Computers For Dummies

Learn computing basics and more!
By: Varnikaa Gupta 9-4 BTT

Learn:
Computer basics
How to set up a correct
workstation
The evolution of technologies

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Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Computers ................................................................................................................................... 3
What is a computer? ..................................................................................................................................... 3
Chapter 2: Hardware ..................................................................................................................................... 5
What is hardware? ........................................................................................................................................ 5
What are the main hardware components of a computer? ..................................................................... 5
Chapter 3: Operating Systems ...................................................................................................................... 9
What is an operating system? What is its purpose? .................................................................................... 9
Chapter 4: Software .................................................................................................................................... 11
What is Software? ....................................................................................................................................... 11
Give some samples of software. ............................................................................................................. 11
Chapter 5: User Interface Elements ............................................................................................................ 13
Identify common user interface elements and describe their functions. .................................................. 13
Chapter 6: Peripheral .................................................................................................................................. 15
What is a peripheral? .................................................................................................................................. 15
What peripherals are commonly used, and what are they used for? .................................................... 15
Input Devices:...................................................................................................................................... 15
Output Devices:................................................................................................................................... 16
Chapter 7: Networks and Stand-Alone Environments ................................................................................ 17
What is a network? What are the difference between a network and a stand-alone environment? ....... 17
Chapter 8: Workstation............................................................................................................................... 19
How should a computer workstation be set up to maximize the comfort of the user? ............................ 19
Revolutions in Computing Timeline ............................................................................................................ 21
Website Evaluation ..................................................................................................................................... 33
Self-Evaluation ............................................................................................................................................ 35
Rubric A - Investigate: Bibliography ........................................................................................................ 35
Rubric A - Investigate: Computer in History Timeline ............................................................................. 35
Rubric D - Create: Execution of a Book ................................................................................................... 35
Glossary ....................................................................................................................................................... 37
Index............................................................................................................................................................ 41
Bibliography ................................................................................................................................................ 43

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Chapter 1: Computers
What is a computer?
A computer (look in glossary) is a programmable
electronic device that can manipulate data to execute
and respond to sets of instructions (Refer to Figure 1). As
electronic and digital devices, computers have the ability
to store, retrieve, and process data (look in glossary), do
math, and follow instructions. Computers can be used
for many types of tasks. You can use computers for
communication purposes (E-mail or Skype),
organizational purposes (spreadsheets or database
management), creativity (presentations and graphics),
and even for entertainment purposes (watching videos
or playing games). Computers have many programs (look
in glossary) and software that help us to complete
almost any necessary tasks. Computers also have many
hardware components and peripherals without which a computer could not possibly work. As
you continue to read, you will learn more about all of these parts of the computer and other
basics as well.
Goodwill Community Foundation. "What Is a Computer?" GCF. GCF, 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.gcflearnfree.org/computerbasics/1>.
QuinStreet Inc. "Computer." Webopedia. Webopedia, 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/C/computer.html>.

Figure 1-
http://blogs.ufv.ca/faos/files/2013/07/19946
16376_1357232796.jpg
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Chapter 2: Hardware
What is hardware?
Hardware (look in glossary) is any part of the computer that has a physical structure
and can be connected to the computer wire or wirelessly (Refer to Figure 2). In other words,
hardware includes all the physical components of a computer. Basically, a computer cannot
exist without its hardware. There are two types of hardware; internal and external. Internal
hardware (look in glossary) includes all the components, circuits, and wires that are included
within the PC (look in glossary) (Personal Computer). External hardware (look in glossary)
includes the components of the computer that are set aside from the PC and are usually used
to customize ones workstation (ex. the keyboard, mouse, printer, scanner, etc.). The hardware
for everyones personal computer can vary according
to the needs of the user. Hardware, as any other part
of a computer, can always be eligible for an upgrade.
Hardware Upgrade (look in glossary) has to do with
either replacing or adding other hardware
components to the computer as needed by the user
and/or the computer itself. An example of a
hardware upgrade is a RAM upgrade. A RAM
upgrade (look in glossary) is usually to increase the
total memory, speed, and efficiency to the computer.
There are many hardware components that can be
used for the needs of both, the computer and the
user. The next section will talk about the different
internal and external hardware components and
their tasks.
Computer Hope. "Hardware." Computer Hope. Computer Hope, 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.computerhope.com/jargon/h/hardware.htm>.
Rouse, Margaret. "Hardware." SearchCIO-Midmarket. Techtarget, Apr. 2006. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://searchcio-midmarket.techtarget.com/definition/hardware>.
What are the main hardware components of a computer?
As mentioned earlier, there are both internal and external hardware devices.
Each of these hardware parts all play key functions and are all very important to help
your computer function and work as efficiently as possible. If anything goes wrong with the
Figure 2-
http://www.3gksa.com/store1/index.php?main_page
=index&cPath=36
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hardware components, it will prevent your computer from functioning as it should and will
change the way you are able to use it. Here, you will learn about each of the hardware
components and what they are used for.
CPU: Metaphorically the brain of the computer. It
carries out the instructions for computer programs and
performs basic arithmetical and input or output operations
to carry out the users command.
ALU (look in glossary): The digital circuits that
performs the arithmetical and logical operations. It is a form
of primary storage.
Motherboard: This is metaphorically the back bone
and nervous system of the computer because it connects all
the other parts of the computer system. If a part of your
computer isnt working, the first thing to check if all those
parts are connected to the motherboard.
Main Memory (look in glossary): It is used to store
data that is commonly used. This is the part that is
continuously read by the CPU as this is where most of the
instructions are stored.
Secondary Storage: It is not as directly accessible to the CPU as the Main Memory.
When the device is powered off, these forms of storage do not lose the data that is
stored on them. Some examples of Secondary Storage are Hard Drive, Flash Drive, and
Memory Card.
Hard Drive (look in glossary): A form of Secondary Storage where all the computers
programs are sorted. This includes all the documents the user saves.
Hard Disc (look in glossary): This is where all the users saved files are stored. You are
allowed to find the document because of the code each file is stored with based on
this hardware component.
RAM (Random Access Memory) (look in glossary): This is the computers short-term
memory which means that it only stores the frequently used data.
Video Card (look in glossary): This is what helps to make things visual on your screen
with the help of the Graphic Card. Problems with viewing work on the screen are usually
connected to the video card.
Graphic Card (look in glossary): Helps to display the graphics onto your screen along
with the help of the visual card.
Sound Card (look in glossary): This allows you to connect your speakers to the computer
system and listen to a variety of sounds that are linked to the program in use.
External Hardware (look in glossary): See What peripherals are commonly used, and
what are they used for? for information on different external hardware components/
peripherals.

Figure 3-
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:MicroATX_
Motherboard_with_AMD_Athlon_Processor_2
_Digon3.jpg
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Kissoon, Joshua. "Functions of the Major Hardware Components in a Computer System." Clever
Logic. Clever Logic, 11 Feb. 2011. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.cleverlogic.net/book/functions-major-hardware-components-computer-system>.
Rouse, Margaret. "Hardware." SearchCIO-Midmarket. Techtarget, Apr. 2006. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://searchcio-midmarket.techtarget.com/definition/hardware>.
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Chapter 3: Operating Systems
What is an operating system? What is its purpose?

An operating system (look in glossary) is the most important software that runs on all
desktop computers (not all computers have operating systems. For example, the computer in
your microwave doesnt have an operating system). Once it starts up, the purpose of the
operating system is to manage the computer's memory, processes, allow you to communicate
with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's "language", and finally,
managing all of the computers software and hardware. The operating system ensures that all
the different programs on a computer can get access from the CPU of the computer. Without
the operating system, this would not be possible, the software wouldn't even be able to talk to
the hardware, and the computer would be useless. The most common operating system is
Windows developed by Microsoft (Refer to Figure 4).
TechTerms.com. "User Interface." TechTerms.com. TechTerms.com, 31 Mar. 2009. Web. 4 Oct.
2013. <http://www.techterms.com/definition/user_interface>.
Goodwill Community Foundation What Is an Operating System?" GCF. GCF, 2013. Web. 4 Oct.
2013. <http://www.gcflearnfree.org/computerbasics/2>.

Figure 4-http://www.dreamssoftware.net/operating-systems
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Chapter 4: Software
What is Software?
Software, (look in glossary) often abbreviated as S/W, is a set of instructions for each of
the individual hardware. A computer programmer (look in glossary) or several computer
programmers write the instructions using a programming language that tell the software how
to work. Once a programs instructing are ready to go, the program is compiled into a language
that the computer can understand. These instructions and data are like guides that explain how
the hardware should carry out its task. Software also allows the user to interact with the
computer and the computer to follow the instructions of the user. There are two types of
software; application software and system software. Application software (look in glossary)
includes all the programs that are of direct use and interest to the user. Application software is
the set of instructions that guide different applications on the computer. For example, if the
user wants to open up a certain program, the application software will provide the set of
instructions to help the user. System software (look in glossary) is generalized software that
instructs the computer on complete basic tasks. No computer can run without system software.
When discussing software, you may have also heard the terms User Interface (UI), and
Graphical User Interface (GUI). User Interface (look in glossary) is a how the user can go about
controlling a software application or hardware devices. A Graphical User Interface (look in
glossary) means that the user is provided with the option of using graphical controls on a
certain program. This includes a menu bar, toolbar, windows, buttons, and other useful
controls. Software can be purchased or downloaded depending on what is more convenient for
the user.

Computer Hope. "Software." Computer Hope. Computer Hope, 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.computerhope.com/jargon/s/software.htm>.
Rouse, Margaret. "Software." SearchSOA. TechTarget, 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://searchsoa.techtarget.com/definition/software>.
Give some samples of software.

Examples of software include (Refer to Figure 5):
Productivity software: This includes computer programs that help the user to work more
effectively. These programs can be purchased or downloaded alone or in packs. Most
productivity software include a word processing application (such as Word), a
spreadsheet application (such as Excel), and presentation software (such as Power
Point.) Examples of productivity software include Microsoft Office, Google Apps For
Business, MS Publisher, Notepad, WordPad, Paint, etc.
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Presentation software: This includes packages designed to display information, often in
the form of a slide show. Examples of presentation software include many different
software packs from Microsoft (Power Point), Apple, and Adobe.
Graphics software: It is used mostly by graphic designers and by millions of people and
businesses. Graphic software is the art of making a website, website page, video game
games, designs, and logos look great. Examples include Adobe Photoshop, Microsoft
Paint, Autodesk 3D Studio Max, Corel Draw, etc.
Vertical market software: This includes software for banking, insurance, retail, and
manufacturing environments

Figure 5-http://www.cogniview.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/BestFreeSoftware2012.jpg

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Chapter 5: User Interface Elements
Identify common user interface elements and describe their functions.
There are many user interface elements which are used to help the user navigate through
certain programs. Some User Interface Elements include Input Controls, Informational
Components, and Navigational Components. The following list will talk about some of the more
common user interface elements and how they are useful for the user.

Input Controls
Checkboxes: These allow the user to select certain topics and options out of a list
of things that may be of help.
Text Fields: Text Fields allow the user to enter text in certain formats ( one line,
or multiple lines)
Buttons: By clicking on buttons, the user is allowed to add characteristics to
customize documents as wanted.
Dropdown Lists: The user can choose properties from a list of options regarding
a specific theme.
Informational Components:
Icons: An icon is a simple image to help users identify and navigate the system.
Icons are typically hyperlinked
Navigational Components:
Search Fields: A search field or search box that allows the user to type in a word
or phrase I order to get back the most relevant results from an index.

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Chapter 6: Peripheral
What is a peripheral?
Peripherals (look in glossary) are devices that can
be attached to a computer by a cable or some form of
wireless technology (Refer to Figure 6).A peripheral is
another word for all external hardware that provides
input to a computer or that receives output from the
computer. These are the devices that you use to access
different files, programs, and applications on the
computer. They all perform specific functions to help the
user in one way or another. The next page lists some of
these input and output peripherals and their functions.
What peripherals are commonly used, and what are they
used for?
There are many input and output peripherals which help the computer user in many
ways. The following lists describe some of the more common ones.

Input Devices:
Modem: This allows a computer to transmit data over telephone lines by
converting digital signals to analog signals and analog signals to digital signals.
Expansion card: It contains chips that add new features to a computer. Ex. Sound
or Graphic Cards give the computer the ability to digitize video or sound so that
the computer can reproduce graphics and sound.
Keyboard: A keyboard consists of type-writer like keys that allow users to enter
information onto a computer.
Mouse: A pointing device (which usually consists of two buttons and a scroll),
that allows users to perform various operations.
Stylus (Pen Pad): Another form of a pointing device which is used to input
commands to a computer screen, mobile device, or tablet.
Scanner: It scans documents (photos and pages of text) and converts them into a
digital format to be displayed onto the users screen.
IPod: A portable music player on which music can be downloaded and listened
to. It can be connected to a computer to import music files.
Digital Camera: A device that captures images digitally and saves photos in
digital memory or on an SD or Compact Flash card.
Figure 6-
http://www.in.all.biz/img/in/catalog/199518.jp
eg
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Webcam (PC video camera): These are wonderful inventions which allow the
user to video chat, record videos, and stream from web browsers.
Microphone: Captures audio by converting sound waves into an electrical signal.

Output Devices:
Modem: See Input Devices for the definition
Expansion Card: See Input Devices for the definition
Speakers: They are devices that allow you to hear sounds from the computer.
Monitor: This is a peripheral that displays the computers User Interface and
open programs. It provides a visual representation to allow the user to interact
with the computer using input peripherals like a keyboard and a mouse.
Printer: This is a device which prints texts/ illustrations to provide a hard copy of
a document for the user.
IPod: See Input Devices for the definition.

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Chapter 7: Networks and Stand-Alone Environments
What is a network? What are the difference between a network and a
stand-alone environment?
A network (look in glossary) is two or more computers linked to share resources
(printers and CDs), exchange files and allow electronic communication (Refer to Figure 7).
Computers in a network can be linked by cables, telephone lines,
radio waves or satellites. The Internet is an example of a
network; it connects millions of people around the world.
A stand-alone environment (look in glossary) is when a
computer is not connected to any type of network or any other
communication device. The computer is used independently. If
you need to transfer data between two stand-alone computers,
it will have to be done manually.
Although a stand-alone computer and a network computer are relatively the same,
there are differences in the Setup and Management in each type of computer. While a stand-
alone computer works independently, a network computer
is connected to several other computers and it can share
resources. Also, stand-alone computers are more secure
because it isnt communicating with other computers like a
network. It limits the amount of hackers and spyware.
Unfortunately, a stand-alone computer is not very useful in
todays technologies with the amount of communications
we do online in our everyday lives (Refer to Figure 8).
Winkelman, Roy. "What Is a Network?" N.p., 2013. Web. 4
Oct. 2013. <http://fcit.usf.edu/network/chap1/chap1.htm>.

Figure 7-
http://networkcablingsolutions.net/
Figure 8-
http://www.firstclass.com/Products/Components_
UC#
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Chapter 8: Workstation
How should a computer workstation be set up to maximize the comfort
of the user?
A workstation is an area that is usually used as a computer terminal or for the use of
other electrical equipment. There are many ways in which you can set up your workstation to
maximize your comfort. The following is a step-by-step process describing how to set up your
workstation is the most comfortable way.

Step 1: Push your chair back to the most comfortable distance away from the computer.
Step 2: Adjust the height so your knees are almost level with your hips and you have a good
view of the screen.
Step 3: Make sure your shoulders are comfortable by adjusting your armrest, and lean
comfortably against the back of your chair.
Step 4: Place the keyboard directly in front of you so that it is comfortably within arms reach.
Step 5: Adjust the height of the keyboard so that you have a proper view of all the keys (Refer
to Figure 9).
Step 6: Make sure your neck is comfortably relaxed and neutral.
Step 7: Set your monitor so it is centered directly in front of you and above your keyboard. Step
8: Sit at least an arm length away from the screen.

Figure 9
Now that your workstation is properly set up, use the following tips to maximize your
comfort:

Take short stretch breaks about every half an hour to
make sure you dont get too stiff.
Try to get away from your computer every so often to
avoid fatigue.
Figure 10
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Every once in a while, focus on something in the distance (away from your computer
screen), to avoid eye fatigue.
Rest your eyes every few minutes by covering them with your palms for a while.
Sit with correct posture and keep moving rather than sitting still for too long to avoid
stiffness (Refer to Figure 10).
Sit in an area with good lighting to prevent eyestrain and headaches. Minimize glare by
eliminating background lights dimming them.

UCLA Environment Health and Safety. "4 Steps to Setup Your Workstation." Office Ergonomics.
UCLA Ergonomics, 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://ergonomics.ucla.edu/index.php/homepage/office-ergonomics/4-steps>.
The University of Western Australia. "Computer Workstation Ergonomics." The University Of
Western Australia. N.p., 11 July 2013. Web. 4 Oct. 2013.
<http://www.safety.uwa.edu.au/health-wellbeing/physical/ergonomics/workstation>.

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Revolutions in Computing Timeline

Year What is it? Why is it important? Interesting fact
Abacus 3000
BC
An abacus is a
manual calculating
device that consists
of beads or disks that
can be moved up
and down on
multiple sticks or
strings within a
frame.
Its the first device
created to help
humans with
calculating and
eventually led to the
creation of
calculators.
The abacus is still
used today in
China and Japan.
Antikythra
mechanism
2nd
century
BC
A mechanical
computer used to
calculate the
movements of stars
and planets.
At that time, it
provided people with
the astronomical
knowledge. It was
like an encyclopedia.
The mechanism
was found by
sponge divers near
the island it was
named after (the
island of
antikythera).
John Napier,
Calculation
Tables
1614 It was the worlds
first calculator.
Napier developed
what would be the
backbone of modern
mathematics.
John Napier
entered St.
Andrews
university at the
age 13 but never
graduated.
Joseph-Marie
Jacquard, Punch
card controlled
loom
1801 A weaving loom that
used punch cards to
create elaborate and
complicated designs.
The weaving
profession was a
tiring job but this
invention made it
less tedious and you
were able to make
intricate designs. It
reduced the amount
of human labour.
The French
Government
considered the
loom to be public
property therefore
giving Jacquard a
small pension.
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Charles
Babbage,
Difference
Engine
1822 A mechanical
calculator used to
solve polynomial
functions.
It was a better and
more effective way
of solving math
equations.
Charles Babbage
invented the
Difference
Machine because
he was tired of
people making
mathematical
errors.
Samuel Morse,
Telegraph
1837 Machine used to
transmit messages
using electrical
impulses.
Telegraphs made it
possible to
communicate to
people quickly over
vast distances.
The telegraph
became more
famous when it
was used a catch a
murderer
boarding a train in
London.
Sir Charles
Wheatstone,
paper tapes
1950s It records data. It helped people
connect with one
another.
Sir Charles
Wheatstone also
invented the
accordion.
Stoles, Glidden
and Soule,
typewriter
1866 It allows the user to
print letters one by
one onto a medium
such as paper/
It increased the
production of books,
newspapers and
other written
documents. This also
increased the
literacy rate in many
countries.
Typewriter is the
longest word that
you can spell using
only one row of
letters.
Herman
Hollerith,
Tabulating
Machine
1881 It helps summarize
information and it
also does
accounting.
Since it recorded
medical information
in the late 1880s to
the 1960s, it was
very important to
doctors and nurses
Without the
tabulating
machine, it was
hard to count the
population. It took
7 years to
complete the 1880
census.
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Colossus World
War II

Electronic computing
devices used to help
British code breakers
read encrypted
German messages
It was the first large
scale electronic
computer. It helped
British soldiers and
code breakers
prevent attacks from
Germans.
Since many
machines used in
WWII were
destroyed or
hidden, the
Colossus was only
recently fully
recognized.
Bell Labs, the
Transistor
1947 Transistors control
the movement of
electrons.
The Transistor was
probably the most
important electronic
invention in the 20
th

century. It was the
basis of modern
technologies.
Today, billions of
transistors are
manufactured
every week.
Texas
Instruments and
Fairchild
Semiconductor,
Integrated
Circuit
1958 A small electronic
device made of a
transistor and other
components in a
piece of germanium.
Integrated Circuits
are used in
practically every
electronic device
today.
Pure silicon is the
basis for most
integrated circuits.
IBM 360 April 7,
1964
Mainframe
computer system
It changed the way
people thought of
computers and it
was said to be the
companys most
important product
announcement ever.
It replaced all of
IBMs computer
product lines
Word Processor
invented
1979 Software capable of
creating, printing
and storing
documents.
Word processing has
had a huge impact
on education. It
saves time and you
are able to share
documents.
Ribbon Hero and
Ribbon Hero 2 are
games that are
designed that help
people learn the
features of
Microsoft Word, a
word processor.
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ARPANET 1966 It was a wide area
network (WAN) that
connected several
universities and
research centers.
It was the beginning
of the Internet.
Email capabilities
were introduced
to ARPANET in
1977.
Intel, 1K RAM
CHIP (the 4004)
1971 It is a microprocessor
that was first
designed for a
printing calculator.
It is Intels first
microprocessor.
This
microprocessor
(the size of a
fingernail)
delivered the
computing power
as the first
computer (built in
1946) which took
up a whole room.
Today, it is
slimmer than a
human hair.
Jonathan Titus,
Mark 8
1973 Mark 8 is a computer
that was invented by
the student Jonathan
Titus. It can be used
to manipulate data,
send data to the
mainframe and
control experiments.
Mark 8 has caused a
significant impact in
the amateur
community. It has
been used for
applications in
instrumentation for
nuclear reactors.
Jonathan and his
brother have
designed several
other parts of
computer
equipment.
BBN, Telenet 1948 This is a company
that has been very
involved in the
invention of new
communication
technologies in the
internet.
Thanks to all that
they have done the
internet is much
bigger and more
developed. They
were full of different
research to advance
the technology to
communicate with
the Internet.
In 1968, BBN
ARPAnet has
clinched a
contract.
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Paul Allen and
Bill Gates invent
BASIC
1975 This is a
programming
language that has
been created for use
of the personal
computer.
Thanks to this
invention, the
computing world is
different and highly
developed.
They have begun
to do that because
they had a vision
for a long period
or the chip could
go.
USENET 1979 This is a network
that allowed to swap
the information as
before internet was
a network of private
exploited sites.
Usenet has provided
a network for the
general public.
Thanks to Usenet
people could have
access to
information that had
not with
newspapers. It is on
the Usenet
emoticons, some
expressions, trolls,
etc., it was invented.
The archives
provided by
Usenet are a good
source of
information on
the most recent
decades of
computing. The
history of Usenet
is not only
relevant to social
networks, but
many concepts
and high-tech
innovations.
TCP/IP 1974 TCP/IP stands for
Transmission Control
Protocol/ Internet
Protocol. They are
actually 2 separate
things, but they are
used together so
often that TCP/IP has
become the standard
term for them.

The TCP/IP govern
the rules over
passing along
information on the
internet. Without
the TCP/IP you
would need direct
connections to the
other computers to
get any information
from them.
IP addresses
follow the Internet
Protocol.
Everything
connected to the
internet has an IP
address and its
how they can find
one another
through the
massive network
that is known as
the internet.
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Apple
Macintosh
January
24,
1984
The Macintosh is a
computer that was
made from the
company apple.
The Macintosh was
the very first
computer that used
a mouse. Computers
before the
Macintosh were
text-based and you
operated them by
typing words into
the keyboard. The
Macintosh runs by
clicking icons, which
we do now. It was
considered to be the
first computer to
successfully use a
GUI (Graphical User
Interface).
The Macintosh has
the signatures of
the designers on
the inside of the
case.
Microsoft
Windows 1.0
1985 Microsoft windows is
an operating system.
It came after the MS-
DOS (Microsoft Disk
Operating System),
and is much more
advanced.
The Microsoft
windows operating
system allows you to
use a mouse instead
of needing to type
up commands for
your computer. You
can point and click
through screens
instead of
The official code
name is Interface
Manager and it is
considered to be
the final name,
but the name
Windows
prevailed because
it best described
the boxes needed
for the new
system.
P a g e | 27

The Internet 1961 electronic
communication
network connecting
multiple computer
networks and
computer facilities
worldwide. The
Internet is made up
of commercial,
educational,
governmental, and
many other kinds of
networks, all of
which use the same
set of
communications
protocols.
Without the
internet, it would be
harder to gather
information and
communicate with
others from around
the world (example:
family living in a
different country).
Americans make
up about 76.2% of
the world's
internet
population, but
only 5% of that of
the world.
Apple iPod 2001 A portable device
that plays music and
depending on the
version, you might
be able to play
games and go on the
internet with it.
With an iPod, you
can listen to music
and watch videos on
the go. This way, you
dont have to carry a
cd player or a radio
with you when going
for a run.
It is illegal in
France to listen to
an iPod louder
than 100 decibels.
P a g e | 28

Apple iPhone June
29,
2007
iPhones are
smartphones
designed and
marketed by the
Apple Inc. It runs on
the iOS operating
system.
An iPhone is easy to
open and close.
Since its a
touchscreen, you
feel in control at all
times and it gives
easy access to
games, photos,
contacts, and other
stuff. When typing,
you have a
computer-like
keyboard, with
buttons for numbers
and symbols. If
needed, you can also
rotate the display so
that its sideways.
34% of students in
the U.S own an
Apple iPhone.

Amazon Kindle 2007 This is an electronic
tablet that measures
6 inches with 250 GB
of memory. The
price is much
cheaper than the
Apple Ipad.
This is a convenient
way to have multiple
books, newspapers
and applications in a
single tablet. It is
light and easy to
carry.
When Kindle was
launched, it
became very
popular and all of
them had been
sold in a few
hours. They were
out of stock for
months.
Apple iPad January
27,
2010
This is an electronic
tablet that lets you
send email, watch or
take pictures, play
games or listen to
music. It allows users
to physically interact
with the applications
and content.
This is very advanced
technology which
allows for all that we
need and we want in
one device. With the
iPad, Apple allows
users to have new
means of interaction
that are fun and
intuitive.
The Ipad manages
almost the entire
Apple store, with
over 11 million
songs, 50,000 TV
series episodes
and over 8,000
films.
P a g e | 29

Android 2008 Android is a software
that Google
engineered, so
Googles apps run
best on it.
With the widgets,
you can look at
photos, email, and
more without
needing to leave
your home screen or
open different apps.
On certain devices,
there is a thing called
Face Unlock which
allows you to unlock
your device with a
facial expression.
Android is very
intuitive and creative
and will continue to
think of ideas like
these.
Each version of
android is names
after a dessert.
The most recent
one was Jellybean
and the next
version is said to
be named Kitkat.
3D Printing Mid-
1980s
A 3D printer uses
Computer Aided
Designs (CAD) to
create 3D objects. 3D
printers can make a
variety of things
including furniture,
sculptures, and toys.
It can print plastic,
metal, nylon, and
over a hundred other
materials.
3D printers can
create models and
prototypes, allowing
people to make
quick changes in
their designs. On top
of that, 3D printing
can save money,
because it doesnt
waste a lot of
material, unlike
when material needs
to be cut, shaved off,
or drilled.
There are certain
3D printers that
can be used for
applying things in
other forms, such
as liquids and
pastes (ex. icing
and chocolate).
The French
Culinary Institute
has been using
one of these to
make artistic
delicacies.
P a g e | 30

Leap Motion
Controller
2013 The Leap motion
controller is a small
and light motion
sensor that connects
to your computer
and lets you control
it without using a
mouse or a track
pad, and without
touching the screen.
Instead, you put your
hands over it
(without touching it)
and you can interact
with your computer
based on how your
hands and fingers
move.
This gives you much
more control over
your actions. If, for
example, you like art
and you want to
draw on your
computer you can
use your fingers
instead of a mouse
or a track pad, which
can be tricky to use.
If youre playing the
piano or a guitar on
the computer, you
can do many more
things than just hit
one note at a time or
strum. You can play
chords, pieces, or
pluck the strings!
There is a store for
apps designed for
the Leap Motion
Controller called
Airspace. Its
created by the
same people who
created the Leap
Motion Controller.
P a g e | 31

The Cloud 1969 The Cloud allows
things to be stored
on servers on the
internet instead of
just your computer.
That way, you can
access your email
and many other
things from any
computer with an
internet connection.
The Cloud is a
storage system
where data is stored
in virtual space.
If something
happens to your
computer, like it gets
a virus, or it gets
wiped, you will still
be able to access
your email,
important files, and
anything else that
has been saved over
the internet, just on
a different
computer. This is
extremely helpful,
especially if you
need to retrieve a
file with, lets say,
work on it, and you
can only access it by
A. Your computer or
B. Your email.
Some cloud
applications that
have been
researched at Intel
include decoding
brainwave
patterns and
creating new user
interfaces.

P a g e | 32

P a g e | 33

Website Evaluation
I am evaluating the website: http://searchsoa.techtarget.com/definition/software. The
title of this page is "Software" and I was easily able to locate the author, Margaret Rouse.
However I could not locate any of this authors qualifications. The website ends with .com,
indicating that it is a company (techtarget) website. This is an informative website to teach
about technology. It provides factual information. This website has a blog through which it is
possible to communicate and ask questions about the website. This website was recently
updated this year. Overall this website is easy to use and understand making it great for this
project as it also is about technology. This website also helped me out on other research topics
like hardware.
P a g e | 34

P a g e | 35

Self-Evaluation
Rubric A - Investigate: Bibliography
For this section, I believe that I deserve to get a level 6. This is because I used over 20
different sources when the requirement was 8. I did not use any unreliable sources such as
Wikipedia, wikianswers, ask.com, etc. For every single citation, I added all the required fields.
Even if there was no author, I used the name of the editor or publisher. I used many sources to
confirm our research as well. After every section, I added the references I used and for every
picture the website. I feel I completed all required elements and more.

Rubric A - Investigate: Computer in History Timeline
For this section, I believe I should get a level 6. I filled out the entire table and had
relevant and important information for every section. I used plenty of examples and described
all aspects of the topics.
Rubric D - Create: Execution of a Book
For this section, I believe that I should get a 6. I completed all of the given tasks
successfully and have an attractive book layout, with uniform sections, formatted pictures, and
the correct headings.

P a g e | 36

P a g e | 37

Glossary

A

Application Software: includes all the programs that are of direct use and interest to the user.
Application software is the set of instructions that guide different applications on the
computer.
ALU: The digital circuits that performs the arithmetical and logical operations. It is a form of
primary storage.

C

Computer: a programmable electronic device that can manipulate data to execute and respond
to sets of instructions. Computers have the ability to store, retrieve, and process data, do math,
and follow instructions.
Computer Programmer: a person who makes/writers programs in a language that tells the
software how to work.
CPU (Central Processing Unit): the brain of the computer which carries out the instructions for
computer programs and performs basic arithmetical, logical, and input or output operations to
carry out the users command.

D

Data: facts collected for analysis and observation.

E

External Hardware: includes the components of the computer that are set aside from the PC
and are usually used to customize ones workstation.

G

Graphic Card: Helps to display the graphics onto your screen along with the help of the visual
card.
GUI (Graphical User Interface): means that the user is provided with the option of using
graphical controls on a certain program.

H

Hard Disc: This is where all the users saved files are stored. You are allowed to find the
document because of the code each file is stored with based on this hardware component.
Hard Drive: A form of Secondary Storage where all the computers programs are sorted. This
includes all the documents the user saves.
P a g e | 38

Hardware: any part of the computer that has a physical structure and can be connected to the
computer wire or wirelessly.
Hardware Upgrade: has to do with either replacing or adding other hardware components to
the computer as needed by the user and/or the computer itself.

I

Input Devices: any peripheral used to provide data to a computer or other information
appliance.
Internal Hardware: includes all the components, circuits, and wires that are included within the
PC.

M

Main Memory: It is used to store data that is commonly used. This is the part that is
continuously read by the CPU as this is where most of the instructions are stored.
Motherboard: ensures that all the other parts of the computer are connected to one another.

N

Network: two or more computers linked to share resources (printers and CDs), exchange files
and allow electronic communication.

O

Operating System: manages the computer's memory, processes, allows you to communicate
with the computer without knowing how to speak the computer's "language", and finally,
managing all of the computers software and hardware. The operating system ensures that all
the different programs on a computer can get access from the CPU of the computer.
Output Devices: any piece of hardware used to communicate the data processing carried out
by a computer, which makes the information into human-readable form.

P

PC: Personal computer.
Peripherals: devices that can be attached to a computer by a cable or some form of wireless
technology.
Programs: coded instructions needed in order to perform a task.

R

RAM Upgrade: to increase the total memory, speed, and efficiency to the computer. An
example of software upgrade.
P a g e | 39

RAM (Random Access Memory): This is the computers short-term memory which means that
it only stores the frequently used data.

S

Secondary Storage: It is not as directly accessible to the CPU as the Main Memory. When the
device is powered off, these forms of storage do not lose the data that is stored on them. Some
examples of Secondary Storage are Hard Drive, Flash Drive, and Memory Card.
Software: often abbreviated as S/W, is a set of instructions for each of the individual hardware.
Sound Card: This allows you to connect your speakers to the computer system and listen to a
variety of sounds that are linked to the program in use.
Stand-alone environment: when a computer is not connected to any type of network or any
other communication device.
System Software: generalized software that instructs the computer on complete basic tasks.

U

UI (User Interface): how the user can go about controlling a software application or hardware
devices.

V

Video Card: This is what helps to make things visual on your screen with the help of the Graphic
Card. Problems with viewing work on the screen are usually connected to the video card.
P a g e | 40

P a g e | 41

Index
A
Application software, 4

C
computer, 3
computer programmer, 4
CPU (Central Processing Unit)., 4

D
data, 3

E
External hardware, 3

G
Graphical User Interface (GUI), 4

H
Hardware, 3
Hardware Upgrade, 3

I
Internal hardware, 3

M
motherboard,, 4

O
P a g e | 42

operating system, 4

P
PC, 3
Peripherals, 5
programs, 3

R
RAM upgrade, 3

S
Software, 4
System software, 4

U
User Interface (UI), 4

P a g e | 43

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