FUNCTIONS OF THE COMPUTER

 A programmable machine that performs high-speed processing of numbers, as well as of text, graphics, symbols, and sound.  All computers contain a central processing unit that interprets and executes instructions; input devices, such as a keyboard and a mouse, through which data and commands enter the computer; memory that enables the computer to store programs and data; and output devices, such as printers and display screens, that show the results after the computer has processed data.

 Microcomputers (Personal Computers) Eg. Desktops and Laptops  Minicomputers (Midrange Computers) Eg. Laboratory Computers  Mainframe Computers  Super Computers

 SERVERS – A computer that is dedicated to providing service. Eg. A File Server – manages a large collection of computer files.  WORKSTATIONS - are computers that are intended to serve one user and may contain special hardware enhancements not found on a personal computer.  INFORMATION APPLIANCES - are computers specially designed to perform a specific user – friendly functions. Eg. Playing music.  EMBEDDED COMPUTERS - are computers that are a part of a machine or device; they are typically required to operate continuously without being reset or rebooted, and once employed in their task the software usually cannot be modified.

These can be classified into four basic operations referred to as The Information Processing Cycle. 1. Input 2. Processing 3. Output 4. Storage

 Input devices, such as keyboards, scanners or mouse, accept data.  Data is provided as a set of instructions.

 The Central Processing Unit (CPU) interprets and executes program instructions to process information, perform arithmetic calculations and make logic based decisions.  It manipulates the data and converts it into information.

 After processing the data the computer displays the result, it gives an output. Output devices are the monitors, printers and speakers.  Output devices send information from the computer to the outside world.

 Memory (RAM) holds data temporarily for use by the central processing unit (CPU) and secondary storage devices, such as hard drive, CD, DVD and USB flash drive and stores data for long term retrieval.

 Computers are the excellent means for storage of patient- related data.  Computer software is used for diagnosis of diseases. It can be used for the examination of internal organs of the body.  The different types of monitoring equipment in hospitals are often based on computer programming.  In the field of medicine, computers allow faster communication between a patient and a doctor.

FUNCTIONS OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS.

 Teachers at all levels use computers to administer assignments, keep track of grades or offer online instructions.  In addition to books, video and other materials, self-directed learners often use computers to continue their education outside their faculties.  Popular networking sites like MySpace and Facebook can also be used for educational purposes, as some instructors integrate aspects of those sites into their lessons.  With all the creative software at hand, it has become easy for students to prepare their assignments and projects.

FUNCTIONS OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS.

 One common computer used in transportation is the Global Positioning System (GPS). It features a screen that shows a map that tracks your vehicle's movement via satellite signals.  Positive Train Control is the computer system that tracks the movement of trains on various railways around the country.  Route navigation systems that monitor and control movements to provide increased safety.  Traveling by land by bus or train typically begins with online booking on the computer.

FUNCTIONS OF COMPUTER SYSTEMS

 Social networking sites including Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn allow users to rapidly generate content for people in their network to view.  Voice-Over-Internet Protocol (VOIP) replaced the need for landline telephones; these lines provide instant phone or video communication over the Internet, and often are cheaper than fixed phone lines.  While it not a personal computer, routers are types of computers used to direct communication traffic.

FUNCTIONS OF COMPUTERS SYSTEMS

 A computer is a programmable machine that performs high- speed processing of numbers, as well as of text, graphics, symbols, and sound.  The functions of computers can be classified into four basic operations referred to as The Information Processing Cycle. 1. Input 2. Processing 3. Output 4. Storage

 Computers also function in fields of: Medicine Transportation Education Communication Computer technology is in constant advancement with the development of new functions and features! *THE END*