Chapter one

INTRODUCTION TO DIGITAL
LITERACY

By the end of this chapter learners should be able to :

 Meaning and importance of digital literacy
 explain the meaning of ICT
 explain the uses of ICT
 describe ICT equipment / facilities found in organisations
 explain the impact of ICT in contemporary society
11/04/2024
Digital Literacy
• Digital literacy is the ability to use a computer confidently,
safely and effectively, including: the ability to use office
software such as word processors, email and
presentation software, the ability to create and edit
images, audio and video.
• Is the ability to find, evaluate, and communicate
information using typing or digital media platforms
• is the ability to use, access, evaluate, and communicate
through digital platforms.
 DEFINATION OF TERMS

• ICT -Is the integration of computers

and telecommunication facilities for
the purpose of communication

11/04/2024
 • Data refers to raw facts and figure that have no
meaning
• Information refers to facts and figures that have a
meaning (that is already processed data that has a
meaning to the end user
• Communication refers to electronic or persons to
persons whereby it’s a process of sending and
receiving information between two people or more via
an electronic media in written form
telecommunication or broadcasting
• Technologies refers any form used that includes
hardware software or any other electronic
11/04/2024
 POSITIVE USE OF ICT IN THE SOCIETY

• Industry and commerce

– It has made the industry and commerce more efficient, productive and
reliable
– Leading companies use computer technology as a competitive tool to
develop new products and services
– They are used in manufacturing to schedule operations and process control

• Health care
– Used in medical automation in the areas of automatic diagnosis, electro-
cardiogram screening and monitoring
– Storage of medical records on patients
– Used in inter-country aided surgeon operations
• Government Institutions
11/04/2024 – Used heavily in government ministries such as finance, planning &
education to store records and improve work efficiency
 CONT,
•1. Education and research
1. Used in education as training aid, and in research institutions. Long distance
learning (e-learning) has replaced the old international correspondence
courses offered by postage.
2. It is used in aviation to train pilots using flight simulators.
• 3. Engineers and architects use computers to design, test and re-design.

1. Communication Industry
• 1. In telecommunication industry, it is used in control of exchange switch
1. Railway corporations rely heavily on computers to co-ordinate the
• movement of their wagons and goods
1. Air traffic controllers use it for airspace surveillance using radar equipment

1. Police and defense

1. Computers are currently used in fighting crime
2. Police are capable of keeping database of finger prints which are
automatically analysed by computers
11/04/2024 3. Integration of computer technology and defense has produced modern
• military
CONT,

1. Home and leisure (entertainment)

1. Computer can be used for home shopping
2. There are also entertainment information for thoselooking for leisure as well as a
• host of games
1. They have also been used to help handicapped e.g. instant speech are turned into
text on the screen to help deaf, while text are turned into simulated speech for
• the blind.

•1. Employment
1. Employment in the computer industry world wide has increased by 20%
during 1980s to higher percentages
2. In South East Asia countries, 60% of employment opportunities are today in the
• computing industry.
11/04/2024
 Negative Effects of ICT in the Society

1. Lack of Social Skills

The use of online social media outlets causes us to meet face-to-
face with much less frequency resulting in a lack of much needed
social skills
2. Excessive use of ICT poses a health hazard
Technology creates the perfect recipe for depression with the lack
of human contact, overeating and lack of exercise. This will lead
to depression, obesity, sleep disorders, eye strain, back pains etc
3. Pollution
E-waste is not always disposed of properly, causing deadly
chemicals to leach into the ground. Plants that manufacture
the electronics are emitting toxic fumes into the air.
11/04/2024
 CONT,
4.Higher energy consumption
• People don’t turn their devices off; they keep computers on or
plugged in, mobile devices charging and televisions plugged in.
Also manufacturing all of these high tech toys causes an increase in
greenhouse gas emissions.
5.Lack of Social Boundaries
• Much in the same way that people over share on social media sites,
there is an increasing tendency to cross social boundaries. Cyber
stalking someone or sending unsolicited nude photos are examples
of crossing social boundaries.
6.Encourages the culture of violence
• After people lose empathy and are accustomed to violence, it
becomes the social norm.
11/04/2024
 ICT equipment / facilities found in organisations

• computers
• photocopiers
• telephone / fax machines
• printer

11/04/2024
ASSIGNMENT
• The teacher tasks the learners to explain 5 positive
impact of ICT in society

11/04/2024
 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTERS

• Specific Objectives
• By the end of this topic, the trainee should be
able to:-
• a) explain the meaning and importance of a
computer
• b) describe the components of a computer
• c) describe computer hardware

11/04/2024 BY FESTUS MUENDO

 Definition of terms
A computer
•Is an electronic device that accepts user input (data) and
processes it under the influence of a set of instructions
referred to as programs to produce desired output
(information).

•Is an electronic device that uses instructions (programs)

to accept and process data given to it in a variety of forms
in order to produce useful information.

•Is an electronic device that accepts user input (data) and

transforms it under the influence of sets of special
instructions called programs to produce information.

A computer is said to be electronic because it utilizes

11/04/2024 electrical signals to process information.
BY FESTUS MUENDO

.
 The three key terms that define a computer are:- input,
process and output.
Programs
Set of instructions written in computer language that
directs the computer what task to perform and how to
perform it.

Data
Raw facts that do not have much meaning to the user.
Includes alphabets, numbers and symbols.

Data processing
The varied activities performed to convert data into useful
information.

Information
11/04/2024 Processed data that is meaningful to the user and which
BY FESTUS MUENDO
can form a basis for decision making.
 Information and Communication Technology
(ICT)

.
Is the integration of computers and
telecommunication facilities for the purpose of
communication
A computer is said to be electronic because it
utilizes small electrical signals to process
information.

Computers come in different sizes and designs

but the most common is Personal Computer (PC)
11/04/2024 BY FESTUS MUENDO
 Physical Parts of a Computer
A computer is made up of a collection of
different components that are interconnected
together in order to function as a single
entity.

A computer is basically made up of four

basic components and other devices
connected to the system unit called
peripheral devices.

11/04/2024 BY FESTUS MUENDO

 Typical desktop (personal computer)
Computers come in different sizes designs but the most common is a
computer referred to as a Personal Computer (PC). Personal
computers are mostly used in offices, schools, business premises and
at home.

BY FESTUS MUENDO
Parts of a computer

1. System unit – this part houses the heart of the

computer and other devices called drives that
store, record and read data.

BY FESTUS MUENDO
 System unit
Looks like a box. A computer case (also known as
a computer chassis, cabinet, box, tower,
enclosure, housing, system unit or simply case)
is the enclosure that contains most of the
components of a computer (usually excluding the
display, keyboard and mouse).

This part houses the brain of the computer called

the Central Processing Unit (CPU), motherboard,
main memory, and the drives.

The drive is used to store, record and read data.

The two common types of system units are Tower
11/04/2024 and desktop type. BY FESTUS MUENDO
 2. Peripheral devices

They are connected to system unit using cables

called data interface cables that carry data and
information to and from the devices

11/04/2024 BY FESTUS MUENDO

 COMPUTER HARDWARE COMPONENTS
• 1.System Case: The system case or System
Unit, sometimes called the chassis or
enclosure, is the metal and plastic box that
houses the main components of the computer.
• 2.Monitor - Your monitor is the component that
displays the visual output from your computer
as generated by the video card.
• 3.Keyboard - This is the input device to enter
the text data in to the computer.
• 4.Mouse - A point and click interface for
entering commands which works well in
graphical environments.
BY FESTUS MUENDO
COMPONENTS INSIDE THE SYSTEM CASE

BY FESTUS MUENDO
 cont,

1. Motherboard motherboard is the central printed circuit board (PCB) holds many of
the crucial components of the system, while providing connectors for other peripherals. It is
also known as Main Board.

BY FESTUS MUENDO
 Components of motherboard
1.Processor Socket: processor is installed in this socket.
2.
Memory Slots: Primary memory RAM is installed in this slot
3.
IDE Connectors: Hard Disk Drive, CD/DVD Drive, Floppy drive
connected
• here.
4.PCI Slot: Adapter cards are installed in this slot like Display card,
Sound card, Network Interface card, etc
5.
AGP or PCI-Ex Slot: it is used to connect Advanced Graphics
cards.
6.
Power Connectors: power supply is connected to this.
•Chipset: Group of specialized chips on the mother board
7

Back Panel Connectors: External devices are connected to



motherboard or system through this back panel.

BY FESTUS MUENDO
Motherboard

BY FESTUS MUENDO
Assignment

• Explain the three pheripheraldevices.

• End of lesson

BY FESTUS MUENDO
DEVELOPMENT OF COMPUTERS

BY FESTUS MUENDO
1st generation computer (1940-1958)
These computers were
huge, expensive and often
broke down. They were
slow compared to today’s
computers, their internal
storage capacity was
limited. Cards were used to
enter data into the
computer. They used
vacuum tubes to control
internal operations. They
were used for payroll
processing and bulling e.g.
IBM 650 and UNIAC.
 Advantages and disadvantages of 1st generation
Advantages
Disadvantages
• They
Vacuum
weretubes
too bulky.
technology made possible the advent of
electronic
• They digital computer.
were unreliable.
•• Had
These computers
limited memory.were the fastest calculating device at
theirgenerated
• They time. a lot of heat.
• Consumed a lot of power.
2nd generation computer (1958-1964)
• They used transistors for internal
operations and magnetic card as a primary
storage medium. They had increased
storage capacity compared to first
generation. They had great reduction in
size and heat generation, increased speed
and reliability compared to first generation
e.g. IBM 1401, Honey Wall 200, CDC
1604 etc.
 Advantages and disadvantages of 2nd generation
Advantages
Disadvantages
• Require
They were
air conditioning
smaller in size
to cool
compared
them down.
to first generation.
• Required
They more
frequent
reliable.
maintenance.
• Commercial
They generated
production
less heat.
was difficult and costly.
• They were less prone to hardware failure.
 3 rd
generation computers (1964-1970)
These computers used integrated circuits, increased storage capacity more
flexibility with input/output smaller size and better performance of
microcomputers. It also introduced software industry operating systems e.g.
IBM System 360, Burroughs B5500 etc.
 Advantages and disadvantages of 3rd generation
Advantages
Disadvantages
• Smaller in size.
• Highly
More sophisticated
reliable. technology required for the
• manufacture
Emitted lessofheat.
integrated circuit.
• Maintenance cost was low because hardware failure
• They
werewere
rare.costly
• Required less power.
 4th
generation computers (1970-1989)
These computers use large scale integrated circuit (LSIC). They have large
storage capacity and work at a high speed. Introduction of microprocessor,
microcomputers and supercomputers were realized e.g. IBM 3033,
Burroughs B7700.
Advantages and disadvantages of 4th generation

Advantages
• They are smaller in size because of high
component density.
• Very reliable.
• Generate neglible heat.
• Much faster in computational.
• They are not prone to hardware failure.
• They are portable because of their small size.
Disadvantage
• Highly sophisticated technology required for
manufacturer of LSI chips.
5th generation computers (1990-present)

• This is generation is characterised by the

emerging of telecommunication with computer
technology. Scientists are working on this
generation to bring machines with genuine I.Q.
the ability to reason logically and with real
knowledge of the world. The anticipated
computer will have the following characteristics.
 It is expected to do parallel processing.
 It will be based on logical inference operations.
 It’s expected to make use artificial intelligence.
Classification of computers
• Functionality
Physical size
– Analog computers
– Digital computers
Super computers
– Hybrid computers
– Mainframe
• Purpose
–
– Mini computers
General purpose
– Special purpose
–
– Micro computers
Dedicated
Super computers (Physical size)
They are the fastest, largest, most expensive and powerful
computers. Mainly used in scientific research, simulation, weapon,
analysis etc.
Mainframe (Physical size)
They are less powerful and less expensive than the super
computers. It finds its application in government agencies, big
companies e.g. bank, hospital etc.
Mini computers (Physical size)
They are physically smaller and cheaper than mainframes. They are
used in research institutions, scientific laboratories etc.
Micro computers (Physical size)
The smallest, cheapest and least powerful type of computers. It’s called a
microcomputer because its CPU is called a microprocessor. They are used
mainly in learning institutions.
Types of micro computers
Desktop
Laptop
Palm top
Types of micro computer
(Desktop computer)
Desktop computer – this is not portable. It’s designed to be placed
on top of an office desk.
Types of micro computer
(Laptop computer)
Laptop computer – this is portable briefcase. Designed to be used
by placing it on the lap.
 Types of micro computer
(Palm
This is small enough to fit in the pocket andtop
can computer)
be held in the palm
when being used.
Advantages and disadvantages of laptops
Advantages
• They are portable.
• Ruggedness – laptop computers are designed to withstand
most of the rigors of travel.
• Display – active color screen show sharper, clearer images
which prevent eye strain.
• Power – laptop batteries serve as built in uninterruptible
power supply.

Disadvantages
• Performance – many laptops have slower clocks speed to
conserve power and also have similar memory capacity.
• Expandility – laptops PCs limit your expansion options.
• Connecting laptops have few ports and no growth potential.
• Security – laptops PCs are easier to steal.
• Display – laptops screens are limited to VGA resolution.
 Analog computers (Functionality)
Analog computers – they perform arithmetic operations and logical
comparisons by measuring changes in physical magnitude e.g.
speed, temperature etc.
 Digital and hybrid computers (Functionality)
Digital computers – their operations are based on two states namely “on”
and “off” or “I” and “O”.

Hybrid computers – they are computers which are built with the
characteristics of both analog and digital computers.
Purpose

• General purpose – they are designed to be

able to perform a variety of tasks.
• Special purpose – they are designed to serve a
specific purpose e.g. robots used in industries,
mobile phone for communication only etc.
• Dedicated – they are general purpose
computers that are committed to some
processing task e.g. dedicated to word
processor tasks only.
Computer laboratory
• A computer laboratory is a room that has been specially
prepared to facilitate installation of computers and to
provide a safe conducive environment for teaching and
learning of computer studies.
 Safety precautions in computer laboratory
• The computer lab, just like any other laboratory, should be
setup with safety precautions in mind. Safely precautions
and practices can be divided into measures that are
meant to protect computer and those that are meant to
protect the users.
Behaviour in the computer laboratory
• Avoid smoking or exposing computers to dust. Smoke
and dust particles can damage computer components.
• Avoid carrying food and beverage to computer room.
Food particles may damage computer components
while liquids may cause rusting and electrical shocks.
• Avoid unnecessary movements because you may
accidentally knock down peripherals devices.
• Follow the correct procedure for starting and shutting
down the computer.
• Accidents which may occur should be reported
immediately.
• If you are not sure of how to handle or operate any
piece of equipment in the laboratory please ask for
assistance.
Ventilation
• There must be good air circulation in the computer room
to avoid suffocation and overheating. Proper ventilation
enables the computer to cool hence avoid damage to
electronic part.
Lighting
• Computer room should be well light to avoid eyestrain that
leads to headaches, stress and fatigue. The user may
adjust the brightness of the computer monitor until the
eyes feel comfortable. Also radiation filter screens may be
fitted.
Protection against fire
• Computer room should have gaseous fire extinguisher
like those filled with CO2. Water based or powder
extinguishers should be avoided because they can
damage computer components.
Dust and dump control

• The room should be fitted with special

curtains to reduce entry of dust particles.
Computers also should remain covered
with dust covers when not in use. Humidity
should be regulated in the computer room
to remain an optimum of 50%. Humidity
lower than this allows static electricity to
build up and cause damage to computer
components. High humidity of over 70%
may cause rusting of metallic parts.
Furniture
The table on which a computer is placed must be strong and wide enough to
hold the weight and accommodate all peripheral devices. The user’s seat must
be comfortable and have a straight back rest that allows someone to sit upright
to avoid muscle pains and aches.
Burglar proofing

• To prevent unauthorized access to the

computer room the following control
should be implemented.
– Fit strong metallic grills and locks on doors,
windows.
– Do not welcome strangers to computer room.
– Install security alarms at strategic access
points to alert security personal incase of
break in.
Stable power supply

• Computers require a stable source of

power. Power from main supply is not
always stable and may damage computer
components. To protect the computer from
damage due to power instabilities, avoid
connecting it directly to mains supply.
Instead connect it to a special device
called Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
then connect the UPS to main supply.
Function of UPS
It regulates power from an unstable power source to the required
clean stable voltage.

It temporarily provides power to computer incase of a sudden power

failure.
Starting up (Booting)
• It’s the process by which a computer loads system files
into the main memory.

• Types of booting
– Cold booting – the process of switching on a computer that has
been off completely by pressing the power button.

– Warm booting – this happens when the computer, originally on,

is forced to restart by pressing the restart button on the system
unit.
Shutting down a computer

It is important that the user follows

that e correct procedure of
shutting down a computer at all
time. If the procedure is not
followed, then loss of data,
damage of programs and
computer components may
occur

1. On the “Start” menu

2. Click “Shut Down” or “Turn Off
Computer”. (Shut down dialog
box is displayed)
3. Select “Shut Down” or “Turn
Off”.
Parts of keyboard

Functions keys – F1 to F12.

Alphanumeric (Tying) keys – labelled A – Z, Caps lock, Enter
keys, Tab key, Spacebar, backspace etc.
Cursor movement (Navigation) & Editing keys – arrow keys,
Page up and Page down, Home and end keys, Edit keys,
Insert key, Delete
Special keys – Shift, Ctrl, Alt, Esc etc.
Numeric keys – 0 to 9, +, “, /, -
Using typing tutor
In order to increase your typing speed and accuracy, typing software
offers the lessons you need to start from using one hand while
typing to becoming a proficient user.
Mouse techniques

• Clicking – means pressing and releasing the left

mouse button once.
• Double clicking – pressing the left button twice
in quick succession.
• Right clicking – pressing the right hand side
mouse button once.
• Drag and drop – the user drags an item from
one location on the screen to another.
• Drag – press and hold down left button and the
move the mouse to the new location
• Drop – release the button immediately after
dragging the item to the new location.
Review questions 1

1. Define the term computer?

2. State different physical parts that make up a computer.
3. Differentiate the following types of computers:
A)Supercomputer and mainframe;
B)Minicomputer and a PC.
4. Differentiate between a digital and on analog computer.
5. Give two reasons why smaller computers like laptops tend
to be more expensive than desktop computers.
6. Which one of the following is not true about the system unit?
A)It houses the CPU.
B)It houses the monitor.
C)It connects to all peripheral devices using ports.
D)It has the computers power switch.
Answer of review questions 1

1. A computer is an electronic device that accepts user input,

also referred to as data, and transforms it under the influence
of sets of special instructions called programs, to produce the
desired output referred to as information.
2. Monitor, system unit, mouse, keyboard, etc.
3. A). A supercomputer is larger and has more processing power
and memory than a mainframe.
B). A minicomputer is lager in physical size and more powerful
than a PC. PC was designed to be used by one person only.
4. A digital computer processes discrete data while an analog
computer processes continuous data.
5. A). The technology of producing smaller devices is expensive.
B). Convenience because of their portability.
6. B
Review questions 2
1.
3. What
Pick is a mouse
the odd oneinout
relation
in thetolist
computing?
below.
A) A small destructive rodent.
A) Calculator.
B) A round plastic container with a tail.
B)
C)AMobile
device phone.
that controls a pointer on the screen.
C)
D)ARobot
device used for typing.
2. Why is a screen also called monitor?
D) Laptop
4. A) It monitors
Pick the odd theone
user.out in the list below.
B) It helps the user to track computer operations.
A) Mainframe.
C)It monitors system performance.
B)
D)It Microcomputer.
is a television.
C) Minicomputer.
D) Digital computer.
Review questions 3

1. Which of the following will be 3. What is meant by the term

most suitable for travellers. analog data.
A) Supercomputer A) Data that never stops.
B) Mainframe computer. B) Discrete data.
C)Palmnote computer. C) Large data.
D)Minicomputer. D) Continuous data.
2. Why is a mobile phone 4. Which one of the following
regarded to be a computer? is called a microprocessor?
A) It is electronic has a screen, A) The CPU of a mainframe.
keypad, memory and is B) The CPU of a minicomputer.
programmable. C) The CPU of a microcomputer.
B) It looks like a palmnote. D) The CPU of a supercomputer.
C)It is portable.
D)It produces tones.
Answer of review questions 2&3
• Questions 3
2
–C
–A
B
–D
C
–C
D
Review questions 4

1. Match the following generations of computers with the

technology used to develop them.
1. First generation A. VLIC
2. Second generation B. Vacuum tubes
3. Third generation C. Transistors
4. Fourth generation D. Integrated circuits
2. Identify and explain at least five areas where
computers are used in day to day activities.
3. What were the characteristics of first generation
computers?
4. Who developed the analytical engine?
5. What is artificial intelligence?
6. Write the following initials in full:
A). ENIAC B).VLSI C). IC
Answer of review questions 4
1. First – Vacuum tubes
Second – Transistors
Third – Integrated circuits
Fourth – Large integrated circuits.
2. Supermarket, airport, hospitals, offices, banks, industries, etc.
3. A). Large in physical size
B). Used vacuum tubes
C). Produced a lot of heat.
D). Consumed a lot of power.
4. Charles Babbage.
5. Programs that make computers to mimic human intelligence.
6. ENIAC – Electronic Numeric Integrator And Calculator.
VLSI – Very Large Scale Integrated.
IC – Integrated Circuit.
Review questions 5
1. Using an abacus represent 5780.
2. Match the following computer application areas with the role
played by computers in each case.
1. Supermarket A. Matching fingerprints
2. Hospital B. Entertainment
3. Bank C. Stock control
4. Hotel D. Booking rooms
5. Home E. Analysing academic data
6. School F. Manufacturing process control
7. Industry G. Life support machines
8. Police station H. Processing cheques
Answer of review questions 5
1. Representation of 57800 with ABACUS.

2. Supermarket – Stock control

Hospital – Life support
machines
Bank – Processing cheques
Hotel – Booking rooms
Home – Entertainment
School – Analysing
academic data
Industry – Manufacturing
process control
Police station – Matching
fingerprints
Review questions 6-1

1. What is the name given to alternative sources of power?

A) Generators
B) UPS
C) Power backups
D) The sun
2. Which of the following will not ensure proper ventilation in a room?
A) Adequate windows and doors
B) Overcrowding
C) Installing fans
D) Air conditioning system
3. All the following are dangerous to a computer except one. Which
one is it?
A) Water
B) Smoke
C) Proper ventilation
D) Dust
Review questions 6-2

4. Why must foods and beverages be kept out of the

computer room?
A) Because computer users should not eat.
B) Because spilling of beverages may clog and destroy
computer components.
C) Because the smell of food is not good for the
computer lab.
D) Because all foods affect computers.
5. Which one of the following statement is correct?
A) Opening the system unit when it is sill on.
B) Using magnets in the computer room.
C) Covering the computers with dust covers after
shutting them down.
D) Stepping on power and data cables
Review questions 7-1
1. Why are powder fire extinguishers not allowed in the computer room?
A) Powder particles settle on storage devices and may scratch them during read/write
operation.
B) Powder is poisonous.
C) It fills the room with mist.
D) Powder changes to liquid when sprayed on fire.
2. All the following are functions of the UPS except one. Which one is it?
A) It prevents sudden power surges to destroy the computer.
B) It supplies power to the computer during blackouts and brownouts.
C) It provides stable power supply (clean power).
D) It can be used as the main power source for computer.
Review questions 7-2

3. Which of the following reasons are likely to cause eye

strain in the computer room.
A) Poor lighting
B) Bright monitor
C) Poor ventilation
D) Antiradiation screen
Review questions 8

1. All the following are proper sitting postures while using a

computer except one. Which one is it?
A) Straight posture on the seat back.
B) Feet firmly on the floor.
C) High enough seat allowing eyes to be level with top of the
screen.
D) Bending the back backwards on a relaxing chair.
2. What can be done to deter illegal access to a computer
room by unauthorised person?
A) Burglar proof the room by reinforcing doors and weak access
points.
B) Welcome strangers to the room.
C) Leave the room open when nobody is using it.
D) Switch off security alarm when leaving the room
Answer of review questions 6,7&8
• Questions7
Questions6
–A
C
–D
B
–A
C and B
–B
–C
• Questions8
–D
–A
Review questions 9

1. What is booting?
2. Differentiate between cold booting and warm booting.
3. What is the difference between function keys and
special PC keys?
4. Explain the various categories of keys found on a
standard keyboard.
5. What makes a mouse move a pointer on the screen?
6. Explain the correct procedure for shutting down one
7. Define the following terms:
A). Clicking; B). Double Clicking;
C). Drag and drop; D). Right clicking;
E). Mouse pointer;
Answer of review questions 9-1

1. Booting refers to process whereby a computer goes

through a process of self test and preparation for use.
2. Cold booting is starting up a computer while warm
booting is restarting a computer.
3. Function keys are specifically used to perform certain
program specific tasks. Special purpose keys are used
to give certain commands. They are mostly used in
combination with other keys.
4. Alphanumeric keys, function keys, cursor movement
and editing keys, special purpose keys and numeric
keypad keys.
5. Moving the mouse on any direction on a flat surface.
6. Click start, turn off computer then turn off.
Answer of review questions 9-2

7. A). Clicking – pressing and releasing the left mouse

button once.
B). Double clicking – pressing the left hand side
button twice in quick succession.
C). Right clicking – pressing the right mouse button
once displays a list of commands from which the
user can make a selection.
D). Drag and drop – this is where the user drags an
item from one location on the screen to another.
E). Mouse pointer – is an arrow or an object in form
of a picture that is used to point on the task to be
performed on the application window.
Revision questions 1

1. Explain why smoke and dust particles are harmful to a

computer.
2. Explain the emerging trends in microcomputer
technology in relation to size.
3. Describe the ideal environment for a computer to work
properly.
4. Explain the tem system unit and name some of
components found in it.
5. What is booting? Explain what happens in the
computer during the booting process.
6. State one reason why a computer needs to be
connected to a stable power source.
7. Give two examples of special purpose computers.
Answer of revision questions 1

1. Dust and smoke settles on storage devices scratching

them during read/write operation.
2. PCs are becoming small and portable e.g. Personal
Digital Assistant (PDA).
3. Free from dust, water, magnets, well ventilated rooms,
medium humidity, etc.
4. This is the casing that houses the CPU and storage
devices. Components in the system unit includes CPU,
motherboard and storage devices.
5. Starting up a computer. Internally it first checks whether
all the components are in good working condition then
loads the operating system.
6. To avoid damage and lose of data.
7. Mobile phones, calculators, robots etc.
Revision questions 2

1. Why would it not be good to install water based fire

extinguishers in the computer room.
2. Explain the following terms:
A) Clicking the mouse,
B) Right clicking the mouse,
C) Double clicking the mouse,
3. What precaution would you take in the computer room in case:
A) The humidity falls below normal for prolonged periods due to weather
change;
B) Users complain of backaches after long periods of using the computer;
4. Classify the following keyboard characters:
A). A,B,C,….Z B). 0,1,2,….9 C). F1, F2,….F12
D). Del, Insert E). Home, End, Page up, arrow key
F). Ctrl, Shift, Alt
Answer of review questions 2

1. Water causes rusting of metallic parts and short circuits if used.

2. A). Clicking – pressing and releasing the left mouse button once.
B). Double clicking – pressing the left hand side button twice in quick.
C). Right clicking – pressing the right mouse button once displays a list of
commands from which the user can make a selection. This list of
commands is called a shortcut menu or context sensitive menu. It is
called a context sensitive menu because the commands on it apply to the
right-clicked item.
3. A). Install humidifiers in the room.
B). Improve furniture to avoid bending when using the computer.
4. A). Alphanumeric keys
B). Numeric keypad keys
C). Function keys
D). Editing keys
E). Cursor movement keys
F). Special purpose keys.
Practical activity 1

• Using a typing tutor program type the text appearing in

italics.
in our minds, in our memory, in our concentration.
In our retaining power, in our intelligence.
Right from the crow of our head to the very soles of our feet.
God, keep us FREE today from evil,
Sin, temptations, attacks and afflictions,
Fear of men, sickness, disease, doubts, anger,
All calamities and from all that is not of thy Kingdom.
Fill us with the gifts of wisdom, knowledge, faith,
understanding,
And discernment.
Practical activity 2

1. Using one of the computers in the computer laboratory, identify

the visible parts of a computer and write down the following
details:
A) The brand name of the computer.
B) The type of computer – whether desktop, laptop etc;
C) The number of buttons on the mouse;
D) The number of keys on the keyboard;
E) Draw a diagram of the keyboard layout;
F) Identify the power button on the system unit and the monitor;
G) Use the buttons on the monitor to adjust its brightness.
2. In group, carefully study the computer laboratory and its
arrangement. Note down the following;
A) The safety precautions in place to protect users and computers;
B) Users complain of backaches after long periods of using the computer.
 Chapter 2
Computer system
Introduction
• Computer system refers to a collection of components
that are linked to process, store and manage information.
Functional organisation of the elements
• The computer system is organised into three
elements.
– Hardware – consists of the mechanical,
electrical and electronic part of a computer.
– Software – it is a set of computer programs that
guides the computer in each and every activity
that happens inside the computer during data
processing.
– Live ware – refers to users who are computer
knowledge and hence can properly utilize the
computer hardware and software.
Input device

• These are devices which accept data and pass

them into the computer.
– Keying devices – keyboard use to type data
into the computer.
– Pointing devices
• Mouse
• Track ball
• Joy stick
• Light pen
– Scanning devices – they are devices that
capture data into the computer directly.
Types of keying devices 1
Flexible keyboard – is a more portable keyboard that can be folded
and packed in to bag.

Ergonomic board – is specially designed to provide comfort and

alleviate wrist strain.
Types of keying devices 2

Keypad – is a miniature
keyboard used on
portable devices such as
PDAs, laptops and mobile
phones.

Braille keyboard – is a
keyboard designed for
use the blind. It consists
of key identified by raised
dots.
Mouse (Pointing device)

• This is for enter data

or instructions by
controlling a pointer
on the screen.
Trackball (Pointing device)
Trackball – It uses a sphere located on top that is rotated by hand to
control cursor movement.
Joy stick (Pointing device)
It looks like a car gear lever which can be moved sideways,
upwards, downward to no space control the position of cursor.
Light pen (Pointing device)
It is a hand held pen like device that has a light sensitive point.
Classification of scanners

• Optical scanners – they capture data using

light.
– Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)
– Optical Bar Recognition
– Optical Character/Image Scanner (OCR)

• Magnetic scanners – they capture data

using magnetic technology.
– Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)
– Magnetic Stripe Recognition
Optical Mark Recognition (OMR)
(Optical scanner)
This scanner uses mark – sensing to scan and translate the locations of a series of pen
or pencil marks into computer understandable form used in marking K.C.S.E. multiple
choice exam, questionnaire etc.
Application of OMR
Multiple choice exam.
Market research questionnaires.
Payroll data entry.
Traffic surveys.
Advantages and disadvantages of OMR

Disadvantages
Advantages
• Mark
Has readers
low errorare
rates.
relatively slow.

• Verification
Conspicuous of marked
errors are
data
easily
is difficult.
corrected.

• Not
Data
widely
captured
used at
in source,
business.
hence minimising amount of
manual work.
Optical Bar Recognition (OBR)
(Optical scanner)
They scan and translate a bar code into machine understandable mode. Used
in supermarket, wholesale shops etc.

Application of OBR
On labels and on shelves for stocktaking.
Printed on shop goods e.g. supermarkets.
In libraries.
 Advantages
Advantages
Disadvantages
and disadvantages of OBR
• Bar codes can only be read machines.
• Only
Bar numbers
codes can can
bebe
printed
codedbyinnormal
this way.
printing methods.
• They are relatively fixed, so they are unsuitable for
• recording
The typeprices
of itemwhich candoes
or price frequently change.
not have to be repeatedly
written/typed.
 Optical Character/Image Scanner (OCR)
(Optical scanner)
It is used to scan characters and images i.e. can be used to scan
real objects.

Application of OCR
Used in billing
 Advantages
Advantages
Disadvantages
and disadvantages of OCR
• Optical
Data is readers
capturedare
at source
expensive.
hence errors are limited.
• It’s an easier method to use.
• Document
OCR may require
design is
redesigning
less complicated.
quite frequently.
• Characters can be read by people.
• Only certain font is acceptable.
 Magnetic Ink Character Recognition (MICR)
(Magnetic scanner)
This scanner is able to detect characters written in special magnetic
ink. It is used in banks to read cheques, credit cards etc.

Application of MICR
Banking industry for cheques.
 Advantages and disadvantages of MICR
Disadvantages
Advantages
• It’s fast, accurate and automatic.
• MICR system is limited to only 14 characters.
• The code are both machine and human readable.
• MICR system is based on magnetism and can easily be
• damaged.
Reduces forgery i.e. it’s difficult to forge.
Magnetic Stripe Recognition
(Magnetic scanner)
A magnetic stripe is a thin magnetic tape, often found at the back of a plastic
card e.g. ATM card. The magnetic stripe is used to recognise the data in such
cards.
Application of magnetic stripes
On credit cards.
On bank cards.
As tags on clothes.
As a phone card.
 Advantages and disadvantages of magnetic stripes
Advantages
Disadvantages
Advantages Disadvantages
• Data
Simple
canto
beproduce.
changed or erased by magnetic fields.
 Simple to produce.  Data can be changed
• Not easy damaged. or erased by
 Not easy damaged. magnetic fields.

• Stores fairly large numbers of characters.

 Stores fairly large
numbers of
characters.
Speech recognition devices
• This is a type of input method where microphone is used to
enter data in form of spoken words into the computer.

• Application area of speech recognition

– Security and access control e.g. office security for room access,
house/car security.
– Quality control and automatic in factories i.e. speech input used to order
robots.
– Automated materials handling – in airports to direct luggage to
appropriate conveyor belt.
– Voice activated toys and games.
Advantages and disadvantages of speech recognition
Advantages Disadvantages
• No keyboard input • Homophones – some
necessary i.e. very fast. words sound the same.
• Useful in situations
where • Recognition is slow.
– hands or eyes are • Limited vocabularies.
busy handling • Background noise can
documents etc. disrupt the data entered.
– People are • Speaker variability i.e. the
moving around, speed, pitch, loudness,
since wireless pronunciation of
microphone can individuals.
be used.
• Can be used from
remote locations via the
Types of other digital devices
(Touch screen and digital camera)
Touch screen – this device recognises the location of a contact on
the screen through a built-in grid of sensing lines and sensors.
Digital camera – they are used to take electronic pictures of an
object.
Types of other digital device
(Digitizers)
It has graphic tablet on which the user writes on using a device
similar to a pen (stylus). The stylus moves on the tablet and the
drawing is directly reflected on the screen.
 Types of other digital devices
(Interactive whiteboard)
An interactive whiteboard also as a smartboard, is a large interactive display
that connects to a computer. The computer display is projected onto the board’s
surface, where users control the computer and write using a pen or finger. The
board is typically mounted to a wall or on a floor stand.
Selecting an input device

• Factors to consider while selecting an input device

– Cost
– Volume
– Reliability
– Accuracy
– Mode of operation
– Appropriateness
output devices
• output devices
Specific objectives:
By the end of the lesson the learner
should be able to:

a)describe output devices

 OUTPUT DEVICE
• Output devices are peripheral devices that a computer
uses to give out information produces after processing.

– Soft copy – refers to the intangible mainly displayed on the

screen to through devices like speakers.
– Hard copy – refers to tangible output produced on papers e.g.
by printers, potters etc.
Examples of soft copy devices
• Monitor (Visual Display Unit) VDU – it displays information
on its screen thus helping the user monitor operations
carried out by the computer.
Types of monitors
Monochrome monitor – it displays image and text in only one colour
mostly black and white.

Colour monitor – it displays images and text in multiple colours.

Types of displays screen (CRT)

Characteristics
The screen of CRT is
curved slightly outward.
They are not portable.
They consume a lot of
power.
They are cheap.
NB; CRT means
Cathode Ray Tubes
Types of display screen
(flat panel displays)
Characteristics
The screen is flat.
They are portable.
Consume less power
Occupy less space.
Are expensive.
Providers high quality output.
Example of flat panel displays 1
Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) – they have tiny liquid crystals that
reflect light falling on them from environment.
Thin Film Transistors (TFT) – it provides high quality output (text and
graphics).
Example of flat panel displays 2
Electro Luminescent (EL) – they glow rise to an electroluminescent
display, images are clearer than LCD.
Gas plasma – they use gas that emits light when electric current is
passed through them.
Graphic adapter/video card
• Graphic adapter it’s a piece of circuit board that connects
a monitor to a computer and allows the computer to show
images and text on its screen.
Advantages and disadvantages of VDU
•Advantages
Disadvantages

• The
Can display
lure computer
of output
operator
is almost
intoinstantaneous.
not keeping hardcopy
records.
• Minimises paperwork.
• Screen might not allow the viewing of the full array of
data.
Sound output
• Sound output is in form of spoken words. Speakers are used to output
the sound form computers e.g. music, warnings, videos etc.

• Application of sound output

– Learning aids e.g. computer aided learning.
– Lifts – messages can be used in lifts to greet visitors and tell them
the floor they are in.
– Emergency messages i.e. public address systems, in cars when
running out of petrol, household e.g. vacuum ‘cleaners tub is
overloaded’.
– Text to speech translation for blind.
Advantages of sound output
Disadvantages
Advantages
• No reading id necessary.
• Not
Useful
suitable
in situations
for noisywhere
situations.
you can’t look or where you are
busy.
•• Fast, natural output.
Inappropriate for lengthy or permanent information.
• People grow fond of “computer speak”.
Data projectors
They are used to output from a computer onto a plain white screen like a
wall or whiteboard. It is a creative way of presenting computer output to
an audience. This technology is gradually replacing the traditional
overhead projectors.
Light Emitting Diodes
• They are light emitting components that display light when
an electric current is passed through them. It is used
mainly for warnings e.g. the red and green light displayed
by the system unit to help the user know whether it is ON
or OFF.
Hardcopy output devices
• Hardcopy devices are devices that produce output on
paper in form of text or graphics.
Example of hardcopy
• Printers – produce a hard copy of information on papers.
• Plotters – it’s a type of hard copy output. They are used
mainly in the field of engineering and architecture for
producing graphical output on paper.
• Computer output on microform – the com devices record
computer output (image or text) on to photographic film
which can be viewed later by special microfilm readers.
Classification of printers

• Printers are categorised as follows;

– How they produce characters on paper.
• Impact printers – they provide prints by printing
head element coming into actual contact with the
stationery through inked ribbon.
• Non-impact printers – they provide prints by the
print head elements not coming into actual contact
with the stationery, but other means e.g. thermal.
– The speed at which they print.
• Character printers – they produce one character at
a time e.g. daisy wheel, dot matrix etc.
• Line printers – they produce one line at a time e.g.
drum, chain etc.
• Page printers – they produce an entire page at
once e.g. laser printer.
Differences between impact and non-impact

Impact Non-impact
Slow Faster

Use inked ribbons Use thermal or

electrostatic principles
Cheaper Costly
Noisy Quiet
Multiple copy production Multiple copy production
possible almost impossible
Types of impact printers 1
Dot matrix printer – it’s an impact character printer that provides
character prints in terms of dots. The printing head element is made
up of a set of arranged needles, which are activated depending on
the character to be formed for printing.
Types of impact printers 2
Daisy wheel printer – it has a wheel petals on which characters are mounted.
When printing, the wheel rotates allowing petals to hit a ribbon with different
character.
Golf ball printer – the character images are incorporated on the surface of a
gold ball like print head, which is either rotating or pivoted.
Types of impact printers 2
Drum printer – it provides one whole line print at a time. The characters are
incorporated on circular bands that move round the surface of the drum surface.
Chain printer – it’s an impact line printer that incorporates engraved characters
printing slugs at high constant speed past printing positions.
Types of non-impact printers 1
Inkjet printer – this printer forms characters by spraying ink form tiny
nozzles through an electrical field that arranges the charged ink
particies into characters.
Types of non-impact printers 2

Thermal printer – it’s

non-impact character
printer that provides
character prints using
heat principles.
Electrostatic printer –
it’s a non-impact that
uses electrostatic
charges to form
characters in a line on a
special paper.
Types of non-impact printers 3
Laser printer – it prints by passing a laser beam back and forth over
a rotating drum.

Photo printer – are special purpose printers designed to print

photos.
SUMMARY:
1 define output devices ?
2.explian the types of output devices.
3.differentiate between impact and non
impact printers.
 assignment
- State the factors to consider when selecting a
printer(5marks)
Selecting a printer

• Factors to consider when selecting a printer

– Initial cost and subsequent costs of
maintenance.
– Volume of printing expected reports.
– Nature of reports to be generated.
– Range of capability for selected printers e.g.
multiple copier, print styles etc.
– Interface with the computer system.
– Speed.
– Quality of prints.
Type of plotters
Flat bed plotters

Drum plotter
 Computer
• The com output on microform (COM)
devices record computer output (images or text)
on to photographic film which can be viewed later by
special microfilm readers.

• Applications of COM
– Libraries for book catalogues.
– Local authorities to retain town plans, maps, statistics etc.
– Companies to store personal and customers records.
Types of microform
Microfilm - the output is usually on a roll of film.

Microfiche – the output is on a page of film on which data images

are arranged in a grid of patterns.
Advantages and disadvantages of COM
Advantages
• Saves on stationery and space.
• Faster than printing.
• Non-bulky hence portable.
• Contents on COM are not easily read using naked
eyes hence guaranteed security.
• Have got larger life span compared to paper output.
Disadvantages
• Are expensive.
• Cause eye-strain.
• Additional equipments needed to read to contents.
Review questions 1-1

1. What is a computer system?

2. Differentiate between a computer and a
computer system.
3. A scanner used at points of sale terminals in
supermarkets is an example of a ( )
scanner.
4. The automated input technique where keying
of input data is eliminated is sometimes
referred to as ( ).
5. The type of scanner used to grade multiple
choice examination is called ( ).
Review questions 1-2

6. Name three factors one would consider when selecting

data entry method, and give a reason why each is
important.
7. Describe three different optical and two magnetic
scanning techniques used for input; give an example of
the use of each.
8. Explain how banks use MICR scanners for cheque
processing.
9. Describe two situations in which speech recognition
devices may be useful as a method of data entry.
10. Optical scanning of the universal product code is now
widely used as input method. Give an example of a
place where it is used and explain how it is used.
Answer of review questions 1

1. A computer system refers to hardware, software and liveware that work

together to process and manage information.
2. A computer is made up both hardware and software while a computer
system integrates hardware, software and user.
3. Barcode reader.
4. Data capture.
5. Optical mark reader (OMR).
6. The user’s needs, Type of data to be input, Volume of data entry, Cost,
availability, etc.
7. Optical – OMR, OBR and OCR.
Magnetic – MICR and Magnetic strip.
8. Special magnetic characters are written on cheques that can only be
detected by MICR reader.
9. For people with special needs (disabilities), In language translator
programs, Voice tags for voice dialling.
10. Supermarket and superstores. To capture price of goods from bar codes.
Review questions 2

1. Differentiate between soft copy and hard copy.

2. What is the difference between a CRT monitor and a flat-panel
display.
3. Give three examples of flat-panel monitors available in the
market today.
4. Name four criteria used when selecting a printer.
5. Distinguish between impact and non-impact printers and give
two examples of each.
6. State one advantage and one disadvantage of laser and inkjet
printers respectively.
7. Give two advantages of sound output devices.
8. Karuri Road Construction Company (KRCC), intends to buy an
output device they can use to produce road maps. Which
device would one advice the company to buy and why?
Answer of review questions 2-1

1. Hardcopy is intangible information, e.g. printout on paper

like letters, while softcopy is intangible information, e.g.
screen display or music.
2. CRT monitor uses a cathode ray tube while a flat panel
does not. CRT has protruding back while flat panel does
not.
3. Liquid Crystal Display (LCD), Thin Film transistor (TFT),
Gas plasma display and Electro luminescent (EL).
4. Cost, print quality, availability, speed, purpose and print
technology.
5. Impact printer – print by striking mechanism and are
noisy, e.g. dot matrix and daisy wheel.
Non-impact printer – print by either laser, ink or thermal
transfer mechanism, e.g. laser jet, inkjet and thermal
printers.
Answer of review questions 2-2

6. Advantage of:
Laser printers – cheap running cost, good print quality.
Inkjet printers – cheap to purchase, cheaper multiple
colours printing, high quality print.
Disadvantage of:
Leaser printers – expensive to purchase, expensive
multi-colour printing.
Inkjet printers – expensive to buy cartridges (run),
water based print easily fades.
7. Enable reception of output even when a few meters
away from computer, Makes computing interesting and
entertaining, Suitable for the blind and people with
poor sight.
8. A plotter – it draws lines and big charts.
 Chapter 3
Central Processing
Unit (CPU)
By the end of this lesson learners should be able to :

 Define cpu
 Describe functional units of cpu and functions
 Types of memories
 Features of memories
 Special perpose memories

m155
Introduction
• The Central Processing Unit (Processor) is that part of the
computer that decodes and executes instructions.
Functional unites of CPU

Arithmetic Logic Unite (ALU) –

in this unit of CPU all the
arithmetic and logical
operational are carried out.
Control unit – this unit
coordinates all processing
activities in the CPU as well as
input, storage and output
operations.
Main memory (primary storage)
– this unit provides storage
location for data and
instructions accessed by the
control unit.
• ALU Functions of ALU, Control unit and main memory
– Does all the mathematical computations in a computer. Does all of the
logic comparisons of values.
• Control unit
– Directs the flow of information into the CPU memory and storage. Controls
the instructions the CPU will perform next.
• Main memory
– Holds data awaiting processing.
– Holds data that has been processed awaiting to be output.
– Holds data been processed.
Types of memory (ROM)

Read Only Memory (ROM) – this

memory is used to store
programmed instructions and
data permanently or semi
permanently. Data and
instructions stored in ROM are
those required to remain
unchanged for a long time.

Characteristics
Can only be read but cannot
write on it.
It’s non-volatile.
Stores permanent instructions
from manufacturer.
Types of memory (RAM)

Random Access Memory

(RAM) – it’s called Random
Access Memory (RAM)
because its content can be
read directly regardless of the
sequence in which it was
stored.
Characteristics
Data can be read and written
in it.
It’s temporary, its contents
disappears when the
computer is switched off.
It’s contents is user defined.
Characteristic of RAM –CONT’

• Long life
• No need to refresh
• Used as cache memory
• Large size
• Expensive
• High power consumption
Types of ROM
• Mask Read Only Memory (MROM) – once contents are written on it by the
manufacturer, it cannot be changed.
• Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) – this allows the user to alter it
only once after the content is written on it.
• Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM) – the contents
stored in this memory can be erased by exposing them to ultra violet light
and then reprogrammed for another use.
• Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EAPROM) – this
memory can be erased and reprogrammed using electricity.
Types of RAM

• Static RAM (SRAM) – it’s a very fast memory and

holds its content as long as there is power.

• Dynamic RAM (DRAM) – it holds its contents for a

short while even when the power is on. To maintain its
content it must be refreshed severally per second.
• synchronous Dynamic RAM (SDRAM) - This type of
RAM can run at very high clock speeds.
• DDR - Double Data Rate provide synchronous Random
Access Memory
Special purpose memories
• Buffer – it’s a special purpose memory used during input/output or
processing to temporarily hold data or instructions between
communicating elements.
• Cache memory – it’s a very high speed type of SRAM whose
purpose is to allow the processor to access data instructions more
faster.
• Register – they are temporarily storage locations within CPU that
holds one piece of data at a time.
Difference between static RAM&
dynamic RAM
s/no STATIC RAM DYNAMIC RAM

1 fast slow
2 expensive cheap
3 Create cpus speed Forms the larger system Ram space
sensitive cache
4 SRAM uses transistor DRAM uses a separate capacitor to
to store a single bit of store each bit of data.
data.
5 SRAM does not require DRAM requires periodic
periodic refreshment to refreshment to maintain the charge
maintain data in the capacitors for data.
Examples of registers
• Accumulators – temporarily holds the results of the last
processing step of ALU.
• Instruction registers – temporarily holds an instruction before it’s
interpreted into a form that CPU can understand it.
• Address registers – temporarily holds next piece of data waiting to
be processed.
• Storage registers – temporarily holds a piece of data that is on it’s
way to and from the CPU and main memory.
Functional organisation of CPU
The arithmetic logic unit, control unit and main memory are linked
through electrical pathways called buses. A bus is an electrical path
for signal to flow from one point to another in a circuit.
Types of computer buses
• Control bus – this is a pathway for all timings and
controlling functions sent by the control unit to other parts
of the system.
• Address bus – this pathway is used to locate the storage
position in memory of the data to be executed or an
instruction to be decoded.
• Data bus – this is the pathway where the actual data
transfer takes place.
Types of processors and their clock speed
Review questions 1
1. Define the term central processing unit?
2. Describe three functions performed by the CPU.
3. What is a microcomputer?
4. Explain the functions performed by:
A)The control unit;
B)The arithmetic and logic unit;
C)The main memory;
5. Define the terms: volatile memory and non-volatile memory.
6. Define and explain the difference between Ram and ROM.
7. How many characters (bytes) of data are held in each of the following
memories? 4KB, 640KB, 16MB and 20GB?
Answer of review questions 1

1. Central Processing Unit.

2. Processing data, System control, Provide temporary storage (RAM)
and permanent storage (ROM).
3. It is a tiny processor, mainly a combination of he ALU and control
unit on a single silicon chip.
4. A). Interpreting instruction, Issuing control instructions the O/S.
B). Performing arithmetic calculation, Performing logical operations.
C). Holding data just before and after processing, Holding
instructions just before execution.
5. Volatile memory is temporary while non volatile is permanent.
6. RAM – temporary and rewritable memory
ROM – permanent and read only memory.
7. 4KB – approximately 4000 characters.
640KB – approximately 640,000 characters.
16MB – approximately 16 million characters.
20GB – approximately 20 billion characters.
Review questions 2
1. Name three special purpose memories found either inside or
outside the microproce3ssor, and explain what each does.
2. In reference to arithmetic and logic unit, explain the meaning of
logic operations and give an example of this processing
operation.
3. What is the meaning of BIOS, and what role does it play in a
computer?
4. Explain the purpose of the system clock.
5. What is the meaning of BIOS, and what role does it play in a
computer?
6. List three buses found in the CPU.
Answer of review questions 2
1. Cache memory – speeds up processing (fetch cycle).
Buffer – acts as interface between very fast proce3ssor and slow I/O
devices.
Register – temporarily holds data/instructions just before and after
processing.
2. Comparisons include: =,<,>,and <>.
3. The CPU of a microcomputer is smaller and less powerful than that of
mainframe.
4. Determines the processing speed of the CPU.
5. Basic Input Output System – holds hardware setup and configuration
information.
6. Data bus, address bus and control bus.
Practical activity 1
• With the help of the teacher, find out the following:
1. The type of processor in one of the computers in your
computer laboratory.
2. The clock speeds of all the computers in the computer
laboratory.
3. What is the size of RAM in MB of the computer you are
currently using?
 Chapter 4
Secondary storage
devices
By the end of this lesson,the learner should be able
to:

Define storage devices

Identify features of secondary storage
Classification of secondary storage
Introduction

• These are storage devices that compliment

the primary memory. They are used to store
information for longer period.
Secondary storage -is non-volatile , long-term storage. Without secondary
storage all programs and data would be lost the moment the computer is
switched off.
Characteristics of secondary storage
• Non-volatile storage – data stored in this media is
permanent unless erased by user
• Mass storage – stores large volume of data
• Reusability – stored data can be erased and the
media reused to store fresh data and programs
• speed ( data can be accessed very fast)
• Very durable
• portability (how easy it is to move it from one
computer to another)
• Classification of secondary storage
Removable storage devices – these devices are not
housed inside the system unit hence can be used in
another computer e.g. floppy, flash disk, CD.

• Fixed storage devices – these devices are housed inside

the computer system unit e.g. hard disk.
Difference between Primary storage and secondary storage

-Primary memory storages are temporary; where as the

secondary storage is permanent.

- Primary memory is expensive and smaller, where as

secondary memory is cheaper and larger

- Primary memory storages are faster, where as secondary

storages are slower.

- Primary memory storages are connected through data

buses to CPU, where as the secondary storages are
connect through data cables to CPU
DISCUSS THE REMOVABLE STORAGE MEDIA
ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANGES

GROUP : 1.FLOPPY DISK,ZIP DISK,JAZ

DISK,MAGNETIC TAPES

GROUP 2.OPTICAL STORAGE MEDIA(CDS)

FLASH DISK,FIXED STORAGE DIVE

GROUP.4

20 minutes
Removable storage devices
• Magnetic
Optical diskdisks
– these disks use laser beam to record data
on them.disks
– Floppy The laser ray burns tiny holes into a shiny
surface to record data.
– Zip disk
– Jaz disk

• Magnetic tapes
Floppy disk
They are made of small flexible round disk coated with iron oxide.
They are used to store information for later use in the same or
different computer, and can be used to move information from one
computer to another.
Zip disk
Zip disk – they resemble floppy disk but have high storage capacity.
They are slightly larger and thicker in size. Can hold at least 250MB.
Mostly they come with a separate portable external zip disk.
Jaz disk
Jaz disk – they are small portable of about 1GB – 2GB. They are
used for storing data that require larger capacity. They have an
external jaz drive.
 Advantages and disadvantages of floppy disk
Advantages
Disadvantages
• Floppies are vulnerable i.e. short life.
• Time
They consuming
are very cheap.
if access is needed to many files over a
short period.
•• Easily
Small, damaged.
lightweight and convenient.
• Storage area is limited.
• Exchangeable.
Magnetic tapes
This is ribbon of Mylar (plastic – like) material coated with a thin layer of iron oxide.
Magnetic tape resembles the music cassette. Tape is stored in blocks separated by
inter – block gaps left for stopping purposes. Tapes are sequentially accessed. This
implies that if information is at the end of the tape, the computer will have to read
almost the entire tape which is time consuming.
 Advantages and disadvantages of magnetic tapes
Advantages
Disadvantages

• Very slow
They are portable.
in accessing of data.
• Cheap.damaged i.e. dust, heat, touching etc.
Easily
• Can inter-block
The be erased and
spacere-used.
is wastage of storage area.
• Holds a lot of data in a compact space.
Examples of optical storage disks
• LS-120 super disk – this is a diskette that resembles the floppy disk
but uses optical technology instead of magnetic technology to read
data. It has greater storage capacity and greater speed of data
access than floppy disk.
• Digital Versatile Disks (DVD’s) – also known as digital video disk.
They resemble compact disk but have higher storage capacity of up
to 17GB. They are suitable for recording motion pictures e.g. video
because they offer better sound and picture quality than CDs.
• Compact disk (CD) – they hold larger quantities of data and
information. It holds as much as 700MB. Mostly used to store data
and information that require a lot of space e.g. video clips, software
etc.
• Optical card – it resembles the magnetic ink character reader card but
uses an optical recordable stripe that stored using optical technology.
• Photo CD – this CD is used to process photographic film or negatives
to produce and store high quality photographs on a CD-R.
Forms of compact disks
• CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory) – in this type of compact
disks, when data is recorded on them, one can neither change them, nor
add anything on.
• CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable) – they are initially blank, the user can
record data on it. However once the data has been written on it, one can
only read but no changing it.
• CD-RW (Compact Disk Rewriteable) – with CD-RW the user can record,
erase and rewrite new information.
• WORM (Write Once Read Many Times) – these are discs that allow the
user to record data on them once but read them many times e.g. CD-
ROMs and CD-Rs.
 Advantages and disadvantages of CD-ROM
Advantages
Disadvantages

• Notsmaller,
It’s possiblemore
to change
portable
data
and
written
has lager
on a storage
CD-ROM.
• compared to diskettes.
Are expensive than diskettes.
• Can’t erase the data stored.
• More secure as it cannot be changed or attacked by
viruses.
Advantages and disadvantages of optical storage

Advantages Disadvantages
• Have massive capacity. • Expensive.
• Stores data
• Costly hardware
permanently.
• Accessing of data is and software for
fast. reading.
• Secured i.e. it’s hard to • Break easily (it’s
copy. fragile).
• High quality pictures and • Very sensitive to
sound.
• Portable.
things like dust,
Flash disk
This is the most current storage device in the market. It has a
massive storage area, more reliable and portable. It’s small in size
and can store over 600MB of information.
Advantages of a flash disk

• Increased Durability. Unlike traditional hard-disk drives,

flash drives lack moving parts. ...
• Maximum Portability. ...
• Plenty of Storage Capacity. ...
• Fast Transfer Speeds. ...
• Compatibility with Many Devices. ...
• Use Flash Drives as Promotional Materials.
Disadvantages of a flash disk
• Corruption. A USB drives tends to be used in different computers. ...
• Lifespan. USB drives does not posses unlimited lifespan.
• Security Threats. Some of the USB drives does contain a security weakness
in the form of encryption. ...
• Risk of loosing. ...
• Mechanical Damages
 Example of fixed storage devices
Hard disk (Winchester) – they are made from metal and are coated with a
thin film of magnetic oxide. The hard disk unit is made of shiny, rigid
magnetic disks or platters that are arranged vertically on a common axis.
They can hold thousand of programs and files.
 Advantages and disadvantages of hard disk
Advantages
Disadvantages
• They can suffer a head crash resulting to loss of data.
•• They are sensitive to things like dust, humidity, magnets which can
It’s cheap.
corrupt the data stored.
• Very reliable.
• They are inflexible i.e. cannot be changed.
• Does not deteriorate as quickly as floppy.
• More storage capacity.
• Accessing of data is faster.
State three precautions you
would take to avoid the crashing
of hard disk
Review questions 1

1. Distinguish between primary and secondary storage

devices.
2. Distinguish between removable and fixed storage.
3. Compare three types of removable disks i.e. floppy,
zip, and jaz disks in relation to size.
4. What is a hard disk? How does it differ from the floppy
disk?
5. What are the advantage3s of the hard disk over the
floppy disk?
6. Give four examples of optical disks and how they differ
from each other in terms of storage capacity and
mechanism.
Answer of review questions 1

1. Primary storage is accessed directly by CPU while secondary is

not.
2. Removable are portable while fixed are mounted inside the
system unit.
3. Floppy – physically small in size and capacity. Jaz&Zip are
slightly large in size and have large storage capacity.
4. It is hard magnetic platter used to store data and is encased in
a metallic housing (casing). It differs from a floppy because it is
metallic, shinny and non flexible.
5. It is large in storage capacity, More reliable, Faster access to
data and information.
6. CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, LS-120, Super disk, DVD, optical
card, optical tape.
Review questions 2
1. What are the advantages of a digital versatile disk over a typical compact
disk.
2. Define the term multimedia and list down the components required to make
a computer multimedia.
3. Why are CD-ROMs and CD-Rs referred to as WORM?
4. Describe the difference between magnetic and optical storage media.
5. Jets publishers is a company that specializes in production of newspapers.
One of the editors wanted to transfer a 50MB document from the hard disk
of one computer to another using a removable storage media. Give four
examples of the devices he/she could use.
6. Describe three precautions you would take to avoid damaging the hard
disk.
Answer of review questions 2

1. DVD has larger storage capacity than CD, Offers better data
storage quality.
2. Multimedia is an integration of sound, video and text
processing and output.
Components – optical drive, speakers, sound adapter, VGA
monitor.
3. Write Once Read Many (WORM) – recorded once but can be
accessed many times without changing content.
4. Magnetic – data recorded using magnetism.
optical – data recorded using a beam of light (laser).
5. Jaz, Zip, Flash disk, CD-R, CD-RW.
6. Do not drop the disk drive, Do not expose it to strong heat,
Do not expose it to dust/smoke particles, Do not
unprocedurally switch off the computer.
Practical activity 1
• Using a floppy disk provided by the teacher:
1. Draw and label all the parts of a diskette.
2. Remove the protective plastic casing to expose the disk
platter.
a. How flexible is the platter?
b. What is the texture and colour of the surface? Is it possible to see the
tracks and sectors?
c. Assuming the tracks and sectors are visible, draw a diagram to
illustrate how they would look like.
 Chapter 5
Power and interface
cable
Port
• It’s a socket on the system unit into which a cable from an
external peripheral device (e.g. mouse keyboard etc) is plugged to
facilitate transfer of information between the device and CPU.
– Power cable
– Serial cables and ports
– Parallel cables and ports
– Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables and ports
– Interface cable
– Small Computer System Interface (SCSI)
Power cable
They are used to supply power to the motherboard and other
internal devices of a computer.
Serial cables and ports
They transmit data between devices and CPU one bit after another.
They are slow but are reliable than parallel cables. Mainly used to
connect mouse.
Parallel cables and ports
They transmit information simultaneously using a set of many
conductors. They are faster than serial. Used to connect devices
such as printer.
 Universal Serial Bus (USB) cables and ports
They transmit only 1 bit of information at a time at a very high speed
than parallel. Provides quality data transmission over long distance.
It’s port support devices like digital cameras, scanners, mouse etc.
 Interface cable /
Small Computer System Interface (SCSI)
• Interface cable – All peripheral devices that make up a
computer system are connected to the motherboard
inside the system unit through the interface cables.

• Small Computer System Interface (SCSI) – they transmit

data in parallel but are faster than parallel cables. It’s port
allows connection of up 7 peripheral devices.
Personal system 2 (PS/2) interface
Originally, most computers used the 5-pin DIN to connect a
keyboard to the system unit but the smaller 6-pin mini-DIN also
known as PS/2 interface has replaced this technology.
 Types of ports 1
• Infra-red – used for wireless communication between the CPU and
device which is infrared – capable. Communication is over short
distance, and there should be no obstruction between the two
devices.
• D-type ports – these ports have the shape of capital letter D. They
are two types namely the Nine-Pin (DB-9) and 25 pin-wide (DB-
25). The DB9 is a serial port into which cables such as mouse,
modem, serial printer etc can be plugged. The DB-25 port can be
used for both serial and parallel devices. When used to connect
serial it’s labelled COM1 or COM2 and only 10 of its pins are used.
For parallel it’s labeled LPT 1 or LPT 2.
• Centronic ports – this is a parallel port that uses metal clips
mounted into cells in place of pins.
• Audio ports – used for inputting and outputting sound into and out
of sound card.
• LAN ports – used for connecting the computer to local are
network.
• Modem port – used for plugging an external modem into the
computer.
Types of ports 2 (Video port)
Video ports – used for connecting the monitor to the system unit. It
can be 9-pin D or 15-pin D.
Ports on the backside of system unit
Standard symbols used to denote an interface

Symbol Port
Parallel
Serial
USB
SCSI
PS/2 for mouse
PS/2 for keyboard
Basic computer set-up and cabling
• Having learnt about various devices and how they
function, it is important to familiarise ourselves on how to
set up a computer.

• Before carrying out the practical the following should be

observed.
– Dismember all cables from the source of power to prevent
electrical shock.
– Follow the teacher’s instructions strictly.
Tools and materials required
• Screw drivers
• Pliers
• Motherboard
• Manufacturers manual
• Required peripheral devices
• Dismantled system unit
• Power and interface cables
Steps of computer set-up and cabling 1
1. Connecting basic
computer components.
2. Connecting devices to
motherboard –
indentifying connecting
points on the
motherboard. Carefully
identify the points on
the motherboard before
you start connecting the
computer ports.
3.
Steps of computer set-up and cabling
Connecting the hard disk, floppy drive, CD-ROM
2
a. Wear antistatic material to discharge any static change on the body.
b. Check for a free drive bay to hold disk drive.
c. Slide the disk into its bay and screw it.
d. Connect the power supply cable to the device.
e. Connect the cable both to the drive then to motherboard.
f. If installation is complete replace the system unit cover.
 Steps of computer set-up and cabling 3
4. Connecting other peripheral devices.
a. Identify its port and data cable or interface cable.
b. Connect the data cables of all devices to their respective
ports.
c. Switch on the computer power source.
d. Successful boot means the computer was properly setup.
Review questions 1

1. Define the following terms:

A). Port B). Interface cable C). Power cable
2. What is the function of the power supply unit found in the
system unit.
3. Differentiate between parallel and serial interface cables.
4. Give two advantages of a USB interface cable.
5. Draw an illustration of:
A). Parallel cable B). USB port
6. What would happen if you bend the pins of a monitor port as
you try to connect the monitor interface cable to the system
unit?
7. Draw illustrations of various ports found at the back of the
system unit of the computer.
Answer of review questions 1

1. A). Special socket for connecting

peripheral devices on the system unit.
B). Cable for data transmission.
C). Cable for power supply to
devices.
2. To supply stable power to system unit
internal devices and the mother
board.
3. Parallel cables transmits several bits
simultaneously while serial transmits
one bit at a time.
4. It is light, Offers fast transmission, Its
serial nature enable it to connect
devices a longer distance away, The
USB port can be used to connect
different peripheral devices due to its
common universal interface.
6. No display or some colours will fail to
display.
Review questions 2

1. What are the safety precautions to be

observed before one starts installing devices
in the system unit?
2. In relation to cabling, give two reasons why a
printer may not print work sent from the
computer as expected?
3. Naliaka connected new multimedia speakers
to her computer and tried to play her favorite
music CD but no sound was heard. What
might have been the problem?
Answer of review questions 2
1. A). Loose
2. Disconnect
printerallinterface
devices from
cable.power source before attempting to work on them.
B). Printer
Do not work
still off.
on any peripheral device without the guidance of the teacher.
C). Printer
Never work
not installed.
alone because you may need help in case of an emergency.
3. A).
D). Volume
Dischargecontrol
any static
too low.
electricity that might have built up on your hands by touching an
earthed
B). Loosemetallic objectconnection
or improper and then wearing an antistatic
to the sound card. wrist member.
C). Speakers not powered.
D). Multimedia not supported.
E) absence of analog cable connecting the optical drive to the motherboard or sound card.
Revision questions

1. Write the following abbreviations in full:

A). CPU B). ALU C). CU
D). ROM E). RAM
2. Give examples of special purpose memories found in the CPU.
3. What do the following abbreviations in relation to storage capacity stand for:
A). KB B). MB C). GB
4. Describe various display video cards used in computers.
5. Differentiate between MICR and OCR scanners.
6. What is the market name given to the most recent types of processors?
7. Explain the internal mechanism of the hard disk in reference to disk platters
and the read/Write head.
8. Describe the structure of a hard disk in reference to cylinders, tracks and
sectors.
9. What are pixels? What role do they play in screen display?
10. Explain the steps you would follow to set up a new computer.
Answer of revision questions 1

1. A). Central Processing 4. MICR uses magnetic

Unit. technology to read
B). Arithmetic Logic magnetic characters while
Unit. OCR uses laser technology
C). Control Unit. to read characters.
D). Read Only Memory. 5. Pentium processors.
E). Random Access 6. The drive is made up of
Memory. several disk platters that
are mounted on a common
2. Cache and registers. axis with read/write heads
3. A). Kilobyte. on both sides of the
B). Megabyte platters. The heads move in
C). Gigabyte. and out as they write/read
4. MDA, HGA, EGA, VGA data. The outer case is
and SVGA. hard and metallic.
Answer of revision questions 2

8. The hard disk is divided into concentric circles called

tracks. Parallel tracks on several platters are called
cylinders. The tracks are further subdivided into sectors.
Several sectors can be grouped to form clusters.
9. Pixels (picture elements) are dots on the screen that form
characters and images. They determine the clarity of the
image.
10. (a). Gently and carefully connect the interface cable of
each device to the correct port and to the device.
(b). Connect the computer to the power source and switch
it on.
(c). Observe boot up information on the screen to see
whether Power On-Self Test (POST) displays any error
message. A successful boot means that the computer was
properly setup.
Practical activity 1
Using the universal symbols in table right, identify each port located
on the system unit.
 Chapter 6
Computer software
BY THE END OF THE LESSON THE TRAINEES SHOULD BE ABLE TO:

 Define computer software

 Classification of software
 System software and examples
 Application software and examples
 Types of utility software
 Advantages &disadvantages of different
types of software
 Criteria for selecting hardware
 Criteria for selecting software
Introduction
• Software are programs or set of instructions that enables
a computer system to operate.
Classification of software 1
• According to purpose.

– System software – it enables the user communicate

with the computer and its various devices e.g.
keyboard.

– Application software – application software are

designed to help the user accomplish specific tasks.
Classification of software 2
• According to method of acquisition.
– In-house developed program (Bespoke) – these programs are
designed to serve a particular purpose for specific groups or
people e.g. in banks for managing their operations, airlines for
booking etc.
– Standard software (off the shelf packages) – these programs
are developed by software engineers, packaged and made
available for purchase through a vendor or directly from
developer e.g. Microsoft office.
Program under system software 1
• Firmware – it’s a combination of both hardware and
software. It’s in form of a chip which may be used to store
programs.

• Network software – it’s used to establish communication

between two or more computers by linking them using a
communication channel e.g. cables to create network,
novel, Linux etc.
Program under system software 2
• Operating system – it’s a set of programs that control and
supervise the hardware resources of a computer during
processing. Examples of operating system include
Windows 95/98/2000/XP, Linux Macintosh, MS-DOS etc.
• Utility software – they are programs that perform
commonly used services that make certain aspects of
computing to go on more smoothly.
Types of utility software
• Calculator
System level
• Application utility
Time
• Programutility
Backup translator
• Setting
Anti virus
editor
utility
• Text editor utility
Diagnostic
• Sort editorutility
Calendar
• Etc.
Examples of application software

• Word processor – for typing documents e.g.

MS-Word.
• Database – for keeping records and files e.g.
MS-Excel.
• Spreadsheet – for calculations e.g. MS-
Access.
• Desk top publishing – designing publications
e.g. cards (Adobe PageMaker).
• Computer Aided Design – for technical
drawing e.g. AutoCAD.
• Graphics software – for designing and
manipulating graphics e.g. Photoshop
 Advantages of standard software over in house software
• They can easily be installed and run
• Thoroughly test hence few errors
• Readily available
• Easily modified to meet specific user needs
• Less expensive
 Disadvantages of standard software over in-house software
• May not meet special needs.
• They are not as efficient as user made programs.
• When changes occur extra costs is usually needed from
user.
• Not all packages are compatible with all computer
system.
 Criteria for selecting computer system (Specification)
• Hardware considerations
– Processor speed
– Computer memory capacity
– Upgrading and compatibility
– User needs
– Cost
– Portability
– Warranty
 Criteria for selecting computer system (Specification)
• Software considerations
– User needs
– Documentation
– Authencity
– User friendliness
– Cost
– Portability
WEEK 6 LESSON 2
OPERATING SYSTEM
 OPERATING SYSTEM

• By the end of the lesson, the learner should

be able to:
• a)Define operating system
• b) describe the types of operating system
• c) explain the function of operating system
• d)identify various types of operating system
Operating system (OS)

 is a program that acts as an interface

between the user and the computer
hardware and controls the execution of all
kinds of programs

Operating system is a set of programs that control and

supervise the hardware resources of a computer and
provide services to other system software. Examples of
operating system includes; Microsoft Windows
95/98/2000/XP/Vista, Unix, Linux, MS-DOS, novel etc.
 Functions of operating system (OS) 1
Resource control – the OS allocates computer resources such as
CPU time, main memory, secondary storage and input/output for
use by application program.
 Functions of operating system (OS) 2
• Job scheduling – the OS prepares, schedules, controls
and monitors tasks submitted for execution to ensure the
most efficient processing.

• Memory management – the OS ensures that each

program and the data it requires are allocated adequate
space in memory.
 Functions of operating system (OS) 3
• Error handling – OS provides the error correction routines
to ensure smooth operations within CPU.
• Interrupt handling – OS determines the cause of the
interrupt and transfer the control to the most appropriate
programs.
• Input/output handling – the OS governs input/output of
data and their location, storage and retrieval.
 Functions
• Communication of operating system (OS) 4
control and management – the operating system
is responsible for managing various communication devices and
provide an environment within which communication protocol
operate. The term protocol refers to the rules that governs system
come with network management utilities that provide external
communication by connecting to a communication systems using
interface cable or through wireless interface.
DISCUSS THE TYPES OF OPERATING SYSTEM
GROUP :1.BATCH OPERATING SYSTEM,
NETWORK OPERATING SYSTEM

GROUP 2.REAL TIME, DISTRIBUTED SYSTEM,

TIME SHARING

GROUP.4

20 minutes
 TYPES OF OPERATING SYSTEM

1.Batch operating system

• The users of batch operating system do not interact
with the computer directly. Each user prepares his job
on an off-line device like punch cards and submits it to
the computer operator. To speed up processing, jobs
with similar needs are batched together and run as a
group. Thus, the programmers left their programs with
the operator. The operator then sorts programs into
batches with similar requirements
 • The problems with Batch Systems .
•  Lack of interaction between the user
and job.
•  CPU is often idle, because the speeds
of the mechanical I/O devices are slower
than CPU.
•  Difficult to provide the desired priority.
 2.Time-sharing operating systems
• Time sharing is a technique which enables many people,
located at various terminals, to use a particular computer
system at the same time. Time-sharing or multitasking is
a logical extension of multiprogramming. Processor's
time which is shared among multiple users
simultaneously is termed as time-sharing. The main
difference between Multiprogrammed Batch Systems
and Time-Sharing Systems is that in case of
multiprogrammed batch systems, objective is to
maximize processor use, whereas in Time-Sharing
Systems objective is to minimize response time.
 • Advantages of Timesharing operating
systems
•  Provide advantage of quick response.
•  Avoids duplication of software.
•  Reduces CPU idle time.
• Disadvantages of Timesharing operating
systems.
•  Problem of reliability.
•  Question of security and integrity of user
programs and data.
•  Problem of data communication.
 3.Distributed operating System
Distributed systems use multiple central processors to serve multiple real time
application and multiple users. Data processing jobs are distributed among the
processors accordingly to which one can perform each job most efficiently.
The processors communicate with one another through various communication lines
(such as high-speed buses or telephone lines). These are referred as loosely coupled
systems or distributed systems. Processors in a distributed system may vary in size
and function. These processors are referred as sites, nodes, and computers and so on.
 4.Network operating System
Network Operating System runs on a server and and provides server the capability
to manage data, users, groups, security, applications, and other networking
functions. The primary purpose of the network operating system is to allow shared
file and printer access among multiple computers in a network, typically a local
area network (LAN), a private network or to other networks. Examples of network
operating systems are Microsoft Windows Server 2003, Microsoft Windows Server
2008, UNIX, Linux, Mac OS X, Novell NetWare, and BSD
The advantages of network operating systems
 Centralized servers are highly stable.
 Security is server managed.
 Upgrades to new technologies and hardware can be easily integrated into the
system.
 Remote access to servers is possible from different locations and types of
systems

The disadvantages of network operating systems

 High cost of buying and running a server.
 Dependency on a central location for most operations.
 Regular maintenance and updates are required
 5.Real Time operating System
Real time system is defines as a data processing
system in which the time interval required to
process and respond to inputs is so small that it
controls the environment. Real time processing is
always on line whereas on line system need not be
real time. The time taken by the system to respond
to an input and display of required updated
information is termed as response time. So in this
method response time is very less as compared to
the online processing.
 CLASSIFICATION OF OPERATING SYSTEM

• Operating system can be classified according to;

– Number of users

– Number of tasks

– Interface
Number of users

• Single user-operating system – this OS

allows only one user at a time to access a
computer e.g. MS-DOS, MS-Windows
95/98/2000.

• Multi-user operating system – this OS

allows two or more users to access a
computer at the same time e.g. Windows
2000 server, Novel, Unix, Windows NT
etc.
Number of tasks
• Single tasking operating system – this OS allows only one
program to be executed at a time e.g. MS-DOS.

• Multi-tasking operating system (multithreading) – this OS

allows a single CPU to execute more than one program at
a time e.g. Windows Vista, XP etc.
Interface (Command line)
Command line – the user interacts with a computer by typing a
command at the prompt found on a command line e.g. MS-DOS.
Interface (Menu driven interface)
Menu driven interface – this interface allows the user to select
commands/options from a list or menu using keyboard or pointing
device such as mouse. E.g. MS-DOS version called DOS editor).
Interface (Graphical User Interface)
Graphical User Interface (GUI) – this interface represents
commands as small pictures on the screen called icons e.g.
Microsoft Windows 95/98/2000/XP/Vista, Linux etc
GRAPHICAL USER INTERFACE(GUI) COMMAND LINE INTERFACE(CLI)
Navigation is easy. Navigation is difficult.

Keyboard, mouse or any other pointing device. Only keyboard.

GUI has low precision. CLI has high precision.

GUI is of low speed. ClI is of high speed.

Usage is easy. Usage is difficult, requires expertise.

High memory requirement. Low memory requirement.

Highly flexibile user interface. Little flexibile user interface.

GUI is highly customizable. CLI appearance is not easily changable.

GUI normally handles type errors and correct them. CLI don't handles type errors.
Selecting an operating system
• Factors to consider when choosing an O.S.
– Hardware configuration
– Basic design of the computer
– Applications intended for the computer
– User friendliness
– Cost
– Availability in market
explain the features of the
operating system
• END…………….
How Windows organise information
• The OS organise information in terms of files, folders and
drives.
– File – it’s a collection of related data or information stored in
one location.
– Folder/directory – it’s a named storage are where the user can
store related files to enable easy access.
– Storage media – when creating a folder or saving a file identify
a storage location which is more reliable e.g. floppy disk,
compact disk, hard disk etc.
 C:\>
Information organisation tree
File 2

Folder 1 Folder 2 Folder 3

Subfolder Subfolder
File 1
1 2

Subfolder Subfolder
File 3
3 4
Types of files 1
System files – these files contain information that is critical for the
operation of the computer.

Application files – these files hold programs or application files.

Function of files
• Storage of data.

• Organisation of information.
Folder/directory
• It’s a named storage area where the user can store
related files to enable easy access.
Storage media
• When creating a folder or saving a file identify a storage
location which is more reliable e.g. floppy disk, compact
disk, hard disk etc.
Types of files 2

Extension File type Description

.doc Data A Microsoft Word document file.
.txt Data A plain text created using note pad or DOS
editor.
.tif Data A graphic file created using applications
such as adobe photoshop.
.exe Application file The file that launches a particular
application, e.g. Windows.exe, PM701.exe,
etc
.bat System files File containing a series of commands
loaded during boot up.
.sys System files System files that perform fundamental
operations in a computer.
Drives

Storage location Drive Remarks

Floppy drive A and B If a computer has two floppy drives, one

will be assigned letter A the other B.
Hard disk C,D,E,F If a computer has 4 hard drives, they will
be assigned letters C-F.
Optical drives D,E,F,G If a computer has one hard disk and three
or more CD/DVD drives, they will take up
any number between D and Z.
Other removable D,E,…Z If a computer does not have and optical drive,
any removable drive attached to the computer
can take any letter between D and Z.
Network drive Logical Network drives takes D-Z depending on the
number of physical drives installed or attached.
Windows desktop feature
Once you turn on the computer, Windows is loaded into the main
memory and finally the desktop showing that the computer is ready for
use appears. The three main features of the desktop are the
background, icons and the taskbar.
Taskbar

The taskbar enables the user to easily switch

between different programs and tasks that are
currently running. Whenever the user starts a
program or opens a file, its button appears on the
taskbar and stays there until the user exits the
program.
Managing files/folders (Renaming)
Refers to changing files from their original name to some other new names.
1. Using My Computer icon, display the Explorer window.
2. On the folder tree on the left pane, select the file or folder to be renamed.
3. On the “File” menu.
4. Click the “Rename”.
5. Type the new name.
6. Type the “Enter” key.
Managing files/folders (Sorting)
Refers to organising files and folders in a particular way.

1. Open a folder or storage location.

2. On the “View” menu.
3. Point to “Arrange Icon By”.
4. Select one form list. “Name” ,”Size”, “Type” or “Modified”.
Managing files/folders (Copying)
Enables the computer user to duplicate files and folders to another location.
1. Using My Computer icon, display the Explorer window.
2. Select the file or folder to be copied.
3. On the “Edit” menu.
4. Click the “Copy”.
5. Select the drive or folder where you want the item to be copied.
6. On the “Edit” menu.
7. Click the “Paste”.
Managing files/folders (Moving)
Refers to removing the files and folders completely from the storage location.
1. Using My Computer icon, display the Explorer window.
2. On the “Edit” menu.
3. Click the “Cut”
4. Select the drive or folder where you want the item moved.
5. On the “Edit” menu.
6. Click the “Paste”
Managing files/folders (Searching)
Refers to looking for a certain file or folder.
1. Click the “Start” button.
2. Point to “Search” (Search dialog box is displayed).
3. Click the “For Files or Folders”.
4. Type all or part of the file name in the search box.
5. Select location of the file from arrow down list.
6. Click the “Search” button.
Windows explorer

Windows explorer lets the user

display the drives and folders
in a hierarchy or tree structure.
The computer tree is an upside
down structure with the highest
level in this case the desktop
being the root. The explorer
divides the window into two
panes. The left pane displays
a tree of drives and folders
while the right pane displays a
list of files and subfolders
contained in a particular open
drive or folder.
Using My Computer
Double clicking on MY Computer icon, gives you a graphical view of
what is inside the computer. This includes the drives, the control
panels and other resources.
Creating a new folder

There will be times when the user

would want to create new folders.
Say, for instance, when working
on a detailed project that has
multiple files. It is advisable that
all related files be kept together in
one folder.
1. Open the “My Computer” and
display the Explorer window.
2. On the folder tree on the left
pane, select the location in
which you want to create a new
folder.
3. On the “File” menu.
4. Point to “New”.
5. Click the “Folder”. (New folder
is displayed)
6. Type a new name for the folder.
The application window
• To enter data in a new file created, one has to open it in
its application programs. This is done by double clicking
the file icon. A rectangular area called an application
window appears on the screen.
Parts of a window (Title bar)
This is a bar across the top of the window that displays the name of
the current application programs.
Parts of a window (Menu bar)
Provides a list of commands than can be used to manipulate a task.
Parts of a window (Tool bar)
They are buttons arranged in a row that are shortcuts to menu
commands.
Parts of a window (Work area)
This is the area where you can create your document.
Parts of a window (Status bar)
This displays information about the program currently running.
Parts of a window
(Insertion point/Text cursor)
Marks the place where text and graphics will appear when typing
drawing is started.
Disk management using operating system
(Formatting disk)

The process of preparing a new disk

for use by creating sectors and tracks
on the surface of disk.
1. Insert the media disk into the
floppy or USB port.
2. Open the “My Computer”
3. Right click on the drive icon.
(Shortcut menu is displayed)
4. Click the “Format”. (Format dialog
box is displayed)
5. Select the Format system from
the arrow down list. “FAT”,
“FAT32” or “NTFS”.
6. Click the “Start” button.
7. After format has finished, click the
“Close” button.
Disk management using operating system
(Disk defragmentation)

Refers to arranging of scattered

folders and files on a storage media
for easy access of files and folders.
1. Open the “My Computer”
2. Right click on the drive icon.
(Shortcut menu is displayed)
3. Click the “Properties”. (Properties
dialog box is displayed)
4. Select the “Tool” tab.
5. Click the “Defragment Now”
button. (Disk Defragmenter dialog
box is displayed)
6. Select the drive to be defragment.
7. Click the “Defragment” button.
 Disk management using operating system
(Disk compression)
This tool help in consolidating files and folders in smaller storage areas hence creating more space
on the storage device.
1. Open the “My Computer”
2. Right click on the drive you want to compress. (shortcut menu is displayed)
3. Click the “Properties” (Properties dialog box is displayed).
4. Select the “General” tab.
5. Click the check box of “Compress drive to save disk space”.
6. Click the “Apply” button.
Disk management using operating system
(File or folder compression)

1. Open the drive where the file or

folder is located.
2. Right click on the file or folder icon.
(shortcut menu is displayed)
3. Click the “Properties”.
4. Select the “General” tab.
5. Click the “Advanced” button.
6. Click the check box of “Compress
contents to save disk space”.
7. Click the “OK” button of “Advanced
Attributes” dialog box.
8. Click the “OK” button of “Properties”
dialog box. (Confirm Attribute
Changes dialog box is displayed)
9. Select zip the folder only or the
entire content.
10.Click the “OK” button.
 Disk management using operating system
(Disk partitioning)
The process of dividing the physical disk into two or more partitions
called logical drives.
 Disk management using operating system
(Back up data)
The tool enables the user to create copies of data and programs on separate storage areas to avoid
losing of data and programs incase the storage device fails.
1. Open the “My Computer”.
2. Right click on the hard drive icon (shortcut menu is displayed).
3. Click the “Properties” (Properties dialog box is displayed).
4. Select the “Tool” tab.
5. Click the “Backup Now” button. (Backup or Restore Wizard dialog box is displayed).
6. Through the process step by step.
 Disk management using operating system
(Scanning storage device)
The tool helps the user to check up and repair minor storage problems e.g. lost storage or
damaged surface.
1. Open the “My Computer”
2. Right click on the drive icon. (Shortcut menu is displayed).
3. Click the “Properties” (Properties dialog box is displayed).
4. Select the “Tool” tab.
5. Click the “Check Now” button. (Check disk dialog box is displayed).
6. Select the “Check disk options”.
7. Click the “Start” button.
 Disk management using operating system
(Scanning for virus)
Refers to checking your system for virus and removing them e.g. using Norton antivirus,
MacAfee software to scan.
1. Open the “My Computer”
2. Right click on the hard drive icon. (shortcut menu is displayed).
3. Click the “Scan with <antivirus name>. (Anti virus dialog box is displayed).
4. The scan process in initialized.
 Partitioning a disk using FAT32 file system
Microsoft Windows 98/Me startup disk has an FDISK utility that lets
the user partition and format a disk using FAT or FAT32 file system.

NB; FAT means

File Allocation Table
Partitioning a disk during installation

Partitioning a disk using

NTFS format in Windows
2000, XP and vista is
done during the
installation process as
shown in left figure.

NB;NTFS means
New Technology File System.
Installing Windows XP

Installing Windows XP is
quite different from that
of Windows Me because
it does not operate in
real DOS mode. The two
methods of installing XP
are upgrading from a
previous Windows
version is relatively
simple, we shall look at
clean installation, done
on a new computer that
comes without a n
operating system.
 Trouble shooting windows related problems
• Trouble shooting refers to the process of diagnosing and
trying to fix hardware or software related problems.
 Some problems windows experience
• Failure to boot

• Computer hangs now and then

• Abnormal restarting
The problems may be as a result of
• There was a problem in the installation process e.g.
missing files.
• Insufficient system memory.
• Problem with hard disk boot sector may be due to virus
infection.
• Corrupted window registry system.
• Due to interrupt conflicts.
To troubleshoot you need to
• Study the trouble shooting guide

• Use the device manager to check the devices causing

problems.

• Reinstall the operating system if the problems above

persist.
Review questions 1

1. Differentiate between system software and

application software giving an example of each.
2. What is the importance of an operating
system?
3. Give five examples of application software and
their respective uses.
4. What are the advantages of standard software
over the in-house developed software?
5. What is the difference between single-purpose
programs and integrated software?
6. Why do computers need network software?
7. Give three examples of operating system.
Answer of review questions 1-1

1. System software performs fundamental operations like

initialising hardware during boot up while application
software meets user specific needs.
System software – operating system, firmware, utilities.
Application software – word processor, spreadsheets etc.
2. Supervises all the hardware and software operations of
the computer system.
3. Word processor – typing documents.
Spreadsheets – calculations.
Database management systems – record management.
Desktop publishing – creating publications.
Graphics software – creating and manipulating.
Answer of review questions 1-2
4. Standard software is thoroughly tested hence few errors,
Readily available, Easily portable.
5. Single purpose software is developed for only one purpose while
integrated software is a suit of more than one programs and can
be used to carry out a variety of tasks.
6. To enable communication between computers over a channel
(media).
7. UNIX, Windows, DOS, LINUX, Macintosh Operating system.