
computer from Handspring, is an electronic organizer but also offers video games, a cell phone, a
modem, an MP3 player, and a two-way pager. Called the Swiss Army knife of handheld
computers, Visor uses the Palm operating system, which is the same operating system used by
the Palm Pilot, a popular handheld computer from 3Com, and is available for about $200.
The growing movement toward decentralization in business, coupled with the increasing power
of mid-range servers, has led to a recent trend away from mainframe computers and toward midrange servers. What advantages might mid-range servers have over mainframe computers for a
business?
Organizations that deal with huge, constantly changing collections of data accessed
simultaneously by many users, such as banks, insurance companies, universities, and
government agencies, often use mainframe computers. Despite this, mainframe sales are
declining approximately 10 percent per year.
One of the most important features of supercomputers is their capability to create complex,
three-dimensional images almost instantaneously. Television networks often use supercomputers
to generate complicated images and then give viewers the sense of going through the image.
Due to their size and expense, only large businesses and government agencies use
supercomputers. IBMs Option Blue supercomputer was used by the Department of Energy to
simulate nuclear explosions, allowing the effects of aging and adverse conditions on nuclear
weapons to be explored without underground detonations.
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Types of Computer Users

A major concern related to the home user is the digital divide, which is the idea that the people
of the world can be separated into two distinct groups: those that have access to technology with
the ability to use it and those that do not have access to technology or are without the ability to
use it. Recent reports suggest that the digital divide exists on several levels:
Individuals in higher income levels have greater access to the Internet than people in
lower levels, and the gap may be growing.
African-Americans earning less than $40,000 are less than half as likely to own a
computer as whites in the same income group.
Women are under-represented in todays computer classes and technology jobs.
A number of efforts are being made to narrow the digital divide.
Networks have changed the face of both small and large business. In the 1970s, executives
usually worked with monthly reports; in the 1980s, they used weekly reports; today, daily or
even hourly reports are available. How have computers affected the efficiency of businesses?
What impact have computers had on the interpersonal side of business (i.e., employee and
customer relationships)? How have computers changed peoples jobs? Have computers cost any
people their jobs?
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Web Publishing
With todays Web page authoring software, children as young as 10 years old, and sometimes
younger, can create and publish their own Web pages. If you created a Web page, what type of
information would you provide? Why? Would you be interested in seeing someone elses Web
page? Why or why not? If you have created a Web page, what type of software did you use?
What was the most difficult part of creating your Web page?
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Chapter 2: The Internet and World Wide Web

Overview
1. Discuss how the Internet works
7. Define Webcasting
2. Understand ways to access the

Internet
8. Describe the uses of electronic

commerce (e-commerce)
3. Identify a URL
9. Explain how e-mail, FTP,

newsgroups and message
boards, mailing lists, chat
rooms, and instant messaging
work
4. Search for information on the

Web
5. Describe the types of Web
pages
6. Recognize how Web pages use
graphics, animation, audio,
video, and virtual reality
10. Identify the rules of netiquette
This chapter introduces one of the most significant innovations of the past half century the
Internet. The Internet is defined, and the history of the Internet is detailed. You discover how the
Internet works and learn about Internet service providers and online services, connecting to the
Internet, how data travels the Internet, and Internet addresses. The World Wide Web, search
engines, and multimedia on the Web are explained. You become familiar with Webcasting,
electronic commerce, Web publishing, and other Internet services including e-mail, FTP, Telnet,
newsgroups, mailing lists, chat rooms, and instant messaging. Finally, netiquette, the Internet
code of acceptable behavior by users, is described.
Discuss how the Internet works

The Internet is a worldwide collection of networks that links millions of businesses,
government offices, educational institutions, and individuals. Data is transferred over the Internet
using servers, which are computers that manage network resources and provide centralized
storage areas, and clients, which are computers that can access the contents of the storage areas.
The data travels over communications lines. Each computer or device on a communications line
has a numeric address called an IP (Internet protocol) address, the text version of which is called
a domain name. Every time you specify a domain name, a DNS (domain name system) server
translates the domain name into its associated IP address, so data can route to the correct
computer.
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Understand ways to access the Internet

You can access the Internet through an Internet service provider, an online service provider, or a
wireless service provider. An Internet service provider (ISP) provides temporary Internet
connections to individuals and companies. An online service provider (OSP) also supplies
Internet access, in addition to a variety of special content and services. A wireless service
provider (WSP) provides wireless Internet access to users with wireless modems or Webenabled handheld computers or devices.
Employees and students often connect to the Internet through a business or school network that
connects to a service provider. For home or small business users, dial-up access provides an easy
and inexpensive way to connect to the Internet. With dial-up access, you use a computer, a
modem, and a regular telephone line to dial into an ISP or OSP. Some home and small business
users opt for newer, high-speed technologies. DSL (digital subscriber line) provides high-speed
connections over a regular copper telephone line. A cable modem provides high-speed Internet
connections through a cable television network.
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Identify a URL
The most widely used service on the Internet is the World Wide Web. The World Wide Web
(WWW or Web) consists of a worldwide collection of electronic documents called Web pages.
A browser is a software program used to access and view Web pages. Each Web page has a
unique address, called a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), that tells a browser where to locate
the Web page. A URL consists of a protocol, domain name, and sometimes the path to a specific
Web page or location on a Web page. Most URLs begin with http://, which stands for hypertext
transfer protocol, the communications standard that enables pages to transfer on the Web.
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Search for information on the Web

A search engine is a software program you can use to find Web sites, Web pages, and Internet
files. To find a Web page or pages, you enter a relevant word or phrase, called search text or
keywords, in the search engines text box. Many search engines then use a program called a
spider to read pages on Web sites and create a list of pages that contain the keywords. Any Web
page that is listed as the result of the search is called a hit. Each hit is a link that can be clicked to
display the associated Web site or Web page.
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Describe the types of Web pages

There are six basic types of Web pages. An advocacy Web page contains content that describes
a cause, opinion, or idea. A business/marketing Web page contains content that promotes or
sells products or services. An informational Web page contains factual information. A news
Web page contains newsworthy material including stories and articles relating to current events,
life, money, sports, and the weather. A portal Web page offers a variety of Internet services from
a single, convenient location. A personal Web page is maintained by a private individual who
normally is not associated with any organization.
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Recognize how Web pages use graphics, animation, audio, video, and virtual
reality
Many exciting Web pages use multimedia. Multimedia refers to any application that integrates
text with one of the following elements: graphics, sound, video, virtual reality, or other media
elements.
A graphic is a digital representation of information such as a drawing, chart, or photograph. Two
common file formats for graphical images on the Web are JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts
Group) and GIF (Graphics Interchange Format), which use compression techniques to reduce
the size of graphics files and thus speed downloading.
Animation is the appearance of motion created by displaying a series of still images in rapid
sequence. One popular type of animation, called an animated GIF, uses computer animation and
graphics software to combine several images into a single GIF file.
Audio is music, speech, or any other sound. A common format for audio files on the Web is
MP3, a popular technology that compresses audio. More advanced Web audio applications use
streaming audio, which transfers audio data in a continuous and even flow, allowing users to
listen to the sound as it downloads. Video consists of full-motion images that are played back at
various speeds. Video files often are quite large in size. The Moving Pictures Experts Group
(MPEG) defines a popular video compression standard. Streaming video allows you to view
longer or live video images as they are downloaded.
Virtual reality (VR) is the use of computers to simulate a real or imagined environment that
appears as a three-dimensional (3-D) space. A VR world is an entire 3-D site that contains
infinite space and depth.
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Define Webcasting
Pull technology is a method of obtaining information that relies on a client such as your
computer to request a Web page from a server. On the other hand, Webcasting, also called push
technology, is a method of obtaining information in which a server automatically downloads
content to your computer at regular intervals or whenever updates are made to the site.
Webcasting saves time by delivering information at regular intervals and allows users to view
Web content when they are offline, that is, when they are not connected to the Internet.
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Describe the uses of electronic commerce (e-commerce)

Electronic commerce (e-commerce) is a financial business transaction that occurs over an
electronic network such as the Internet. Today, there are three types of e-commerce. Business to
consumer (B-to-B or B2C) e-commerce consists of the sale of goods to the general public.
Customers visit an online business through an electronic storefront, which contains
descriptions, graphics, and a shopping cart that allows customers to collect their purchases.
Consumer to consumer (C-to-C or C2C) e-commerce occurs when one consumer sells directly
to another. An online auction is an example of consumer to consumer e-commerce. Business to
business (B-to-B or B2B) e-commerce, which is the most prevalent type of e-commerce, takes
place between businesses, with businesses typically providing services to other businesses.
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Explain how e-mail, FTP, newsgroups and message boards, mailing lists, chat
rooms, and instant messaging work
A variety of services are used widely on the Internet, including e-mail, FTP, newsgroups and
message boards, mailing lists, chat rooms, and instant messaging. E-mail (electronic mail) is the
transmission of messages and files via a computer network. You use an e-mail program to
create, send, receive, forward, store, print, and delete messages. To receive messages, you need
an e-mail address, which is a combination of a username and a domain name that identifies a
user.
FTP (File Transfer Protocol) is an Internet standard that allows you to upload and download
files with other computers on the Internet. An FTP server is a computer that allows you to use
FTP to upload files to, and download files from, an FTP site. With anonymous FTP, anyone can
transfer some, if not all, available files. A newsgroup is an online area in which users conduct
written discussions about a particular subject. The computer that stores and distributes
newsgroup messages is called a news server. You use a program called a newsreader to access a
newsgroup, read previously entered messages (called articles), and add (post) messages of your
own.
A thread consists of the original article and all subsequent related replies. In a moderated
newsgroup, a moderator reviews articles and posts them, if appropriate. A message board is a
popular Web-based type of discussion group that does not require a newsreader and typically is
easier to use than a newsgroup. A mailing list is a group of e-mail names and addresses given a
single name. To add your e-mail name and address to a mailing list you subscribe to it; to
remove your name, you unsubscribe.
A chat is real-time (meaning everyone involved in the chat is online at the same time) typed
conversation that takes place on a computer. A location on an Internet server that permits users to
chat is called a chat room. Some chat rooms support voice chats and video chats, where you
can hear or see others and they can hear or see you as you chat. A chat client is a program on
your computer that allows you to connect to a chat server and start a chat session. Instant
messaging (IM) is a real-time Internet communications service that notifies you when one or
more people are online and then allows you to exchange messages or join a private chat room.
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Identify the rules of netiquette

Netiquette, which is short for Internet etiquette, is the code of acceptable behaviors users should
follow while on the Internet. Rules for e-mail, newsgroups, and chat rooms include:
Keep messages brief and use proper grammar and spelling.
Be careful when using sarcasm and humor.
Be polite and avoid offensive language.
Avoid sending flames (abusive messages) and spam (unsolicited junk mail).
Do not use all capital letters, which is the equivalent of SHOUTING!
Use emoticons (such as :) for smile) to express emotion.
Use abbreviations (such as BTW for by the way) for popular phrases.
Clearly identify a spoiler, which is a message that reveals a solution to a game or an

ending to a movie or program.
Read the FAQ (frequently asked questions) document.
Do not assume all material is accurate or up-to-date.
Never read someones private e-mail.

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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. The Internet
7. Webcasting
2. Accessing the Internet
8. E-Commerce
3. URLs
9. Web Publishing
4. Searching the Web
10. Internet Services
5. Types of Web Pages
11. Netiquette
6. How Web Pages Use Multimedia

The Internet
The Internet has had a profound affect on the world of computers. Microsoft CEO Bill Gates
claims, The Internet is pervasive in everything were doing. The Internet also has assumed an
increasing prominence in the world at large. Today, the letters www seem an omnipresent part
of advertisements on buses, billboards, and magazines.
The Internet, as it is known today, was born in 1983 when ARPANET was split into two
interconnected networks: ARPANET and MILNET. The size of the Internet doubled when
NSFnet joined the Internet in 1986.
The Internet has proven to be a reliable means of transmitting data. Occasionally, however,
transmission problems do occur. For 30 minutes in the spring of 1995, all of the traffic destined
for MIT was sent through a small wire in Florida, a situation described as equivalent to routing
all of the flights bound for OHare to a driveway.
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Accessing the Internet

National ISPs include AT&T, Earthlink, and WorldCom. Two popular OSPs are America Online
(AOL) and the Microsoft Network (MSN). Some online services supply specific types of
information. For example, Dow Jones provides financial and business news, and Imagination
offers games and entertainment. WSPs include GoAmerica Communications, OmniSky, and
SprintPCS. The role of WSP is expected to grow. Industry analysts predict that by 2003, more
than 60 million people will use wireless Web-enabled devices to connect to the Internet. The
CEO of Amazon.com goes even farther, projecting that in 10 years all Internet connections be
wireless.
Although most ISPs charge a standard fee for dial-up access, to attract users (who view
advertisements on an ISPs home page) some ISPs now are providing free service. Following this
lead, a California-based DSL recently advertised free, high-speed Internet access (a service that
usually costs $50 a month) to users who agree to ads aimed at their demographic group.
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URLs
On a Web page, a link is a built-in connection to another related Web page or part of a Web page.
A link can be a word, phrase, or image. URLs make it possible to navigate using links, because
each link is connected to a URL. When you click a link, the Web site or document associated
with the URL is displayed. Some people refer to this activity of jumping from one Web page to
another as surfing the Web.
URLs are registered for a standard fee (usually about $70). To acquire an appropriate URL, some
companies are willing to spend a great deal more for a URL that already has been registered.
Recently, eCompanies paid an entrepreneur $7.5 million for a Web address. This more than
doubled the previous record Compaqs purchase of altavista.com for $3 million.
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Searching the Web

The World Wide Web is an incredible source of information on almost any topic. There are
almost 2.5 billion Web pages. Exploring this vast reservoir for the answer to a search engine
users query, which usually is expressed in just a few keywords, is a daunting task. No wonder an
engineering head at AltaVista described search engines as a combination of wizardry and
witchcraft.
Often, simple search queries yield an overwhelming number of results. This is attributed to
several factors:
The limitations of search engines. A query about mustangs on the American plains might
produce results involving Southern Methodist University's football team and the Ford car.
The nature of queries. While a traditional researcher, such as a librarian, uses queries
averaging 14 words, the typical Internet query is just over one word.
The creators of Web pages. Developers of commercial Web pages sometimes distort
results by repeating frequently requested keywords in the background, where spiders see
them but people do not.
Despite these difficulties, search engines are among the most popular sites on the Web. When
choosing a search engine, experts suggest that novice users, and users looking for obscure
information, turn first to the larger search engines (AltaVista, Yahoo!, Lycos, and so on) because
they are easiest to use and cast the largest net.
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Types of Web Pages

Advocacy Web pages established for political candidates, called e-campaigning, has become
an important part of politics. Surveys show that more than 50 percent of Internet users turn to the
Web for information about political topics.
Business/marketing Web pages used for shopping on the Internet are increasingly popular. In
1999, 17 million households shopped online. This figure is expected to grow to 49 million by
2004. A survey of back-to-school shoppers 34 years old and younger showed that 17 percent
planned to shop online for their childrens school needs. Perhaps more significant, only 6 percent
of surveyed shoppers reported being uncomfortable with buying on the Internet.
Educational institutions frequently publish informational Web pages. Today, most colleges have
Web sites that offer course descriptions, information about the student population, and
registration costs and deadlines. When shopping for college, surveys show that high school
seniors use the Web more than catalogs or guidebooks; about 80 percent of college-bound
students start looking at college Web sites as sophomores.
News Web pages are the most popular Web sites among Americans with access to the Internet.
Although these Web sites often are associated with newspapers, magazines, television stations, or
radio stations, some are published only online, without a related print or broadcast media.
Portal Web pages often offer the following free services: search engine, news, sports and
weather, free personal Web pages, reference tools, shopping malls, e-mail, instant messaging,
newsgroups, and chat rooms. The dictionary defines a portal as a door or gateway. Portal Web
pages are gateways to a host of services.
Personal Web pages sometimes use Web cams to provide minute-by-minute views of life in a
dorm room, an apartment, a new-born babys crib, or even the inside of a refrigerator. One
devotee of these personal Web pages says visitors often develop a sort of relationship with the
Web page developer. Perhaps this observation is true; some personal Web pages receive more
than 1,000 hits a day.
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How Web Pages Use Multimedia

Multimedia can bring a Web page to life, increase the types of information available on the Web,
expand on the Webs potential uses, and make the Internet a more entertaining place to explore.
Because Web pages with multimedia take longer to download, most browsers allow users to turn
off some multimedia elements (such as graphics) and show a text-only version, speeding the
display of a Web page.
Choose a topic for a Web page, such as your school or your class. How could multimedia
enhance the page? What multimedia elements would you use? How?
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Webcasting
Some people use Webcasting to download copyrighted material, such as music, from Web sites.
Many young, unknown musicians see music Web sites as a way to gain exposure, but some
already-popular musicians see sharing music on Web sites as little more than theft. The heavy
metal rock band Metallica sued Napster (a music Web site) for copyright violations. A number of
colleges have placed a ban on music Web sites. These schools maintain that students
downloading and sharing music creates a tremendous amount of traffic, clogging the schools
computer systems. As a result, the schools are using filtering software to deny access to music
Web sites. Several student groups have formed to protest this response.
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E-Commerce
Today, more than 50 percent of Web sites are commercial. Online product sales total more than
$6 billion, which represents a twelve-fold increase in just five years. These numbers should be
kept in perspective in 1999, e-commerce still represented only 0.5 percent of U.S. consumer
spending.
Business to consumer e-commerce often allows buyers to purchase directly from businesses,
eliminating the middleman and thus providing goods and services at lower costs. Other
advantages of e-commerce include:
twenty-four hour access
global presence
two-way communication
decreased costs
lower product display and storage costs
reduced salesperson costs
Businesses advertise with their own Web site or on another companys Web site. The most
successful Web advertisements are on popular sites, such as search engines. In terms of audience,
advertising on the Web is expensive. The cost to reach 1,000 consumers is about $75 on the Web,
$60 in a newspaper, $44 in a magazine, and $5 on television. Yet, Web advertisements do offer
advantages:
Unlike traditional media advertising, which is passive (and often ignored by the
audience), Web advertising is interactive. The audience expresses an interest in the
product by clicking a hyperlink and choosing to view a Web ad.
For many products, Web users are the ideal customers. Web users tend to be students or
highly educated consumers in their late 30s, with average incomes of about $55,000.
What products could benefit most from advertising on the Web. Why?
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Web Publishing
Deciding upon the purpose of the Web site and the audience for whom it is intended will make it
easier to determine what should and should not be included on the Web site. Web publishing is
an increasingly commonplace Internet activity. With the assistance of word processing packages,
Web page authoring software, or Web sites that assist in the creation of Web pages, even
elementary school children are developing personal Web pages.
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Internet Services
It is estimated that the number of e-mail users has increased 300 percent during the past five
years, and the number of e-mail messages sent per day has increased 400 percent. While its
growth has been phenomenal, not everyone is happy with e-mails ever-increasing use. In a
business setting, some feel that e-mail can be counter-productive. They contend that employees
spend too much time writing and reading e-mail on inconsequential topics subjects they never
would commit to paper. In a social setting, some wonder if e-mail is fitting in every situation.
Although e-mail is suitable for casual messages, most believe it is inappropriate for more serious
or formal communication, such as a wedding invitation. How do you feel about these
reservations regarding e-mail?
Many files on anonymous FTP sites are public domain software, freeware, or shareware. Public
domain software is not copyrighted and therefore can be distributed at no cost. Freeware also is
available at no cost but, because it is copyrighted, it cannot be resold. Shareware can be
downloaded and tried for free, but a license fee must be paid if the software is kept. Shareware
users who pay the license fee may receive a manual, notification of new releases or tips, and
access to technical support. The quality of freeware, public domain software, and shareware
varies greatly.
The real-time character of chat makes chat rooms different from newsgroups or mailing lists. The
extent to which a chat room is monitored varies. In some chat rooms, particularly those aimed at
adults, a monitors presence hardly is noticed. Chat rooms intended for minors, however, often
are monitored closely. Chat rooms can be an invaluable experience for children, letting them
share thoughts and ideas with people their own age from around the country, or even around the
world. Yet, to ensure that content is appropriate, parents may want to oversee a childs first few
chat room visits.
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Netiquette
Netiquette can be applied to all aspects of the Internet. Which netiquette rules are most
important? Which rules are least important? Why? What rules, if any, would you add? In her
book, Guide for the Turn-of-the-Millennium, syndicated columnist Judith Martin (Miss Manners)
offers guidelines for use of the Internet and other technological innovations. Web sites such as
http://www.fau.edu/netiquette/netiquette.htm also offer advice on Internet manners.
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Chapter 3: Application Software

Overview
1. Define application software

2. Understand how system
software interacts with
application software
3. Identify the role of the user
interface
4. Explain how to start a software
application
5. Identify the widely used

products and explain the key
features of different software
applications
6. Identify various products
available as Web applications
7. Describe the learning aids
available with many software
applications
This chapter discusses the role of the system software with respect to application software. It
then presents an overview of several productivity software applications, graphic
design/multimedia software applications, home/personal/educational software applications, and
communications software applications. The chapter then identifies various Web applications.
Finally, learning aids and supports tools within application software products are presented.
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Define application software

Application software consists of programs designed to perform specific tasks for users.
Application software can be used as a productivity/business tool; to assist with graphics and
multimedia projects; to support home, personal, and educational activities; and to facilitate
communications. Specific application software products, called software packages, are available
from software vendors. Although application software also is available as shareware, freeware,
and public-domain software, these usually have fewer capabilities than retail software packages.
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Understand how system software interacts with application software
System software consists of programs that control the operations of a computer and its devices.
System software serves as the interface between a user, the application software, and the
computers hardware. One type of system software is the operating system. Before application
software can be run, the operating system, which contains instructions that coordinate the
activities among computer hardware devices, must be loaded from the hard disk into the
computers memory.
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Identify the role of the user interface

The user interface controls how you enter data or instructions and how information displays on
the computer screen. Many of todays software programs have a graphical user interface. A
graphical user interface (GUI) combines text, graphics, and other visual images to make
software easier to use.
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Explain how to start a software application

Both the Microsoft Windows and the Apple Macintosh operating systems use the concept of a
desktop. The desktop is an on-screen work area with common graphical elements such as icons,
buttons, menus, links, windows, and dialog boxes. A software application can be started by
clicking its program name on a menu, or list of commands. Clicking the program name instructs
the operating system to transfer the programs instructions from a storage medium into memory.
Once started, the application displays in a window on the desktop. A window is a rectangular
area of the screen that is used to show the program, data, and/or information. At the top of the
window is a title bar that contains the windows name.
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Identify the widely used products and explain the key features of
productivity/business software applications
graphic design/multimedia software applications
home/personal/educational software applications
communications software applications
People use productivity software to become more effective and efficient while performing daily
activities. Word processing software allows users to create and manipulate documents that
contain text and graphics. With word processing software, you can insert clip art into a
document; change margins; find and replace text; use a spelling checker to check spelling;
place a header and footer at the top and the bottom of a page; and vary font (character design),
font size (character scale), and font style (character appearance).
With spreadsheet software, data is organized in rows and columns, which collectively are called
a worksheet. The intersection of a row and column, called a cell, can contain a label (text), a
value (number), or a formula or function that performs calculations on the data and displays the
result.
Database software allows you to create and manage a database. A database is a collection of
data organized to allow access, retrieval, and use of that data. A query is used to retrieve data
according to specified criteria, which are restrictions the data must meet.
Presentation graphics software is used to create presentations that communicate ideas,
messages, and other information to a group through a slide show. You can use a clip gallery to
enhance your presentation with clip art images, pictures, video clips, and audio clips.
A personal information manager (PIM) is software that includes an appointment calendar to
schedule activities, an address book to maintain names and addresses, and a notepad to record
ideas, reminders, and important information. A software suite is a collection of individual
applications sold as a single package.
Project management software allows you to plan, schedule, track, and analyze the progress of a
project. Accounting software helps companies record and report their financial transactions.
Power users often use software that allows them to work with graphics and multimedia.
Computer-aided design (CAD) software assists in creating engineering, architectural, and
scientific designs. Desktop publishing (DTP) software is used to design and produce
sophisticated documents. DTP is developed specifically to support page layout, which is the
process of arranging text and graphics in a document. Paint software is used to draw graphical
images with various on-screen tools. Image editing software provides the capability to modify
existing images. Video editing software and audio editing software can be used to modify
video and audio segments.
Multimedia authoring software is used to create electronic interactive presentations that can
include text, images, video, audio, and animation. Web page authoring software is designed to
create Web pages and to organize, manage, and maintain Web sites.
Many software applications are designed specifically for use at home or for personal or
educational use. Integrated software combines several productivity software applications that
share a similar interface and common features into a single package. Personal finance software
is an accounting program that helps pay bills, balance a checkbook, track income and expenses,
follow investments, and evaluate financial plans. Legal software assists in the creation of legal
documents and provides legal advice. Tax preparation software guides users through the
process of filing federal taxes. Personal DTP software helps develop conventional documents
by asking questions, presenting predefined layouts, and supplying standard text.
Photo-editing software is used to edit digital photographs. A clip art/image gallery is a

collection of clip art and photographs that can be used in all types of documents. Home
design/landscaping software assists with planning or remodeling. Educational software
teaches a particular skill and exists for about any subject. Reference software provides valuable
and thorough information for all individuals. Entertainment software includes interactive
games, videos, and other programs designed to support a hobby or provide amusement.
One of the main reasons people use computers is to communicate and share information. E-mail
software is used to create, send, receive, forward, store, print, and delete e-mail (electronic
mail). A Web browser is a software application used to access and view Web pages. A chat
client is software that allows you to connect to a chat room, which permits users to chat via the
computer. A newsreader is a software program used to participate in a newsgroup, which is an
online area on the Web where users conduct written discussion about a particular subject. An
instant messenger is a software program installed to use instant messaging (IM), a real-time
communications service that notifies you when one or more people are online and then allows
you to exchange messages or files. Groupware is a software application that helps groups of
people on a network work together and share information. A videoconference is a meeting
between two or more geographically separated people who use a network or the Internet to
transmit audio and video data.
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Identify various products available as Web applications

A Web application is a software application that exists on a Web site. To access the Web
application, you visit the Web site that offers the program. Some Web applications are free; for
others, you pay for use, service, support, or when a certain action occurs. Web-based training
(WBT) is a type of CBT (computer-based training) that uses Internet technology. Many Web
sites offer WBT to the general public. An application service provider (ASP) is a third-party
organization that manages and distributes software and services on the Web.
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Describe the learning aids available with many software applications

Many software applications and Web sites provide learning aids. Online Help is the electronic
equivalent of a user manual. Usually integrated into an application software package, online
Help often is context-sensitive, meaning that the Help information is related to the current task
being attempted. Most online Help also provide links to Web sites that have a FAQs page. FAQs
(Frequently Asked Questions) supply answers to common queries. Many books are available to
help you learn to use the features of a personal computer application package. A wizard is an
automated assistant that helps complete a task by asking questions and then performing actions
based on the answers.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. Application software
5. Software
2. System software
6. Web applications
3. The user interface
7. Learning aids
4. Starting an application
Application Software
Popular types of application software can be categorized by their general use: productivity
software, graphics design/multimedia software, home/personal/educational software, and
communications software. An application can belong to more than one category. For example, an
e-mail program can be considered both productivity software and communications software.
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System Software
Many application programs are designed to run with a specific operating system. When shopping
for an application software package, buyers must make sure they have a compatible operating
system. A software package designed to be used with the Macintosh operating system may not
work with the Windows operating system. The operating system version also is important. An
application designed for Windows XP may not work with Windows 3.1. Yet, because most
operating systems are downward compatible, software written for earlier versions of an operating
system (such as Windows 98) usually can be used with recent versions of the operating system
(such as Windows XP).
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The User Interface
The user interface plays a key role in application software. Studies have found that GUI users
generally complete tasks more accurately, work faster, are more productive, and feel less fatigue
than users of a text interface. The Macintosh operating system the first popular GUI actually
was developed from an earlier GUI-based operating system created by Xerox.
The first version of Windows (1985) imitated the Macintoshs GUI (Apple sued Microsoft,
unsuccessfully, for copyright infringement). Although some users still feel the Macintosh
interface is superior, today some form of Windows is used on almost 90 percent of personal
computers. Because of this, even competitive products often use similar features, such as the
same menu names.
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Starting an Application
To click an object on the screen, you move the pointer to the object and then press and release a
button on the mouse. Often, applications also can be started by double-clicking the icon that
represents the application.
When an application is started, the right-hand corner of the application window title bar usually
displays three buttons:
Minimize When clicked, this button reduces a window to a button on the taskbar.
Restore When clicked, this button returns a window to its initial size. When a
window does not fill the desktop, the Restore button is replaced by a Maximize button
that, when clicked, enlarges the window so it covers the entire desktop.
Close When clicked, this button closes the window. The Close button removes the
window from the desktop and its button from the taskbar.
A dialog box can contain option buttons, check boxes, text boxes, and command buttons. Option
buttons stipulate desired alternatives; check boxes turn specific capabilities on or off; text boxes
allow text to be entered; and command buttons immediately perform an action, such as
implementing (OK) or ignoring (Cancel) the choices made in a dialog box. Shortcut menus can
change depending on where the pointer rests when the mouse is right-clicked. Dimmed
commands on a menu or shortcut menu are unavailable.
Some applications use automatically display a smart tag when you perform a certain action.
Clicking the smart tag displays a menu of commands related to the action.
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Software
Word processing software is used for creating, editing, formatting, saving, and printing
documents. In the modern office, word processing software has replaced the typewriter for
almost all written work. The editing capabilities of word processing software have altered the
creative process. The freedom to express yourself without reservation, knowing you easily can
revise what you have written, can improve the quality of written work. It is good practice to save
a document before printing it. When a document is saved, it exists as a file, or named collection
of data, instructions, or information. A file name uniquely identifies each file. Restrictions on file
names once were severe; file names could be no more than eight characters long, and many
characters, including spaces, could not be used. In Windows XP, however, a file name can have
up to 255 characters, including spaces.
Some spreadsheet programs offer more than 200 internal functions. When creating a spreadsheet,
formulas and functions usually must be preceded by a special character (such as =, +, or @) to
distinguish them from labels or values. Formulas use cell references, or addresses, of cells that
contain values. When formulas are copied from one cell to another, the cell references change to
reflect the new location. This update is called relative referencing. Another powerful capability,
called goal-seek, finds what value is needed to reach a specified goal.
While spreadsheet packages can manage data tables of a few thousand records, database software
can efficiently handle much larger data tables. In a database, common data types include text,
numeric, currency, date, memo, hyperlink, and object. When identifying data types, numbers
treated as text (such as zip codes, Social Security numbers, or telephone numbers) sometimes are
referred to as alphanumeric data because they are not used in calculations. The results of a
database query are placed in an ANSWER table.
Although introduced years after word processing and spreadsheet software, presentation graphics
software has had almost as great an impact on business, and on how people do business, as either
of the older applications. Presentations often include an outline with the text from each slide,
audience handouts that can be distributed to the audience, and a notes page with additional notes
for the presenter. Some presentation graphics packages offer templates for various presentations
(company meeting, financial report, marketing plan, progress report, employee orientation,
training, and so on).
PIMs essentially are free style database managers. They are very popular with people who
spend much of their time in business travel. These people, often called road warriors, find PIMs a
valuable part of the arsenal they bring to their daily battles. Like a daily planner, PIMs must be
reviewed regularly to be effective.
Unlike word processing software, DTP software increases hardware requirements. Because of its
relatively low cost (an advanced DTP system can be purchased for less than $10,000) and the
speed, control, security, and flexibility offered by desktop publishing, many companies are using
DTP instead of outside printing firms for their publishing needs.
Paint software and image editing software have had a tremendous impact on commercial art.
Commercial artists praise the capabilities offered by these applications. At the same time, many
feel these applications have led clients to demand more, both in terms of time and expectations.
As a result, some commercial artists believe their income, actually has dropped because of
graphic software.
Most software for home, personal, and educational use is relatively inexpensive. It still pays to
shop around. Prices for some software for home/personal use, such as integrated software, can
vary greatly for the same brand depending on the vendor. Some personal finance packages can
prepare reports on income and expenses, budget, net worth, taxes, and investments.
Personal finance software wizards (automated assistants) can help to balance accounts, prepare
budgets, plan mortgages, calculate savings, and arrange retirements. Legal software is designed
to facilitate creation of standard documents; unusual circumstances might still demand the
services of a lawyer. Tax preparation software also is best used by people in fairly common
circumstances.
For some students, educational software is a welcome alternative to traditional classes, allowing
them to work privately at their own pace. Reference software articles often include links that,
when clicked, display related articles. Because referenced material can change frequently, some
reference software packages can be updated via the World Wide Web.
Computer communications touch everyones life. Consider the ATM that knows a bank
balance even though it is located 500 miles from the bank. Many e-mail programs allow users to
send registered mail with a return receipt guaranteeing the recipient received the message. Email and personal information management (PIM) software sometimes also are considered part
of groupware. Although e-mail has assumed an important role in business messages, traditional
paper letters and memos still are used In fact, some maintain that the amount of paper
correspondence has increased.
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Web Applications
Web applications can be a better buy than packaged applications. For example, a $50 packaged
antivirus program can be replaced by a Web application that costs less than $30 annually, is
updated frequently, and uses less space on a hard disk. In addition, packaged software might
include features you will never use, which increases the cost of the package. Often, you can use
the standard version of a similar Web application for less money or even for free, and only pay
more for the additional features you want. Web applications can save businesses money with
reduced installation, upgrade, and maintenance costs. Some social analysts believe that the lower
cost of Web applications also can help close the digital divide.
For Web application vendors, benefits include easier updating and debugging (error correcting),
removal of packaging and distribution costs, and elimination of software piracy (the illegal
copying and selling of software). Despite their advantages, analysts point out that Web
applications may not be right for everyone. For some consumers, paying a monthly fee
ultimately costs more than the one-time purchase of packaged software. Also, many households
do not have the fast Internet connection needed for certain Web applications to run smoothly.
Finally, some people worry that files stored at a Web application site can be infected with
viruses. Web application vendors believe these worries are groundless and that Web applications
benefit both buyers and sellers.
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Learning Aids
In many applications, an audible beep indicates an error, and the last entry should be reviewed.
Function key F1 often is used to activate the Help feature. Some applications have a Help button
that, when clicked, changes the mouse pointer to a Help arrow. This arrow can be used to obtain
help on a command, button, or bar by pointing at the item and clicking. Many software
developers have eliminated users manuals in favor of extensive online Help. Computer stores
occasionally carry a few trade books, but entire aisles of computer-related books can be found in
most large book stores.
For some applications, other learning aids, such as tutorials or keyboard templates, are available.
Tutorials are step-by-step instructions using real examples that show how to use an application.
Tutorials can be printed, software-based, or Internet-based. Keyboard templates (plastic sheets
that fit around a portion of the keyboard) illustrate the keyboard commands for various tasks.
Wizards can be used to help create memorandums, meeting agendas, fax cover sheets, flyers,
letters, resumes, charts, forms, reports, awards, pleadings, calendars, postcards, envelopes,
mailing labels, newsletters, and Web pages. Some applications also offer document templates,
which are special documents that provide basic tools for shaping a final document. The
availability of learning aids and support tools is an important consideration in selecting an
application package.
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Chapter 4: The Components of the System Unit

Overview
1. Describe the components in the

system unit
2. Explain how the CPU uses the
four steps of a machine cycle to
process data
3. Define a bit and describe how a
series of bits represents data
4. Differentiate between the
various types of memory
5. Describe the types of expansion

slots and cards in the system
unit
6. Explain the difference between
a serial, a parallel, and a USB
port
7. Describe how buses contribute
to a computer's processing
speed
8. Identify components in a
notebook computer
9. Identify components in a
handheld computer
Chapter 4 presented the components in the system unit, described how memory stores data,
instructions, and information, and discussed the sequence of operations that occur when a
computer executes an instruction. The chapter included a comparison of various microprocessors
on the market today.
Describe the components in the system unit

The system unit, sometimes called the chassis, is a box-like case housing the electronic
components of a computer that are used to process data. System unit components include the
processor, memory module, cards, ports, and connectors. Many of the system units components
reside on a circuit board called the motherboard. The motherboard contains many different
types of chips, or small pieces of semiconducting material, on which one or more integrated
circuits (IC) are etched. An integrated circuit is a microscopic pathway capable of carrying
electronic current. Each IC can contain millions of transistors, which act as switches for
electronic signals.
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Explain how the CPU uses the four steps of a machine cycle to process data
The central processing unit (CPU), also called a processor, significantly impacts overall
computing power and manages most of a computers operations. The CPU contains the control
unit and the arithmetic/logic unit. The control unit directs and coordinates most of the
operations in the computer. For every instruction, the control unit repeats a set of four basic
operations called the machine cycle: (1) fetching the instruction or data item from memory, (2)
decoding the instruction into commands the computer understands, (3) executing the
commands, and, if necessary, (4) storing, or writing the result to memory. The arithmetic/logic
unit (ALU) performs the execution part of the machine cycle. Specifically, the ALU carries out
three operations:
Arithmetic operations performing calculations, which include addition,

subtraction, multiplication, and division
Comparison operations comparing data items to determine if the first item is

greater than, equal to, or less than the other item
Logical operations working with conditions and logical operators such as

AND, OR, and NOT
Compare and contrast various personal computer processors on the market

today
A personal computers CPU usually is contained on a single chip, which some call a
microprocessor. Intel is a leading manufacturer of personal computer processors. Most highperformance PCs use a processor from Intel called the Pentium processor. A second Intel brand,
called the Celeron, is designed for less expensive PCs. Two more brands, called the Xeon
and Itanium processors, are ideal for workstations and low-end servers. Intel-compatible
processors have the same internal design as Intel processors and perform the same functions, but
are made by other companies and often are less expensive. An alternative design to the Intel-style
processor, the Motorola processor, is found in Apple Macintosh and Power Macintosh systems.
A new type of processor designed for lower-costing personal computers and Internet appliances,
called an integrated CPU, combines functions of a processor, memory, and a video card on a
single chip. Todays processors are equipped with MMX technology, a built-in set of
instructions that manipulates and processes multimedia data more efficiently. Intels SSE
instructions and AMDs 3DNow! are two other technologies that improve a processors
performance of multimedia, the Web, and 3-D graphics. To optimize and extend battery life for
notebook computers, Intel mobile processors use SpeedStep technology and AMD
processors use PowerNow! technology.
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Define a bit and describe how a series of bits represents data

Most computers are digital, meaning they understand only two discrete states: on and off. These
states are represented using two digits, 0 (off) and 1 (on). Each on or off value is called a bit
(short for binary digit), the smallest unit of data a computer can handle. Eight bits grouped
together as a unit form a byte. A byte provides enough different combinations of 0s and 1s to
represent 256 individual characters including numbers, letters of the alphabet, punctuation
marks, and other characters.
The combinations of 0s and 1s used to represent data are defined by patterns called coding
schemes. Popular coding schemes are ASCII, EBCDIC, and Unicode. Coding schemes make it
possible for humans to interact with a digital computer that recognizes only bits. Every character
you type on a keyboard is converted into a corresponding byte, a series of on/off electrical states
the computer can process.
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Differentiate between the various types of memory

Memory is a temporary storage place for data, instructions, and information. Memory stores the
operating system, application programs, and the data processed by application programs. A byte
is the basic storage unit in memory. Memory size is measured by the number of bytes available
for use. A kilobyte (KB or K) of memory is approximately one thousand bytes, a megabyte
(MB) is approximately one million bytes, and a gigabyte (GB) is approximately one billion
bytes. The system unit contains several types of memory.
RAM (random access memory) consists of memory chips that the processor can read from and
write to. Most RAM is volatile memory, meaning that its contents are lost when the computers
power is turned off. Two basic types of RAM chips are dynamic RAM and static RAM.
Dynamic RAM (DRAM) must be re-energized constantly or it loses its contents. Static RAM
(SRAM) is faster and more reliable than DRAM and has to be re-energized less often, but it is
much more expensive.
Memory cache, also called a cache store or RAM cache, improves processing time by storing
frequently used instructions and data. ROM (read-only memory) refers to memory chips that
only can be read and used; that is, they cannot be modified. ROM is nonvolatile memory
(NVM), meaning that its contents are not lost when the computers power is turned off. A
variation of the ROM chip, called programmable read-only memory (PROM), is a blank chip
on which you can place items permanently.
Flash memory, also known as flash ROM or flash RAM, is nonvolatile memory that can be
erased electronically and reprogrammed. Complementary metal-oxide semiconductor
(CMOS) memory, another type of memory chip, stores configuration information about the
computer and uses battery power to retain information when the power to the computer is off.
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Describe the types of expansion slots and cards in the system unit
An expansion slot is an opening, or socket, where you can insert a circuit board into the
motherboard. These circuit boards called cards, expansion cards, boards, expansion boards,
adapters, adapter cards, interface cards, add-ins, or add-ons -- add new devices or
capabilities to the computer. Four types of expansion cards found in most computers are a video
card, a sound card, a network interface card, and a modem card.
A video card converts computer output into a video signal that is sent through a cable to the
monitor, which displays an image. A sound card enhances the sound-generating capabilities of a
personal computer by allowing sound to be input through a microphone and output through
speakers.
A network interface card (NIC) is a communications device that allows the computer to
communicate via a network. A modem card is a communications device that enables computers
to communicate via telephone lines or other means. Many of todays computers support Plug
and Play, a capability with which the computer automatically can configure expansion boards
and other devices as you install them.
Notebook and other portable computers have a special type of expansion slot used for installing a
PC Card, which is a thin credit card-sized device that adds memory, disk drives, sound,
fax/modem, and communications capabilities to a mobile computer.
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Explain the difference between a serial, a parallel, and a USB port

A cable often attaches external devices to the system unit. A port is the interface, or point of
attachment, to the system unit. Ports have different types of connectors, which are used to join a
cable to a device. Male connectors have one or more exposed pins, while female connectors
have matching holes to accept the pins. Most computers have three types of ports: serial, parallel,
and USB. A serial port is a type of interface that connects a device to the system unit by
transmitting data only one bit at a time. Serial ports usually connect devices that do not require
fast data transmission rates, such as a mouse, keyboard, or modem. A parallel port is an
interface that connects devices by transferring more than one bit at a time. Many printers connect
to the system unit using a parallel port. A universal serial bus (USB) port can connect up to 127
different peripheral devices with a single connector type, greatly simplifying the process of
attaching devices to a personal computer.
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Describe how buses contribute to a computer's processing speed

Bits are transferred internally within the circuitry of the computer along electrical channels. Each
channel, called a bus, allows various devices inside and attached to the system unit to
communicate with each other. The bus width, or size of the bus, determines the number of bits
that can be transferred at one time. The larger the bus width, the fewer number of transfer steps
required and the faster the transfer of data. In most computers word size (the number of bits the
CPU can process at a given time) is the same as the bus width. Every bus also has a clock speed.
The higher the bus clock speed, the faster the transmission of data, which results in applications
running faster. A computer has two basic types of buses. A system bus connects the CPU to main
memory. An expansion bus allows the CPU to communicate with peripheral devices.
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Identify components in a notebook computer

Users with mobile computing needs often have a mobile computer, such as a notebook computer
and/or handheld computer. A notebook computer, also called a laptop computer, can run either
using batteries or using a standard power supply. In addition to the motherboard, processor,
memory, sound card, PC Card slot, and drive bay, the system unit for a notebook computer also
houses other devices, such as the keyboard, pointing device, speakers, and display.
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Identify components in a handheld computer

Handheld computers run strictly on battery. Similar to desktop and notebook computers,
handheld computers have a system unit that contains electronic components that process data. A
handheld computers system unit also contains a display and may house speakers and some form
of keyboard and/or pointing device. Handheld computers often have an IrDA port so you can
communicate wirelessly with other computers. Many also include a serial port.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. The system unit
6. Expansion slots and expansion

cards
2. The CPU
7. Ports
3. Processor comparison
8. Buses
4. Data representation
9. Notebook computers
5. Memory
10. Handheld computers
The System Unit

The motherboard in the system unit contains different types of chips. Manufacturers package
chips so the chips can be attached to circuit boards, such as the motherboard. Types of chip
packages include:
Dual inline package (DIP), which consists of two parallel rows of downwardpointing thin metal feet (pins)
Pin grid array (PGA) package, which holds a larger number of pins because the
pins are mounted on the surface of the package
Flip chip-PGA (FC-PGA) package, which places chips on the opposite side (flip
side) of the pins
Single edge contact (SEC) cartridge, which connects to the motherboard on one
of its edges
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The CPU
The power of personal computer processor chips (the chips that contain the CPU) has grown at
an astounding rate. As chips become older and more widely used, price cuts usually are
introduced.
Several factors affect CPU processing speed. CPUs in most of todays personal computers use
pipelining, a technique that increases processing speed by beginning execution of a second
machine cycle instruction before the first instruction is completed. CPUs also use high-speed
storage locations, called registers, to hold data and instructions temporarily. The control unit
relies on a small chip called the system clock to synchronize all computer operations. The speed
at which a processor executes instructions is called clock speed, or clock rate, and is measured
in megahertz (MHz). The system clock is a major factor affecting processor speed. A higher
clock speed means the CPU can process more instructions per second.
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Processor Comparison
Although once frequently used, the term microprocessor is much less common today.
Sometimes you can upgrade your processor to increase the computers performance. There are
three forms of upgrades:
With a chip for chip upgrade, the existing processor chip is replaced with a new
one
With a piggyback upgrade, the new processor is stacked on top of the old one
With a daughterboard upgrade, the new processor is on a small circuit board

(the daughterboard) that plugs into the motherboard
The past three years have seen a steady drop in the cost of computers. PC prices plunged as a
result of lower prices for processors, memory chips, and hard drives. Consumers also are
showing increased interest in new less powerful, but less expensive, personal computers that
work perfectly well for the most popular uses word processing, Internet access, and
spreadsheet applications. The surge in low-priced computer sales has had an impact on Intel, the
worlds largest processor manufacturer. By focusing on making inexpensive processor chips,
rivals AMD and Cyrix are making inroads into Intels dominance. Intels response, the
Celeron, has proven popular, but the lower-priced chip offers a smaller profit margin.
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Data Representation
Just as the decimal system (10 digits) is suited to human anatomy (10 fingers), the binary
system (2 digits) is perfect to represent the on-off states (2 states) of a computer. Basic coding
standards make it possible for components within computers to communicate, allow
manufacturers to be confident that the components they produce will operate correctly in a
computer, and enable consumers to purchase components that are compatible with their systems.
In the ASCII-8 and EBCDIC codes, the first four characters represent the zone, and the last four
characters represent the digits 1 through 8. ASCII, originally a seven-bit code, was expanded to
eight bits in an effort to provide for symbols used in other nations. Unicode, a 2-byte (16-bit)
code, can represent 216, or 65,536, characters. The system employs the codes used by ASCII and
also includes other alphabets (such as Cyrillic and Hebrew), special characters (including
religious symbols), and some of the word writing symbols used by various Asian countries.
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Memory
Because computers use the binary number system, the actual values for the units in which
memory and storage are measured are based on powers of 2. For example, one kilobyte = 210 =
1,024.
RAMs volatility, and its ability to be changed, are its most distinguishing characteristics. When
RAM is purchased it comes in banks of nine chips eight are needed to represent a byte and the
ninth is needed for parity. RAM chips usually are packaged on small circuit boards called single
inline memory modules (SIMMs) or dual inline memory modules (DIMMs) that are inserted
into the motherboard. During the past 20 years, the price of RAM has dropped an average of 20
percent each year, but its capacity has more than doubled every two years.
Similar to flash ROM, another variation of ROM, called EEPROM (electrically erasable
programmable read-only memory), can be erased electrically and rewritten. Because of its
nonvolatile nature, EEPROM is used in electronic cash registers to store item prices.
The amount of time it takes the processor to read data from memory, called access time, directly
affects how fast the computer can process data. Memory access time is measured in terms of
nanoseconds, or billionths of a second.
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Expansion Slots and Expansion Cards

Plug and Play was a much-touted feature of the Windows 95 and Windows 98 operating systems.
A PC Card slot, usually located on the side of a notebook computer, allows a PC Card to be
changed without having to open the system unit. There are three types of PC Cards:
Type I cards add memory capabilities to the computer
Type II cards contain communications devices
Type III cards house devices such as hard disks
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Ports
Port connectors are devised to be foolproof each is designed so it can fit only one type of
socket in only one correct position. Serial ports always are male on the system case. Cables
connected to parallel ports often are employed over shorter distances.
Special-purpose ports include:
1394 port a port that can connect multiple devices requiring faster data
transmission speeds such as digital cameras and DVD drives
MIDI (musical instrumental digital interface) port a special type of serial port
designed to connect the system unit to a musical instrument
SCSI (small computer system interface) port a high-speed parallel port used to
attach peripheral devices such as disk drives and printers
IrDA port a port that allows wireless devices to transmit signals to a computer
via infrared light waves
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Buses
A highway analogy can help clarify how bus width affects the speed of data transfer. Data moves
like cars the more lanes (greater the bus width) the faster the traffic (data) flow. Ideally, buses
used to transfer data should be large enough to use the processing power of registers. Sometimes,
however, manufacturers reduce bus size to cut costs.
Word size, which indicates the number of bits processed in each machine cycle, has been
compared to the amount of coffee produced with each turn of a coffee grinders handle.
Theoretically, if word size doubles then processor throughput also could double.
The types of expansion buses on a motherboard determine the types of cards you can add to a
computer. Types of expansion buses include:
An ISA (Industry Standard Architecture) bus, the most common and slowest
expansion bus, connects to devices such as a mouse, modem card, sound card, and
low-speed network card
A local bus is a high-speed expansion bus used to connect higher speed devices
such as hard disks
An Accelerated Graphics Port (AGP) is a bus designed by Intel to improve the

speed with which 3-D graphics and video transmit
The universal serial bus (USB) and 1394 bus are buses that eliminate the need to
install expansion cards into expansion slots
A PC Card bus is the expansion bus for a PC Card
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Notebook Computers
A typical notebook computer often has a keyboard/mouse, IrDA, serial, parallel, video, and USB
ports. The keyboard/mouse port allows users who are uncomfortable with a notebook computers
smaller keyboard and less-traditional pointing devices (often a touch pad or pointing stick) to
connect a full-sized keyboard or a mouse to the computer.
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Handheld Computers
One of the most popular handheld computers is the Palm Pilot from 3Com. First introduced in
1996, a recent version, Palm IIIc, offers a color screen and an expandable, full-sized keyboard.
Another pioneering handheld computer is Visor from Handspring. Visor runs the Palm operating
system and features an expansion slot that can accommodate add-ons such as digital cameras and
music players. Visors greatest innovation, however, may be the slot in the back, which can
accommodate modules with various functions including a pager, an MP3 music player,
videogame cartridges, and a module that converts the Visor into a cell telephone.
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Chapter 5: Input
Overview
1. Describe the two types of input

2. List the characteristics of a
keyboard
3. Identify various types of
keyboards
pointing devices
8. Understand how to input data

into a handheld computer
9. Identify the uses of a digital
camera
10. Describe the various techniques
used for video input
11. Describe the uses of PC video
cameras and web cams
5. Explain how a mouse works

6. Describe different mouse types
7. Explain how voice recognition
works
12. Explain how scanners and other

reading devices work
13. Identify alternative input
devices for physically
challenged users
In this chapter, you learn what is input and what are input devices. The keyboard is presented and
different keyboard types are described. You are introduced to various pointing devices, such as
the mouse, trackball, touchpad, pointing stick, joystick, touchscreen, and pen input. Scanners and
reading devices, including optical scanners, optical readers, magnetic ink character recognition
readers, and data collection devices are explained. You learn about digital cameras, audio input,
speech recognition, video input, and videoconferencing. Finally, input devices for physically
challenged users are explored.
Describe the two types of input

Input is any data or instructions entered into the memory of a computer. Two types of input are
data and instructions. Data is a collection of unorganized items that can include words, numbers,
pictures, sounds, and video. A computer processes data into information, which is organized,
meaningful, and useful. Instructions can be in the form of programs, commands, or user
responses. A program is a series of instructions that tells a computer how to perform the tasks
necessary to process data into information. A command is an instruction given to a computer
program. A user response is an instruction you issue to the computer by responding to a question
posed by a computer program. Any hardware component that allows you to enter data, programs,
commands, and user responses into a computer is an input device.
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List the characteristics of a keyboard

The keyboard is an input device that contains keys you press to enter data into a computer.
Desktop computer keyboards usually have from 101 to 105 keys, while keyboards for smaller
computers contain fewer keys. All keyboards have a typing area used to type letters of the
alphabet, numbers, punctuation marks, and other basic characters. Many desktop computer
keyboards also have a numeric keypad designed to make it easier to enter numbers, function keys
programmed to issue commands and accomplish certain tasks, arrow keys used to move the
insertion point (a symbol on the screen that indicates where the next typed character will
display), and toggle keys that can be switched between two different states.
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Identify various types of keyboards

A standard computer keyboard sometimes is called a QWERTY keyboard because of the layout
of its typing area. An enhanced keyboard has 12 function keys along the top row, 2 ctrl keys, 2
alt keys, and a set of arrow and additional keys between the typing area and the numeric keypad.
Cordless keyboards transmit data via infrared light waves. Keyboards for notebook and handheld
computers usually have smaller and fewer keys than desktop computers. A portable keyboard is a
full-sized keyboard you can attach to and remove from a handheld computer. Some
manufacturers have designed ergonomic keyboards to reduce the chance of workplace injuries.
The goal of ergonomics is to incorporate comfort, efficiency, and safety into the design of
workplace items.
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Identify various types of pointing devices

In a graphical user interface, the pointer is a small symbol on the screen. A pointing device is an
input device that allows you to control the pointer. Common pointing devices include the mouse,
trackball, touchpad, pointing stick, joystick, touch screen, light pen, and a stylus. A mouse is a
pointing device, designed to fit comfortably under the palm of your hand, that is moved across a
flat surface. A trackball is a stationary pointing device with a ball mechanism on its top. A
touchpad is a flat, rectangular pointing device that is sensitive to pressure and motion. A
pointing-stick is a pressure-sensitive pointing device shaped like a pencil eraser that is positioned
between keys on the keyboard. A joystick is a vertical lever mounted on a base. A light pen is a
handheld device that contains a light source or can detect light. A touch screen is a touchsensitive display on the screen. A stylus looks like a ballpoint pen but uses pressure, instead of
ink, to write text and draw lines. An electronic pen can be used on a graphics tablet, which
consists of a flat, rectangular, electronic plastic board used to input graphical data.
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Explain how a mouse works

As you move a mouse across a flat surface, the movement is translated into signals that are sent
to the computer, and the pointer on the screen also moves. When you move the mouse to the
right, the pointer moves to the right on the screen. For Windows users, the top of a mouse has at
least two buttons and sometimes also a wheel. Generally, you use a mouse to move the pointer
on the screen to an object and then press a button, or click, to perform a certain action on that
object. Other operations you can perform using a mouse include right-click, double-click, drag,
right-drag, rotate wheel, and press wheel button.
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Describe different mouse types

A mechanical mouse has a rubber or metal ball on its underside. When the ball rolls in a certain
direction, electronic circuits in the mouse translate the movement into signals that are sent to the
computer. For better traction, you should place a mechanical mouse on a mouse pad. An optical
mouse has no moving parts; instead it uses devices that emit and sense light to detect the mouses
movement. An optical mouse can be used on nearly all surfaces, is more precise than a
mechanical mouse, and does not require cleaning. A cordless mouse, or wireless mouse, is a
battery powered device that transmits data using wireless technology, such as radio waves or
infrared light waves. A cordless mouse uses technology very similar to that of a cordless
keyboard.
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Explain how voice recognition works
Voice input is the process of entering data by speaking into a microphone that is attached to the
sound card on a computer. Voice recognition is the computers capability of distinguishing
spoken words. The first voice recognition programs were speaker dependent. With speakerdependent software, the computer makes a profile of your voice, which means you have to train
the computer to recognize your voice. Today, most voice recognition programs use speakerindependent software, which has a built-in set of word patterns and does not have to be trained to
recognize your voice. Some voice recognition software requires discrete speech, meaning that
you have to speak slowly and separate each word with a short pause. Most voice recognition
products, however, support continuous speech, allowing you to speak in a flowing conversational
tone.
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Understand how to input data into a handheld computer

To satisfy the input needs of many different types of users, handheld computers provide many
different ways to input data. A handheld computer typically includes a basic stylus. With the
stylus, you can enter data using an on-screen keyboard or using handwriting recognition software
that translates handwritten letters and characters into symbols the computer understands. Other
input alternatives available with some handheld computers include attaching a full-sized
keyboard, transferring data from a desktop computer, using voice input, and attaching a digital
camera.
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Identify the uses of a digital camera

A digital camera is used to take pictures and store the photographed images digitally instead of
on traditional film. Pictures are stored on a storage medium, such as a floppy disk, SuperDisk,
Clik! disk, PC Card, compact flash card, memory stick, mini-CD, or microdrive. Many digital
cameras allow you to review and edit the images while they are in the camera. You also can
download, or transfer a copy of, the stored image to a computer. Once on a computer, the
pictures can be edited with photo-editing software, printed, faxed, sent via electronic mail,
included in another document, or posted to a Web site. There are three basic types of digital
cameras. A studio camera is a stationary digital camera used for professional studio work. A field
camera is a portable camera, often used by photojournalists, that has many lenses and other
attachments. A point-and-shoot camera is more affordable and lightweight and provides
acceptable quality photographic images for the home or small business user.
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Describe the various techniques used for video input

Video input, or video capture, is the process of entering a full-motion recording into a computer
and storing the video on a storage medium. Many video devices use analog video signals. To
input video from these devices, the device is plugged into a video capture card, an expansion
card that converts the analog signal into a digital signal the computer can understand. A digital
video (DV) camera is a new generation of video camera that records video as digital signals,
instead of using analog signals, and therefore does not require a video capture card. Video files
can demand huge amounts of storage space. Video compression reduces the size of video files by
recognizing that only a small portion of an image changes from frame to frame. Instead of
storing every frame in its entirety, a video compression program might store an initial frame and
then store only the changes from one frame to the next. A video decoder is a card that
decompresses video. A video digitizer can be used to capture an individual frame from a video
and save the still picture in a file.
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Describe the uses of PC video cameras and Web cams

A PC camera is a DV camera that allows home users to record, edit, capture video and still
images, and make video telephone calls on the Internet. During a video telephone call, both
parties can see each other as they talk. Although usually placed on top of the monitor and
attached to a computers USB port, some PC cameras are portable and can be used anywhere. A
Web cam is a video camera whose output displays on a Web page. Some Web sites have live Web
cams that display still pictures and update the displayed images at specified time intervals.
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Explain how scanners and other reading devices work

Scanners and optical readers can capture data from a source document, which is the original form
of the data. A scanner is a light-sensing input device that reads printed text and graphics and then
translates the results into a form a computer can use. One of the more popular scanners is a
flatbed scanner, which works similarly to a copy machine except it creates a file of the document
in memory instead of a paper copy. Many scanners include OCR software, which converts a
scanned image into a text file that can be edited. An optical reader uses a light source to read
characters, marks, and codes and converts them into digital data that a computer can process.
Three types of optical readers are optical character recognition, optical mark recognition, and bar
code scanner. Optical character recognition (OCR) is a technology that reads typewritten,
computer printed, or handwritten characters from ordinary documents and translates the images
into a form that the computer can understand. Optical mark recognition (OMR) devices read
hand-drawn marks such as circles or rectangles. A bar code scanner uses laser beams to read bar
codes, which are identification codes consisting of vertical lines and spaces of different widths.
Another type of reader, called a magnetic-ink character recognition (MICR) reader, reads text
printed with magnetized ink and is used almost exclusively by the banking industry.
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Identify alternative input devices for physically challenged users
Whether at work or at home, it may be necessary to obtain input devices that address physical
limitations. Voice recognition is ideal for blind or visually impaired users, but several other input
devices also are available. A keyguard, which is placed over the keyboard, allows people with
limited hand mobility to rest their hands on the keyboard and guides a finger or pointing device
so that only one key is pressed. Keyboards with larger keys and on-screen keyboards on which
keys are pressed using a pointing device also can help. Pointing devices such as small trackballs
controlled with a thumb or one finger and head-mounted pointers also are available for users
with motor disabilities. Two new developments are gesture recognition and computerized
implant devices. With gesture recognition the computer will be able to detect human motions.
Computerized devices implanted in the brain will allow paralyzed individuals to transmit signals
to the computer.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. Input
8. Handheld computer input
2. The keyboard
9. Digital cameras
3. Keyboard Types
10. Video input
4. Pointing devices
11. PC video cameras and web

cams
5. Using a mouse
12. Scanners and reading devices
6. Mouse types
7. Voice recognition
13. Input devices for physically

challenged users
Input
Of the four operations in the information processing cycle input, process, output, and storage
input is the operation to which computer users are most closely linked and on which each
subsequent action depends.
Typed commands use keywords specific words, phrases, or codes that a program recognizes as
instructions. Keywords are an essential element of command-driven programs, such as DOS. The
problem with keywords is that:
they must be memorized, and

they must be entered correctly
This makes command-driven programs difficult to use. Menu-driven programs and graphical
user interfaces eliminate the problems of having to memorize and correctly type keywords.
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The Keyboard
Data entered through the keyboard averages about one error for every 300 characters, while data
entered more directly, such as with a scanning device, averages only one error for every 3 million
characters. Nevertheless, the keyboard continues to be the most popular input device. Some
special keys ALT, CTRL, and SHIFT almost always are used in combination with other keys.
Desktop computer keyboards generally have two ways to enter numbers the numeric keypad
and the row of number keys above the alphabetic keys. Think of situations in which both would
be used. The numeric keypad also contains arrow keys, but these keys are active only when the
keypad is turned off. Although the purpose of function keys varies, some developers have tried to
standardize certain keys (such as using F1 to access online Help). In addition to the NUM
LOCK key, other toggle keys are the CAPS LOCK key and the INSERT key. Unlike the CAPS
LOCK key on a typewriter, the CAPS LOCK key on a computer keyboard cannot be used to
print the special characters on the keys in the number row.
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Keyboard Types
Keyboards are used primarily to enter alphanumeric data. Not surprisingly, keyboards for
oriental languages are significantly more complex than the keyboard shown in Figure 5-3. The
QWERTY keyboard was devised in 1867 by Christopher Sholes, inventor of the first practical
commercial typewriter. Ironically, Sholes intent when designing the keyboard was to slow
typists down; if typists worked too quickly, keys had a tendency to jam. Many feel the QWERTY
keyboard is an anachronism, and its continued use is counterproductive. A more recent design,
called the Dvorak keyboard (named for August Dvorak, American educator, 1895-1975) places
the most frequently used keys in the middle of the typing area. Studies have shown that trained
typists using the Dvorak keyboard are up to 20 times faster than trained QWERTY typists.
Despite this, the Dvorak keyboard rarely is used. Repetitive stress injury (RSI) afflicts more than
1.8 million people in the United States. A debilitating repetitive stress injury that plagues some
keyboard users is carpal tunnel syndrome. This painful wrist injury affects sufferers not only
when working at the keyboard, but when performing other tasks as well. The wrist rest on the
keyboard in Figure 5-3 is designed to reduce wrist strain.
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Pointing Devices
The original mouse was a one-button, cigarette-pack shaped device invented by Doug Engelbart
in 1964. Today, many software manufacturers have made the mouse (or a related pointing
device) an essential part of their applications. When the screen is cluttered or pointer targets are
small, however, some experienced users still prefer keyboard commands if they are offered.
Some people feel that a touchpad is the most difficult pointing device to use. To satisfy divergent
preferences, several laptop computers include both a pointing stick and a touchpad.
Although trackballs, touchpads, and pointing stick devices require less space than a mouse
(making them popular for portable computers), most people find them harder to use. Because of
this a smaller mouse, called Mouse2Go, has been developed for use on a small pad that clips to
the side of a portable computer.
Joystick concepts evolved from actual use in jet fighter airplanes, where joysticks allowed pilots
to control an aircrafts movement quickly and precisely.
Although touch screen users touch a symbol on the screen, it is the location where the touch
occurred, not the symbol contacted, that is important. Because they are so user-friendly, even
people unfamiliar with computers are comfortable with touch screens.
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Using a Mouse
The major advantage of a mouse is that it is easy to use. The disadvantages are twofold: first, the
mouse requires additional desk space, making it difficult to use in cramped locations; and
second, mouse use demands that a hand be taken from the keyboard (unlike a pointing stick,
which can be used without removing a hand from the keyboard). When a mouse has two buttons,
one is the primary mouse button and the other is the secondary mouse button. To reverse the
functions of these buttons or change other mouse options in Windows 98, point to Settings on the
Start menu, click Control Panel on the Settings submenu, then double-click the Mouse icon in
the Control Panel window. In the Mouse Properties dialog box that displays, the Basics tab
allows you to change pointer speed, button selection, and double-click speed.
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Mouse Types
Since its introduction in 1965, the mouse has gone through several transformations. Microsofts
green eye mouse, an early mouse with two buttons, was released in 1983 and now is a
collectors item. Other interesting mouse variations include Spectrums RingMouse (which uses
infrared to point), Interlinks wireless mouse (often used for presentations), and Interlinks
DuraPoint PC mouse (an incredibly durable mouse that gained the Pentagons interest). A new
mouse from Immersion Corporation provides tactile sensations, with an internal motor that
allows users to feel the desktop. The mouse which senses cursor position, identifies screen
objects, and sends pulses to a motor beneath the surface of the mouse lets users feel icons,
sense Web links, or bump through menu commands.
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Voice Recognition
Some experts believe voice input eventually will be the most common way to operate a
computer. Speech recognition is particularly welcome to people with certain disabilities.
Although speech recognition continues to improve, developers admit that advertisements touting
high accuracy rates generally assume a standard vocabulary. Specialized words, regional accents,
and local dialects reduce accuracy. Even a 95 percent accuracy rate, meaning that on average 1
out of every 20 words is wrong, may not inspire confidence. (Imagine if, in conversation, every
20th word spoken was misinterpreted.) Nevertheless, voice recognition systems are gaining in
popularity.
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Handheld Computer Input

Instead of using a keyboard, with most handheld computers you write or make selections on the
computer screen with a stylus. Although a handheld computer typically includes a basic stylus,
you can buy more elaborate models that have a ballpoint pen at one end and a stylus at the other.
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Digital Cameras
Some manufacturers use dots per inch to represent a digital cameras resolution, or the sharpness
and clarity of the image it produces. Dots per inch (DPI) is the number of pixels in an inch of
screen display. A pixel is a single point in an electronic image. Digital cameras for the consumer
range from 640 x 480 dpi to 1,792 to 1,200 dpi. The actual photographed resolution is called the
optical resolution. Some manufacturers also state enhanced resolution, which uses a special
formula to add pixels between those generated by the optical resolution. With the price of digital
cameras decreasing, will the era of film-based cameras soon come to an end? Why or why not?
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Video Input
Video input is used in a variety of ways, from developing training films to creating presentation
enhancements. Video input also has been used in the workplace to record (sometimes secretly)
office or assembly-line workers in an effort to find possible quality or efficiency problems. Do
you think this secret recording is ethical? Why or why not?
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PC Video Cameras and Web Cams

Estimates suggest that currently more than 9,000 Web sites use Web cams. Web cams are used to
put everything from college dorm rooms to taxi cabs on the Web. The first personal Web page to
use a Web cam was the JenniCam, which showed the daily life of a college co-ed. The site
started in 1996 as a project for a computer class and still receives more than 4.5 million hits a
day. Web cams also have more practical uses. Recently, some day-care centers have installed
Web cams so parents can use the centers Web page to check on their children. This use of Web
cams, however, has not been without controversy. Due to the usually slower speeds of Web cam
videos, it can be difficult for parents to tell the difference between a day care workers loving pat
on the head and a rap on the noggin.
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Scanners and Reading Devices

In general, scanners and reading devices increase input accuracy and efficiency by reducing the
role of the weak link in the input process the human operator. Optical readers are highly
specialized. Devices that read one set of codes, marks, or characters may not be able to read
another.
An optical mark reader identifies the position, not the shape, of a mark. You may be familiar with
optical marks from tests in which you use a pencil to fill in ovals or rectangles that represent the
answers.
Bar codes minimize input errors, keep inventories up to date, help to track sales trends, and
eliminate the need to price individual items. The identifying numbers on a UPC code can be
entered if the scanner fails. This number is not the items cost prices are obtained from a
database when the item is scanned. Some consumer groups, however, claim price databases not
always are accurate, and that the absence of individual item pricing makes comparing costs
difficult.
The MICR font, adopted by the American Banking Association in the 1950s, is standard
throughout the banking industry. The special shapes of MICR characters make them easier for a
machine to read. MICR readers can interpret magnetic characters even if someone has written
over them. If the magnetic ink on a check is damaged, however, the data must be typed into the
system. The importance of MICR readers to the banking industry is staggering half of the U.S.
population would be needed to process checks if it were done manually.
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Input Devices for Physically Challenged Users

Some input aids for physically challenged people are relatively simple (such as keyguards),
while others are much more sophisticated (such as head-mounted pointers). Chin-operated
joysticks also are available. Another input system, called Eyegaze or ERICA (Eyegaze Response
Interface Computer Aid), was developed by Thomas Hutchinson of the University of Virginia,
who as a boy was paralyzed temporarily by an accident. With a camera mounted on the computer
and directed at a users eye, the Eyegaze system can determine to within a inch where on the
screen a user is looking. By staring at the spot for about second, a user can activate a choice.
Adaptive technology has given many people their best opportunity to communicate, work, and
play. As a six-year-old victim of cerebral palsy said in her first message, Its about time.
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Chapter 6: Output
Overview
1. Define the four categories of

output
6. Describe the uses of speakers

and headsets
2. Identify the different types of

display devices
7. Identify the purpose of data

projectors, fax machines, and
multifunction devices
3. Describe factors that affect the

quality of a display device
4. Identify monitor ergonomic
issues
8. Explain how a terminal is both

an input and output device
9. Identify output options for
physically challenged users
5. Explain the differences among

various types of printers
In this chapter, you learn what is output and what are output devices. Display devices are
introduced, including CRT monitors, flat-panel displays, video cards, and high-definition
television. You explore monitor quality and monitor ergonomics. Various types of printers are
presented, such as impact printers, nonimpact printers, portable printers, plotters and largeformat printers, and special-purpose printers. You find out about audio output and other output
devices, including data projectors, facsimile machines, and multifunction devices. Finally, you
become acquainted with terminals and output devices for physically challenged users.
Define the four categories of output

Output is data that has been processed into a useful form called information. Four types of
output are text, graphics, audio, and video. Text consists of characters (letters, numbers,
punctuation marks, or any other symbol requiring one byte of computer storage space) that are
used to create words, sentences, and paragraphs. Graphics are digital representations of nontext
information such as drawings, charts, photographs, and animation (a series of still images in
rapid sequence that gives the illusion of motion). Audio is music, speech, or any other sound.
Video consists of images played back at speeds to provide the appearance of full motion. An
output device is any computer component capable of conveying information to a user.
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Identify the different types of display devices

A display device is an output device that visually conveys text, graphics, and video information.
Information shown on a display device is called soft copy because the information exists
electronically and is displayed for a temporary period of time. Display devices include CRT
monitors, LCD monitors and displays, gas plasma monitors, and televisions. A CRT monitor is a
monitor that is similar to a standard television set because it contains a cathode ray tube. A
cathode ray tube (CRT) is a large, sealed, glass tube. The front of the tube is a screen coated
with phosphor material that glows as an electron beam moves back and forth, which produces an
image on the screen. LCD monitors and LCD displays use liquid crystal to present information
on the screen. A liquid crystal display (LCD) has liquid crystals between two sheets of material.
When an electric current passes through the crystals, they twist, causing some light waves to be
blocked and allowing others to pass through, which creates the images.
Similar to an LCD display, a gas plasma monitor is a flat-panel display. A gas plasma monitor,
however, substitutes a layer of gas for the liquid crystal material. When voltage is applied, the
gas releases ultraviolet light that causes pixels on the screen to glow and form an image. An
NTSC converter converts a computers digital signal into an analog signal that a standard
television set can display. High-definition television (HDTV) is a type of television set that
works with digital broadcasting signals and supports a wider screen and higher resolution than a
standard television set.
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Describe factors that affect the quality of a display device
The quality of a CRT monitor depends largely on its resolution, dot pitch, and refresh rate. The
quality of an LCD monitor or display depends primarily on its resolution.
A CRT monitors screen is coated with tiny dots of phosphor material, called pixels, that glow
when electrically charged to produce an image. Resolution, which describes the sharpness and
clearness of that image, is related directly to the number of pixels a monitor can display. The
greater the number of pixels the display uses, the better the quality of the image. Dot pitch, a
measure of image clarity, is the distance between each pixel on a display. The smaller the
distance between pixels (dot pitch), the sharper the image. Refresh rate is the speed that a
monitor redraws images on the screen. Refresh rate should be fast enough to maintain a constant,
flicker-free image.
The resolution of an LCD monitor or display generally is proportional to the size of the monitor
or display. That is, the resolution increases for larger monitors and devices.
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Identify monitor ergonomic issues

The goal of ergonomics is to incorporate comfort, efficiency, and safety into the design of items
in the workplace. Features that address monitor ergonomic issues include controls to adjust the
brightness, contrast, positioning, and height and width of images. Newer monitors have digital
controls that allow you to fine-tune the display. Many monitors also have a tilt and swivel base
so the angle of the screen can be altered to minimize neck strain and glare. Monitors produce a
small amount of electromagnetic radiation (EMR), which is a magnetic field that travels at the
speed of light. High-quality monitors should comply with MPR II, a standard that defines
acceptable levels of EMR for a monitor.
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Explain the differences among various types of printers

A printer is an output device that produces text and graphics on a physical medium such as
paper or transparency film. Printed information is called hard copy because the information
exists physically and is a more permanent from of output. Printers can be grouped in two
categories: impact and nonimpact.
Impact printers form characters and graphics by striking a mechanism against an ink ribbon
that physically contacts the paper. A dot-matrix printer is an impact printer that prints images
when tiny wire pins on a print head mechanism strike an inked ribbon. A line printer is an
impact printer that prints an entire line at one time. Two popular types of line printers are band
printers and shuttle-matrix printers.
Nonimpact printers form characters and graphics without actually striking the paper. An ink-jet
printer is a nonimpact printer that sprays drops of ink onto a piece of paper. A laser printer is a
nonimpact printer that creates images using a laser beam and powdered ink, called toner. A
thermal printer is a nonimpact printer that generates images by pushing electrically heated pins
against heat-sensitive paper. Although the print quality of standard thermal printers generally is
low, two special types of thermal printers, thermal wax-transfer printers and dye-sublimation
printers, have a much higher print quality.
Some printers are used for special purposes. A photo printer is a color printer that can produce
photo lab quality pictures as well as printing everyday documents. A label printer is a small
printer that prints on an adhesive type material that can be placed on a variety of items. A
portable printer is a small, lightweight printer that allows a mobile user to print from a
notebook or handheld computer while traveling. Plotters are sophisticated printers used to
produce high-quality drawings such as blueprints, maps, and circuit diagrams. A large-format
printer, which operates like an ink-jet printer but on a larger scale, creates photo-realistic quality
color prints.
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Describe the uses of speakers and headsets

An audio output device produces music, speech, or other sounds. Two commonly used audio
output devices are speakers and headsets. Most personal computers have an internal speaker that
outputs low-quality sound. Many users add high-quality stereo speakers or purchase PCs with
larger speakers built into the sides of the monitor. A woofer can be added to boost low bass
sounds. A headset plugged into a port on the sound card allows only the user to hear sound from
the computer.
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Identify the purpose of data projectors, fax machines, and multifunction devices
A data projector takes the image on a computer screen and projects it onto a large screen so that
an audience of people can see the image. Two smaller, lower priced data projectors are an LCD
projector, which uses liquid crystal display technology, and a digital light processing (DLP)
projector, which uses tiny mirrors. A facsimile (fax) machine transmits and receives documents
over telephone lines. A fax modem is a communication device that allows you to send (and
sometimes receive) electronic documents as faxes. A multifunction device (MFD) is a single
piece of equipment that looks like a copy machine but provides the functionality of a printer,
scanner, copy machine, and sometimes a fax machine.
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Explain how a terminal is both an input and output device

A terminal is a device that performs both input and output because it consists of a keyboard
(input), a monitor (output), and a video card. A dumb terminal has no processing power and
cannot function as an independent device. Dumb terminals connect to a host computer that
performs the processing and then sends the output back to the dumb terminal. An intelligent
terminal has memory and a processor that has the capability of performing some functions
independent of the host computer. Some special-purpose terminals perform specific tasks and
contain features designed for a particular industry. A point-of-sale (POS) terminal is a specialpurpose terminal used to record purchases at the point where a consumer buys a product or
service. An automatic teller machine (ATM) is a self-service, special-purpose terminal used to
access your bank account.
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Identify output options for physically challenged users

For users with mobility, hearing, or vision disabilities, many different types of output devices are
available. For example, hearing-impaired users can instruct programs to display words instead of
sound. With the Windows operating system, physically challenged users can set options to make
programs easier to use. Visually impaired users can change the size or color of text to make
words easier to read. Blind users can use speech output, where the computer reads information
that displays on the screen. A Braille printer outputs information in Braille onto paper.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. Output
6. Audio output
2. Display devices
7. Other output devices
3. Monitor quality
8. Terminals
4. Monitor ergonomics
9. Output devices for

physically challenged
users
5. Printers
Output
For computer users, output may be the most significant stage of the information processing
cycle. Output is the goal of input and processing. It provides the information users need to work
and make decisions. Output used by a machine often is an intermediate result. Eventually it will
be processed into a form that can be used by people.
Sound Blaster is the de facto standard for computer audio. You may be familiar with audio output
from certain cars and vending machines: Fasten seat belts or Please deposit twenty-five
cents. Voice output telephone calls promoting banks, services, or political candidates are
increasingly common. Yet, audio output is not always welcome. Voice output once was employed
in grocery store checkouts. Because of negative public reaction, however, it has been
discontinued.
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Display Devices
Although soft implies a touchable quality, soft copy only has an electronic, intangible
existence, unlike the physical presence of hard copy (printed material).
So much information today is in color that sales of monochrome monitors have plummeted. A
number of less expensive monitors that use gray scaling, however, are popular among business
users.
The CRT in a monitor uses from 15,000 to 20,000 volts to accelerate electrons from the gun to
the screen. Servicing of monitors, therefore, only should be done by trained personnel. Color
monitors sometimes are known as RGB monitors (for red, green, and blue). Red, green, and blue
are lights primary colors. These three fundamental colors are not the same as the three primary
pigments you may have mixed in art class (red, yellow, and blue). Believe it or not, when red
light and green light mix the result is seen as yellow light.
Application software sometimes requires a specific video standard for optimal performance. A
factor to keep in mind when purchasing a monitor is that any video card capable of a higher
resolution can run programs that require lower resolution levels a concept called backward
compatibility. The CGA standard monitor, introduced in 1981, had a 640 x 200 resolution and
displayed four colors. Todays SVGA monitor has a resolution more than 6 times better and can
display 16.7 million colors. Although flat-panel displays use relatively little power and the clarity
of the images they produce continues to improve, they are not as bright as CRT monitors.
Because active matrix displays are much clearer than passive matrix displays, most of todays
notebook computers have active matrix displays. LCD screens often are backlighted but
consume microwatts of power and give off virtually no heat. Gas plasma screens, while much
brighter, consume hundreds or thousands of times more power than LCDs.
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Monitor Quality
In some ways, pixel images on a monitor are similar to the works created by pointillist painters
like Georges Seurat.
The flickering that is seen on some monitors is a result of a too-slow refresh rate. Older monitors
refresh images using a technique called interlacing, in which the an electron beam draws only
half the horizontal lines with each pass. Most of todays monitors are noninterlaced. For the eyes,
noninterlaced monitors tend to be less tiring than interlaced monitors. All video display devices
look better in a dark environment.
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Monitor Ergonomics
Studies show that working in an ergonomically designed environment lessens fatigue, reduces
injury, and increases productivity.
Printers
Varying requirements have led to the development of printers with different capabilities. In
addition to the questions posed in Figure 6-15, the following factors should be considered when
purchasing any printer:
What is the total printer cost? (Supplies and maintenance should be weighed
along with initial price.)
How much is the printer used? (The duty cycle, or recommended maximum
output per month, and the mean time between failure (MTBF), or estimated time
before a component needs service, are key considerations.)
What type of output will be produced? (A printers capabilities must match output
requirements.)
Who will use the output? (External correspondence requires better quality printing
than internal-only reports.)
Are multiple copies necessary? (Only impact printers can produce multiple copies
on a single pass.)
Is color required? (Color significantly adds to the cost of some printers.)
Where will the printer be used? (Impact printers are noisy in closed locations, but
are more resistant to extreme conditions.)
For a printer to function, the appropriate printer driver must be installed in the computer. Drivers
are software that transform the computers output into signals a printer can understand and use.
Most printer manufacturers include driver software. Because most printers are 1,000 times
slower than computers, all printers have a buffer that temporarily stores a few pages, allowing
the computer to dump output into the buffer and continue processing.
Print quality depends on dots per inch and the amount of overlap. Letter quality (LQ) print
corresponds to that produced by a typewriter. Many impact printers produce near letter quality
(NLQ) print, which is slightly less clear than letter quality. Although most dot-matrix printers
use continuous-form paper (in which individual sheets are connected together), some also can
use single-sheet paper without removing any paper by parking continuous-form paper while a
single sheet is printed.
Nonimpact printers represent the fastest growing segment of the printer market. One attraction of
nonimpact printers is their quiet operation. Imagine the noise level in an office with several
impact printers operating simultaneously! Due to separate development, printer resolution is
expressed in dots per inch while monitor resolution is stated in pixels per inch (which is
dependent on dot pitch). The resolution of a high-end printer is about 10 times better than the
resolution of an SVGA monitor. Although high resolution is good, more dpi requires additional
memory.
Unlike other types of nonimpact printers, the image produced by ink-jet printers can smear if
moistened. Although laser printers are popular, they do not handle all printing jobs well. Special
feeders are needed to print multiple envelopes, and multipart forms cannot be used at all.
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Audio Output
Like other computer components, high-quality speakers are growing smaller. NXT has developed
speakers for its flat-panel technology that deliver superior sound despite being only one sixtyfourth of an inch thick. The speaker technology has been licensed by NEC, Acer, and Mission
and is included in their new PCs and notebooks.
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Other Output Devices

Data projectors are particularly useful when demonstrating computer software packages. A data
projector, along with the modem-equipped notebook computer and portable printer, is part of the
arsenal of business travelers. With these weapons, the road warrior can create, transmit,
receive, and project sales presentations.
Which device a stand-alone fax machine or a fax modem would be most useful for a
home user. For a small office? For a large office? Why?
Under what circumstances might you consider purchasing an MFD. Why?
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Terminals
Terminals also sometimes are called display terminals or video display terminals (VDTs).
Historically, terminals have been dumb and dependent on a mainframe, to which they were
connected by a cable, called an umbilical cord, for any processing. The advent of inexpensive
personal computers gave rise to terminals with independent processing capabilities. Personal
computers that function as intelligent terminals are connected to switch boxes that allow them to
operate as PCs or to access a mainframe. Although they are intelligent terminals, some
workstations are designed without disk drives so restricted data cannot be downloaded or copied.
Some terminals, such as credit card authorization devices in department stores, look very little
like normal computers. POS (point-of-sale) terminal printers are special-purpose printers used at
supermarket checkouts. These usually are low-grade dot-matrix printers that have seven or nine
pins.
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Output Devices for Physically Challenged Users

If, when using Windows, the Accessibility command does not appear on the Accessories
submenu, you may have to install Accessibility Options. To install Accessibility Options, open
the Add/Remove Programs Properties dialog box at the Windows Setup tab by clicking Start,
pointing to Settings, clicking Control Panel, double-clicking Add/Remove Programs, and then
clicking the Windows Setup tab. If you used a CD to install Windows, you will be prompted to
insert it into your computer. Under Components, click to select the Accessibility Options check
box and then click OK.
In Windows, the Accessibility Properties dialog box can be used to change both input and output
options for physically challenged users. To open the Accessibility Properties dialog box, click the
Start button, point to Settings, click Control Panel on the Settings submenu, and then doubleclick the Accessibility Options icon in the Control Panel dialog box. The Accessibility Properties
dialog box can be used to change:
Keyboard options StickyKeys (allows the SHIFT, > alt, and CTRL keys, which usually
are used with other keys, to be used by pressing one key at a time), FilterKeys (ignores
brief or repeated keystrokes), and ToggleKeys (plays a tone when a toggle key is pressed)
Sound options SoundSentry (generates visual warnings when a sound is made) and
ShowSounds (displays captions for program speech and sound)
Display options High Contrast (uses colors and fonts designed for easy reading)
Mouse options MouseKeys (allows pointer to be controlled with the numeric keypad)
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Chapter 7: Storage
Overview
1. Differentiate between storage

and memory
7. Explain how a compact disc

stores data

storage media and storage
devices
8. Understand how to care for a

compact disc
3. Explain how a floppy disk

stores data
4. Identify the advantages of using
high-capacity disks
5. Describe how a hard disk
organizes data
6. Identify the advantages of using
an Internet hard drive
9. Differentiate between CDROMs, CD-RWs, and DVDROMs

10. Identify the uses of tape
11. Understand how an enterprise
storage system works
12. Explain how to use PC cards
and other miniature storage
media
13. Identify uses of microfilm and
microfiche
This chapter explains various storage media and storage devices. Students discover how memory
is different from storage. Floppy disks are introduced, and characteristics of a floppy disk, floppy
disk drives, care of floppy disks, and high-capacity floppy disks are presented. Hard disks are
explained, and students find out about characteristics of a hard disk, how a hard disk works,
removable hard disks, hard disk controllers, RAID, and maintaining data on a hard disk.
Compact discs, including CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs, are described. Finally, students learn
about tapes, PC Cards, and other types of storage such as smart cards, microfilm and microfiche.
Differentiate between storage and memory
Memory, which is composed of one or more chips on the motherboard, is a temporary holding
place for data and instructions during processing. The contents of volatile memory, such as
RAM, are lost when the power to the computer is turned off. The contents of nonvolatile
memory, such as ROM, are not lost when power is removed from the computer. Storage holds
items such as data, instructions, and information for future use; that is, storage holds these items
while they are not being processed. Storage is nonvolatile, which means the items in storage are
retained even when power is removed from the computer. Compared to memory, the access time
(the time it takes to locate a single item) for storage is slow.
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Identify various types of storage media and storage devices

A storage medium (media is the plural) is the physical material on which items are kept. A
storage device is the computer hardware that records and retrieves items to and from a storage
medium. Storage devices can function as sources of input and output. When storage devices
transfer items from a storage medium into memory a process called reading they function as
sources of input. When storage devices transfer items from memory to a storage medium a
process called writing they function as sources of output. Types of storage media include
floppy disks, hard disks, compact discs, tape, PC Cards, microfilm, and microfiche.
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Explain how a floppy disk stores data

A floppy disk is a portable, inexpensive storage medium that consists of a thin, circular, flexible
plastic disk with a magnetic coating enclosed in a square-shaped plastic shell. A floppy disk
drive (FDD) is a device that can read from and write on a floppy disk. When you insert a floppy
disk into a floppy disk drive, a shutter on the disks plastic shell slides to the side to expose the
disks recording surface. A floppy disk is a type of magnetic media because it uses magnetic
patterns to store items. Data is stored in tracks and sectors. A track is a narrow recording band
that forms a full circle on the surface of the disk. The disks storage locations consist of pieshaped sections, which break the track into small arcs called sectors. For reading and writing
purposes, sectors are grouped into clusters. A cluster consists of two to eight sectors and is the
smallest unit of space used to store data. Formatting is the process of preparing a disk for
reading and writing.
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Identify the advantages of using high-capacity disks

A high-capacity disk drive is a disk drive that uses disks with capacities of 100 MB and greater
(remember, a typical floppy disk can store only up to 1.44 MB). High-capacity disks are used to
store large graphics, audio, or video files and for backup. A backup is a duplicate of a file,
program, or disk that can be used if the original is lost, damaged, or destroyed. Three high-
capacity disk drives are the SuperDisk drive, the HiFD drive, and the Zip drive. The
SuperDisk drive reads from and writes on a 120 MB or 250 MB SuperDisk. The HiFD
(High-Capacity FD) drive reads from and writes on a 200 MB HiFD disk. The Zip drive is
a high-capacity disk drive that uses a Zip disk. The Zip disk is larger and thicker than a 3.5inch floppy disk and can store 100 MB or 250 MB of data.
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Describe how a hard disk organizes data

A hard disk, or hard disk drive, consists of several inflexible, circular platters that store items
electronically. A platter in a hard disk is made of aluminum, glass, or ceramic and is coated with
a material that allows items to be recorded magnetically on its surface. Each platter has two
read/write heads, one for each side. Because of the stacked arrangement of the platters, the
location of the read/write heads often is referred to by its cylinder, which is the location of a
single track through all platters. Some computers improve hard disk access time by using a disk
cache, which is a portion of memory that the processor uses to store frequently accessed items. A
hard disk can be divided into separate areas, called partitions, each of which functions as if it
were a separate hard disk drive.
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Identify the advantages of using an Internet hard drive

An Internet hard drive is a service on the Web that provides storage to computer users. People
use Internet hard drives to:
Eliminate the need to transport files when away from a desktop computer
Instantaneously save large audio, video, and graphics files when surfing the Web
Make audio files, video clips, or pictures available to family, friends, co-workers,
and customers
Immediately view time-critical data and images while away from a main office or
location
Store offsite backups of data
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Explain how a compact disc stores data
A compact disc (CD) is a flat, round, portable metal storage medium that usually is 4.75 inches
in diameter and less than one-twentieth of an inch thick. Compact discs store items using
microscopic pits (indentations) and land (flat areas) that are in the middle layer of the disc. A
high-powered laser light creates the pits in a single track, divided into evenly spaced sectors, that
spirals from the center to the edge of the disc. A low-powered laser reads items by reflecting light
off the disc surface. The reflected light is converted into a series of bits that the computer can
process.
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Understand how to care for a compact disc

With proper care, a compact disc is guaranteed to last five years, but could last up to 50 years.
Compact discs should not be stacked or exposed to excessive heat, cold, sunlight, or
contaminants. A compact disc should be held by its edges (do not touch the underside of the disc)
and placed in its protective case, called a jewel box, when it is not being used. You can clean the
bottom surface with a soft cloth and warm water or a specialized CD cleaning kit, and you can
repair scratches on the bottom surface with a specialized compact disc repair kit.
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Differentiate between CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, and DVD-ROMs

A CD-ROM, or compact disc read-only memory, is a compact disc that uses the same laser
technology as audio CDs. For a computer to read items stored on a CD-ROM, you insert the disc
into a CD-ROM drive or CD-ROM player. When viewing animation or video, the speed of a
CD-ROM drive, or data transfer rate, is important. A higher the data transfer rate, results in
smoother playback of images and sounds.
Most standard CDs are single-session because manufacturers record (write) all items to the disc
at one time. Variations of standard CD-ROMs, such as PhotoCD, CD-R (compact discrecordable), and CD-RW (compact disc-rewritable), are multisession, which means additional
data, instructions, and information can be written at a later time. A PhotoCD is a compact disc
that contains digital photographic images. A CD-R (compact disc-recordable) is a multisession
compact disc onto which you can record your own items. A CD-RW (compact disc-rewritable)
is an erasable disc you can write on multiple times.
A DVD-ROM (digital video disc-ROM) is an extremely high-capacity compact disc capable of
storing from 4.7 GB to 17 GB. In order to read a DVD-ROM, you must have a DVD-ROM
drive. You also can obtain recordable and rewritable versions of DVD. A DVD-R (DVDrecordable) allows you to write on it once and read (play) it many times. With the new
rewritable DVD, called a DVD+RW, you can erase and record on the disc multiple times.
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Identify the uses of tape

Tape, one of the first storage media used with mainframe computers, is a magnetically-coated
ribbon of plastic capable of storing large amounts of data and information at low cost. Because it
requires sequential access, or consecutive reading and writing of data, tape is used for long-term
storage and backup. (Floppy disks, hard disks, and compact discs all use direct access, which
means you can locate a data item immediately, without having to move through all the items
stored in front of it.)
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Understand how an enterprise storage system works

An enterprise storage system is a strategy that focuses on the availability, protection,
organization, and backup of storage in a company. To implement an enterprise storage system, a
company uses a combination of techniques. A server stores items needed by users on a network.
A RAID system ensures that data is not lost. A tape library is a high-capacity tape system that
works with multiple tape cartridges for storing backups of data, information, and instructions. A
CD-ROM jukebox holds hundreds of CD-ROMs that can contain application programs and
data. An Internet backup can store data, information, and instructions on the Web. A network
attached storage (NAC) is an easy way to add hard disk space to a network. A storage area
network (SAN) is a high-speed network that connects storage devices.
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Explain how to use PC Cards and other miniature storage media

A PC Card is a thin, credit card-sized device that fits into a PC Card slot on a notebook or
personal computer. PC Cards are used to add storage, memory, communications, and sound
capabilities. A smart card stores data on a thin microprocessor embedded in a card similar in
size to an ATM card. Two types of smart cards exist: intelligent and memory. An intelligent
smart card contains a processor and has input, process, output, and storage capabilities. A
memory card has only storage capabilities.
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Identify uses of microfilm and microfiche

Microfilm and microfiche store microscopic images of documents on roll or sheet film.
Microfilm uses a 100- to 215-foot roll of film. Microfiche uses a small sheet of film, usually
about four inches by six inches. Libraries and large organizations use microfilm and microfiche
to archive relatively inactive documents and files.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. Memory vs. storage
8. Caring for compact discs
2. Storage media and devices
9. CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, and

DVD-ROM
3. Floppy disks
10. Tape
4. High-capacity disks
11. Enterprise storage systems
5. Hard disks
6. Advantages of an Internet Hard
Drive
12. PC cards and miniature storage

media
13. Microfilm and microfiche
7. Compact discs
Memory vs. Storage

In general, memory (RAM) is fast, short-term, and volatile. Storage, on the other hand, is slower,
long-term, and nonvolatile. Like nonvolatile memory, the contents of storage are retained when a
computers power is turned off. Unlike most nonvolatile memory, however, the contents of
storage usually can be erased or changed.
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Storage Media and Devices

The first computer storage medium was a punched card. Herman Holleriths punched card
tabulating machine helped complete the 1890 census in just 2 years (compared to 8 years for
the 1880 census) at a savings of more than $5 million. Hollerith later founded the Tabulating
Machine Company, which eventually became known as International Business Machines (IBM).
An understanding of storage terms is very important for purchasers, and users, of storage
devices.
1 Kilobyte (KB) 1 thousand bytes
1 Megabyte (MB) 1 million bytes
1 Gigabyte (GB) 1 billion bytes
1 Terabyte (TB) 1 trillion bytes
1 Petabyte (PB) 1 quadrillion bytes
1 KB stores approximately page of text. Depending on speed and size, rough costs for RAM
are about $40 to $50 per megabyte, while hard disk storage costs are around $0.20 per megabyte.
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Floppy Disks
Although the 5.25-inch floppy disk is physically larger, the storage capacity for a 5.25-inch
floppy disk is less than for a comparable 3.5-inch floppy disk. Because of the 3.5-inch floppy
disks greater durability and superior storage capacity, the 5.25-inch floppy disk at best can be
considered a very endangered species. With its rigid plastic shell, it may be difficult to see the
3.5-inch disk as floppy. The name is justified, however, by the disks ancestry and the fact that,
if the protective shell is removed, the disk on which the data is written is indeed floppy. Today,
most new computers (although not the new Apple iMac) come with a 3.5-inch floppy disk drive;
a few manufacturers still will, for a price, add a 5.25-inch floppy disk drive.
The procedure for formatting a floppy disk depends on the operating system. Floppy disks are
soft-sectored, meaning that the number of sectors is not predetermined. The cluster concept
creates an odd situation: one file with 100,000 bytes requires less disk space (about 25 clusters at
8 sectors per cluster and 512 bytes per sector) than 1,000 small files of 100 bytes each (1,000
clusters).
A floppy disk spins at about 300 revolutions per minute. When writing data, the floppy disk
drives read/write head generates electronic impulses that change the magnetic polarity of areas
along a track to represent the 1 or 0 bits being recorded. When reading data, the read/write head
senses the magnetic areas that have been recorded.
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High-Capacity Disks
The three types of high-capacity disks were developed by three different manufacturers:
SuperDisk is from Imation, HiFD is from Sony Electronics, Inc, and the Zip drive is from
Iomega.
Although manufacturers always are concerned about software piracy (unlawfully duplicating or
distributing proprietary software), many recommend that users create a backup of programs
before installing them on a computer. Backup guards against system failures, such as a head
crash, and human errors, such as inadvertently deleting key files. If you ever accidentally delete a
file, seek help immediately from a computer support person who sometimes can recover the
erased file.
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Hard Disks
In the early 1980s, hard disk drives were called Winchester drives because they had two 30megabyte disks, a characteristic reminiscent of the Winchester 30-30 rifle. In addition to making
hard disks more efficient and allowing the installation of multiple operating systems, large hard
disks may be partitioned to:
Limit software disasters (which usually are confined to one partition)
Shorten path lengths and assist in file keeping
Save keystrokes (operating systems usually return to the directory they left)
Enhance security (different partitions may warrant different safety levels)
Permit variable frequencies of backup
Allow unattended backups (smaller partitions may fit on a single tape)
Unlike floppy disk read/write heads, hard disk read/write heads do not touch the disk surface.
Because of the close tolerance between the disk head and the rotating disk surface, hard disk
drives are manufactured in an extremely clean setting, typically cleaner than a hospital operating
room. Many hard disk drives are warranted for five years, but most warranties are prorated,
meaning that if it fails in the first year it can be replaced at 20 percent of the original cost. All
warranties are void, however, if the drive is opened, because contaminated air and dust render the
drive unusable.
On a personal computer, a hard disk controller (HDC) is the interface for the hard disk. Many
external hard drives use a USB port as their interface. Two other types of HDCs are the EIDE
(Enhanced Integrated Drive Electronics) controller, which can support up to four hard disks,
and SCSI (small computer system interface) controllers, which can support multiple disk
drives as well as other peripherals. A removable hard disk is a disk drive in which a plastic or
metal case surrounds the hard disk so that you can remove it from the drive. Two reasonably
priced, removable hard disks are the Jaz disk, which can store up to 2 GB, and the Peerless
disk, which can store up to 20 GB.
A RAID (redundant array of independent disks) system integrates two or more hard disks,
duplicating data, instructions, and information to improve data reliability.
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Advantages of an Internet Hard Drive

When your computers hard disk is full, an Internet hard drive can provide additional storage
space. Ease of use, number of features, and amount of storage space varies, based on the specific
Internet hard drive Web site. Do you trust the security of online storage services? What types of
information might you store online? What are other advantages and disadvantages of Internet
hard drives?
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Compact Discs
Laser disks first were developed by RCA for showing home movies. The 14-inch optical disk
was a derivative of these early 1980s video disks. Advantages that compact discs offer over hard
disks include: greater data density, less expense (bit for bit), increased durability, and no head
crashing.
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Caring for Compact Discs

Compare the proper care guidelines for using floppy disks (page 7.9) with the proper care
guidelines for using compact discs (page 7.19). How are the guidelines similar? How are they
different?
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CD-ROMs, CD-RWs, and DVD-ROM

On a computer, screen displays for software used to play audio CDs resemble typical CD
players, but the controls are accessed with a pointing device. A single CD-ROM can store the
entire Encyclopedia Britannica with room left over. You write on a CD-R using a CD recorder
or a CD-R drive and special software. To write on a CD-RW disc, you must have CD-RW
software and a CD-RW drive. A multiread CD-ROM drive can read audio CDs, data CDs,
CD-Rs, and CD-RWs.
On one side, a DVD-ROM can store up to 13 times the amount of information that can be stored
on a CD-ROM. Double-sided DVD-ROMs (DVD-ROMs that store data on both sides), can store
up to 26 times the amount of information stored on a CD-ROM.
A DVD+RW is similar to a CD-RW, except it has storage capacities up to 4.7 GB. To write on
DVD+RW discs, you must have a DVD writer.
Along with processor speed, amount of memory, and hard disk capacity, CD-ROM drive speed is
a featured element of almost every personal computer advertisement. Like CD-ROM drives,
DVD-ROM drive speeds are indicated with the letter X to represent the standard speed of a DVD
drive. That speed, however, is considerably faster than the data transfer rate of the original CDROM. While a 24X CD-ROM drive has a data transfer rate of 3,600 KB per second, a 5X DVDROM has a data transfer rate of 6,750 KB per second.
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Tape
Magnetic tape was developed in the mid-1950s to replace the earlier method of storing data on
punched cards. To better understand the difference between sequential access and direct access
(or random access), compare an audio cassette tape to a CD-ROM. An audio cassette tape is
sequential; to listen to the fourth song it is necessary to listen to (or fast-forward through) the
first three songs. A CD is direct; it is possible to go straight to the fourth song. For what
applications would sequential storage be appropriate? For what applications would it be
unsuitable? Tape cartridges can be purchased formatted or unformatted. One-quarter-inch wide
cartridge tapes typically are 600 feet long. Unattended tape backup is a great time saver.
Consider how many 1.44 MB floppy disks are needed and how much time is required (removing
disks as they become full and inserting new disks) to back up 150 MB of data. With tape backup,
you can press a key, go about other business, and return to remove the finished backup tape.
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Enterprise Storage Systems

Large business users often utilize an enterprise storage system strategy. Why? What makes an
enterprise storage system strategy attractive to large business users?
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PC Cards and Miniature Storage Media

Smart cards can hold the equivalent of 30 typewritten pages of data and cost from $5 to $50.
Smart card readers are about $100. As a storage media for an individuals medical history, smart
cards offer obvious benefits. The cards can be carried in a wallet with, or in lieu of, an insurance
card, providing both insurance records and an immediate, up-to-date medical history. A form of
smart cards, called Personal Information Carriers (PICs) is being adopted by the army to replace
dog tags. Think of other ways that smart cards and electronic money (e-money) could be used.
Will digital cash someday replace conventional currency? Why or why not?
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Microfilm and Microfiche
Microfilm and microfiche images are so small that they can be read only with a microfilm and
microfiche reader. Large organizations use microfilm and microfiche to archive inactive files.
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Chapter 8: Operating Systems and

Utility Programs
Overview
1. Describe the two types of

software
7. Identify various network

operating systems
2. Understand the startup process

for a personal computer
8. Recognize devices that use

embedded operating systems
3. Describe the term user interface
9. Discuss the purpose of the

following utilities: file viewer,
file compression, diagnostic,
uninstaller, disk scanner, disk
defragmenter, backup, and
screen saver
4. Explain features common to

most operating systems
5. Know the difference between
stand-alone operating systems
and network operating systems
6. Identify various stand-alone
operating systems
System software is an essential part of a computer system. This chapter defines system software
and discusses two types of system software: operating systems and utility programs. You learn
what an operating system is and explore user interfaces, operating systems features, and
operating system functions. A variety of popular operating systems are described including DOS,
Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows CE, the Mac
OS, OS/2, UNIX, Linux, and NetWare. You discover what happens when they start a computer
and why a boot disk is important. Finally, a number of utility programs are explained.
Describe the two types of software

Two types of software are application software and system software. Application software
consists of programs that perform specific tasks for users, such as a word processing program, email program, or Web browser. System software consists of the programs that control the
operations of a computer and its devices. The two types of system software are operating systems
and utility programs. An operating system (OS) is a set of programs containing instructions that
coordinate all the activities among computer hardware devices. A utility program performs a
specific task, usually related to managing a computer, its devices, or its programs.
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Understand the startup process for a personal computer

Booting is the process of starting or restarting a computer. When you turn on the computer, the
power supply sends an electrical signal to devices located in the system unit. The processor chip
resets itself and looks for the ROM chip that contains the BIOS (basic input/output system),
which is firmware that holds the startup instructions. The BIOS executes the power-on self test
(POST) to make sure hardware is connected properly and operating correctly. The POST results
are compared with data in a CMOS chip on the motherboard. If the POST completes
successfully, the BIOS searches for specific operating system files called system files. Once
located, the boot drive (the drive from which your personal computer starts), loads the system
files from storage (the hard disk usually drive C) into memory (RAM) and executes them.
Next, the kernel of the operating system loads into memory and takes control of the computer.
The operating system loads configuration information. In Windows XP, the registry consists of
several file that contain the system configuration information. When complete, the Windows XP
desktop and icons display, and programs in the StartUp folder are executed.
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Describe the term user interface

A user interface controls how you enter data and instructions and how information displays on
the screen. Two types of user interfaces are command-line and graphical. With a command-line
interface, you type keywords or press special keys to enter data or instructions. A graphical
user interface (GUI) allows you to use menus and visual images such as icons, buttons, and
other graphical objects to issue commands. A menu is a set of commands from which you can
choose. An icon is a small image that represents a program, an instruction, a file, or some other
object.
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Explain features common to most operating systems
Most operating systems perform similar functions that include managing programs, managing
memory, scheduling jobs, configuring devices, accessing the Web, monitoring performance,
providing housekeeping services, and administering security. Managing programs directly affects
your productivity. A single user/single tasking operating system allows only one user to run one
program at a time. A multitasking operating system allows a single user to work on two or more
applications that reside in memory at the same time. A multi-user operating system enables two
or more users to run a program simultaneously.
A multiprocessing operating system can support two or more CPUs running programs at the
same time. Managing memory involves assigning items to an area of memory while they are
being processed. The purpose of memory management is to optimize use of random access
memory (RAM). With virtual memory (VM), the operating system optimizes memory by
allocating a portion of a storage medium, usually the hard disk, to function as additional RAM.
Scheduling jobs (operations the processor manages) involves determining the order in which
jobs are processed.
Spooling increases efficiency by placing print jobs in a buffer (an area of memory or storage
where data resides while waiting to be transferred) until the printer is ready, freeing the processor
for other tasks. Configuring devices establishes communication with each device in the
computer. A device driver is a small program that tells the operating system how to
communicate with a device. Accessing the Web may entail including a Web browser and e-mail
program in the operating system. Monitoring performance helps to identify and solve system
problems.
A performance monitor is a program that assesses and reports information about various
system resources and devices. Providing housekeeping services entails performing storage and
file management functions. A file manager performs such functions as formatting and copying
disks; listing the files on a storage medium; checking the amount of used and unused space on a
storage medium; organizing, copying, deleting, moving, and sorting files; and creating shortcuts
(icons on the desktop that run a program when clicked).
Administering security involves establishing user accounts on a network. Each account typically
requires a user name and a password to log on, or access, the network.
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Know the difference between stand-alone operating systems and network

operating systems
A stand-alone operating system is a complete operating system that works on a desktop or
notebook computer. A network operating system (also called network OS or NOS) is an
operating system that supports a network. A network is a collection of computers and devices
connected together via communications media and devices such as cables, telephone lines, and
modems. In some networks, the server is the computer that controls access to the hardware and
software on a network and provides a centralized storage area. The other computers on the
network, called clients, rely on the server(s) for resources.
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Identify various stand-alone operating systems

Stand-alone operating systems include DOS, Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows NT
Workstation, Windows 98, Windows 2000 Professional, Windows Millennium Edition, Windows
XP Home Edition, Windows XP Professional Edition, Mac OS, OS/2 Warp Client, UNIX, and
Linux. UNIX and Linux also function as network operating systems.
DOS (Disk Operating System) refers to several single user, command-line and menu-driven
operating systems developed in the early 1980s for personal computers. Windows 3.x refers to
early operating environments that, although not operating systems, provided a graphical user
interface to work in combination with DOS and simplify its use. Windows 95 is a true
multitasking operating system not an operating environment with an improved graphical
interface. Windows NT Workstation is a client operating system that can connect to a Windows
NT Server. Developed as an upgrade to Windows 95, the Windows 98 operating system is easier
to use and more integrated with the Internet. Windows 98 includes Microsoft Internet Explorer,
a popular Web browser, Windows Explorer, a file manager, and an Active Desktop that
works similarly to Web links. Windows 2000 Professional is a complete, reliable multitasking
client operating system for business desktop and business notebook computers. Windows
Millennium Edition is an operating system that has features specifically for the home user.
Windows XP is Microsofts fastest, most reliable Windows operating system, providing quicker
startup, better performance, and a new, simplified visual look. Windows XP Home Edition is an
upgrade to Windows Millennium Edition, while Windows XP Professional Edition is an
upgrade to Windows 2000 Professional.
The Mac OS, the latest version of the Macintosh operating system (the first commercially
successful graphical user interface), is a multitasking operating system available only on Apple
computers. OS/2 Warp Client is IBMs GUI multitasking client operating system that supports
networking, Java, the Internet, and speech recognition.
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Identify various network operating systems

Network operating systems include NetWare, Windows NT Server, Windows 2000 Server,
Windows .NET Server, OS/2 Warp Server for E-business, UNIX, Linux, and Solaris. Novells
NetWare is a widely used network operating system designed for client/server networks.
Windows NT Server is the operating system used by servers in the Windows NT client/server
network environment. The Windows 2000 Server family consists of three products: Windows
2000 Server (for the typical business network), Windows 2000 Advanced Server (for ecommerce applications), and Windows 2000 Database server (for demanding, large-scale
applications). Windows .NET Server is an upgrade to Windows 2000 Server. The Windows
.NET Server family includes four products: Windows .NET Standard Server (for the typical
small- to medium-sized business network), Windows .NET Enterprise Server (for medium- to
large-sized businesses, including those with e-commerce applications), Windows .NET
Datacenter (for business with huge volumes of transactions and large-scale databases), and
Windows .NET Web Server (for Web server and Web hosting businesses).
OS/2 Warp Server for E-business is IBMs network operating system designed for all sizes of
business.
UNIX is a multitasking, command-line operating system implemented on many different types
of computers. Because it is both a stand-alone operating system and a network operating system,
some call UNIX a multipurpose operating system. Linux is a popular, free, multitasking
UNIX-type operating system. Solaris, a version of UNIX developed by Sun Microsystems, is
a network operating system designed for e-commerce applications.
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Recognize devices that use embedded operating systems

The operating system on most handheld computers and small devices, called an embedded
operating system, resides on a ROM chip. Popular embedded operating systems include
Windows CE, Pocket PC OS, and Palm OS. Windows CE is a scaled-down Windows operating
system designed for use on wireless communications devices and smaller computers such as
handheld computers, in-vehicle devices, and Web-enabled devices. Pocket PC OS is a scaleddown operating system developed by Microsoft that works on a specific type of handheld
computer, called a Pocket PC. The Palm OS is the operating system used on Palm handheld
computers from Palm, Inc., and Visor handheld computers from Handspring.
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Discuss the purpose of the following utilities: file viewer, file compression,
diagnostic, uninstaller, disk scanner, disk defragmenter, backup, and screen saver
Most operating systems include several utility programs that perform specific tasks related to
managing a computer, its devices, or its programs. A file viewer is a utility that allows you to
display and copy the contents of a file. A file compression utility shrinks the size of a file. A
diagnostic utility compiles technical information about a computers hardware and certain
system software programs and then prepares a report outlining any identified problems. An
uninstaller is a utility that removes an application, as well as any associated entries in the
system files. A disk scanner is a utility that (1) detects and corrects both physical and logical
problems on a hard disk, and (2) searches for and removes unnecessary files.
A disk defragmenter is a utility that reorganizes files and unused space on a computers hard
disk so data can be accessed more quickly and programs can run faster. A backup utility copies,
or backs up, selected files or an entire hard drive onto another disk or tape. A screen saver is a
utility that causes the monitors screen to display a moving image on a blank screen if no
keyboard activity occurs for a specified period.
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Expand Your
Knowledge
1. System software
6. Stand-alone operating
systems
2. Starting a computer
3. User interface
7. Network operating
systems
4. Features of operating
systems
8. Embedded operating
systems
5. Stand-alone and network

operating system
9. Utility programs
System Software
Software is a key component of any information system. Of the total number of corporate dollars
spent on computing, the software share is increasing while the hardware share is decreasing.
Typically, different sizes of computers use different operating systems, and even the same types
of computers may not use the same operating system. The operating system that a computer uses
sometimes is called the software platform, or platform. Application software packages often
require a specific software platform. A cross-platform application, however, is one that runs on
multiple operating systems.
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Starting a Computer
When you turn on a computer after it has been powered off, you are performing a cold boot.
When you restart a computer that already has been powered on, you are performing a warm
boot. Your typically can perform a warm boot by pressing a combination of keys on the
keyboard (in Windows, CTRL+ALT+DEL), selecting options from a menu, or pressing a Reset
button on the computer.
If you watch the screen closely as the POST is conducted, the value for the total amount of
memory can be seen to change as it is measured in the memory test. If the POST results do not
match the data on the CMOS chip, an appropriate message should appear. The boot program
typically is the first side, first track, and first sector of the hard disk. When you install an
operating system, one of the installation steps involves making an emergency disk from which
you can start your computer if the hard disk is damaged.
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User Interface
You can interact with an operating system directly (as you do when copying files, moving files,
formatting disks, and so on) or indirectly (as you do when working with an application program).
An operating system is intended to be transparent; that is, it does not have to be understood,
considered, or even known. The operating system with which an application program will work
is specified on the application software package. The application programs you want to use
should be considered before deciding on an operating system, and the operating system must be
considered when choosing application software.
A graphical user interface is designed to be easier to use (more user-friendly) than a commandline interface. As an example of this user-friendly nature, consider how a relatively simple task,
such as deleting a file, is performed with a command-line interface and with a GUI. With a
command-line interface, you might type del followed by the file name in quotation marks.
Therefore, you must remember the command, type it correctly, and use the proper syntax. On the
other hand, with a GUI you need only select (click) the file name in the file manager window and
then click the Delete command on a menu or the Delete button on a toolbar. Although most
people find a GUI the easiest interface to use, some long-time computer virtuosos still feel a
command-line user interface is more efficient.
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Features of Operating Systems

Early operating systems were single user/single tasking, but today most operating system are
multitasking. Multitasking can be cooperative, in which programs switch when they reach a
logical break point, or preemptive, in which programs switch based on priority and an allocated
amount of time. Early versions of Windows used cooperative multitasking; Windows 95 and
subsequent versions use preemptive multitasking. Upon termination, most programs relinquish
their space in memory, which then is reallocated by the operating system. Some programs,
however, stay in memory after they terminate. As a class, these programs are called TSR
(Terminate and Stay Resident) programs.
Virtual memory is employed with multitasking operating systems to maximize the number of
programs that can use memory at one time. Paging, or the technique of swapping items between
memory and storage, was developed before processors could address directly more than 1 MB of
memory. All printers have buffers, and printer manufacturers are eager to sell DRAM. The term
spooling comes from the observation that placing print jobs temporarily in a buffer is somewhat
like winding thread onto a spool so that it can be used at a later time. Today, adding and
configuring devices is easier because most devices support Plug and Play, which means the
computer can recognize a new device and automatically load the necessary drivers. A feature of
Windows 95, Plug and Play initially was greeted with mixed reviews. In fact, some wags
claimed the new technology was more accurately called, Plug and Pray.
Processor utilization the amount of time that the processor is working and not idle is one way
of monitoring system performance. In addition to the programs that come with most operating
systems, several utility programs are available to monitor system performance. Formatting a disk
is the process of preparing it for reading and writing. Today, most floppy and hard disks are
preformatted by the manufacturer. If you format a disk that already contains data, the formatting
process erases the file location information, but it does not erase the actual files on the disk.
Therefore, if you accidentally format a disk, often you can unformat it with a utility program.
System security usually is most important for large systems or networks. For single-user PCs,
adequate system security can be a key in the users pocket.
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Stand-Alone and Network Operating System

Many early operating systems were device dependent and proprietary. Device-dependent
operating systems run only on a specific type of computer. Proprietary software is privately
owned and limited to a specific vendor or computer mode. Today, the trend is towards deviceindependent operating systems that run on many manufacturers computers. Software that is not
proprietary (i.e., that can work with a variety of computer models) sometimes is called portable
or generic. Most of the operating systems discussed in this section are portable. When an
operating system is proprietary, usually it is to boost hardware sales.
Operating systems for Apple computers and most mainframes initially were proprietary. Steve
Wozniak, cofounder of Apple Computers, believes the decision to make its innovative Macintosh
operating system proprietary was one of the companys greatest mistakes. We had the most
beautiful operating system, Wozniak writes, but to get it you had to buy our hardware at twice
the price. Wozniak now feels the operating system should have been licensed.
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Stand-Alone Operating Systems

Bill Gates, founder of Microsoft and one of the wealthiest men in the world, began his fortune
with the MS-DOS operating system. Although developed for IBM, Microsoft retained the rights
to the operating system and licensed the source code to several hardware manufacturers, which
resulted in multiple variations. An application written for one type of DOS, however, will work
with any other variation. A number follows each version of PC-DOS or MS-DOS. The integer
portion of the number indicates a major release, while the decimal portion indicates updates.
Thus, MS-DOS 6.2 means major version six, which has been updated twice. To a great extent,
the popularity of DOS was a result of the large number of applications written to work with the
operating system.
Windows 1.0, released in 1985, was Microsofts first attempt with a graphical user interface. It
was not until five years later, however, with the release of Windows 3.0, that computer users
began to take Windows seriously. Windows required 2 MB of memory (with 4 MB
recommended) and an 80386 or newer processor, so it could not be used with many older PCs.
Nevertheless, because Windows 3.0 was easier to use than DOS, eventually most software was
written, and many popular DOS programs were rewritten, to work with Windows.
Despite the advantages of Windows 95 and a heavily-funded promotional campaign, a poll of
DOS and Windows 3.x users showed not everyone immediately embraced the new operating
system. When asked how likely they were to adopt Windows 95 within the next six months,
respondents replied:
extremely likely
possible
35%
not likely
53%
dont know
2%
10%
Why are people often reluctant to adopt a new operating system?

The inclusion of Internet Explorer in the Windows 98 operating system led to an antitrust suit
against Microsoft. Prosecutors insisted that the incorporation of a browser was an attempt by
Microsoft to eliminate competition from rival Web browsers (such as Netscape Navigator).
Microsoft maintained that the addition simply was an enhancement to the operating system.
Although Microsoft advertised Windows 98 less heavily than Windows 95, many vendors took
up the slack. One retailer offered Windows 98 with the opportunity to buy a new computer for
$98. The promotion evidently worked. A buyer waited in line 11 hours for a chance to buy the
new operating system and discount computer. When asked if he would have come out simply for
Windows 98 (his current computer ran Windows 3.1), he replied, Not a chance.
Windows 2000 was released in February, 2000 and was touted as a boon for all businesses, from
small companies with no more than two desktop computers to large corporations with vast
networks. Windows Millennium is a result of Microsofts recognition that the needs of business
and home users are different.
For years, the Macintosh operating system had features that made it far easier to use than other
operating systems. For example, people could give files sensible names (like Letter to
Grandma) instead of the cryptic, eight-character strings (like letgrand.txt) demanded by DOS
and Windows 3.x. While Windows 95 incorporated many of these features, Macintosh devotees
still feel their operating system is easier to use. Until recently, the Macintosh operating system
was proprietary. In 1994 the operating system was licensed, but experts feel Apples promotion
has been lukewarm. New standards let IBM computers run Apple software. More than 4,000
applications are designed to run under the Mac OS. Microsoft has developed the more popular
Mac OS applications.
IBM supplies OS/2 (Operating System/2) Warp with its high-end personal computers. OS/2
originally was developed jointly by IBM and Microsoft to replace MS-DOS. As an interim
measure, Microsoft developed Windows, an operating environment to work with DOS. The
eventual popularity of Windows, coupled with the initial poor sales of OS/2, resulted in
Microsoft and IBM going their separate ways, with Microsoft concentrating on Windows and
IBM continuing to develop OS/2. Features offered in OS/2 Warp include:
An enhanced graphical user interface
Integrated business application software
Speaker-independent speech recognition software
Desktop objects that allow users to connect directly to the Internet
Integrated Java programming language that allows Java applications to run without a Web
browser
Support for multiple CPUs using multiprocessing

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Network Operating Systems

Many consider UNIX to be the most portable operating system. Although it has some
shortcomings, UNIX often is used in turnkey systems designed for retail stores, doctors,
dentists, veterinarians, and other small- to medium-businesses. Do you know what operating
system is mentioned in the film Jurassic Park? UNIX.
Despite the current dominance of Windows, some believe Linux is the operating system of the
future. Because Linux is freeware, users can modify and improve the program code. In addition,
Linux is capable of running efficiently with less powerful processors, even the 80386. The story
of Linuxs originator, Linus Torvalds, is told in the Technology Trailblazer on page 8.25.
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Embedded Operating Systems

The latest Palm handheld computer, Palm IIIC, offers a color screen. When paired with a
portable, expandable, attachable, nearly full-sized keyboard and file compression software, some
reviewers say the Palm IIIC almost can replace a laptop. The Visor handheld computer runs the
same operating system as the Palm but offers several additional features videogames, cell
telephone, modem, MP3 player, and two-way pager at about half the cost.
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Utility Programs
Utilities generally reside in storage until summoned by the user or operating system kernel.
Microsoft was the target of several lawsuits for allegedly incorporating utility programs
developed by others into their DOS operating system. Some versions of DOS were modified
because of this litigation. In light of the ever-increasing number of utility programs included with
operating systems, will a market remain for separate utility programs?
In addition to the utilities mentioned in this chapter, other Windows 98 utilities include:
DirectX Enhances multimedia capabilities on the computer, providing better playback

of different types of multimedia and managing 3-D graphics better than console
computers.
Drive Converter (FAT 32) Converts the hard drive to the FAT32 file system, an
enhancement that stores data more efficiently, creating extra disk space and helping
programs run faster.
Registry Checker Finds and fixes registry problems each time the computer is started,
automatically scanning the registry for inconsistent data structures.
System File Checker Keeps track of critical files that make the computer run, restoring
the files if they are moved or changed.
Microsoft Magnifier Makes the screen more readable by displaying a magnified portion
in a separate window and making it possible to alter the color scheme and contrast of the
magnification window for easier visibility.
Some stand-alone utilities include:
Desktop enhancers Change the desktop look and organization, allowing users to create
and switch between multiple desktops.
File conversion Converts from one file format to another so that a file can be used by
another application.
Internet organizers Helps in the management and use of favorite Web sites, searching
the Web and reporting on site changes.
Antivirus programs Prevent, detect, and remove computer viruses. Viruses and antivirus
programs are explored in Chapter 12.
Some utility programs are used primarily by select groups. For example, text editors -- utility
programs that make it easy to work with lists and records -- are popular with programmers and
people who work with databases. PC Tools and Norton Utilities are popular utility software
packages for personal computers.
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Computers

| Overview | Expand Your Knowledge | Checkpoint | Practice Test |

1. Explain the importance of

6. Explain the purpose of a

2. Define the term computer

7. Discuss the uses of the Internet

3. Identify the components of a

8. Describe the categories of

Explain the importance of computer literacy

Define the term computer

Identify the components of a computer

Explain why a computer is a powerful tool

Differentiate among the various types of software

Explain the purpose of a network

Describe the categories of computers and their uses

Identify the various types of computer users

Understand how a user can be a Web publisher

9. Types of computer users

10. Web publishing

Types of Computer Users

Women are under-represented in todays computer classes and technology jobs.

A number of efforts are being made to narrow the digital divide.

Chapter 2: The Internet and World Wide Web

1. Discuss how the Internet works

2. Understand ways to access the

8. Describe the uses of electronic

9. Explain how e-mail, FTP,

4. Search for information on the

10. Identify the rules of netiquette

Discuss how the Internet works

Understand ways to access the Internet

Search for information on the Web

Describe the types of Web pages

Describe the uses of electronic commerce (e-commerce)

Identify the rules of netiquette

Keep messages brief and use proper grammar and spelling.

Be careful when using sarcasm and humor.

Be polite and avoid offensive language.

Do not use all capital letters, which is the equivalent of SHOUTING!

Use emoticons (such as :) for smile) to express emotion.

Clearly identify a spoiler, which is a message that reveals a solution to a game or an

Read the FAQ (frequently asked questions) document.

Do not assume all material is accurate or up-to-date.

Never read someones private e-mail.

2. Accessing the Internet

4. Searching the Web

10. Internet Services

5. Types of Web Pages

6. How Web Pages Use Multimedia

Accessing the Internet

Searching the Web

Types of Web Pages

How Web Pages Use Multimedia

twenty-four hour access

lower product display and storage costs

reduced salesperson costs

Chapter 3: Application Software

1. Define application software

5. Identify the widely used

Define application software

Understand how system software interacts with application software

Identify the role of the user interface

Explain how to start a software application

productivity/business software applications