Introduction to Computer

• Speed


  • Executing mathematical calculations faster and more accurately than humans
  • Ability to process millions of instructions per second
  • Operations performed in micro and nano seconds
  • Measure in gigahertz and megahertz
• Reliability


  • Output results never differ unless input varies
  • Consistent results for similar sets of data
• Automation


  • Conducting tasks automatically after instructions are programmed
  • Replacing thousands of workers
• Versatility


  • Performing different types of tasks with the same accuracy and efficiency
  • Multitasking
• Memory


  • Storing millions of records
  • Measured in Bytes, Kilobytes, Megabytes, Gigabytes, and Terabytes
  • Built-in primary memory
• Accuracy


  • Low chances of errors occurring
  • Errors caused by incorrect human input
• Supercomputer


  • Computer at the front-line of current processing capacity, particularly speed of calculation
  • Used for intense numerical calculations like weather forecasting, fluid dynamics, nuclear simulations, theoretical astrophysics, and complex scientific computations
• Mainframe Computer


  • Computer capable of handling and processing very large amounts of data quickly
  • Calculation speed of millions to tens of millions instructions per second
  • Can respond to hundreds of millions of users
  • Used in large institutions like government, banks and large corporations
• Minicomputer (Mid-range Computer)


  • Multi-user computers in the middle range of the computing spectrum
  • Small in scale, simple in structure, easy to maintain, and low in cost
  • Used in universities, scientific research institutions and industrial control fields
• Microcomputer (Personal Computer)


  • Computer based on single chip microprocessors
  • Became the most common type of computer in the late 20th century
  • Small size, convenient use, low production cost, and low price
  • Computing speed of hundreds of thousands to millions instructions per second
• Workstation Computer


  • High-end personal computer between microcomputers and minicomputers
  • Equipped with large-capacity memory, external storage, and large-screen displays
  • Strong data processing and graphics processing capabilities
  • Used for professional applications like engineering design, animation production, scientific research, software development, financial management, information services, analog simulation
• Charles Babbage: 'Mathematician and inventor, known as the father of the computer'
• Ada Lovelace: 'Met Charles Babbage at age 17, became his friend and studied advanced mathematics under his mentorship<|>Fascinated by Babbage's ideas, including the difference engine and analytical engine'