As promised, the day's lesson information is posted here daily.
Today we covered what makes a computer a computer. We discussed how we use computers today and the four main processes of a computing cycle (receiving data, processing data, storing data, and producing a result)

There are different types of computers such as PC's, MAC's, and Laptops all categorized as microcomputers.

Charles Babbage is the father of computers. Created plans for "calculating engines" in 1850, later computers, of course, are much more advance and technology is always changing.

We also mentioned that computers are not capable of making independent decisions. There is always a human that initiates any computer function.

Vocabulary and definitions are below, please make sure they are copied in your notes.

Tomorrow............Different classes of computer and maybe even input and output devices......hold on to your enthusiasm, see you tomorrow!


September 7, 2006

VOCABULARY LIST #1

Channel
Media, such as telephone wires, coaxial cable, microwave signal, or fiber optic cable that carry data communication messages

Computer
Electronic device that receives data, processes data, stores data, and produces a result

Computer system
Hardware, software, and data working together

Data Communications
Transmission of text, numeric, voice or video data from one machine to another

Hardware
The tangible, physical equipment that can be seen and touched.

Internet
The largest network used as a communication tool

Local Area Network (LAN)
A series of connected personal computers, workstations and other devices, such as printers or scanners, within a confined space, such as an office building.

Mainframe Computer
Large, powerful computers that are used for centralized storage, processing, and management of very large amounts of data.

Microcomputer
Sometimes called a personal computer; used at home or at the office by one person; can fit on top of or under a desk.