INTRODUCTION
You already know how to write documents, balance a cheque book, read and send correspondence. Whether you are at home or in the office, you can accomplish these and many other tasks using your computer. Computers can be a lot of fun and they can also be very confusing. I think the more you know about them, the more fun they are. So let’s get to know them!
DEFINITION
Computer can be defined as any electronic machine that is capable of accepting data through an input device (e.g keyboard), processing the data by following a set of instruction, storing the data in its memory and finally generating output through an output device (e.g monitor). Data is known as raw fact or unprocessed information after data is processed, it becomes information. In computer, Data and information are used interchangeably. Information can be in form of text or image. What goes into the Computer through the keyboard is known as input, while output is the result computer displays as a result of your inputs.
Input can come either from you or directly from your computer (hardware). You can input information in form of data, such as words, numbers, symbols, drawings, videos, photographs and/or commands – actions you tell the computer to perform, such as “Save”. Input can also come directly from your computer hardware, even if you are not around. For example, your printer gives your computer feedback such as which document it’s working on, how long it’s going to take and whether it’s out of paper.
PROCESSING IN COMPUTER
Without instructions on how to process the information you have inputted, your computer just sits there doing nothing. All it knows is what was programmed into its brain (CPU) at the factory. Your computer needs direction from you.
Processing is whatever the computer does to data between the input and the output stage. Think of it in human terms. When you read, you are receiving input. When you write, you are producing output. When you are thinking, you are processing. Your computer can process information/data in a verity of ways. It can add or subtract it. It can move it from one computer program to another. It can reduce or enlarge it. It can also alphabetize it. The only limitations to your computer processing ability are the speed f your central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor, the amount of memory installed and the programs you own.