1. 4.1 Computers And Human Beings
Chapter 4
4.1 Computers And Human Beings
4.2 Computers And Their Economic Benefits.

2. What are computers?
Computers are electronic devices that process data into information at very high speed.

3. Characteristics of computers:
Need electricity to operate.
Limited functions depending on processor type.
Requires basic software to function.
Faster to produce result.
Can work continuously without breaks.

4. What is GIGO?
GIGO is an acronym that stands for Garbage In Garbage Out.
It usually means if any correct input is made in the computer then us, computer users should expect correct output.
But if we input incorrect data in the computer then we should also expect incorrect output or information from it.

5. Computer Term Acronyms:
CD - Compact Disc
DVD - Digital Versatile Disc
PC - Personal Computers
RAM - Random Access Memory
ROM - Read Only Memory
KB - Kilobyte
MB - Megabyte
GB - Gigabyte
TB - Terabyte
CPU - Central Processing Unit
UPS - Uninterruptible Power Supply
USB - Universal Serial Bus

6. Economic benefits of using computers:
Automation:
It is the term that deals with the tasks taken over by computers and machines which were once done by human beings.

7. Advantages of automation:
Machines work non-stop without having to take regular breaks.
Requires less staff and eventually less money to pay salaries.
Machines can work in dangerous conditions.
Machines work faster than human beings.
Machines can be programmed to do the same job over and over again.

8. Disadvantages of automation:
High set up cost.
Need for regular maintenance.
People lose their jobs as machines are replacing them.
Need custom built software to operate these machines and this can be costly.
In case of breakdowns or power failures, these machines cannot be used.

9. What are robots?
Robots are programmable machines that are used to do specific jobs with inbuilt software having certain rules and instructions.

10. What are computer networks?
Computer networks are described as two or more computers connected together using cables or wires.
Types of computer networks:
Local Area Network (LAN)
Wide Area Network (WAN)

11. What is LAN?
Local Area Network are a set of computers that are connected together on small geographical areas covering small distances.
Examples of LAN are college campus networks, company networks etc.
What is WAN?
Wide Area Network are a set of computers normally connected over longer and more distant geographical areas. These types of networks might make the use of satellites and other devices to communicate.
One most common example of WAN is the Internet.

12. Advantages of using computer networks:
People can share files on a network.
People can communicate using s and instant messaging on networks.
Hardware and software are shared on a network.
All computers on a network are password protected.

13. Disadvantages of using networks:
Problems of computer viruses and hacking.
Costly to setup and maintain.
Staff need to be trained to use a network effectively.
It is expensive to buy the required cables.

14. What is E-commerce?
Also known as Electronic Commerce or online shopping.
It is the buying and selling of goods and services online.
Examples of e-commerce websites:
Ebay
Amazon

15. Advantages of using e-commerce:
Price are cheaper when compared to shops.
Wider range of products online.
Can shop anytime the user wants.
Products are delivered directly at your doorsteps.
Saves time and travelling costs

16. Disadvantages of using e-commerce:
Risks of hacking and credit card frauds.
Only computer literates can use this service.
Sometimes goods chosen and goods received are not the same.
Sometimes delivery might take longer.
Less socialization as people tend to shop online rather than visiting shops.