2.1 Define a computer.
A computer is an electronic device that manipulates information, or "data". It has the ability to store,
retrieve, and process data. You can use a computer to type documents, send email, and browse the
internet. You can also use it to handle spreadsheets, accounting, database management,
presentations, games, and more.
When reading the above definitions you may find some common behaviors of computers such as;
It is a man-made machine
It accepts instructions of a human given in a sequential manner
As per the given instructions, it performs some calculations and does changes for the information
fed by human
Releases or produces an output that is useful to the user
2.2 Define the following terms with examples; a. Hardware b. Software
a. Hardware
Since the computer is a man-made digital electronic device, it has a physical structure with several
parts like the monitor, processor, mouse, and key board which are tangible. These are called
Hardware.
b. Software
The sets of instructions which are also called computer programs installed in the computer are called
Software. These software’s tell the hardware what to do and how to do to accomplish some tasks
expected by the user to get done by the computer. The web browsers like Mozilla Fire Fox, Computer
games, and Word processors like Microsoft Word are some examples for Software.
2.3 Briefly explain the relationship between Hardware, Software and users.
These (and data) are the main parts of a computer system. Laatste zin hierboven!
2.4 List main characteristics of the computer. Briefly describe them.
Speed can perform tasks very fast.
Reliability a low failure rate / consistent results.
Accuracy large amounts of data and generate error-free results, provided the data is entered
correctly (GIGO).
Diligence a computer is free from boredom, tiredness, lack of concentration, etc., hence a
computer can work for hours without making any errors or complaints.
Versatility the capacity to perform completely different type of work. The computers are flexible
enough to adapt to any type of work and outputs according to what is fed and instructed.
Power of remembering Every piece of information that a user „stores‟ on a computer can be
retained as long as it is needed and can be recalled when necessary. A computer will never „lose‟
stored information on its own.
No feeling Computers do not have emotions, feelings and instincts.
No IQ Computer is a dumb machine and it cannot do any work without instruction from the
user.
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